Cost of Living in France

France is infamous for being an expensive country in terms of living expenses, especially for students. While this has a ring of truth to it, this is not the complete picture.  While some cities in France fare steep on accommodation costs, one must factor in student expenses when considering living expenses in France. As compared to some European countries such UK, or even the US, living expenses in France are lower. However, France is expensive in comparison to few other European countries in terms of overall living expenses. 

France is also very popular for Arts, Architecture, Fashion and Design studies. Many top universities of France offer education in English hence Indian students can conveniently learn their subject of interest in English.

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Here is a brief on typical living costs in France incurred by students: 

Estimated Living Expenses in France:

Please note that the costs are an average approximations and they vary from university to university.

For a student pursuing an Undergraduate program, the living expense range between EURO 10000 to 18000 per year.

For a student pursuing a Postgraduate program, the living expense range between EURO 18000 to 30000 per year.

Average Monthly Budget in France:

Hence, the Total Monthly Expenses turns out to be under 1000 Euros per month.

Medical cost:

The cost of compulsory medical insurance is approximately Euro 130 to Euro 715, per year depending on the age of the student.

Miscellaneous costs:

• The cost of language training in France is approximately Euro 350 per month. It is advisable to learn French from recognized learning centers before leaving for France.
• An individual usually spends 100 euro per week on grocery items and food consumption.
• Coats and jackets can range from 50 euro up to several thousands depending on the material.
• TGV to Paris costs 20 to 50 Euros for one way.

Managing your money :

• Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard, are accepted by most merchants for payments in excess of 15 Euros. Automated teller machines (ATM) are readily available in cities.
• The French make extensive use of checks. However, checks drawn on foreign banks are rarely accepted by French merchants.
• The Euro is now the sole currency used for all cash transactions in France.

International students can open non-resident bank accounts in Euros or another currency if they have been in France for less than 2 years. They may open a resident account if their stay is longer. Ask your bank if it is associated with a banking institution in France. The connection may make things easier when you go to open an account in France.