Office of International Education › Study Abroad › Program Selection ›

France

(For programs in French overseas departments, see: French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, La Reunion)

About

• CIA World Factbook - basic facts and figures
• Embassy website - visitor information including visa requirements
• Campus France (you MUST begin your visa application procedures here)
• Educational and cultural information from IIE - educational and cultural information
• Arcadia's Library Lounge - recommended reading/viewing

Health and Safety

• See the U.S. State Department Consular Information Sheet for information about security within the country, for any Travel Warnings that may have been issued, as well as information about visas and other travel documentation you may need before you leave.
• See the Center for Disease Control's Travelers' Health page for information about health concerns or required vaccinations.
• Study abroad students are advised to register themselves with the U.S. Embassy in the host country, either in person or online at https://travelregistration.state.gov/.

Student Experiences

Student Spotlight

• Gretchen Godsell(pdf)

Messages from Past Students

• "The French have a reputation of not liking Americans, but it is completely the opposite."
• "Outside independent research and studying is crucial, and no quizzes are ever given. The grading system is also quite different. I found it more challenging, because it was just a different style of learning."
• "Go for a whole year, if you can, and not just a semester! Many of us wanted to stay but couldn’t because of not applying, credits, or etc. But if it’s a possibility, I would definitely recommend staying for the year. Not to say that it isn’t other wise, but the possibility of truly excelling in the language is possible this way."
• "For students looking to improve their French nothing is better than going to Nantes, where nearly none of the locals speak English but all are willing to help you with your French.  Nantes provides convenient access to Paris but is a world away from tourists. [...] The locals were very receptive to Americans as foreigners.  Whenever I spoke to a local, whether in a restaurant, a shop or on the street, they were always patient with my French and very helpful when they learned I was not from France.  Only once was I confronted with English and it was only because the waiter was excited to speak it!  This was very different from the attitude I found visiting Paris."
• "I found the program entirely enriching and fulfilling. I absolutely adored my host family."