What are the university options in France for international students?

As an international or exchange student, you can study at any French university. The four French universities that welcome the most international students are: Paris 8 Vincennes – Saint-Denis, Paris 3 New Sorbonne, Strasbourg, and Nice Sophia Antipolis.

Paris 8 Vincennes – Saint-Denis University

Paris 8 (Université Paris 8 Vincennes – Saint-Denis) was established in 1969. It welcomes more than 20 000 students every year and is internationally known for its connections to almost 250 universities worldwide. The university offers a range of fields of study including arts, law, humanities and social sciences, and languages. It is situated in Saint-Denis, on the outskirts of Paris. To get there, you can take the Train H or Metro 13 to the “Saint-Denis – Université” stop.

Paris 8 is a great option because 30% of all students are international, and the university ensures that they feel welcomed by helping them find accommodation and internships. They provide bursaries for students who wish to do an exchange semester abroad and offer French courses to learn the language.

Paris 3 New Sorbonne University

Paris 3 New Sorbonne (Université de la Sorbonne Nouvelle) forms part of the Sorbonne University. Sorbonne is divided into 3 faculties: the faculty of medicine, the faculty of engineering and sciences, and the faculty of arts, (that’s what the 3 in Paris 3 means). The university offers courses in the humanities and social sciences and is one of the most renowned universities in France in terms of the quality of education. The architecture of the university buildings is stunning, and they form a true part of France’s history in their own right.

25% of the students at Paris 3 Sorbonne are international students hailing from 146 countries. The university is part of the “Bienvenue en France” programme. To support this initiative, Paris 3 Sorbonne has an international strategy which includes an international student “welcome desk” to help international students integrate into French university life.

Strasbourg University

Strasbourg University (Université de Strasbourg) is one of the top-three French universities attracting international students. The university is in the heart of the capital of Europe (the European Parliament is located in Strasbourg) and is just a 20-minute tram ride away from the French-German border and the German city of Kehl. Students benefit from considerably lower accommodation costs compared with other large cities in France. The tram serves all major points in the city, while the bus and train network provide easy access to key places of interest in the region. Strasbourg’s international airport is just 15 minutes from the city centre.

With sports facilities available around the campus, the University of Strasbourg is fully supportive of its students’ involvement in sport and culture. Strasbourg is an attractive city and is home to the headquarters of many international companies and sports clubs. The Alsace Wine route is just 30 minutes away.

Nice Sophia Antipolis University

Nice Sophia Antipolis University (Université Nice Sophia Antipolis), situated on the French Riviera by the Mediterranean Sea and the Alps (a 1-hour drive from Italy), has campuses split over three cities: Cannes, Sophia-Antipolis, and Nice. Each campus hosts different faculties. Cannes is focused on film and cinema, Sophia on engineering, and Nice on the remaining faculties. Around 20% of the University’s students are international.

AGS Movers UK can move you to France to further your studies.

Are there any courses taught in English?

It is better to know some French to understand the culture and get to know people, especially if you are not in a big city. However, the bigger (university) cities, such as Paris or Lyon, are very international and it is easy to make yourself understood in English, to converse and to make friends.

More and more universities are offering international courses; therefore, courses may be taught in English.

Many international universities in the UK, USA and Europe also have campuses located in France, usually in Paris. Some of these include Kent University (Paris School of Arts and Culture), the University of London Institute in Paris, the American University of Paris, and the Berlin School of Business and Innovation.

These universities allow you to develop your French language skills, benefit from life and career opportunities, and thrive in an international environment.

What is student life like in France?

The French attach great importance to student life; it is part of their culture. French people like to meet and have a coffee, or a drink, to sit and chat. If you want to meet people and make friends, you can go to the university-organised social and student parties. Socialising in France happens in a bar, a cafe, or restaurant, and usually involves, eating, drinking, and meeting new people. Joining a student association is another great way to meet new people and immerse yourself in student and university life.

Students have a lot of free time and all universities have sporting associations for people at all skill levels. Your days may be divided between the classroom, the library, and the sports field.

Many of France’s big cities offer special student rates for cultural activities, such as cinemas and museums. Student nights in bars and cafes in France are mainly on Thursday nights.

To help with your budgeting, as an international student, you are allowed to work up to a maximum of 21 hours per week. The minimum wage is €11.07 (in 2022).

What is the university system like in France?

French students can choose a general field of study, but not the individual courses within that field of study. In other words, you choose your course and your major, but not the classes you wish to attend.

University days are also quite long in France, with classes running from 8AM to 6PM. However, there are a lot of breaks between lectures. Some universities have “TD” groups in addition to lectures; these are smaller classes where students can work through exercises or tutorials under supervision and ask for guidance if necessary. These sessions allow students to go over any parts of the lecture they did not understand, but they are also an opportunity to get to know other people as lectures can be attended by up to 500 students!

Working in France after graduation – how easy is it for international students?

If you embraced the opportunity to learn French during your studies, employment opportunities after graduation are plentiful.

French companies are progressively looking for people who are native or fluent in English (German and Spanish, too), but you will be an even bigger asset if you also speak French.

In addition, most French university courses offer internships (known as ‘un stage’) of between 4 and 6 months, which is a great way to gain work experience and build your CV.

What should expats consider when applying to a university in France?

It is a good idea to consider the university’s reputation as companies often attach a certain importance to where (and what) you have studied.

The choice of city is also a key consideration when studying in France. Depending on the city, the cost of accommodation can double. You don’t need to aim for the top 3 French cities (Paris, Lyon, Marseille) to flourish and find the best university. Cities like Toulouse, Strasbourg, Rennes, or Montpellier offer good universities with a dynamic student life (sports and culture) for an attractive price.

Are universities free in France?

To attend university in France, you will have to pay a “CVEC”, which means “Student and Campus Life Contribution” in English.

If you are a student of the European Union (or Canada) you pay the same university fees as the French. You can expect to pay only the registration fees, which can be between €200 and €600, depending on your level of studies.

For international students (from outside of the European Union), 2/3 of the registration fees are paid by the French Government, which means that you pay between €3000 and €4000 per year, though the longer you study in France, the more the fees decrease.

It is important to note that the “Grandes Ecoles” (Business and Engineering schools) charge their own (considerably higher) tuition fees, and the costs are the same for EU and non-EU citizens.

Planning a move to France to further your studies? We can help with all the details of your move. Get in touch with AGS Movers UK today!­­­

Get your free moving quote

Anyone wishing to change their country of residence to the UK and who is sending unaccompanied personal effects must submit Transfer of Residence form ToR01 to UK HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) in advance of their move. The form is also required for anyone bringing pets or importing private motor vehicles into the UK.

Why do I have to complete the form?

The ToR provides relief from customs duties (and in some cases import VAT) when moving your personal effects into the UK. To qualify for relief, the owner must have lived outside of the UK for 12 months and have owned and used the goods to be imported for at least six months. Some items, such as alcohol and tobacco, items intended for a second home, or newly purchased items are not eligible for relief. These items must be declared, and the relevant duties paid to HMRC.

Upon processing of your ToR01, HMRC will provide a reference number. You should pass this number to your household goods shipping company who will ensure that your goods clear customs on arrival in the UK, for onward delivery to your new home.

How do I make a transfer of residence application?

You can apply directly on the UK Government website at this link:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/application-for-transfer-of-residence-relief-tor1

What information is required in the ToR form?

• The complete list of items that you are bringing into the UK
• A copy of your passport, and visa if applicable
• Proof of address from the country that you are MOVING FROM
• Your new UK address
• Evidence of the move such as a job offer/ contract, or a house rental contract
• Animal health certificate or passport if you’re bringing pets to the UK
• Vehicle details for any motor vehicles you’re importing to the UK

How long does the approval process take?

Processing times are usually around four weeks but can be up to six weeks, and additional delays will occur if there are documents missing. Be sure that you have completed everything correctly and apply in plenty of time!

What happens if my ToR hasn’t been processed when my shipment arrives in the UK?

Your goods won’t be able to clear customs, so there will be significant charges for storage and demurrage at the port. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to make your application well in advance, and that you have your HMRC reference number BEFORE you ship your goods to the UK.

Can AGS Movers help?

Of course. We are experts in moving household goods into the UK so we can arrange your move and support with your Transfer of Residence application and all other customs formalities. Get in touch with AGS Movers UK for all your moving requirements.

GET YOUR FREE QUOTE

Does moving to Portugal intrigue you?

With plenty of fresh seafood, a rich history and vibrant culture, the warm Mediterranean weather, an easy-going lifestyle – what’s not to like?

The Portuguese are welcoming and friendly; they treat expats with kindness and respect. If you do not speak the language, try to learn the basics to help easily adapt and become comfortable.

One of the first things you’ll notice when you move to Portugal is that the pace of life is a lot slower than what you’re used to in the United Kingdom – it’s not uncommon to have to wait a few weeks for a medical appointment, and bank lines can be notoriously long. However, Portuguese people are generally relaxed about these things. This laid-back attitude stretches to other aspects of Portuguese culture as well, such as meetings, and general customer service. This can be a huge adjustment for expats.

A good way to look at life in Portugal is that there is no hurry – so enjoy the moment. The weather is good, the beaches are stunning, and the cost of living is low. So, take things slow and easy, and you’ll soon fall in love with the laid-back lifestyle.

The UK expat community in Portugal is sizeable

Over 48 000 British citizens live in Portugal, making them the second largest group of expats in the country.

Many choose to move to the dynamic and exciting city of Lisbon, where there is a thriving expat community. Other popular destinations are the Algarve, Porto and Coimbra. The Algarve is well-known for its impressive beaches, while Porto is known for its lively atmosphere, and Coimbra for its historic university.

If you’re an expat, it can be beneficial to join an expat community to seek out information from those who have already made the move. There are tons of Facebook groups and forums where you can ask questions. They can provide valuable insights on places to see, visa requirements, necessary paperwork (this can be mundane), and importing a vehicle from the UK. Being part of a community can help make the transition much smoother and provide a support network during difficult times.

5 tips on moving to Portugal

1. Search for a reputable moving company

Moving to Portugal is a big decision. To make sure you get all your packing and moving needs taken care of, consider using a reputable moving company. To ensure a seamless process, start your search at least 6 months before the big (or small!) move.

AGS Global Movers is an experienced international moving company, and has been moving expats, families, and corporations since 1974, across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. We specialise in international moves, secure storage and vehicle transport. AGS Movers UK can literally move you anywhere in the world.

We can also assist you with shipping your furniture and belongings, pet travel services, transporting your artwork, as well as professional packing, and all-risk insurance.

2. Choose how to ship your belongings

There are three options to transport your goods and furniture to your new home: sea, air, or road freight. Because Portugal is relatively close by, road freight is the cheapest way to ship your goods. Air freight is faster but more expensive.

Now that the UK has left the EU, it’s true that getting your goods through Portuguese customs has become more complicated. However, a reputable moving company like AGS Movers UK will be up to date on the latest requirements. What’s more, they will save you the headache of the paperwork by completing it on your behalf.

3. Use secure storage facilities

Do you need to store your goods, furniture, fine art, or vehicles?

With AGS Movers, you have a range of secure storage options in the UK and Portugal, and we can store your items for however long you need – short, medium or long term. Goods are stored in well ventilated storage warehouses, stacked in vermin-proof wooden pallet boxes.

With access control, 24/7 CCTV monitoring, and on-site security, you can have peace of mind that your goods are always secure.

4. Remember the fur-kids and the car

Wondering if you can move your pets to Portugal? Yes, you can! The laws and regulations for moving a pet from the UK are fairly relaxed. Your pets should be microchipped, at least 12 weeks old, vaccinated against rabies (the vaccination should happen 21 days prior to travelling), and hold an international health certificate.

AGS Movers UK works with pet moving specialists, experienced animal handlers who will ensure your pets are comfortable, safe, and stress free on their journey to the continent. They will also guide you through every step of getting your pets ready for travel, from finding the perfect crate to paperwork completion.

You can also easily move your vehicle to Portugal with the help of a vehicle moving service. At AGS Movers, we offer door-to-door vehicle transport as part of a larger household move, or on its own. Vehicles are shipped by sea, either in standard steel containers for international moves, or roll-on roll-off for certain destinations within Europe.

If your vehicle is going in a standard steel container, the extra space can be used to transport your belongings. We build a wooden cradle around your vehicle, and your belongings are packed on top.

You will need to pay a vehicle importation tax to exchange your foreign licence plate for a Portuguese one, within the first six months. And remember, the Portuguese drive on the right side of the road! Learn more about the rules and regulations for importing you vehicle to Portugal.

5. Research wages and search for a job

Portugal has often been seen as a retirement destination for UK expats, but in recent times, the country has become increasingly popular with digital nomads and other young professionals looking for an affordable place to work and live. While the cost of living is relatively low, wages are also generally lower than in other European countries, so finding a remote job that pays in pounds or dollars could help a lot. Bonus: the internet connection in Portugal is one of the fastest in the world. If you’re thinking of making the move to Portugal, be sure to search for a job and research Portuguese wages before you go.

Need help moving to Portugal? Get in touch with AGS Movers UK to discuss your moving requirements.

GET YOUR FREE QUOTE

Read on to find out the basics of the French education system, how it compares to the British system, and what the options are for British expats if your children’s French isn’t fluent (yet!).

How does the education system work in France?

It is compulsory for children in France to attend school between the ages of 3 and 16.

Children attend primary school (École primaire) between the ages of 3 and 11. This part of the school system includes nursery school (Maternelle), where they spend three years, between the ages of 3 and 6, and École Élémentaire, where they spend 5 years between the ages of 6 and 11. French pupils then move to Collège at the age of 11, where they spend four years, before finally transferring to Lycée for the final three years of school from the ages of 15 to 18.

Beyond the age of 18, students can choose to study at one of France’s state funded or private universities, or at privately funded higher education establishments, such as business or engineering schools or those specialising in training for specific careers, such as journalism.

What options are there for expats?

Expats moving from England have three main options. Firstly, children can join the French state education system where teaching is in French. State education is free in France, and if your children already speak French, or are young enough to learn, and you’re planning on moving to France for the long-haul, this can be a great option and your children will receive an excellent standard of education. The French state system also offers a programme specifically to help non-French speakers to integrate into the school system.

France also has French-speaking private schools. And as is the case in most European countries, many of them offer a religious element to the curriculum. Early application (up to a year in advance) is advisable as it can be very difficult to get a place.

The third option is to enrol your children into a fee-paying international school. France’s big cities, including Paris, Lyon and Nice to name a few, have an excellent selection of bilingual or foreign-language schools. Those offering a purely British curriculum (such as the British School of Paris in Croissy-sur-Seine) are fully fee paying. These can be very expensive, but may be the best option if your children are older and don’t speak French or if your stay in France is temporary.

However, many of the international bilingual schools operate ‘sous-contrat’ (under contract), meaning that they provide education in line with the French state curriculum. In addition, they offer a private element that makes up the international curriculum. This part is taught in English (or another language), and fees for these schools are much more affordable as you only pay privately for the international element. There are plenty of these bilingual schools in and around France’s larger cities, such as L’Ermitage International School in Maisons-Laffitte in the western suburbs of Paris. Children may, however, find it harder to integrate if they are older, as a good level of French is required to be able to keep up with the French side of the curriculum.

Those that are lucky enough to live close to one of France’s ‘Lycées Internationales’, such as the Lycée Internationale in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, can attend one of France’s unique, state-funded international schools. For a small financial contribution, your children can study in the British Section (or the German, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, etc., sections if they are fluent speakers and nationals of these countries) and will receive an excellent standard of education. The fees are a fraction of the price of other international options and the schools rank among France’s top state schools. However, competition for entry is fierce so it’s best to have a backup option.

What are the most surprising differences between schools in France and the UK?

• Children in French state schools don’t wear uniform. Many international schools have introduced uniforms, but don’t be surprised if the uniform is much lower key than what you’re used to in the UK.
• A key part of the French constitution is that all state institutions, including schools, are secular. The church and the state are wholly separated, meaning that there is no expression of religion in the state education system in France.
• Whilst “La Rentrée” (the date that children go back to school after the summer holidays) is in September, your September to December born child will be the oldest in the school year in the UK, but the youngest in France. This is because all of the children born in the same calendar year are in the same class together in France.
• The curriculum can be quite different in France and the UK at different stages of education. Children aged 4 or 5 in ‘Reception’ year in the UK learn to read and write, whilst children of the same age in ‘Moyenne Section’ focus more on learning through play and on the rules and norms of going to school, as well as on learning how to be independent.
• Parents may choose to put their children into a different year to the one that they should be in according to their age. Whilst this is unheard of in the UK, if your December-born child (the youngest in the year in France) is struggling to keep up with the work, particularly if they are in a French-language school, you can request for them to repeat the year. The school will usually allow this if there is good reason.

School holidays in France

For the expat in France, there are some surprises when it comes to school holidays, but once you get used to how the system works, your only worry will be to decide whether to spend your summers on the beaches of the rugged Atlantic or the French Riviera!

Find your zone!

The French “Ministère de l’Education Nationale” or Ministry for Education fixes school holiday dates each year, and each part of the country is placed into one of three zones, known as Zones A, B and C. There are many websites, such as Vacances Scolaires, with a handy map to help you to find out which zone you’re in. French state schools will all follow these dates, and most of the international schools follow suit, though do check with your school to be sure.

Holiday dates

There are five main school holidays in France, and something different happens at each.

• Vacances de la Toussaint (All Saints’ Holidays). A two-week break in October/ November, this is usually the same two-week period all over France. Traditionally, 1 November is the day to honour  the dead, but Halloween on 31 October is becoming increasingly popular in France too, so it’s also the time to carve pumpkins and trick or treat!
• Vacances de Noël (Christmas Holidays). A two-week break in December/ January to celebrate the Christmas festivities and again, the dates are usually the same all over France.
• Vacances d’Hiver (Winter Holidays). A two-week break in February that is staggered across the three zones. The purpose? Skiing of course! Many families from all over France head to the Alps or the Pyrenees for a week of snow-filled fun!
• Vacances de Printemps (Spring Holidays). The final two-week break of the school year in April/ May, also staggered across the three zones. The sun is shining and many families head to the coast for a few days away, whilst older students start revising for exams!
• Pont de l’Ascension. Translated literally, the Christian holiday of Pont de l’Ascension means the Ascension “Bridge”. It is an extra-long weekend at the end of May where students get the Thursday and Friday off school. Coincidentally, “Un pont” (a bridge) is a word often used in French to describe ‘bridging’ a public holiday to a weekend. When a public holiday falls on a Thursday (or Tuesday), employees will take the Friday (or Monday) as a vacation day from work to enjoy an extra-long weekend break.
• Vacances d’Été. Ah, the long summer holidays! Usually beginning at the end of the first week in July, French children have around eight weeks of summer holidays before ‘la rentrée scolaire’ (when they go back to school) which is usually on or around 1 September. French families often holiday in France, on the west and south coasts, or in the mountains. In the larger cities of the north, particularly in Paris, it’s not uncommon for employees to take three or even four weeks off in the summer and head for the coast. Small businesses may even close throughout August.

Now you know what happens when, get your calendar, get your guidebook, and decide which part of France you’re going to head to for skiing or sunshine during the Vacances Scolaires this year!

Where can you find out more?

Children, especially younger children, are incredibly resilient and have a phenomenal ability to learn a language once immersed in the country and the culture. Your children will be fluent in French far quicker than you’ll believe (and far quicker than their parents will be!). There are plenty of options for your children’s education all over France, and in particular in France’s biggest cities.

Planning a move and need help with finding the right school for your children in France? Get in touch with AGS Movers today!

GET YOUR FREE QUOTE

 
 
See also: Moving to France from the UK: Tips & Resources

The role of DSPs in corporate mobility

As a DSP, James and his team work with companies to ensure the successful transfer of their employees on international assignments. Services range from organising visas and finding accommodation, to offering support for relocating spouses and cultural integration training.

These may seem like perks for the lucky few, but relocation success directly and significantly influences assignee performance, with some even ending their assignments prematurely after a bad experience. With so much at stake, it’s important to select a DSP that is up to the task.

A calibre apart

Originally a certification for international removals, FIDI’s FAIM accreditation expanded to include the DSP module in 2019. “The DSP certification follows the same principles that have built the FAIM reputation,” explains FIDI Communication Manager Magali Horbert. “It’s a signal to customers that a FAIM-certified provider’s DSP offering measures up to the same high standards as their international removal services.“

FAIM enjoys its reputation for good reason. Auditing powerhouse EY audits FIDI Affiliates every three years on more than 200 points, including supply-chain management, service quality and data security. Unlike other certification programmes, members must also submit documentation annually between audits to prove that they are still compliant.

As an additional form of customer protection, FIDI, in close collaboration with international auditing firm EY, has launched the Credit Risk Barometer (CRB) to check members’ financial soundness. In its pilot phase, the organisation aims to make the barometer a mandatory FAIM requirement. FIDI members with poor reports risk losing their accreditation, but for those in good standing, a CRB report will be a powerful marketing tool alongside the well-recognised FAIM brand.

An industry yardstick

As a living accreditation, that adapts to client demands and international legal requirements, James sees FAIM as the gold standard of global mobility. “Corporate and government clients know and trust the FIDI standard. Many request FAIM certification from their providers, so this logo, backed by FIDI and its reputation for excellence, is a must have for AGS UK as we grow our relocation business.”

Discuss your international assignment with James and the AGS UK team.

Read the full article (PDF)

Team London Ambassadors, selected by the Olympics organisers, have been available at key locations and venues throughout the city to welcome visitors to London and offer guidance.

Michael Jacks, a senior member of the AGS Movers UK sales team, has relished the opportunity to share his knowledge and expertise with the thousands of visitors in London at the moment. His enthusiasm and friendly attitude are part and parcel of the winning team spirit of the AGS Movers UK team.

In the midst of the Olympic buzz, Michael and the AGS Movers UK team remain at your disposal for any questions about removals to or from the UK.