Budget

The cost of living in France, opening a bank account, taxes, finding a job, grants and financial support: you can find a wealth of information here to help you budget for your university stay and avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Cost of living

Carefully budgeting for university will allow you to better prepare your stay in France and avoid any unpleasant surprises. Remember that, in addition to your regular, ongoing expenses there will be various settling-in costs you will need to cover on arriving in France.

Bank

It is not mandatory to have a bank account in France but having one will help you better manage routine transactions such as paying your bills (including mobile phone and broadband charges), the payment of wages and benefits to you and the reimbursement of medical costs. It’s difficult to go without one!

Taxes

As a student, doctoral student or researcher, you may be liable for two types of tax: the housing tax (‘taxe d’habitation’, abolished as of January 1st, 2023) and the income tax (‘impôt sur le revenu’).

Student jobs

During university vacations or alongside your studies, a student job can provide substantial additional income.

Financial assistance

If your budget is tight, or you are having temporary difficulties, financial support is available in a whole range of areas, including accommodation, transport, day-to-day living needs and family needs.
Published on  January 7, 2021
Updated on March 29, 2023