Living in France as a Saudi student: what to expect

Moving to France is one of the most transformative experiences a Saudi student can undertake. Whether you are heading to Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, or any other French city, you are about to enter a world rich in history, culture, and academic excellence. But alongside the excitement comes a natural set of questions: Where will I live? How will I find halal food? What are the cultural norms I should know about? This guide addresses every major aspect of daily life in France, drawing on the experiences of hundreds of Saudi students who have made this journey before you.

France welcomes over 400,000 international students each year, and the Saudi community is well-established in major university cities. With proper preparation, you can settle in quickly and focus on what truly matters: your education and personal growth.

Finding housing

Securing accommodation is typically the first practical challenge. France offers several options, each with its own advantages.

CROUS university residences

The CROUS (Centre Régional des Œuvres Universitaires et Scolaires) manages subsidised student housing across France. Rooms range from basic studios of 9–15 m² to larger apartments. Rent is generally between 200 and 450 euros per month, significantly below market rates. Applications open through the DSE (Dossier Social Étudiant) portal, usually between January and May for the following academic year. Demand is high, so apply early. Read our step-by-step guide on CROUS student housing in Paris for 2026 to maximise your chances.

Private rentals

If CROUS accommodation is unavailable, private studios and shared apartments (colocation) are common alternatives. Websites such as LeBonCoin, SeLoger, Studapart, and Immojeune list student-friendly options. Expect to pay 400–800 euros per month in Paris and 300–550 euros in other major cities. Landlords typically require a French guarantor; services like Visale (a free government guarantee) or Garantme can fulfil this requirement for international students.

CAF housing aid

Every student renting in France, regardless of nationality, is eligible for CAF (Caisse d'Allocations Familiales) housing assistance. Depending on your rent and location, this can cover 90 to 250 euros per month. Apply online at caf.fr as soon as you sign your lease. The benefit is not retroactive, so do not delay.

Halal food and dining

France has one of the largest Muslim communities in Europe, which means halal food is widely accessible, especially in major cities.

Halal butchers and supermarkets: Most neighbourhoods in Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Toulouse have dedicated halal butchers (boucheries halal). Supermarkets like Carrefour and Casino also carry halal-certified meat sections. In smaller university towns, you may need to locate a specific halal shop, but they exist in virtually every city with a student population.

Restaurants: Halal restaurants are plentiful, ranging from fast food to sit-down dining. Apps like Zabihah and HalalTrip can help you locate options near your campus or home.

Cooking at home: Learning to cook is both a practical skill and a budget saver. French markets (marchés) offer fresh produce at competitive prices and are a wonderful cultural experience in themselves. Many Saudi students form cooking groups, sharing traditional dishes like kabsa and jareesh while experimenting with French cuisine.

University cafeterias: CROUS restaurants (Restos U) serve complete meals for around 3.30 euros. While not all options are halal-certified, vegetarian and fish dishes are always available.

Cultural adjustment

Cultural differences are inevitable, but understanding them in advance makes the transition far smoother.

Greetings and social norms: The French greet acquaintances with la bise (a light kiss on each cheek). Among students, a handshake or a simple “Salut!” is perfectly acceptable. Punctuality is valued in academic settings, though social gatherings tend to start later than announced.

Direct communication: French people tend to be more direct than what many Saudi students are accustomed to. A professor challenging your argument in class is engaging with your ideas, not being rude. Embrace this culture of debate. It will sharpen your critical thinking.

Personal space and independence: French culture places a strong emphasis on individual autonomy. Do not be surprised if classmates are less immediately warm than in Saudi Arabia; friendships in France tend to build slowly but become very deep over time.

Prayer and religious practice: Mosques and prayer rooms are available in all major French cities. The Grande Mosquée de Paris, Mosquée de Lyon, and many university-affiliated prayer rooms provide spaces for daily prayers and Friday congregations. Many universities also have quiet rooms that students use for prayer.

Banking and administrative essentials

Setting up your administrative life in France is crucial and should be done in the first two weeks after arrival.

Bank account: You will need a French bank account to receive CAF payments and manage daily expenses. Student-friendly banks include BNP Paribas, Société Générale, and online options like Boursorama or N26. Most banks offer free accounts for students under 25. Bring your passport, proof of address, and student enrollment certificate.

Carte Vitale (health insurance): All students in France are enrolled in the national health system. Register at ameli.fr to receive your Carte Vitale, which covers approximately 70% of medical costs. A complémentaire santé (supplementary insurance), free for students through the CSS (Complémentaire Santé Solidaire), covers the rest.

Phone and internet: French mobile plans are among the cheapest in Europe. Providers like Free Mobile, SFR, and B&You offer plans with generous data starting from 2 to 10 euros per month. You can purchase a SIM card at any mobile shop with your passport.

Transport: Most cities offer discounted student transport passes. In Paris, the Navigo Imagine R pass costs roughly 350 euros per year for unlimited metro, bus, and RER travel. Lyon, Toulouse, and other cities have similar schemes.

Building your network

Your social and professional network in France will be one of the most valuable things you build during your studies.

Saudi student associations: Active Saudi student organisations exist in Paris, Lyon, Strasbourg, and other cities. They organise social events, academic support sessions, and cultural celebrations. The Saudi Cultural Bureau in Paris (SACM) is also an important resource, offering guidance and community connections.

University clubs and associations: French universities have a vibrant associative life. Joining a BDE (Bureau des Étudiants), a sports club, or an academic society is the fastest way to meet French and international students.

Professional networking: Attend career fairs, company presentations, and alumni events organised by your university. LinkedIn is widely used in France, and building connections during your studies pays dividends when seeking internships and employment.

Cost of living: a realistic budget

Understanding your monthly expenses helps you plan financially and avoid surprises. Here is a realistic breakdown for a student in a major French city outside Paris:

• Rent (after CAF): 300–500 €/month
• Food and groceries: 200–300 €/month
• Transport: 30–50 €/month (with student pass)
• Phone plan: 5–15 €/month
• Health insurance (complémentaire): Free (CSS) or 10–30 €/month
• Personal and leisure: 100–150 €/month
• Books and supplies: 20–50 €/month

Total estimate: 700–1,100 euros per month outside Paris; add 200–400 euros for Paris. Students on the Saudi government scholarship (SACM) typically receive a stipend that covers these costs comfortably.

Making France feel like home

The first few weeks are the hardest. Homesickness is natural, and the administrative workload can feel overwhelming. But every Saudi student who has walked this path will tell you the same thing: it gets better, and quickly. The key is to stay proactive: join communities, explore your city, try new foods, and keep your long-term goals in sight.

France is not just a place to earn a degree. It is a place to grow intellectually, culturally, and personally. The experiences you gain here will shape your career and your worldview for decades to come.