France is one of the popular destinations for students studying abroad. But this is not a budget-friendly country at all. While studying abroad, you make every effort to avail yourself of federal financial aid. Or look for study programs that offer scholarships. But what will happen if all this turns out to be difficult? Is it possible to study on a low budget in expensive countries like France?
Students who wish to study in France on a limited budget need to exercise some patience. It is possible to study in France on a low budget. Before moving forward, it is essential to understand the most important aspects of studying in France. Students can study in France even on a low budget. Find out how?
What Students Need to know about Studying in France?
Students should know a few things about studying in France on a low budget—
Plan your Budget Properly
It is very important to plan your expenses properly before studying in France. The cost of living can vary depending on the city. Living expenses are higher in major cities like Paris, whereas they can be lower in cities like Montpellier. Students should set aside money every month for house rent, commuting expenses, and daily necessities. Additionally, there may be extra expenses in the first month for items such as health insurance, documentation, travel, and temporary accommodation. That is why it is a good idea to save some money in advance. Having an international bank account also makes it easier to handle daily expenses and pay bills.
Find out if you can Apply for Scholarships or Financial Aid
Students studying in France can avail themselves of various types of scholarships and financial aid. This facility is not just for students who get good marks. The French government and various organizations offer numerous scholarships to assist international students with their studies. These include the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, need-based scholarships, and other special scholarships. Students can obtain information about this from their nearest French embassy. Some universities and business schools also provide financial aid based on merit and need. Additionally, international students living in France can also receive government assistance, such as APL, to help with housing rent.
Check if your School or University Offers Finance Advice and Guidance
Students planning to study in France should find out how much financial assistance their school or university provides. Many institutions organize orientation programs for new international students, where they are provided with essential information regarding accommodation, studies, and finances. The school can also help students open bank accounts, find housing, and prepare necessary documents. Some schools offer students the facility to open a bank account even before going to France. This reduces the difficulties students face after arriving in a new country. Additionally, the International Student Office provides guidance on essential procedures such as living expenses, bank accounts, electricity connections, and residence permits. This helps students settle in and start their studies in France with ease.
Tips for Enrolling in a French University
Having knowledge of the French language will provide students with even easier options for admission. Additionally, you may be required to take a standardized French exam for full-year enrollment.
- Semester programs offer greater flexibility, providing English speakers with options for studying abroad.
- Direct exchanges are not the same as direct enrollments. Facilitating direct exchange can prove to be very expensive. Accepting transferable financial aid between the two schools could be affordable.
- Having a good command of the French language can make admission easier.
- You may have to take a French language test for admission to the full-year course. If your French proficiency is limited, semester-based programs might be better for you.
- Many study options are available in France for English-speaking students as well.
Apply for Study Abroad Scholarships
Students can get scholarships to study abroad. Many students apply to study in France, so securing a scholarship is not easy. Some scholarships also provide funds for accommodation and meals in addition to covering study expenses. Such scholarships are primarily awarded to students participating in the Erasmus exchange program.
- The Fulbright Scholarship and the Chateaubriand Fellowship are major scholarships for American students. There is intense competition for these scholarships, and they are mostly awarded to students pursuing a PhD.
- The French government also offers scholarships that are useful for students wishing to improve their French language skills.
Additionally, various scholarships and financial aid options are available for studying abroad. Information regarding scholarships and grants for studying abroad can be easily found on websites like Go Overseas. This helps students reduce the cost of their education.
Attend a Grande Ecole for Your Masters
Enrolling in a good and prestigious college in France for Master’s studies is a good option. Students who study at such colleges can secure good jobs later on. They also have opportunities to secure good positions in private companies and government departments. Hard work, dedication, and a good command of the French language are essential to gain admission to these colleges. Studying at a Grande École can help students build a successful international career. Studying at these colleges also offers opportunities to stay in France and advance one’s career. Some institutions are affiliated with FAFSA, so students can receive financial assistance for educational expenses.
Get a Teaching Side Gig
Students in France can also do extra work alongside their studies. This allows them to easily manage their living and educational expenses. You can legally work up to 20 hours a week on a student visa. Students who know English can teach in schools as teaching assistants. Under the TAPIF program, one can get a teaching job requiring 12 hours of work per week and receive a monthly salary of approximately 800 euros. If not selected for this program, students can visit the local education office to obtain information about the work. Students with good English proficiency and some teaching experience have a good chance of getting a job.
Get Your Expenses Covers as an AU Pair
If you want to learn French without a degree, you can become an au pair in France. An au pair lives with a family and takes care of the children while also doing light household chores. In return, they receive a room to stay in, travel facilities, and some money every month.
They do not have to work more than 30 hours a week. The family also pays for their French language classes. This is a good way to live in France at a low cost and learn French. However, it is important to thoroughly understand all the rules and conditions before becoming an au pair.
