Study Abroad in France

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France is one of the most popular study abroad locations in the world for good reason. It is a hub for fashion, food, and French. Whether you are looking to increase your language skills, study pivotal moments in history, design a winning clothes collection, or cook up a delectable meal, France is the obvious choice. Plus, this is one of the top destinations in the world for those studying film since the annual Cannes International Film Festival provides a great place for aspiring directors to learn from the best in the industry. 

The country has so many different types of villages, cities, terrain, and interests so that you will be sure to find something that appeals to you. If you are not sure where to start, then keep on reading to help you along your path to France.  

France at a Glance

Domestic Population: 62.8 Million People  

Capital City: Paris

Language: French

Currency: Euro

Trivia: France was originally named Lutetia 

When is The Best Time to Study Abroad in France

There are a number of different times of the year when it would be wonderful to visit France. Most study abroad programs have a spring break option, a summer term, a semester (either fall or spring) term, or a yearlong term. Depending on the requirements of your degree or how much time you want away from your home campus, you can spend as much or as little time as you like studying abroad.

You could even study abroad for a summer and then follow up another program during the fall or spring. Another idea is to schedule your study abroad around seasons or events. If you are a fan of skiing or snowboarding, you might want to pick a spring program since there are many resort areas that keep open until April. If you enjoy hiking, then a fall program might be more suited to you and your travels around the Alps. 

Study Programs and Popular Cities in France 

Paris: Land of the Eiffel Tower and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the capital city is a great place to study abroad. It is an especially important destination for those looking to improve language and to learn history. 

• Academic Programs International (API) program in Paris 
• AIFS Paris Program

Grenoble: This city is located in the shadow of the Alps and is a great destination for the outdoor types who enjoy hiking, skiing, and swimming in lakes. This is a great match for those who are looking for excellent universities, specifically those interested in the sciences, business, and learning French. 

• CEA Grenoble
• AIFS Grenoble

Lyon: Lyon is the place to be for foodies and those who enjoy history, culture, and the arts. If you are interested in learning politics, international relations, and the French language, this will be a great pick. Make sure to take a cooking class while you are in town. 

• Panrimo Lyon
• University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) Lyon 

Cannes: This seaside city is a gem of the French Riviera and a must-see for those who are film buffs. This is the ideal study abroad destination for film and French language students. Try you hand at sailing during your time in this gorgeous city.

• AIFS Cannes
• CESA Languages Cannes

Housing Options in France

There are multiple housing options during your time abroad. You can choose to live in dorms at the local university and this would give you the benefit of living with fellow students so that you always have a familiar face around. You could also choose to live with a local roommate which would give you the opportunity to study the language more. 

Off campus housing is also available during certain programs. You will either stay in a local hostel or hotel with your group or, during longer programs, you might even have the opportunity to rent an apartment. This is a great choice for those who want to experience life within the city removed from dorms. Having a roommate in these instances will not only reduce costs but might also help in finding a wider circle of friends.

Finally you can choose to participate in a homestay. Homestays place you with local families. This is a great way for you to immerse yourself in a French household and to really increase your French language abilities. 

Costs of Study Abroad Programs in France

Costs for programs vary depending on length of time, housing, and the perks that are included. Programs can range from $700-$20,000 and up. Summer programs tend to be around $2,000-$5,000 while semester programs are $10,000-$17,000. 

Always factor in extra costs for travel, food, and extracurricular activities. A great practice is to create a budget that will keep you on track during your time overseas.  

Wrap Up

If you end up choosing France as your study abroad destination, you will not regret the choice. It is a country filled with wonderful wine, delicious dishes, and amazing culture and history. During your program you can easily plan weekend trips to the Alps, visit neighboring countries like Belgium and Spain, and enjoy numerous museums and festivals. Plan a road trip to the Bordeaux region and take your time exploring as many vineyards as you can fit in. France is waiting for you, so what are you waiting for? 

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