Established by the French government to aid foreign students wishing to study in France, CampusFrance serves as an thorough resource for students trying to figure out the French academic system. The website provides detailed explanations---in English and in French---of different aspects of life in France, including how to budget for a year abroad, and the possibility of working as a foreigner in France. One of the most useful resources they offer is an overview of the different academic programs in France. Students can explore programs by level (undergraduate, Master's, or Doctorate) and by discipline. CampusFrance should be the first stop for any student wishing to study in France.
Many foreign students do not realize that they are eligible for governmental help with their rent. The Caisses d'Allocations Familiales (CAF), provides stipends for French and foreign students enrolled in full-time study in France (students in study abroad programs are normally not eligible). These stipends can be as much as several hundred euros per month per student---not an insignificant amount in a rather expensive country. Students under 25 will receive the most money; however, older students should still apply to the program by filling out the form on the CAF website, as they may be eligible for support as well.
All students in France must have health insurance. Luckily, the costs of medical care in France are much less for students than they are in the United States, and comprehensive medical coverage costs around 200 euros per year. Students also have the option of adding on a "mutuelle," or supplemental insurance, which can cover dental work, vision, and birth control, for another several hundred euros, depending on which package they choose. Prices for students over the age of 28 may vary.
Finally, foreign students are also entitled to transportation benefits. They should immediately enroll for the Carte Imagine-R at the counter of any metro station, which, as of May 2010, will give them unlimited access to Paris's extensive network of subways and buses for around 30 euros per month. This represents significant savings over the normal price, which can be around 50 euros or even higher (a single-use Metro pass costs 1.20 euros, for example).