France is a top destination for international students, offering world-class education, rich culture, and vibrant student life. However, before packing your bags, it’s crucial to understand the cost of living in France and how to budget effectively.
This complete guide covers all essential expenses—from tuition fees to food, accommodation, transport, health insurance, and money-saving tips—to help you plan your student life in France.
Tuition Fees for International Students in France
Tuition costs in France are relatively low at public universities due to government subsidies, but they vary based on your nationality and the type of institution.
| Institution Type | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
| Public Universities | €170 – €650 (undergraduate), €243 – €601 (postgraduate) |
| Private Universities | €3,000 – €10,000+ |
| Grandes Écoles | €500 – €15,000+ |
Note: Non-EU/EEA students at public universities may pay slightly higher fees, but these are still lower compared to those in other Western countries.
Accommodation Costs in France for Students
Housing is usually the biggest monthly expense for students in France. Costs depend on city, housing type, and whether it’s shared or private.
| City | Monthly Rent Range |
|---|---|
| Paris | €800 – €1,200 |
| Lyon | €500 – €700 |
| Toulouse | €400 – €600 |
| Lille/Nantes | €350 – €550 |
Types of Student Housing:
- University Dormitories (CROUS): €150 – €400/month – most affordable
- Shared Apartments (Colocation): €300 – €600/month
- Private Studios: €500 – €1,000/month
Tip: Apply early for CROUS student housing as spots fill quickly.
Food and Grocery Costs in France
Your monthly food budget depends on whether you cook or eat out.
| Expense | Average Cost (Monthly) |
| Groceries | €150 to €250 |
| Dining Out | €10 to €20 per meal |
Budget Tip: Shop at budget supermarkets like Lidl, Aldi, or local markets for affordable fresh produce.
Transportation Costs for Students in France
Most French cities offer discounted student transport passes, which include buses, trams, and metro.
| City | Monthly Student Pass |
|---|---|
| Paris | €37.10 (Imagine R card) |
| Lyon | €30 – €60 |
| Toulouse | €30 |
| Nantes/Lille | €25 – €40 |
Bonus: Get the Carte Jeune (Youth Railcard) from SNCF for discounted intercity train travel.
Health Insurance in France for International Students
All international students must have health insurance during their stay.
| Type of Student | Health Insurance Cost (Annually) |
|---|---|
| EU/EEA Students | Free with EHIC |
| Non-EU Students | €200 – €400 for French public healthcare (via Sécurité Sociale) |
Private Health Insurance (Optional)
- Additional “mutuelle” (complementary insurance): €10 – €40/month
The French health system is among the best in the world, and student plans offer excellent value.
Books, Study Materials, and Personal Expenses
Beyond tuition and rent, students should budget for materials, personal items, and leisure.
| Expense | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Books & Supplies | €50 – €100 |
| Phone & Internet | €20 – €40 |
| Entertainment & Leisure | €50 – €100 |
| Clothing & Miscellaneous | €30 – €70 |
Use your student ID for museum entries, movie tickets, and events to get up to 50% off.
[ Related: Why Study in France: Key Advantages for International Students ]
Total Monthly Living Expenses in France for Students
Here’s a rough breakdown of the total monthly living expenses for students in France. Remember, costs may vary depending on lifestyle choices and location.
| Expense | Cost (Monthly) |
| Accommodation | €400 to €1,200 |
| Food | €150 to €250 |
| Transportation | €30 to €75 |
| Health Insurance | €15 to €35 |
| Books and Leisure | €50 to €150 |
| Total | €645 to €1,710 |
Annual Student Budget in France: Around €8,000 – €20,000, depending on lifestyle and location.
Smart Budgeting Tips for International Students in France
Here are a few expert tips to save money while studying in France:
- Choose Student Residences: CROUS dorms offer low-cost, reliable housing.
- Get a Student Card: Unlock discounts on transport, restaurants, cinemas, and museums.
- Cook Your Meals: Home-cooked meals save €100+ per month.
- Use Budgeting Apps: Tools like Bankin’, Tricount, or YNAB help track your expenses.
- Work Part-Time: You’re allowed to work up to 964 hours/year (~20 hrs/week) on a student visa.
Emergency Expenses & Backup Funds
Always set aside at least €500 – €1,000 for emergencies like medical bills, last-minute travel, or unplanned expenses.
Consider opening a student-friendly French bank account for easier transactions and fee waivers.
Conclusion
Living in France as an international student is affordable with the right budgeting. Cities like Toulouse, Nantes, or Lille are cost-effective compared to Paris. From low tuition fees to student discounts and public healthcare, France offers a balanced lifestyle for students on a budget.
By planning your finances wisely, you can enjoy everything France has to offer—academics, culture, food, and travel—without financial stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does it cost to live in France as an international student?
The monthly cost of living in France for international students ranges from €645 to €1,710, depending on the city, housing, and lifestyle choices.
2. Is France expensive for international students?
France is relatively affordable compared to other Western countries. Public universities offer low tuition fees, and student discounts help reduce living costs.
3. How much is student accommodation in France?
Student accommodation in France costs between €150 to €1,200 per month, with CROUS dorms being the cheapest and private apartments the most expensive.
4. What is the average cost of food for students in France?
Students typically spend around €150 to €250 per month on groceries. Cooking at home is more economical than dining out, which costs €10–€20 per meal.
5. Do students get transport discounts in France?
Yes, students receive discounted monthly passes for public transport. In Paris, for example, the student travel card costs €37.10/month.
6. Do international students need health insurance in France?
Yes. EU students use their EHIC card, while non-EU students must enroll in the French health system, costing around €200–€400 per year.
7. Can international students work part-time in France?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during studies (a maximum of 964 hours per year) to support living expenses.
8. Which city in France is cheapest for students?
Cities like Toulouse, Nantes, and Lille are more affordable than Paris, offering lower rent, food, and transportation costs for students.