You want to do an Erasmus stay in France, but you don’t know which city to choose? Don’t worry, here are some of the reasons why you should choose Lille for your exchange!
Many colleges and universities
Lille offers a variety of renowned higher education institutions, making it a popular destination for all students. To name but a few, here are some of the largest universities and schools in the metropolis:
- The University of Lille, which offers a diverse range of internationally renowned academic programs, covering a wide range of disciplines.
- The Catholic University of Lille, which offers quality education in an inspiring academic and cultural setting.
- Science Po Lille, renowned for its excellence in political and social sciences.
- The EDHEC Business School, for those interested in the field of business.
Overall, the universities and schools in Lille offer international welcome programs specially designed to provide foreign students with a learning experience The European Commission has recently published a report on the European Union’s training and employment policy.
A community of nearly 125,000 students
What is a large number of higher education institutions, is a dynamic and diverse student community. This large student community offers many advantages. It promotes intercultural interactions, allowing students to make friendships with people from around the world. In addition, a vibrant student community creates an environment conducive to collaborative learning and personal enrichment, where students are encouraged to support each other in their careers.
Finally, this student diversity helps to create a climate of tolerance and openness within the city, This will foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students, regardless of their background or career.
Advantageous geographical situation: at the crossroads of Europe
Lille is a city ideally located at the crossroads of Europe. This strategic position allows you to travel easily to other major European cities such as Paris (1h by TGV), London (1h20 with the Eurostar), Brussels (35 minutes by TGV) or Amsterdam (2h30 by TGV), offering you many opportunities for cultural exploration and international meetings. In addition, the city is well served by an efficient public transportation system, An efficient public transportation system, which facilitates local and regional travel. Indeed, Lille offers a metro network, which has only two lines, many bus lines, a tram, bicycles in self-service and houses six stations… In short, everything to simplify your travels in or out of the metropolis.
Friendly and welcoming atmosphere, conducive to integration
The city is known for its warm and open-minded population, which promotes the integration of each student. In addition, Lille offers a multitude of cultural, social and sporting activities, allowing you to easily meet other people and get acquainted with local life. The many cafés, restaurants and entertainment venues create a dynamic and lively environment for intercultural exchange and lasting connections.
In addition, the presence of many student associations and intercultural initiatives will facilitate your integration and offer a network of support and mutual assistance. Among these initiatives, Erasmus Place Lille stands out by offering a variety of activities such as themed evenings, intercultural meetings and trips to France and Europe, This is an opportunity for international students to discover the cultural richness of the region and to connect with other students.
Likewise, Student Place, facilitates your exchange in Lille by facilitating your administrative procedures (home insurance, guarantor, housing aid…), your search for housing (Switch My Room initiative, ads, link with real estate professionals…) and allow you to establish links with other students even before your arrival.
City of art, culture and history…
Lille, the “capital of Flanders”, is a city of art, culture and history, which offers a enriching and diversified experience. Endowed with a rich architectural heritageThe city has a harmonious mix of styles ranging from medieval to contemporary, with emblematic monuments such as the Old Stock Exchange, the Grand Place and the Palace of Fine Arts. These architectural treasures bear witness to the Lille’s glorious past as a commercial and cultural hub in the heart of Europe. Moreover, the the city is full of museums, art galleries and theatres, offering students a full immersion in the local arts and culture scene. Whether strolling through the cobbled streets of Old Lille, discovering the fascinating exhibitions of the Palais des Beaux-Arts or attending performances at the Opera, you will find in Lille an inexhaustible source of inspiration and discovery!
…but also a festive city
Lille is famous for its lively nightlife, making it an ideal place for all students. Whether it’s to enjoy the many bars, pubs and clubs of the city, attend live concerts or participate in festive events, Lille offers a multitude of options for fun and entertainment. The metropolis has something to keep you busy, both during the day and in the evening. In addition, throughout the year, the metropolis and its surroundings are animated by festivals, and other events that attract a diverse audience and create a dynamic and festive atmosphere. With its vibrant nightlife and many entertainment opportunities, Lille promises you a stay filled with unforgettable moments and a social experience rich in encounters and discoveries!
A reasonable cost of living
Compared to other major European cities, the cost of living in Lille remains reasonable. It is cheaper to live in Lille than in other major French student cities like Paris, Toulouse, Montpellier, Lyon or Grenoble. A student can expect to spend Between 700€ and 800€ per month from 1200€ to 1300€ for Paris. In addition, Lille is the only large student city to regulate rents, accounting for 53% of expenses on average, which limits the evolution of housing.
So, now that you know the advantages of studying in Lille, it is time to prepare your stay:
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