When one is prepared, difficulties do not come.
This traditional proverb that we can actually hear in pretty much all countries might be a little too optimistic. There is always a certain amount of uncertainty, life’s hazards that add a few challenges along the way.
But, it is true that being prepared remains the best way of embarking on a new adventure, such as studying abroad, with confidence.
This being said, what things can actually be prepared before departure?
If you now are sure that you will be able to study in France for next academic year, you will find hereafter everything you need to do and plan, step by step, to prepare for your arrival in France with peace of mind.
1. Find accommodation
This is definitely the first thing to do as soon as your study project in France is confirmed. Not knowing where to sleep that same evening can be a great source of stress, as well as the best way to overpay.
You can either try to find accommodation for the duration of your studies or if you prefer not to commit without seeing the place, book a short-term accommodation so that to have time to search and find the right place for you.
Nowadays, 100% of accommodation offers are available online on platforms, including very helpful search criteria to target your search as effectively as possible.
MediaSchool International puts at your disposal its partner LivinFrance and its platform notably dedicated to student housing.
In any case, if you do not go through an official accommodation provider, avoid as much as possible to send money to book accommodation directly with a private provider not advised by anyone you know. Even if they are rare, scams do exist.
2. Plan your money management
No need to say that most payment in France like elsewhere are made through credit card. This presupposes that you have a bank account in France because using a bank account located abroad could very quickly prove costly in commissions and other bank charges.
Please note that some compulsory procedures like registration to the “Social Security” insurance will only be possible if you have a bank account (needed for any reimbursement of healthcare costs).
Our partner Studely gives you the possibility to open a bank account in France from your home country.
If you wish to wait for your arrival to open a bank account then make sure to have enough cash to cover expenses for the first few days.
3. Pay the student life campus contribution (CVEC) and get the certificate of payment
This tax has to be paid by every student, enrolled in a higher education institution, be it public or private. The certificate of payment will be required in order to finalize your enrollment with your host school. You do not need to wait for being in France to proceed to the payment as it can be done fully online.
Learn more here.
4. Gather all the documents you’ll need at arrival
Believe us: asking your parents to find in your bedroom a copy of your school leaving certificate – you don't even know where it is yourself – being 8 000 km away is not an easy task.
We highly advise you to gather all documents that you will need for your stay in France and to take and save pictures of all pieces:
- Passport / ID including visa page
- Birth certificate
- Previous degrees / certificates
- Language proof of proficiency if relevant
- School pre registration letter
5. Inform us!
As soon as you obtain your visa, you get your CVEC payment certificate or you have a date for your arrival in France, don’t forget to inform us (the international team) as well as possible other players such as your accommodation provider.
This will help us helping you the best way possible!
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