Support for International Students

Installation Guide for Montpellier

For international students who have completed their enrollment in an IDIL program

Preparing for Your Arrival and Settling In Stress-Free

Welcome to Montpellier!

To help you settle into life in France, the IDIL step-by-step program assists you in preparing for your stay and connects you with services and support programs designed for international students.

Residence permit, housing, bank account, health insurance, or medical care: Find the essential information and steps you need to take to prepare for your arrival and start your studies under the best possible conditions.

1. Your contacts for administrative procedures

The International Student and Researcher Welcome Service (SAIEC)

Personalized support to help you settle in France.

The International Student and Researcher Welcome Service (SAIEC) assists international students with administrative procedures before and after their arrival in Montpellier.

Its reception desk, called the Welcome Desk, offers free assistance tailored to the needs of international students.

In particular, SAIEC can help you with:

• Procedures related to visas and residence permits: validation of long-stay visas, applications for and renewals of residence permits.
• Procedures with the Health Insurance Office (CPAM).
• Applications for housing assistance from the Family Allowance Fund (CAF), subject to eligibility.
• Finding housing, particularly through the PHARE support program.
• Access to practical information about settling in and daily life in Montpellier.

A multilingual team is available to welcome you and assist you with your needs.

Visas and Residence Permits: Essential Steps

The steps you need to take depend on your nationality and the length of your stay.

Students who are nationals of countries outside the European Union, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland must generally obtain a visa appropriate to their situation before arriving in France.

If you hold a long-stay visa that serves as a residence permit (VLS-TS), you must generally validate it online within three months of your arrival in France.

Applications for and renewals of the relevant residence permits are also processed through the official platform of the Digital Administration for Foreigners in France (ANEF).

We recommend that you check the requirements that apply to your situation well in advance and keep a digital copy of your administrative documents.

France-Visas – Official Website for Visas to France

ANEF – Online Procedures for Foreigners in France

SAIEC – Support for International Students

International Sponsorship: Support Starting the Moment You Arrive

The SAIEC and the CROUS Montpellier-Occitanie also offer a free international mentoring program.

This program allows new international students to be mentored by a student who is already settled in the area.

Depending on availability and the program’s guidelines, your mentor can help you explore Montpellier, show you around campus, assist you with certain practical matters, and help you connect with other students.

It’s also a great opportunity to meet new people and get to know your host city better.

Learn About International Sponsorship

2. Finding a Place to Live in Montpellier

Start looking for housing early so you can prepare for your arrival under the best possible conditions.

Montpellier welcomes many students every year. As a result, finding housing can take some time, especially as the start of the academic year approaches.

We recommend that you begin your research as soon as your admission to an IDIL program is confirmed, without waiting until you arrive in France.

There are several housing options available: CROUS university housing, private student housing, studio apartments, apartments, or shared apartments.

CROUS Student Housing

The CROUS Montpellier-Occitanie offers housing in university residence halls at rates that are generally affordable for students.

International students admitted to an IDIL master’s program may apply for housing, provided they meet the eligibility requirements and subject to availability.

Other Housing Options

If you can't find a spot in a university residence hall, there are other options in Montpellier:

• Private student housing: furnished studios or apartments that sometimes offer shared amenities.
• Shared housing: sharing an apartment with other students to reduce housing costs.
• Renting from a private landlord: a room, studio, or one-bedroom apartment.

There are several platforms where you can browse housing listings:

Lokaviz – Student Housing

CRIJ Occitanie – Housing Information

The PHARE Program: Assistance with Finding Housing

SAIEC, in partnership with CROUS Montpellier-Occitanie, offers the PHARE program, designed to assist international students in their search for housing.

This tool can help you, in particular, to:

• Identify the various housing options.
• View available offers.
• Prepare your budget.
• Contact landlords or housing agencies.
• Gain a better understanding of the rental process and avoid fraudulent listings.

Support is stepped up during the start of the academic year.

SAIEC – Housing Search and the PHARE Program

The Visale Guarantee: Help Finding a Guarantor

In France, landlords often require a guarantor—that is, a person or organization that can cover the rent if the tenant experiences financial difficulties.

If you do not have a guarantor in France, you may, under certain conditions, be eligible for Visale, a free program offered by Action Logement.

Eligibility depends, among other things, on your age, your circumstances, and—for some international students—your residency documents.

The request must be made before the lease is signed.

Learn About the Visale Warranty

Housing Assistance from the CAF

The Family Allowance Fund (CAF) offers various housing assistance programs, which are available under certain conditions.

Please note: The eligibility requirements for non-EU international students have changed as of July 1, 2026.

Eligible students who hold a student visa or residence permit may receive personal housing assistance only if they meet the regulatory requirements, particularly those related to need-based grants or certain special circumstances.

The IDIL international scholarship, on its own, does not constitute a need-based scholarship that qualifies the recipient for housing assistance from the CAF.

We therefore encourage students to check their individual circumstances before factoring any housing assistance into their budget.

CAF – Information and Procedures

CAF – New Eligibility Requirements for Housing Assistance (APL) for Certain International Students

A Few Precautions to Take Before Renting a Place to Live

Before signing a lease, be sure to:

• Check the amount of the rent and utilities.
• Find out about the security deposit and any possible brokerage fees.
• Check how close the housing is to your campus and public transportation.
• Take out home insurance when it is required.
• Never send money to a suspicious contact without first verifying the legitimacy of the offer.

3. Open a bank account in France

A recommended approach to make your daily life and financial transactions easier.

We strongly recommend that you open a bank account suited to your stay in France as soon as you settle in.

Having an account that allows you to receive wire transfers and a bank account identification number (RIB) or an IBAN accepted by the relevant organizations makes it easier, in particular, to:

• Payment of your IDIL international scholarship.
• Payment of your internship bonuses.
• Paying your rent and bills.
• Reimbursement for your medical expenses.
• Managing your daily expenses.

What should you do if you run into trouble?

If you're having trouble opening a bank account, you can ask SAIEC for advice.

If a bank refuses to open an account for you, there is also a procedure known as the “right to an account, ” administered by the Banque de France, provided you meet the conditions set forth in the regulations.

Public Services – Opening and Managing a Bank Account

Public Service – The Right to a Bank Account

4. Health and Health Insurance

Access healthcare and receive medical support while you're in school.

International students must ensure that they have adequate health insurance coverage during their stay in France.

The process for enrolling in Health Insurance depends, among other things, on your nationality, your country of residence, and your personal circumstances.

Enrolling in the French Health Insurance System

Supplemental Health Insurance

Health insurance does not necessarily cover the full cost of medical expenses.

It may therefore be a good idea to purchase supplemental health insurance, also known as a "mutuelle," to reduce the out-of-pocket costs you are responsible for.

Depending on your financial situation and circumstances, you may also want to find out more about the Complémentaire santé solidaire.

Learn more about supplemental health insurance

The Department of Preventive Medicine at the University of Montpellier

The Joint Office for Preventive Medicine and Health Promotion (SCMPPS) is available to all students at the University of Montpellier.

It offers free and confidential support, in accordance with medical confidentiality.

The multidisciplinary team can assist you with the following, among other things:

• Preventive consultations and health checkups.
• Advice on vaccination and sexual health.
• Psychological counseling.
• Nutrition advice.
• Referrals to healthcare professionals who are best suited to your situation.
• The assessment of specific needs related to a disability.

For students in the Faculty of Sciences, there is a branch office of the department on the Triolet campus.

Triolet Branch: Place Eugène Bataillon, Building 16, ground floor, Montpellier.

Department of Preventive Medicine – University of Montpellier

The Montpellier University Medical Center

The University Health Center (CSU) provides students with access to medical consultations and various healthcare professionals.

In particular, it offers general medical consultations and psychological counseling, as well as other types of care depending on the professionals available.

The center offers full direct billing when eligibility requirements are met, allowing students to receive care without having to pay upfront.

You must submit the required supporting documents, including your student ID, proof of health insurance coverage, and proof of supplemental health insurance.

Address: 8 Rue de l’École Normale, 34090 Montpellier.

Phone: +33 (0)4 11 28 19 79

Consultations are by appointment only.

University Health Center – University of Montpellier

Psychological Support and Social Services

Arriving in a new country and adjusting to a new academic environment can sometimes be a source of stress or personal difficulties.

The University of Montpellier offers various counseling and psychological support services, particularly through its preventive medicine department.

Students facing financial, administrative, or social difficulties can also be referred to the CROUS social workers.

Don't hesitate to reach out to these services—they're also there to support you throughout your studies.

University of Montpellier – Health, Social Services, and Disabilities

5. Studying with a disability or special needs

Personalized support to promote accessibility and academic success.

The University of Montpellier is committed to supporting students with disabilities—including those with temporary challenges—to enable them to pursue their studies under the best possible conditions.

The Handiversité Office and the Preventive Medicine Office work together to assess students' needs and, when necessary, implement appropriate accommodations.

These improvements may include, among other things:

• The Organization of Instruction.
• Exam requirements.
• Access to educational facilities and resources.
• Some support options available during your studies.

How do I request an accommodation?

If this applies to you, we recommend that you begin the process as soon as you enroll at the University of Montpellier.

1. Please indicate your situation in your administrative registration form, in the section provided for that purpose.
2. After you register, access the Handy app from your Digital Work Environment (ENT) under the “Academics” section.
3. Submit your request for a layout.
4. Please contact the Handiversité office and, depending on your situation, the Preventive Medicine Department to assess your needs.

Requests for accommodations must be renewed each academic year. They are subject to a specific schedule, particularly with regard to exams.

It is recommended that you begin this process as soon as possible—ideally at the start of the academic year—so that your situation can be reviewed and any necessary accommodations can be arranged.

Handiversité – University of Montpellier

6. Preparing for Your Arrival: Essential Steps

To make your move easier, here are the main steps to plan for.

Before You Leave

• Check the visa and residency requirements that apply to your situation.
• Start your search for housing.
• Gather the documents you need for your registration and administrative procedures.
• Set aside enough financial resources to cover your initial expenses.
• Find out about your health insurance coverage.

As soon as you arrive in Montpellier

• Complete your installation and pick up your proof of residence.
• Complete the necessary procedures for your visa or residence permit, if needed.
• Complete your administrative registration at the university.
• Apply for your free TaM Pass if you live in the metropolitan area.
• Open a bank account that suits your situation.
• Complete the necessary steps to enroll in Health Insurance, if needed.
• Contact the university offices if you have any special needs.

For administrative procedures related to your relocation to France, SAIEC is your primary point of contact.

The IDIL graduate program is available to answer any questions you may have regarding your education, your academic path, and the program’s specific support services.

7. Getting Around in Montpellier

Get around easily and enjoy the benefits of city life

Montpellier offers students a pleasant living environment and a wide range of options for getting around on a daily basis. Thanks to free public transportation for residents of the metropolitan area, bike-friendly infrastructure, and local initiatives, students in the IDIL graduate program can fully enjoy their college life and explore Montpellier and its surroundings.

1. Public transportation: Free rides for residents of the metropolitan area

As of December 21, 2023, public transportation on the TaM network has been free for all residents of the 31 municipalities in Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole, including French and international students who live there.

This program allows you to ride for free on the tram, bus, and bustram lines of the TaM network that are included in the free ride program.

How can I qualify for free access?

To use public transportation for free, students must obtain a TaM Free Pass, which is issued in their name and is valid provided they meet the residency requirements.

The request can be made:

• From the M’Ticket TaM mobile app.
• On the TaM online store.
• At a TaM Mobility Center.

What documents do I need to provide?

To apply for the Free Pass, you generally need to provide:

• A valid form of identification.
• A passport photo.
• Proof of residence in one of the municipalities of Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole.

Important information for international students: Free public transportation is not based on nationality, but on place of residence. International students who are residents of mainland France are therefore eligible for this program under the same conditions as other residents.

The free pass must be obtained and valid in order to travel legally. A personalized card or digital ticket may be requested during an inspection.

Students who do not live in the metropolitan area must purchase a transit pass that suits their travel needs.

For information on procedures, hours, and directions, visit the official website:

TaM – Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole Transit Authority

Information on Free Public Transportation

2. Getting Around by Bike

Cycling is a practical and economical way to get around Montpellier, especially when traveling to university campuses, libraries, research laboratories, or downtown.

The city is expanding its network of bicycle facilities and offers several services for cyclists.

Vélomagg and Bike Parking

The TaM network offers bicycle mobility solutions, including the Vélomagg service, which allows users to rent bicycles according to the current offers and terms.

Parking spaces, some of which are secure, are also available near tram stations and in various parts of the city.

Some bike parking facilities are available free of charge to holders of a TaM Free Pass, subject to the specific terms and conditions of each facility.

Students can view rental listings, rates, and eligibility requirements directly on the TaM website.

Discover TaM's bike services

3. The Pass Métropole: Benefits for Culture, Sports, and Recreation

The Pass Métropole is a free, personalized card for residents of Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole.

It provides access to preferential rates and special offers at various public facilities and from local partners, particularly in the following areas:

• Culture: museums, media libraries, and other cultural facilities.
• Sports: Partner sports activities and facilities.
• Recreation: Attractions and activities available in the metropolitan area.

How do I get the Pass Métropole?

The card can be requested at authorized service counters in your municipality of residence.

The documents generally required are:

• A form of identification.
• Proof of address issued within the last three months.
• A passport photo.

The Pass Métropole is different from the TaM Free Pass: it does not replace the ticket required to travel for free on the transit network.

To learn about the benefits offered and how to qualify:

The Métropole Pass – Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole

8. French as a Foreign Language (FLE) Courses

Free French classes to help you settle into life in Montpellier.

To help international students settle in and navigate daily life in France, the IDIL graduate program offers free French as a Foreign Language (FLE) courses for non-French-speaking students whose French proficiency is below the C1 level.

The goal of these courses is to help students improve their proficiency in French, become more independent in everyday situations, and facilitate their integration into university, social, and cultural life in Montpellier.

Course Structure

Classes are held in the Department of Languages within the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Montpellier, with approximately one evening session per week.

These courses are offered as a supplement to the master’s program and are entirely optional. Therefore, they do not earn any ECTS credits.

Registration and Attendance

Participation in FLE classes is voluntary. However, enrollment implies a commitment to attend classes regularly. The attendance of enrolled students will be monitored.

How do I sign up?

Eligible international students will receive an email from the IDIL team inviting them to express their interest and register for FLE courses.

No action is required before you receive this email.