Essential advantages for international students studying in France
France stands out as a premier destination for international students, offering a wealth of benefits that make studying here both rewarding and accessible. From substantial support to comprehensive healthcare coverage, students enjoy significant assistance. The country provides access to world-class education while maintaining affordable tuition fees. Students can also work part-time during their studies. Beyond academics, student life flourishes with discounted access to museums, transportation, and cultural activities across France.
What support is available?
Housing assistance
The French Family Allowances Fund (CAF) provides valuable rent support for international students. Monthly benefits range from €180 to €206 depending on your living arrangement - shared accommodation or private studio. To qualify, you'll need a valid residence permit, a French bank account, and a formal rental agreement in your name.
The application process starts on caf.fr, where you can simulate your potential benefits before applying. Students typically receive their first payment within 6-8 weeks after submitting a complete application. Keep in mind that payments begin from your application date, not your move-in date.
The housing aid varies based on your accommodation costs, location, and income level. For example, a student renting a €600 studio in Paris might receive around €190 monthly, making their academic year more affordable.
Moreover, the CROUS is a french social services institution providing comprehensive support through dedicated counselors who help students navigate personal challenges and financial planning. These professionals offer personalized guidance in multiple languages, ensuring clear communication for international students.
Healthcare coverage
France provides universal healthcare access to international students through its social security system. Most medical expenses receive 70% coverage, while hospital stays benefit from 80% reimbursement.
Students can enhance their medical protection by subscribing to a complementary health plan, known as "mutuelle," for about €30 monthly. This extra coverage proves particularly valuable for dental care and vision services.
A practical example shows the system's effectiveness: a €50 doctor's consultation would cost only €15 after reimbursement. The French medical network includes English-speaking practitioners, making healthcare readily accessible regardless of your French language proficiency.
Lifestyle and cultural perks
Museum and entertainment discounts
Galileo Global Education programs are recognized by the French Ministry of Education, granting you official student status and access to exclusive discounts.
Your French student card unlocks remarkable savings at cultural venues nationwide. The Louvre Museum welcomes students under 26 with free entry every Friday evening, creating perfect opportunities for art exploration after classes. Many national museums extend similar offers, with admission fees reduced by 50% to 75% upon presenting valid student identification.
Beyond museums, theaters across France recognize student status with special rates. Popular venues like the Comédie-Française in Paris offer last-minute tickets at €5 for students. Movie enthusiasts can enjoy discounted cinema passes, turning regular €12 tickets into €7 deals at major chains.
Cultural centers frequently organize student-only evenings with exclusive access to exhibitions and performances. The Paris Opera, for instance, reserves special €10 seats for students during selected performances, compared to standard tickets priced at €100 or more.
Student discounts on public transit
The French transportation network offers substantial savings for students through reduced-fare passes across buses, metros, and regional trains. Most cities provide student rates at 50% off regular fares, making daily commutes more budget-friendly.
In Paris, the Imagine R card grants unlimited access to all public transportation for €393 annually - a significant reduction from standard passes. Regional cities like Lyon and Bordeaux feature similar programs, with monthly passes ranging from €30 to €60 for students.
Your student status unlocks access to the SNCF Youth Card, delivering 30% savings on train travel throughout France. This proves particularly valuable for weekend trips or visits to neighboring cities, transforming travel expenses from a burden into an opportunity for exploration.
Work opportunities while studying
Part-time employment rights
International students in France benefit from robust employment protections under French labor law. The system allows students to work up to 964 hours annually while maintaining their study visa status. This translates to approximately 20 hours per week during term time.
Students receive guaranteed minimum wage protection, currently set at €11.65 per hour as of January 2024. These earnings remain tax-free up to a certain threshold, maximizing take-home pay for basic living expenses.
The French workplace safeguards extend beyond wages to include mandatory break periods, workplace safety standards, and protection against discrimination. Students pursuing internships lasting more than two months must receive minimum compensation of €650 monthly, with these hours not counting toward the annual work limit.
Non-EU students should note that their employer needs to request a temporary work permit if their contract exceeds the standard hour limit.
Is education free in France for international students?
Public universities in France offer low tuition fees for both EU and non-EU students often just a few hundred euros per year, making French higher education among the most affordable in Europe. However, international students who choose private institutions or schools in the Galileo Global Education network (such as Paris School of Business, LISAA, or IESA Arts & Culture) will find that tuition varies depending on the program, usually ranging from €8,000 to €15,000 per year. While not free, these programs offer excellent academic quality, strong industry ties, and international career opportunities, making them a solid investment.
Is France good for international students?
Yes, France is one of the most popular destinations for international students, and for good reason. With world-class education, vibrant cities like Paris, and a strong cultural and social life, students gain both academically and personally. Institutions in the Galileo network are especially welcoming to international students, offering programs taught in English, multicultural campuses, and personalized support for housing, visas, and internships. Plus, France’s central location in Europe makes it easy to travel and build a global network.
How much do international students get paid in France?
International students in France can legally work part-time during their studies — up to 964 hours per year (about 20 hours per week). On average, student jobs pay around €10 to €12 per hour, depending on the type of work and location. Some internships, which are often part of programs at schools like Paris School of Business or IESA, may be paid as well, especially if they last more than two months. While not enough to cover all expenses, student work can help reduce the cost of living.
What benefits do students get in France?
Students in France, including international students — enjoy many benefits. These include discounted public transportation, reduced museum and cinema tickets, access to student housing support (CAF), and affordable healthcare through student insurance schemes. Many Galileo schools also offer dedicated career services, internship placement help, and academic support tailored to international needs. All these advantages help make daily life more affordable and enjoyable for students in France.
How much can an international student earn in France?
An international student working part-time can typically earn around €400 to €800 per month, depending on how many hours they work and the type of job. Some internships or freelance creative work (especially in fields like design or media) can pay more. While part-time work won’t cover full tuition or all living costs, it can significantly ease the financial burden and provide valuable work experience alongside your studies