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🏠 LIVING IN FRANCE I Practical guide & essential advice for international students

Julie Noronha
  • Updated

🏙️ Students renting an accommodation: terms and conditions and assistance

🦉 Housing and transportation in Dijon

🦁 Housing and transportation in Lyon

Profile for Studapart Studapart

💶 Cost of living in France

🏦Opening a Bank account in France

🚝 Getting around France

✔️ Tips for living well in France

📱Getting a SIM Card in France

 

 

It is essential to begin your housing search before arriving in France. Finding accommodation can be challenging, especially during the back-to-school period, and particularly when moving to an unfamiliar city.

For your information, BSB services are available to support you in your search, but they do not replace the steps that students need to take themselves.

 

 

🏙️ Students renting an accommodation: terms and conditions and assistance

Renting a property as an international student in France can be a complex process. Here are the main steps and formalities to follow.

 

 

The rental contract or lease:

A rental contract (or lease) is a legal agreement between a landlord and a tenant. This legal document contains important information and must be signed by both parties.

Here are the main points to be included in a rental contract:

- Lease term: the contract specifies how long the tenant may occupy the property. In general, this can be a short-term tenancy (e.g. for a few months) or a long-term tenancy (often a year or more).

- Rent: The contract specifies the amount to be paid each month, as well as the method of payment (bank transfer, cheque, etc.). It also specifies whether certain charges (such as water, electricity or internet) are included in the rent or payable separately.

- Tenant's obligations: The tenant undertakes to use the property in a reasonable manner, to keep it in good condition, to pay the rent on time, and to respect the building's rules.

- Landlord's obligations: The landlord must guarantee that the property is in good condition, meets safety standards and is habitable. He/she must also carry out major repairs if necessary.

 

 

Security deposit:

The main purpose of the security deposit is to protect the landlord against possible breaches by the tenant, such as :

  • Property damage: If the tenant causes damage to the property.
  • Unpaid rent: If the tenant fails to pay the rent, the landlord can deduct the amount due from the security deposit.

The amount of the security deposit is generally equivalent to one or two months' rent, depending on whether your property is furnished or unfurnished.

At the end of the rental contract, the landlord is obliged to refund the security deposit to the tenant, subject to certain conditions :

  • Inventory of fixtures and fittings: An inventory of fixtures and fittings is carried out at the end of the lease to check the condition of the property when the tenant leaves. It is compared with the entry inventory of fixtures. If everything is in good condition and the tenant has not caused any damage, the deposit must be reimbursed in full.
  • Possible deductions: If damage is found, the owner can deduct the repair costs from the deposit before refunding the remainder to the tenant.
  • Refund period: The owner has one month after the return of the keys to return the deposit to the tenant.

 

Entry and exit inventory of fixtures:

An inventory of fixtures is a document that describes in detail the condition of the accommodation (apartment, room, etc.). This document is drawn up jointly by the landlord and tenant. It notes the condition of walls, floors, equipment (appliances, plumbing, windows, etc.) and the cleanliness of the property. It's a precise “snapshot” of the apartment when you arrive and when you leave.

Entry inspection: this is usually carried out when the keys are handed over, just before you start using the property. This is often the last step before you can move in. It's a good idea to take photos and videos of every part of the property, and to inspect every aspect thoroughly. Once the inspection is complete, you and the landlord sign the inventory of fixtures, and you should receive a copy of the signed document.

Exit inspection: this is carried out at the end of the rental contract, when the tenant leaves the property. It is used to compare the condition of the property with that described in the entry inventory, in order to assess any damage to the property. If the exit inventory is identical to the entry inventory, the deposit paid at the start of the lease is returned to the tenant.

 

Guarantor:

A guarantor is a person who undertakes to pay a tenant's rent if the tenant is unable to do so. This can be particularly important for foreign students who may not have a solid credit history in the country where they are studying.

The guarantor reassures the landlord that the rent will be paid even if the tenant is unable to do so.

The Visale and Garant Me guarantees:

  • VISALE: Visale is a scheme set up by Action Logement in France. It is a free rental guarantee for young people under 30 and precarious employees. Visale acts as a guarantor for the tenant. In the event of non-payment of rent, Action Logement assumes responsibility for unpaid rent for a fixed period. To benefit from this guarantee, the tenant must register online on the Visale website and obtain a visa, which is presented to the landlord when the lease is signed. This guarantee is mainly intended for young people, students and people in precarious situations. The landlord must accept Visale as a guarantor, but most landlords accept it as a reliable guarantee.
  • GARANT ME: Garant Me is a fee-based platform offering a rental guarantee to tenants over the age of 30. Registration is carried out online on the platform, and once accepted, Garant Me becomes the tenant's guarantor vis-à-vis the landlord. In the event of unpaid rent, Garant Me undertakes to cover payments. Service charges are generally payable by the tenant. The cost may vary according to the amount of rent and the specific terms of the contract. The lessor must also accept Garant Me as a guarantor.

 

Home insurance:

In France, tenants are required by law to have home insurance. This means that if you rent an apartment or room, you must have insurance.

Home insurance protects your home and personal property against risks such as fire, theft and water damage. What's more, it can also cover your civil liability: it protects you against damage you may unintentionally cause to others.

Here are a few insurance companies in France that offer home insurance tailored to students: StudyAssur, MAIF, AXA, Allianz, MAE, MAAF, SMENO,...

 

Rent and ancillary costs:

Rent is the main amount you pay monthly for the use of your accommodation. Depending on the country, city and type of accommodation, prices can vary considerably. For example, rents in cities like Lyon or Paris are higher than in Dijon.

In addition to the rent, you'll have to pay a number of other costs:

- Agency fees: If you go through a real estate agency or Studapart to find your accommodation, agency fees may be added. These fees vary, but often represent the equivalent of one month's rent.

- Service charges: Service charges are additional costs related to building maintenance and common services. They may include: maintenance of common areas, water, household waste, etc.

The amount of these charges varies according to the building and its management. Some landlords include these charges in the rent (“charges included”), while others require separate payment.

- Utilities (water, gas, electricity, etc.): These services are not always included in the basic rent, and can represent a significant proportion of your monthly budget: electricity and gas (depending on the size of your property and your consumption, bills may vary), water (in some contracts, water is included in the rent).

 

CAF: Housing allowance

In France, under certain conditions, international students can benefit from housing assistance from the CAF (Caisse d'Allocation Familiale).

Applications for housing assistance must be made online:

Housing assistance application simulation

Applying for housing assistance

 

Conditions for receiving housing assistance:

- The property must be in France and be your principal residence.

- The property must be “conventionné

- You must be a tenant or flatmate

- The property must be decent

- You must have a valid residence permit, a valid passport and proof of student status.

 

The amount of housing assistance will be calculated according to your rent, financial resources and location.

 

 

🦉 Housing and transportation in Dijon

Dijon, capital of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, is a dynamic and welcoming student city, offering a pleasant quality of life. Below you'll find essential information for students looking for accommodation and transport solutions to get around the city easily.

 

 

University residences:

University residences in Dijon are mainly managed by the CROUS (Centre Régional des Œuvres Universitaires et Scolaires). They are an economical and practical option for students, particularly for those coming from afar. However being the cheapest option on the market it is often highly prized by national and international students.

 

Types of accommodation : Studios, single rooms with or without private bathroom, shared apartments.

Benefits: Proximity to university campuses, access to services such as laundry, university catering, and an internet connection.

Rates: Vary between €250 and €400 per month, depending on room type and services included.

How to apply: You can apply for CROUS accommodation by creating your Mes Services account.

 

🦉 CROUS residences:

 

Since 2014, BSB has had a partnership with 2 CROUS residences in Dijon:

  • CROUS - Résidence Maret
  • CROUS - Mansart Residence

As part of this partnership, a limited number of rooms are reserved for newly arrived international students. For information on registration campaigns and eligibility criteria, please contact the International Relations Department:

bsb.international@bsb-education.com

 

Private residences:

For those who don't have access to CROUS residences or who prefer more comfort, private residences are a good alternative.

Types of accommodation: Furnished studio, T1 or T2 apartments.

Benefits: Fitness room, housekeeping, private bathroom and kitchen, co-working spaces, cleaning service.

Rates: On average between €450 and €750 per month, depending on the type of accommodation and services included.

How to apply: You need to go directly to the residence's website and follow the registration steps.

 

🦉Private residences:

 

Apartment sharing:

Roommates are a popular solution among students to cut housing costs and meet new people.

Types of accommodation: shared apartment or house

Benefits: Reduced costs for rent, electricity, internet and other services, enriching human sharing experience.

Rates: Costs vary according to city, type of accommodation and number of rooms, from €350 to €650.

 

🦉Rental offers:

 

Individual apartments/studios:

This type of accommodation, generally more expensive, offers more privacy and tranquility. It's ideal for students who prefer a quiet environment to concentrate on their studies.

BSB is in partnership with the Studapart platform. You'll have access to offers close to our campus. To create your account, you'll need a document proving your admission to BSB.

Types of accommodation: Studio or T1

Benefits: independence, peace and quiet, private kitchen and bathroom facilities

Rates: €450 and €650.

 

🦉The offers:

 

Accommodation solutions for short stays:

If you're looking for an accommodation solution for a short stay in Dijon, there are several options to choose from, depending on your budget and the length of your stay.

 

Student neighborhoods in Dijon:

Campus Montmuzard: about 20 minutes by public transport from the BSB campus.

The Montmuzard campus neighborhood, close to the University of Burgundy, is very popular with students because of its proximity to the university's infrastructure, notably its restaurants.

Downtown: ideal for BSB students who want to enjoy the city's lively bars, restaurants and museums.

Toison d'Or: located 15 minutes by public transport from the BSB campus, this district is renowned for its calm. It is well served by public transport and offers many modern housing options.

 

 

🦁 Housing and transportation in Lyon

Lyon's dynamism and attractiveness attract many international students every year. One of the first concerns of new arrivals is finding accommodation that suits their needs and budget, as well as discovering the means of transport to get around the city easily. You'll find the essential information below.

 

University residences:

CROUS residences in Lyon offer affordable, well-located student accommodation for those pursuing their studies in the region. Located in different districts of the city, these residences offer single rooms, studios or shared apartments.

 

🦁The CROUS residences:

For more information on all the CROUS residences available in Lyon and the surrounding area:

https://www.crous-lyon.fr/se-loger/liste-de-nos-logements/

 

Private residences:

Private student residences in Lyon are an attractive alternative for students looking for a comfortable, well-equipped living environment. However, rents are often higher than in public residences such as those run by the CROUS.

 

🦁Private residences:

 

Shared flats:

Sharing a flat in Lyon is a popular option among students and young professionals, enabling them to share accommodation costs while living in attractive neighborhoods. Roommates are available in a wide range of housing types, from large apartments in the city center to houses on the outskirts.

 

🦁Room-sharing offers:

 

Individual apartments and studios:

Individual apartments and studios in Lyon are an ideal option for students looking for autonomy and tranquility.

 

🦁Studio and individual apartment offers:

 

Accommodation solutions for short stays:

The city offers a variety of temporary accommodation solutions to meet the needs of international students looking for accommodation.

 

🦁Accommodation solutions for short stays:

 

Lyon's student neighborhoods:

The Guillotière district: located near the Lyon 2 and Lyon 3 universities, this is one of the most popular. Known for its multicultural atmosphere and numerous shops, it attracts young people in search of entertainment.

La Croix-Rousse: with its bohemian charm and narrow streets, also attracts many students, although rents are slightly higher.

Gerland: close to the Lyon 1 university campus and the science park, this is a fast-growing area with modern residences and appropriate infrastructure.

Villeurbanne: just a stone's throw from Lyon, is a frequent choice for its proximity to top schools and more affordable rents. These neighborhoods all offer a variety of housing solutions and easy access to public transportation, making daily life easier.

 

 

Profile for Studapart Studapart

 

Studapart is an online platform specializing in housing reservations and is an official partner of BSB. It simplifies the search and rental process for students by offering a wide range of options suited to all needs and budgets.

Among the available housing types, you will find:
✔️ Entire accommodations (studios, apartments, houses)
✔️ Shared rooms in coliving spaces
✔️ Rooms in private homes
✔️ Housing in exchange for services
✔️ Studios in student residences

Accommodations can be furnished or unfurnished and are available in apartments or houses.

With Studapart, you can browse available listings in Dijon and Lyon, securely submit your application online, and receive personalized support throughout your search.

👉🏽 Access the listings and submit your application here: Studapart - BSB

Need more information?
Download the complete Studapart housing guide at the bottom of the page to learn everything about procedures, guarantees, and practical advice!

 

 

💶 Cost of living in France

The cost of living is a key issue for students. In France, expenses vary from city to city, depending on accommodation, transport, food, leisure activities and, above all, lifestyle. Lyon, one of the country's largest cities, is renowned for its dynamism, but also for its higher cost of living. Dijon, on the other hand, is smaller and more affordable.

 

Accommodation:

Housing is the main expense, and it varies greatly depending on the city.

  • 🦁Lyon: As France's second-largest city, the cost of housing in Lyon can be high. For a room in a university residence or a studio apartment, you'll need to reckon with an average of €700 to €900 a month. For shared accommodation, the price drops slightly, to around €550 to €750 per month.
  • 🦉Dijon: Smaller and less expensive, Dijon offers more affordable rents. A studio costs between €550 and €700, while a shared apartment costs around €450 to €650 per month.

 

Transportation:

Students often benefit from reduced fares for public transport, making this expense more affordable.

  • 🦁Lyon: The TCL (Transports en commun lyonnais) card for students costs €25 per month. Lyon also has a good self-service bicycle network, Vélo'v, which can be an economical alternative.
  • 🦉Dijon: The city of Dijon offers a monthly pass for students at €15. Dijon is a more compact city, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike.

 

Leisure and other expenses:

Leisure activities include cinema, going out with friends, sports, etc.

  • 🦁Lyon: A cultural and dynamic city, Lyon offers a wide range of activities. Leisure activities can vary from €50 to €100 per month, depending on habits. There are many museums, concerts and events free or at reduced prices for students.
  • 🦉Dijon: Smaller but just as culturally active, Dijon offers a wide choice of leisure activities for students. Monthly expenses can vary from €30 to €80, depending on tastes and outings. Here too, students benefit from a number of price advantages.

 

Leisure and other expenses:

Here is a summary of expenses for the average student living in Lyon and Dijon:

 

Spendings 🦁Lyon 🦉Dijon
Housing 550 - 900 € 450 - 700 €
Transports 25 € 15 €
Food 200 - 250 € 180 - 220 €
Leisures & other  50 - 100 € 30 - 80 €
Total  825 - 1275 € 675- 1015 €

 

Financial aid:

As a student in France, it is possible to benefit from various forms of assistance to help reduce the cost of living:

  • Housing assistance (APL): The Caisse d'Allocations Familiales (CAF) offers assistance to reduce the cost of rent.
  • Meals in university restaurants: Meals in university restaurants (RU) are subsidized and generally cost €3.30, offering an affordable catering option (available depending on the city).

 

🏦Opening a Bank account in France

📅 If you are staying for one year (or more)

It is strongly recommended to open a bank account in France to carry out various administrative procedures. You can open a regular student account at a French bank.
BSB has established partnerships with several French banks.
You can contact the following banks directly to open an account, informing them of your student status at BSB: (Many offer student packages with low or no fees)

Documents usually required to open a bank account include:

  • Valid passport or national ID 

  • Student visa or residence permit 

  • Proof of enrollment at BSB 

  • Proof of French address (such as a recent utility bill, accommodation certificate, or rental contract — a host’s attestation with a copy of their ID may also be accepted)

Some banks may request additional documents or a face-to-face appointment, so it’s advisable to check in advance.

 

📅 If you are staying for a semester (less than 6 months):
We suggest that you open an account with Revolut or another online bank (BoursoBank, Fortuneo, Hello Bank…)

These accounts are easy to create, require no long-term commitment, and often only require a passport and a French address (even a temporary one).

 

 

🚝 Getting around France

France has a varied and well-developed transport network, making getting around simple and efficient. This guide introduces you to the main national means of transport that you can use to explore France, whether for study or leisure.

 

 

🚆 The train: TGV and the SNCF network

Trains are one of the most popular ways to get around France. The TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) connects the country's major cities quickly. For example, you can travel from Paris to Lyon in just 2 hours, or from Paris to Marseille in around 3 hours.

T.he national train network is managed by the SNCF (Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Français). Here are a few tips on how to use the train efficiently in France:

  • Book in advance for reduced fares, especially on TGV tickets.
  • Take advantage of student discount cards such as the Carte Jeune, which offers reductions for people under 28.
  • TER (Trains Express Régionaux) is a slower but cheaper option for traveling between towns and regions

 

🚌 The Bus: An economical option:

If you're looking for a more economical alternative to the train, the bus is a great option. Bus companies like FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Isiline, offer low-cost journeys between major cities and even to some European destinations.

Buses may be slower than trains, but they can be very affordable, especially for students on a budget. There are often special offers and discounts on long-distance journeys.

 

 

🚗 The Car: Carpooling:

Renting a car can be a good idea if you want more flexibility in your travels, especially when exploring rural areas or small towns poorly served by public transport. This is still the most expensive option.

It's important to note that driving in France requires a valid driving license, and traffic, especially in big cities, can be difficult.

Another interesting alternative is carpooling with platforms like BlaBlaCar, which is very popular in France. This system allows you to share a journey with other travelers while reducing costs. It's also a great opportunity to meet and talk with locals.

 

✔️ Tips for living well in France

 

Studying in France is a rich experience, both personally and academically. The country is renowned for the quality of its higher education, its cultural heritage and its traditions. However, adapting to daily life can come with a few challenges.

 

 

Familiarizing yourself with French culture:

Politeness: The French attach great importance to politeness. Saying “bonjour” when entering a store, and “merci” or “au revoir” when leaving, is fundamental. Tutoiement (use of “tu”) is reserved for close relations; use “vous” for strangers, especially in formal settings.

Punctuality is essential, whether for personal appointments or classes. Make sure you arrive on time.

Gastronomic culture: Meals are a key part of social life. Sharing lunch or dinner with friends can be a good opportunity to learn more about the local culture.

Learn the language:

Mastering French will make your life in France much easier. Practice French as much as possible with the locals. Even if you're not at ease at first, they'll appreciate your efforts.

 

Take advantage of the student life and activities offered by the IRO:

Participating in activities outside your studies is a great way to integrate.

To help you feel at home, we strongly encourage you to take part in the many activities and events organized by the International Relations Department. These initiatives are specially designed for you, to offer you moments of exchange and conviviality with other students, whether international or local.

 

Dealing with homesickness:

It's normal to feel homesick, especially at first. Here are a few tips to help you get through this period:

Keep in touch: Stay in touch with loved ones via video calls or social networks.

Strike a balance: Even if you remain connected to your home country, try to integrate into your new environment by opening yourself up to new friendships and experiences.

Take care of yourself: Engaging in activities you enjoy, such as sports, reading or cultural outings, can help you get through difficult times. Find out more in this article.

 

Make the most of your study stay, and remember that every difficulty is a learning opportunity!

 

📱Getting a SIM Card in France

 

Types of SIM cards:

 

Prepaid SIM Cards: These are contract-free, ideal for short stays, and can be quickly recharged with credit.

SIM Cards with a Monthly Plan (Forfait Mobile): These are monthly contracts (with or without commitment) that usually require a French bank account and proof of address to open.

 

Where to buy a SIM card:

You can get a SIM card in mobile operator stores, at tobacco shops (tabacs), or in supermarkets (e.g., Carrefour Mobile).

 

How much does a SIM card cost ?

  • Prepaid SIM Card: Between €5 and €20 (often includes some credit)

  • Monthly Plans: From €2/month (Free Mobile) up to €30 or more

  • Data Plans: Around €10 for 10 to 20 GB, depending on the provider

 

Documents required to get a SIM card with a monthly plan:

  • Passport or national ID

  • Proof of address in France (e.g., rental contract, utility bill)

  • French bank account details (RIB)

For a prepaid SIM card, an ID or passport is usually sufficient.

 

Main mobile operators in France:

Orange, SFR, Bouygues, Free Mobile, SOSH, RED by SFR,...