Your tuition in France might be low, but where you live decides your budget, just like everywhere. Paris is in a league of its own; the rest of France is very affordable. Here are real numbers (multiply euros by about 110 for rupees).
Housing, the biggest cost
| Option | Rough monthly rent |
|---|---|
| CROUS (government) room | €150 to €500 (Paris higher) |
| Shared flat (colocation), non-Paris | €350 to €500 |
| Private student residence | €400 to €900 |
| Studio in central Paris | €800 to €1,200+ |
Apply for CROUS housing early, it is the cheapest and demand is high. More in accommodation in France.
Real monthly budgets
- Smaller city (Lille, Lyon, Toulouse, Montpellier): ~€600 to €800 all-in cooking at home.
- Paris: ~€1,200 to €1,800 all-in; eating at CROUS canteens and cooking helps.
Food cooking at home runs roughly €200 to €300/month; CROUS university canteens offer cheap subsidised meals (a huge money-saver).
The CAF housing-aid change (read this)
Save money the local way
- Eat at CROUS canteens (subsidised meals), cook at home, shop at Lidl/Aldi/Leclerc.
- Get a student transport pass; under-26 discounts are everywhere.
- Choose a smaller city over Paris if budget is tight, the savings are huge.
- Apply for CROUS housing the moment you can.
FAQ
How much does it cost to live in France as a student?
Under €800/month in most cities; €1,200 to €1,800 in Paris.
Can international students get CAF housing aid?
From 1 July 2026, non-EU students who are not scholarship holders no longer qualify. Scholarship holders may still be eligible.
What is CROUS?
The government student-services network, offering cheap rooms and subsidised canteen meals. Apply early.
Want a real monthly budget for your city in France? Ask a mentor for ₹500 →
