Study in Lille

Lille can be an excellent option if you are looking to study in France, but make sure to have all relevant information before proceeding. Feel free to ask questions on the Lille forum and to have a look at the France Expat Guide which has a lot of useful information for international students.

Higher studies in France

The French higher education system is made up of both public and private institutions, both of which are accessible for international students. The standard of higher education in France is exceptionally high and recognised around the world. Public universities and schools are renowned for their quality education, ambitious research programs, and wide range of courses, many of which cost around ⬠250 per year. French universities have set up a credit system (ETCS) which is in line with current European standards, meaning other European universities recognise degrees issued in France.

Leading universities in Lille

Université Lille 1 Sciences et Technologies

Lille's three public universities, namely the Université Lille 1 Sciences et Technologies, the Université Lille 2 Droit et Santé and the Université Charles de Gaulle Lille 3 Sciences Humaines et Sociales are listed among the top 500 universities around the world according to QS Top Universities. The Cite Scientifique is a more prominent campus founded in 1967.

Ranking 551st worldwide according to QS Top Universities Ranking 2018, the Université de Lille 1 hosts around 20,000 students. The institution performs particularly well in the fields of pharmacy and pharmacology.

Lille 1 is the ideal scientific university for global mobility thanks to 11 Erasmus programs approved by the European Commission. Its international student population comprises 4,000 students, including 56% enrolled in PhD courses. Along with other universities, Lille 1 recently launched a research program on climate and environment evolution in the Hauts de France region via Climbio.

Lille 1 is certainly accustomed to welcoming international students, with no fewer than 50 researchers from 30 different countries. It provides 24 international programs, including 22 in English.

Students can also request for funding via Erasmus Mundus. Find more information on the university's website.

Université Lille 2 Droit et Santé

Lille 2 offers a range of programs, including political science, management, and sports. The university has five big sports complexes. Specialising in law and health, Lille 2 gives vital importance to research, as evidenced by its high-level science centres. It also hosts a legal history research centre. René Cassin, an eminent jurist and Nobel Peace Prize, graduated from Lille 2. While it ranks 801st in the QS Top Universities Ranking 2018, it stands out among the top 450 when it comes to medicine.

Lille 2 hosts 28,000 French students and 2,300 international students. However, international students have to prove their knowledge of the French language by taking language tests. Law and health students need at least a B2 to be admitted, while management, finance, and sports students need a B1. Find more information on the university website.

Université Charles de Gaulle Lille 3 Sciences Humaines et Sociales

The Université Charles de Gaulle Lille 3 Sciences Humaines et Sociales hosts around 19,000 students in its three campuses, namely in Villeneuve d'Asq, Roubaix and Tourcoing, which are found on the city's outskirts. Most attendees study up to the Master level. Lille 3 mainly focuses on languages, philosophy and psychology, but science-related programs are also available.

International students have different options to study at Lille 3: the exchange program, individually with the help of the BAEI office or by doing a joint master through Erasmus Mitra. A couple of programs such as the Master 2 in contemporary philosophy are available in English.

Find more information on the university website.

Moving to France as an international student

International students coming from the European Union or the European Free Trade Association do not need a visa to study in France. Those coming from other countries have to apply for a student visa. Application procedures are explained on the Universite Paris 1 website. Those who are planning to stay more than six-months also need a resident permit.

Scholarships and grants for international students

International students are eligible for different types of financial aid in France. They can either apply for a scholarship from their university in their home country, request a grant from their chosen university, or seek help from specialised organisations. Find a comprehensive list of available grants and scholarships on the France Diplomatie website.

International students are also allowed to work in France provided they are covered by social security and have a resident permit for those who are not from the EU.

Working in France as an international student

Students from the EU are free to stay in France without any restriction after graduation. For those coming from other countries, specific conditions apply, namely the degree obtained, wages, etc.

Internships in France are open both to French and international students. International students coming from outside the EU can do an internship with their student visa under certain conditions.

There are many ways to find a job in Lille, namely on the Expat.com website or via networking. Word of mouth is another excellent way to find a job in Lille.

Student accommodation in Lille

Crous Lille's international section does not provide a wide range of accommodation options; however, there are some options for international students. If you are looking for a university residence, feel free to request help from Campus France.

Flatsharing is a good option for international students, especially if you're looking to develop your social network. Offers are available on websites like Adele, Appartager, Loc service, La carte des colocs, etc. Those looking to improve their French language skills can look for homestay options via Chambre a louer.com.

The student cost of living in Lille

The cost of living will naturally vary according to the type of accommodation you have chosen. For a room at the university residence, expect prices between 220 ⬠and 330 â¬. A room in the city centre will cost between 300 ⬠and 600 â¬. Besides rent, you also have to take into account your food budget. At the U restaurant, a meal costs around 3.25 â¬. Students in Lille are entitled to discounts on the public transport network, so count on an additional budget of between 25 ⬠and 30 ⬠per month, not to mention your tuition materials and leisure. On average, you will need about 700 ⬠to 800 ⬠per month. Also, remember that social security is compulsory in France. International students younger than 28 who have been studying in France for over four months are eligible for coverage against a special annual fee. Scholarship students, on the other hand, do not have to contribute to the social security system.

Things to do in Lille

The city centre, Vauban, and Masséna, Lille's famous districts, are perfect for those who like to party. If you're looking for a quieter pace of life, turn to the historic area of Vieux Lille.

Vieux Lille has a beautiful architecture with an impressive cathedral from which you enjoy a spectacular view of the whole city. Lille also offers a vibrant cultural experience along with special prices for those holding the Lille Pass'culture available upon university admission. Also, big clearance sales take place every Sunday morning at the Wazemmes market. You may also head to the beach, which lies less than an hour from the city centre, or even travel to neighbouring Belgium on a weekend getaway.