Cheapest Cities in France for International Students

Studying abroad has always been your dream, and now you’ve chosen to make it a reality in France. However, living in France can be costly, and you might wonder if it’s within your budget.

France is home to both expensive and more affordable cities. Check out this list to find the cheapest cities for students, so you can enjoy your experience without worrying about high living costs.

Where Is The Cheapest City For International Students?

France offers several affordable universities, making it an excellent destination for study abroad programs. Some of the best cities combine vibrant student life with budget-friendly living costs, creating the perfect environment for international students.

These cities feature universities known for academic excellence and offer affordable tuition and student-friendly amenities. For the optimal international student experience, explore our detailed outline of the most affordable cities in France below.

Toulouse

Toulouse is probably the cheapest French city for college students. It is possible to live on €600 a month in this city. Student life is hopping in Toulouse, as it has the second-biggest student population, which also lowers living expenses.

Home to 14 cheap universities, you’ll be able to find one that is a good fit for you.

Lille

Lille is one of France’s most affordable student cities, with a cost of living of around €700 per month.

This city is budget-friendly and offers multiple educational institutions, giving students various degree options. Its strategic location provides convenient access to public transportation for quick trips to neighboring countries. Additionally, the city is designed for walkability, with many homes within walking distance of essential services and attractions.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is another affordable option for students, with average monthly expenses of about €750.

This artsy and progressive city is known for its inclusiveness and welcoming atmosphere. Students can easily explore Bordeaux by renting bikes or purchasing their own, as biking is the most popular mode of transport here. With several universities available, college students will feel right at home in this vibrant academic community.

Montpellier

Montpellier offers students a lively, affordable environment with a monthly cost of living of around €850.

This city is a true student hub, known for its vibrant social scene and constant activities flow. With six notable universities, including Paul Valéry University Montpellier, students have plenty of academic choices. Another highlight of Montpellier is its Mediterranean climate, warm weather and easy access to the sea.

Grenoble

Grenoble provides students with an affordable lifestyle, with average monthly living costs of about €900.

Home to several respected institutions, including Grenoble Alpes University and Grenoble Institute of Technology, Grenoble offers both academic excellence and affordability. Outdoor enthusiasts will love its proximity to the Alps, making it an ideal location for students who enjoy skiing, hiking, and other mountain activities.

What Is The Cheapest University In France?

France offers some of the most affordable higher education options in Europe, primarily through its public universities. These universities benefit from heavy government subsidies, keeping tuition fees low compared to global standards.

How Much Does It Cost To Study Abroad In France?

Tuition Fees

Average tuition fees at French universities are quite low. The affordable tuition at these public institutions is appealing to foreign students.

Public universities in France are known for their affordability, largely due to government subsidies that cover a significant portion of tuition costs. On average, bachelor’s programs cost about €175 per year, master’s programs around €250 per year, and doctoral programs approximately €391 per year. Engineering schools charge slightly more, with tuition averaging €618 annually for specialized programs.​

Non-EU students, unless they qualify for exemptions, typically pay higher rates, with bachelor’s programs costing €2,770 per year and master’s programs priced at €3,770. In contrast, private institutions and business schools are much more expensive, with fees ranging between €3,000 and €10,000 or more annually, reflecting their specialized education and additional facilities​

Despite the cost variance, France remains an appealing destination for international students due to affordable tuition and high-quality education. Students should also plan for living costs, which vary based on the city they choose to study in, as rent and transportation expenses can differ greatly​.

While public universities in France are affordable, students should also account for additional fees, such as campus life contributions (CVEC), which average €91 per year​

If you opt for a private university, tuition costs will be higher. Private universities generally start at €1,500 per year but can go up to €20,000 depending on the institution and program​

Prestigious universities (like “grandes écoles”) tend to charge €550 annually, but some programs within these institutions can reach €10,000 per year for more specialized courses​

The most expensive options are business schools, where tuition ranges between €5,000 and €30,000 per year, reflecting their focus on elite education and career-oriented programs

Cost Of Living

The cost of living in France depends on several factors, including lifestyle choices and location. While it’s possible to enjoy a good quality of life on a modest budget, major cities tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.

• Paris: Living expenses average around €1,500 per month, including rent, food, and transportation. However, creative solutions like house sitting can help reduce accommodation costs​
• Nice: Students typically spend about €1,200 per month living in this coastal city​
• Lyon, Nantes, Bordeaux, and Toulouse: These cities offer a more affordable lifestyle, with average monthly expenses of around €900​
• Smaller towns: In many smaller towns, you can manage with about €700 per month, but keep in mind that some of these areas may not have universities nearby​

Other Living Expenses

In addition to rent, food, public transportation, health insurance, and entertainment are reasonably priced throughout the country. For example, many students take advantage of France’s affordable public transport networks and student discounts on rail passes. Groceries can be managed on a budget, especially by shopping at outdoor markets or discount supermarkets.

By creating a budget and carefully managing your expenses, it is possible to live comfortably within your means while studying in France. Taking advantage of affordable student meals or renting shared apartments can also help stretch your budget further​.

Travel Costs

ravel expenses can be a significant factor for many international students studying in France.

• French Student Visa:
  If you’re coming from outside the European Union, you’ll need to apply for a French student visa, which costs around €99
• Flights to France:
  The cost of flights to France varies greatly depending on your departure country, time of year, and how early you book. Students traveling from nearby European countries may find cheaper fares, while those flying in from North America, Asia, or Australia may have to budget more. Booking early, flying mid-week, or using student discount programs can help reduce costs.
• Travel During Holidays:
  You’ll also need to decide if you plan to visit your family during holidays, which could add to your travel expenses. Holiday flights are often more expensive, so consider whether these trips fit into your budget.
• Exploring French Cities:
  If you plan to travel around France, local transport costs can vary. Fortunately, France has affordable public transport options, including metro systems, buses, and trains. Students can take advantage of discounts on rail travel through SNCF’s student programs, which make exploring the country more affordable​

Planning your travel carefully, both internationally and locally, will help you stay within your budget and get the most out of your time in France.

Now that you have all the information on tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and how to manage your budget, you’re ready to start selecting the best college city in France for your study abroad experience. Remember to plan wisely, explore new places when you can, and prioritize your essential expenses to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Best wishes on your international student adventure in France!