Erasmus Experience in Paris, France by Georgia

Why did you choose to go to Paris, France?

I was born in Paris so I have always wanted to go back and live there. I also wanted to improve my french and I had the opportunity to study at Sciences Po, which I didn't want to turn down.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I get I think about 300€ a month of Erasmus grant. Whilst this is helpful it by no means covers costs. Rent in Paris is very expensive and costs more than double what it costs me back at Uni in England (Warwick).

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

Paris is great. I would say its a different student experience to England, maybe because that's the french way or maybe that's because its in a big city. But Paris is amazing and beautiful and there is so much to do here outside of your studies.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Paris to other students?

I think everyone is, at the moment, a little apprehensive following the recent terrorist attacks but life goes on in Paris. Paris has continued to be its strong, brave and beautiful self. A french man said to me recently "il faut qu'on continue à boire du champagne" - We must continue to drink Champagne!
SO whilst you have to be more careful and Paris may seem a little scary I don't think it is a reason not to come and study here.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Paris?

Finding accomodation was a nightmare. I left until the last minute and it was not a fun experience. It would be easier if you knew people to find an apartment with because renting on your own can be very costly but be prepared that without a french bank account than can ask for several months of rent up front in order to agree a contract with you.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

Lots. Paris, like any big city, is expensive. Its definitely not the cheapest option for studying abroad in France but if you can stretch your budget then its only for a year, or even a term, and I would say its definitely worth it!

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

If you don't know any french then probably not, I have always learned french at school and at university. However most students here learn english and speak at a great standard, so whilst you might get the cold shoulder in the bakery for not knowing french there will always be people you can speak to.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Paris in the future?

Be prepared to be frustrated and the french system and way of doing things. They seem much less efficient and much slower at doing many things and there is always heaps of paperwork for anything/everything. But if you can get past that, and the fact that everything shuts on Sunday, then you will have an amazing time here.