Before You Leave

There are a number of important tasks to complete before departing for studies in France. These include:

• Ensuring all necessary paperwork is completed
• Obtaining a passport and student visa (for non-Europeans)
• Keeping emergency contact numbers on hand
• Noting the address and phone number of institutions and accommodation
• Photocopying important documents and leaving a second copy at home or making a scanned copy that can be accessed through email
• Setting up a French bank account to make transactions easier
• Purchasing health insurance and bringing prescriptions for any required medications
• Checking baggage allowance with the airline and labeling luggage clearly
• Packing according to the climate in France
• Having enough cash in Euros to last the first few days
• Preparing for cultural differences and learning French.