Study in France in 2025-26: A Cost-Effective Approach for International Students

Studying in France is a dream for many students across the world. The European architecture, cobblestone streets, multicultural environment, and amazing French delicacies attract a large number of students to the French cities. However, the country is not just limited to beauty, history, and culture, it also offers an opportunity for quality education at its world-renowned Universities and academic institutions.

Unlike many other popular study destinations, to study in France offers an enriching study abroad experience at relatively low tuition fees. However, moving to any international destination is a big commitment financially, and it is important to navigate your finances efficiently to minimise your expenses, especially on a student budget. So, in this article, we will discuss some cost-effective strategies to study in France as an international student.

Money Saving Strategies to Study in France as an International Student

1. Find Affordable Accommodation

As an International Student in France, your major expense will be on Accommodation, so it is important to acquire an affordable place to live. University dormitories are the most convenient and affordable options, but they tend to fill out quickly. Other major options include CROUS student residences, which are publicly owned and subsidized by the French government. These are located close to campuses and offer low monthly rents compared to private apartments. If you still consider renting an apartment, try to live in a shared space where expenses can be divided among multiple people.

2. Health Insurance

Medical Expenses without insurance will be a burden on your student budget. To avoid this, you need to get medical insurance. When you stay in France for more than three months, you are required to register with the French Social Security System. This makes you eligible for the Assurance Maladie, which provides up to 70% or more reimbursement of your medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions. For broader coverage, you can also take private health insurance, which might also cover certain specialist visits or alternative therapies.

3. Acquire a Public Transport Pass

Public Transit in France is diverse and easy to access. Transport companies often have an office on campus, allowing you to sign up for the monthly or yearly pass. Additionally, Students under 26, enrolled in higher education institutes in France, can acquire a public transport pass, Imagine’R Étudiant, for a certain amount of yearly cost and administrative fees. This pass allows unlimited travel within major parts of France, including Paris, throughout the year.

4. Learn Basic French

Though Universities in France provide programs in English and you can survive without knowing French, learning basic French will improve your connectivity with the locals. You can get better deals in local markets, and it will come in handy in negotiating rents, understanding contracts, and navigating public services and forms. Knowing the language will also save you from potential scams and fraud. Many Universities in France provide basic French courses that you take in your summer breaks or you can also take online courses.

5. Get a French Bank Account

The local bank account will save you from hefty currency exchange fees while you make day-to-day financial transactions. Banks in France offer a specific bank account for students with reduced fees and additional benefits such as free debit cards and online banking services. Some banks also give students exclusive discounts on services and products with partner establishments.

6. Home-made Meals

Eating out in France can be very tempting, but it is not a very economical decision. Food in French restaurants and cafes can be quite expensive, so it would be best for your pocket to eat homemade food and pack your meals whenever possible. Shop for your groceries at local markets and discount supermarkets like Lidl or Aldi. Also, explore weekly markets to get fresh produce at lower prices.

With the right money management, you can enhance your higher education journey in France and make it sustainable. Following these tips and strategies, you can reduce your financial stress while you focus on your studies. If you want more guidance for your academic journey to France, reach out to the top overseas consultants in India. Their experts will guide you throughout the journey, starting from the application process till you reach and settle in your dream University.