Erasmus programme in France: A complete guide

Key benefits of Erasmus for students

The Erasmus program promotes European students’ exposure to new academic and cultural horizons.

Beyond simple geographical mobility, Erasmus encourages genuine immersion in diverse learning environments where students can gain new perspectives and strengthen their skills.

Encouraging student mobility

A primary goal of the Erasmus program, for instance, is to get students to go around Europe experiencing different education systems, new pedagogies, and different academic contexts.

This mobility is important for young people to learn to adapt to different atmospheres, learn how to negotiate a foreign institution, and, most importantly, learn to be autonomous. You will not only get to see the world differently, but will enhance your education experience.

Promoting cultural integration

The Erasmus program consists of much more than just an experience in academia, but encourages students to live in a foreign country and contributes significantly to one’s integration into a culture and promotes a sense of European citizenship.

Living in the centre of a new culture, familiarising oneself with customs, languages and systems of living will provide a student with an open mind and unmistakable ability to adapt. Furthermore, this experience fosters a sense of European unity between citizens of different nations or peoples.

Strengthening professional skills

The Erasmus project offers much more than just an academic experience. It’s not limited to students studying abroad; it’s a powerful tool for promoting European citizenship and encouraging students to live in another country.

To live at the heart of a new culture, to encounter a new social system and way of living, to experience change and, at times, a little struggle, will lead to boundless open-mindedness and adaptability. Finally, the whole experience will contribute to greater European unity between citizens of diverse countries and peoples.

Eligibility criteria for Erasmus in France

When applying for Erasmus France, there are a number of eligibility requirements to bear in mind:

• Enrolment: You should be enrolled in a higher education institution part of the Erasmus program.
• Level of Study: The program accommodates undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students.
• Duration: Erasmus exchanges last anywhere between 3 and 12 months.
• Language skills: Most French universities offer a wide range of courses in English, however, having a very basic grasp of French is advantageous and could significantly enrich your experience both academically and socially. This is especially true for France students seeking to immerse themselves fully in the local culture.

Step-by-step application process

1. Consult Your Home University: Your journey begins at your home institution, where you’ll meet with your Erasmus coordinator to discuss options in France.
2. Choose a French University: Once you have a list of partner universities in France, research their academic offerings and city locations to find the best fit for you.
3. Submit Your Application: Work closely with your Erasmus coordinator to complete the application forms. This includes sending transcripts, motivation letters, and course choices.
4. Await Acceptance: After submission, the host university in France will review your application. Once accepted, you’ll receive an offer letter outlining the next steps.
5. Prepare for Departure: After acceptance, you’ll need to organize your visa (if applicable), accommodation, and travel plans.

Required documents for Erasmus application

To ensure a smooth application process, gather the following documents:

• Application Form: Provided by your home institution’s Erasmus office.
• Learning Agreement: A document outlining the courses you will take at the host university and how they will transfer to your degree.
• Proof of Enrolment: Confirming your status as a student at your home university.
• Language Proficiency Proof: Some universities may ask for a certificate proving your English or French language skills.
• CV and Motivation Letter: Highlighting your academic background and reasons for choosing Erasmus in France.

Best cities for Erasmus students in France

France provides a wide variety of cities, each one varying in charms and level of academic excellence. Some of the main cities include:

• Paris: As the capital city, Paris is home to some of the most prestigious universities offered in the world as well as a lively lifestyle for residents; however living in such a city may also come with a high price for costs of living. If you want to be close to Paris but unable to pay the price tag, Ecla’s coliving spaces are available in nearby cities.
• Lyon: Famous for its gastronomy, Lyon is considered a student city and home to chic universities, gastronomy schools, at a lower cost of living than in Paris.
• Toulouse: A center for aerospace engineering and technology., Toulouse offers a balance of a sound education with a lively student body.
• Marseille: If you prefer to be near the Mediterranean, Marseille honors its Mediterranean lifestyle as it, too, is a lively and quality place to live.

Student accommodation options

At Ecla, we understand that the Erasmus experience is much more than just an academic exchange. It’s an adventure full of discoveries, new cultures, and opportunities. Whether students are coming to France or going abroad, Ecla is here to support young people at every step of their journey, providing tailored, practical, and welcoming student accommodation Paris.

Integration into a new country can sometimes be a source of concern for Erasmus students, especially when it comes to finding accommodation. That’s why Ecla offers a wide range of student housing options in Paris. These accommodations are designed to meet the specific needs of international students while offering a friendly and stimulating living environment.

Cultural adaptation and social life 

Living in France provides Erasmus students with an enriching cultural experience, but adapting to a new environment can sometimes be overwhelming. At Ecla, we make this transition easier by offering a vibrant community and a wide range of activities that allow you to immerse yourself in French culture while connecting with fellow international students in France.

Learn the language

Although you can navigate daily life in major French cities with English, learning French will greatly enhance your experience. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to improve your conversational skills, these courses provide a convenient way to learn French while socializing with other students who are also new to the language.

Additionally, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice French with your fellow residents, whether during casual conversations in the common areas or through organized language exchange meet-ups. These interactions help you gain confidence in speaking French, making it easier to integrate into your new surroundings.

At Ecla, community and interaction are at the heart of our living philosophy. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed into an international community where you can easily connect with other Erasmus students and make lasting friendships. Ecla’s student life team is dedicated to organizing regular social events such as game nights, cooking workshops, and themed parties, allowing you to bond with fellow residents in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.