Student Life in France
There are over 2.6 million students in France and 12% of them all come from foreign countries, this proves that France is definitely an educational haven for many individuals from around the globe. We reached out to some of the foreign students studying at different French institutions for their take on what it is like to study in France.
Diego from Brazil studying at PSL Research University Paris says:
“Coming to France was nerve-racking for me but I quickly learned that then the country in itself is pretty friendly and easy to integrate into.
Paris is a lively city and there are a lot of cultural activities, the streets are vibrant and there's something new to experience every day”
Ishaan from India studying at École des Ponts ParisTech says:
French people give the impression that they don’t study, however, this is not the case as they study really hard here in France.
The system is very effective and streamlined with many opportunities to excel both in and outside the classroom walls.
However, you do not get to neglect other aspects of life because you are a student, you can also work hard and play hard as well in France
Carla from Germany studying at Aix-Marseille University says:
“The university environment is very organized and disciplined, studying in France requires a lot of hard work as there are many exams and tests in one semester.
French people are always so welcoming and exciting to be around or to learn from, it goes way beyond just studying, student life in France is an experience that would remain for life”
Yui Jang from Japan studying at the University of Burgundy says:
“Classroom attendance is very important and strict attentiveness is very much advised while studying in France. You quickly find yourself emulating the fast-paced academic atmosphere here in France.
As a foreign student, I had to put myself out there and actively connect with other French students, as French people tend to somewhat shy at a first encounter”
Charlie from Canada studying at Sorbonne University says:
“Students here are very serious in the manner in which they themselves, studying in France is juxtaposes the hard and easy aspects of university education.
Prior to coming here, I would always leave all my studying till last minute, but I have observed that in France this can be highly stressful so I advise that you accomplish small goals by the week and create a weekly study plan so as not to bombard yourself during your finals”
