If you’re planning to study in France, one of the first things you’ll likely wonder is how much it’s going to cost to live there. The good news is, France is known for offering a great quality of life at relatively affordable prices.
For instance, renting a small apartment in Paris can cost around €850 (₹75,000) a month, while groceries might set you back about €250 (₹22,000). A student metro pass in the city typically costs €50 (₹4,500). In Lyon, which is generally more affordable, shared accommodation might cost €500 (₹44,000), and groceries could be around €200 (₹17,500). Additionally, many students save on transport costs by biking around the city.
These examples show that living costs vary by city and lifestyle. Knowing what to expect will help you plan your budget and make the most of your time in France!
When studying in France, one of the biggest expenses is housing. There are several accommodation options available to students, each with its own benefits and costs.
On-Campus Housing
Living on-campus is a convenient and affordable option for many students. Managed by universities or CROUS (Centre Régional des Œuvres Universitaires et Scolaires), these accommodations are designed to make student life easier.
Average Cost: ₹25,000–₹40,000 (€300–€500) per month.
Inclusions: Basic furniture, utilities, and Wi-Fi.
Availability: Limited spots; early application is crucial.
Pros: Proximity to campus, affordability, and student-friendly amenities.
Cons: Limited space and competition for rooms.
Private Rentals
Want more independence? Renting a private apartment, either shared or solo, gives you the freedom to live on your terms.
Average Cost:
Shared apartments: ₹40,000–₹60,000 (€500–€700) per month.
Studios: ₹60,000–₹1 lakh (€700–€1,200) per month.
Additional Expenses: Utilities (~₹8,000–₹12,000/month (€90–€140)), internet, and renter’s insurance.
Pros: More freedom and privacy.
Cons: Higher costs and upfront deposits (1–2 months’ rent).
Homestays
If you’re looking to embrace French culture and enjoy home-cooked meals, a homestay might be perfect for you.
Average Cost: ₹50,000–₹80,000 (€600–€1,000) per month, often including meals.
Inclusions: Furnished room, utilities, and meals (varies by host).
Pros: Cultural immersion, meals provided, and a home-like environment.
Cons: Less independence compared to private rentals.
Comparison Table: Accommodation Costs
Accommodation Type
Monthly Cost (EUR)
Inclusions
On-Campus Housing
€300–€500 (₹25,000–₹40,000)
Furniture, utilities, Wi-Fi
Private Rentals
€500–€1,200 (₹40,000–₹100,000)
Varies: rent, utilities, internet
Homestays
€600–€1,000 (₹50,000–₹80,000)
Furnished room, meals (optional)
Note: Costs may vary as per the current conversion rate.
Food and Grocery Expenses in France
Food is a big part of French culture, and students can enjoy everything from fresh baguettes to affordable dining options. But balancing grocery shopping and dining out is important to manage your budget.
Grocery Shopping Costs
Monthly grocery expenses typically range from ₹12,000–₹20,000 (€150–€250), depending on your eating habits. Shopping at supermarkets like Carrefour, Auchan, or Lidl can help you save.
Common Grocery Prices:
Milk (1L): ₹90 (€1).
Bread (baguette): ₹50–₹60 (€0.60–€0.70).
Eggs (12): ₹180 (€2).
Chicken (1kg): ₹600–₹800 (€7–€10).
Tips to Save:
Shop at local markets for fresh produce at lower prices.
Buy in bulk for staples like rice, pasta, and canned goods.
Use discount stores like Aldi or Intermarché for essentials.
Dining Out Expenses
Eating out occasionally is part of the student experience, but costs can add up.
Average Costs:
Budget-friendly restaurants: ₹1,000–₹1,500 (€12–€18) per meal.
Cafés: ₹300–₹600 (€3–€7) for a coffee or pastry.
Indian restaurants: ₹1,200–₹2,000 (€15–€25) per meal.
Tips to Save:
Look for university cafeterias (RU – Restaurant Universitaire) offering meals for as low as ₹250 (€3.30).
Take advantage of lunch deals at local bistros.
Cook at home and pack lunches for classes or day trips.
Transportation Costs for Students in France
Getting around in France is easy, thanks to a well-connected public transport system and various eco-friendly options. Students have access to discounted fares and affordable alternatives like cycling or walking.
Public Transport Costs
Public transport in France is highly efficient, with metros, buses, and trams operating across most cities. Students can take advantage of discounted monthly or yearly passes.
Monthly Student Passes: Costs range from ₹3,000–₹5,000 (€35–€60) depending on the city.
Paris (Navigo Card): ₹4,200 (€50) per month for unlimited travel.
Lyon (TCL Pass): ₹3,000 (€35) per month for students.
Single Tickets: ₹150–₹200 (€1.80–€2.50) per ride.
Cycling and Walking
France is a bike-friendly country, with several cities offering bike-sharing programs. Walking is also an excellent way to explore pedestrian-friendly cities like Bordeaux or Strasbourg.
Bike-Sharing Programs:
Vélib’ Métropole (Paris): ₹1,700 (€20) per month for unlimited 30-minute rides.
Vélov’ (Lyon): ₹1,000 (€12) per month.
Buying a Bicycle: A used bike costs around ₹8,000–₹15,000 (€100–€180).
Private Transport Costs
While owning a car is not practical for most students, it’s an option for those living in rural areas or small towns. However, the costs can add up.
Car Rentals: Around ₹3,000–₹5,000 (€40–€60) per day.
Insurance: ₹4,000–₹8,000 (€50–€100) per month.
Fuel: ₹150–₹180 (€1.80–€2.20) per liter.
Comparison Table: Transportation Costs
Transport Mode
Monthly Cost (EUR)
Discounts
Public Transport Pass
€35–€60 (₹3,000–₹5,000)
Student discounts available
Bike-Sharing Programs
€12–€20 (₹1,000-₹1,700)
Free or discounted for students
Car Ownership (including insurance)
€300+ (₹25,000+)
No discounts, better for rural areas
Note: Costs may vary as per the current conversion rate.
Healthcare and Insurance Costs for Students in France
Healthcare in France is among the best in the world, and students are required to have health insurance during their studies.
Mandatory Health Insurance
All international students studying in France must register for the French Social Security system. This covers basic healthcare needs like doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions.
Annual Cost: Free to register, but students pay for specific treatments or services not fully reimbursed.
Coverage:
GP visits: ₹500–₹600 (€7–€10) per consultation (70% reimbursed).
Prescriptions: Partially reimbursed (65–100%).
Emergency care: Covered under public insurance.
Private Health Insurance
Some students opt for private health insurance for additional coverage, including dental and vision care. This is optional but recommended if you want more comprehensive coverage.
Prescriptions: Prices vary, with 65–100% reimbursement depending on the medication.
Utility Bills and Miscellaneous Costs for Students in France
Living in France comes with several monthly expenses beyond housing and food. It’s important to budget for these costs to avoid surprises.
Utility Bills
Utility costs depend on your accommodation type and location. Shared apartments or student housing usually have lower utility costs, while private rentals may require you to pay separately for electricity, gas, and water.
Electricity and Gas: ₹8,000–₹12,000 (€90–€140) per month.
Water: Often included in rent for student housing; otherwise, it costs around ₹1,500–₹2,500 (€20–€30) per month.
Heating (Winter Months): Can increase utility bills by ₹4,000–₹6,000 (€50–€70).
Tip: Choose energy-efficient appliances and limit heating use to save on bills during winter.
Internet and Phone Plans
Affordable internet and phone plans are readily available in France, and many providers offer student discounts.
Broadband Internet: ₹2,500–₹4,000 (€30–€50) per month, depending on the speed and provider.
Mobile Phone Plans: ₹800–₹1,200 (€10–€15) per month for unlimited calls, texts, and data (providers like Free, SFR, or Orange).
Tip: Look for combo deals that bundle internet and mobile services to reduce overall costs.
Leisure Costs
Students in France can enjoy a variety of leisure activities without spending too much, thanks to student discounts and cultural perks.
Movies: ₹800–₹1,200 (€10–€15) per ticket; student discounts bring it down to ₹600 (€7).
Gym Memberships: ₹3,500–₹6,000 (€40–€70) per month, depending on the gym and city.
Weekend Trips: Weekend getaways to nearby European countries can cost around ₹20,000–₹30,000 (€250–€350).
Tip: Take advantage of free cultural events, museums, and parks in your city to save money on entertainment.
City-Wise Comparison of Living Costs in France
Living costs in France vary significantly depending on the city you choose. Paris is the most expensive, while cities like Lyon and Toulouse are more budget-friendly for students.
Here’s a comparison of monthly costs across major cities.
Comparison Table: City-Wise Comparison
City
Monthly Cost (EUR)
Key Cost Drivers
Paris
€1,400–€2,000 (₹1,12,000–₹1,60,000)
High rent, expensive public transport.
Lyon
€1,000–€1,400 (₹80,000–₹1,12,000)
Affordable rent, reasonable food costs.
Toulouse
€900–€1,200 (₹72,000–₹96,000)
Lower housing costs, student-friendly vibe.
Marseille
€1,000–€1,300 (₹80,000–₹1,04,000)
Affordable rent but higher utility costs.
Strasbourg
€900–€1,200 (₹72,000–₹96,000)
Cheaper rent, good public transport.
Note: Costs may vary as per the current conversion rate.
Tips to Save Across Cities
Consider shared housing to reduce rent costs.
Use student discounts on public transport and leisure activities.
Explore local markets for groceries and essentials to save on daily expenses.
Scholarships and Financial Aid Options to Manage Living Costs in France
International students have access to various funding options. Here’s an overview:
1. Need-Based Scholarships
These scholarships are awarded based on financial need and aim to support students from low-income backgrounds.
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship: The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship provides a monthly allowance of ₹1 lakh (€1,181), covering living expenses, health insurance, and cultural activities.
CROUS Scholarships: French government-funded, offering financial support for tuition and housing.
2. Merit-Based Scholarships
These are granted to students with exceptional academic achievements or extracurricular accomplishments.
Erasmus+ Program: Offers funding for students studying at partner institutions across Europe, including France.
Charpak Scholarship (French Embassy): Covers tuition fees, living costs, and visa expenses for Indian students.
Comparison Table: Scholarships and Financial Aid Options
Scholarship Name
Eligibility
Benefits
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
International master’s students
₹1 lakh (€1,181) per month, living costs
CROUS Scholarships
Need-based, international students
Financial support for tuition and housing
Erasmus+ Program
Enrolled in partner universities
Monthly stipend and travel funding
Charpak Scholarship
Indian students, academic merit
Covers tuition, living, and visa expenses
How to Apply for Scholarships
Research deadlines and application requirements well in advance.
Prepare strong personal statements and letters of recommendation.
Submit all required documents, including transcripts and proof of financial need, if applicable.
Tips to Maximize Financial Aid
Apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of securing funding.
Explore university-specific grants and assistantships that may cover living costs.
Contact your university’s financial aid office for additional guidance.
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You with Study Abroad Planning in France
Planning to study in France? upGrad Abroad offers comprehensive support to make your study abroad process smoother and more effective. From visa guidance to scholarships, here’s how we can assist:
Complete Guidance and Resources
We provide expert advice to help you navigate every step of the process:
Plan your study abroad experience in France with ease!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can international students get discounts on museum or tourist site tickets in France?
Yes, international students under 26 years of age often qualify for free or discounted entry to museums and historical sites across France. Popular attractions like the Louvre Museum and Palace of Versailles offer free entry to EU and international students studying in France.
2. What is the average cost of a weekend getaway to nearby European countries from France?
A weekend trip to neighboring countries like Belgium, Germany, or Italy can cost around ₹25,000–₹40,000 (€300–€500), including transportation, accommodation, and food. Low-cost airlines and trains, like FlixBus or TGV, can help you save on travel expenses.
3. Are there any free public transport options for students in specific French cities?
While public transport isn't entirely free, cities like Paris offer student discounts on monthly passes, such as the Imagine R card, which costs approximately ₹3,500 (€42) per month. Smaller cities may offer more affordable or free shuttle services for students.
4. How does the cost of living in France compare to other European countries like Germany or Italy?
France is slightly more expensive than Germany and Italy, especially in cities like Paris. For example:
Monthly living costs in Paris: ₹1.2–₹1.8 lakhs (€1,400–€2,000).
Monthly living costs in Lyon or Marseille: ₹80,000–₹1.2 lakhs (€900–€1,400). Germany and Italy offer slightly lower living expenses, especially in smaller cities.
5. Are part-time jobs easily available for students in France, and how much can they earn?
Yes, part-time jobs are available for students, especially in retail, hospitality, and tutoring. International students can work up to 964 hours per year (about 20 hours per week) and earn around ₹850–₹1,300 (€10–€15) per hour.
6. What are the typical one-time costs when moving to France, such as deposits for housing?
Initial expenses for moving to France include:
Housing deposit: Equivalent to 1–2 months’ rent (₹50,000–₹1 lakh (€600–€1,200)).
7. How can students reduce costs for textbooks and academic materials?
Students can save on textbooks by:
Renting books from libraries or using digital versions.
Sharing materials with classmates or joining university book-sharing programs.
8. What are the best ways to save on international money transfers from India to France?
Use online services like Wise or Remitly for better exchange rates and lower fees.
Avoid transferring small amounts frequently to minimize transaction costs.
Check if your bank offers special student rates for international transfers.
9. Does France have student loyalty programs or special discount cards for daily expenses?
Yes, students in France can use cards like Carte Jeune for discounted train travel and ISIC (International Student Identity Card) for discounts on food, shopping, and entertainment. Local loyalty programs at grocery stores like Carrefour or Auchan also help save on daily expenses.
10. How much should students budget for seasonal clothing, especially for winter in France?
Winter clothing can cost around ₹15,000–₹30,000 (€180–€350), depending on where you shop. Affordable options include Decathlon, H&M, and local flea markets.
11. What are the common unexpected expenses international students face in France?
Unexpected medical costs: Even with insurance, certain treatments or prescriptions may have out-of-pocket costs.
Bank account fees: Some banks charge monthly maintenance fees or for international transfers.
Apartment maintenance/repairs: Small repairs may not be covered by landlords.
12. Is health insurance mandatory for students who already have international travel insurance?
Yes, health insurance is mandatory for students in France. Even if you have international travel insurance, you are required to enroll in the French Social Security system, which is free but may require you to pay for additional private coverage.
13. How do students find affordable housing near top universities in cities like Paris or Lyon?
Check university accommodation services, which often provide affordable dormitories.
Apply early for CROUS housing, which is subsidized by the French government.
14. Are utility and internet costs higher in rural areas or small towns compared to cities?
Utility and internet costs are usually lower in small towns compared to cities. For example:
Small towns: Monthly utility bills (electricity, water, gas) are around ₹8,000–₹12,000 (€90–€140).
Cities like Paris: Utility bills can go up to ₹15,000–₹20,000 (€180–€240).
15. What is the cost difference between renting a furnished and an unfurnished apartment in France?
Furnished Apartments: Higher monthly rent by ₹8,000–₹12,000 (€100–€150) but no need to buy furniture.
Unfurnished Apartments: Lower rent but require initial investment in furniture (₹40,000–₹80,000 (€500–€1,000)).
Honey Gupta is a leading consultant with over 10 years of experience in helping students navigate the complexities of studying overseas, with a specialized focus on Ireland. Honey brings a wealth of academic knowledge and practical insights into international education and study abroad programs, particularly in addressing the unique opportunities and challenges of studying in Ireland.
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