Student cities in France

Where you study shapes your whole experience — cost of living, job options, weather, and lifestyle all vary by city. Here are the main destinations for international students in France.

Bordeaux

France's elegant wine capital — a UNESCO-listed centre, a growing student population, and easy access to the Atlantic coast.

Lille

A lively northern hub at the crossroads of Europe — a big, young student population, Flemish character, and very affordable living.

Lyon

France's gastronomic capital — a large, elegant student city strong in science, medicine, and business, with lower costs than Paris.

Montpellier

A sunny Mediterranean university city — one of the youngest populations in France, a medieval medical school, and beaches nearby.

Paris

France's capital and a global student magnet — the historic Sorbonne, top grandes écoles, world-class culture, and the country's highest costs.

Toulouse

The "Pink City" of the southwest — Europe's aerospace capital, a huge student population, and warm, affordable living.