In today’s post, I share with you my personal pros and cons of studying abroad in France, all based on my personal experience.
I have been studying abroad for 5 years now, and there are some advantages and disadvantages that I have encountered along the way. Let’s start with the cons.
Cons about studying abroad in France
1. Few English Programs
Most programs in France are taught in French. For example, a Bachelor’s Psychology degree is taught in French. If you want to know how to find the best program for you, I show you how in this video.
2. Stores closed on Sundays
I come from Mexico where stores are opened on Sundays till very late which is not the case in France. If you are thinking of doing your grocery shopping on a Sunday DO NOT do it. A lot of stores are closed on a Sunday. Nonetheless, some supermarkets do open on Sundays for a few hours. For example, in Strasbourg, there are a few stores that open from 9 to 12 am.
3. French proficiency level
In some cases, you are required to have a level B1 or B2 or even a C1 in French to enroll in a study program. It depends on what you want to study. Read very carefully the requirements of the university you are interested in. If you encounter any issues or have any specific questions not answered on their website, contact by email or phone the responsible for that program.
4. Cultural Shock
The weather, the food, the people and other things will be different in France. Once you arrive in the city where you will study, you might realize that people act in a different, the weather might be too cold or too gray, you might miss the food. It is totally normal! There have been so many times in which I have felt homesick. Some things that I have done are, going for a walk, participating in language cafes, going to university events, joining an association…
5. Making friends
It can be hard to make friends in France.
6. Language barrier
I have found that some French people dislike when foreigners speak to them in English. It makes sense as that is the local language. If you can, make an effort to learn a few words and if you are interested to learn French. However, there are some nice people that will help you out if you speak to them in English.
7. French education system
The French education system can be very hard to understand. If you have a hard time finding your way, it is totally normal. I have learned that not even French understand it themselves. Something important to know is that teachers never or rarely will give you a 20/20 score. From what I have learned, it is their way of saying that nobody is perfect, only God gets a 20/20. I know… it is a huge cultural shock!
8. Getting a job
For a lot of jobs, you may need to have both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. Do your research to learn the requirements you have to fulfill to get a job in France or elsewhere. You can find more information in campusfrance.org
9. French guarantor
When thinking of renting an apartment or a room, you may need a French guarantor. If you know nobody in France, it can be extremely hard to get one. If this is your case, there is something called VISALE, which allows you to have a guarantor. Basically, the government will be your guarantor.
Pros about studying abroad in France
1. Student friendly
France has so many student discounts. For instance, if are below 26 years old, you can get into the Louvre for free. You also get discounts at cinemas, some stores, and some tourist attractions.
2. Improve your French
Living in France can allow you to improve your French skills. Of course, you have to put the work in, meaning you have to practice with natives.
3. Long lasting friendships
Making friends in France can be difficult, but when you do they tend to be long-lasting friendships. Friends that you can count on in the good and bad times.
4. International friends
Studying abroad in France can allow you to meet people from all over the world. You could even get the change to practice another language or learn a new one.
5. Accessible traveling
You can travel almost everywhere in Europe by train, bus or plane. If you have the budget you can get a train subscription called TGV max or a train card discount called Carte Avantage Jeune. There are more offers available to you at the official website of the sncf.
6. Rest days
Sundays in France are no workdays. Most stores are closed, so you really get the opportunity to rest, hang out with your friends or have a “you” time.
7. Practice other languages
When meeting international students in France, you might get the opportunity to practice or learn other languages.
8. Affordable education
For European students, studying in France can be affordable. If you want to learn more about the fees and the application process, go to campusfrance.org
9. Affordable food discounts
In some supermarkets, they sometimes have food discounts of the day. For example, 0.99€ for cherry tomatoes. A great tip is to get the “carte de fidelité” at your supermarket so that you get special discounts or points so that you can spend less money on groceries.
These are some of my pros and cons of studying abroad in France. If you want to see more content, visit my social accounts on Instagram, TikTok (@thatsmoniofficial), Pinterest (@thatsmoniofficial), Twitter, YouTube @thatsmoni.
You might also be interested in How to find the perfect program for you to study in France.
