How to Adapt to Life in France or Belgium as an International Student?
A New Year, A New Beginning!
You might be starting your semester abroad as an Erasmus student or a participant in the European Solidarity Corps. Living in France or Belgium is an incredibly enriching experience, but adapting to a new environment can sometimes feel overwhelming. To help you make the most of this adventure, here are some practical tips to better integrate and fully enjoy your stay.
Improve Your French Daily
One key to integration is improving your French on a daily basis. While many French and Belgian people speak English, making an effort to use their language will greatly enhance your interactions and strengthen the connections you can build.
For more on this, check out our article: Do You Really Need to Speak French to Live and Work in France or Belgium?
Participating in language exchanges—often organized by universities or local associations—can be a great way to practice French in a relaxed and friendly setting while meeting like-minded people.
Don’t be afraid to speak, even if your French isn’t perfect. Locals usually appreciate the effort to communicate in their language and are often patient and supportive. The more you express yourself, the faster you’ll progress and the more confident you’ll become!
To help improve your French, explore the many resources on OLS: the blog, the Living Abroad and Practise Your French forums, as well as our four comprehensive courses specifically designed to prepare you for mobility and enhance your French skills during your stay:
Learning a language, especially on your own, can sometimes feel challenging. Why not make the experience more fun and productive by finding a study partner? Great news! On OLS, we have a forum thread dedicated to finding a learning buddy: Find your OLS Language Learning Buddy.
Learning French with a “buddy” who’s also learning the language is a motivating and effective way to make progress together.
Discover Local Culture
To adapt to life in France or Belgium, immersing yourself in the local culture is essential. There’s nothing like visiting museums, exploring historical monuments, or attending festivals to experience the unique atmosphere of these countries.
Local gastronomy is also a fantastic way to connect with the culture: why not savor a variety of cheeses, indulge in delicious French pastries, or taste Belgium’s famous chocolates?
Additionally, watching local films or listening to French and Belgian music can enrich your vocabulary and help you better understand cultural references. Two francophone Belgian artists I personally enjoy are Angèle and Stromae.
Build Connections with Locals and Other International Students
Building relationships with locals and fellow international students is a crucial step toward feeling fully integrated. Establishing a network not only helps you adapt but also makes your stay more enjoyable.
Join student associations, participate in sports clubs, or get involved in groups centered around shared interests. Events organized by your university or the organization where you’re volunteering are great opportunities to expand your social circle.
Volunteering locally can also be a wonderful way to meet residents while actively contributing to the community.
Understand Local Social Norms
It’s important to understand and respect local social norms.
Social interactions vary between countries, so it’s useful to learn the basics. In France and Belgium, it’s customary to greet people upon entering a space with a “bonjour” and to use formal “vous” in professional or formal settings. Punctuality is also appreciated, particularly for academic or professional appointments.
Observing public behavior will also help you better understand and adapt to the social norms in these countries.
Stay on Top of Administrative Tasks
From an administrative perspective, being well-organized is crucial. Administrative procedures can seem complex in France and Belgium, but they are necessary for a successful stay.
Depending on your situation, opening a local bank account can simplify payments and financial management. Make sure you have appropriate health insurance coverage. Look into student support options, such as housing assistance (CAF in France), to ease your expenses. Additionally, student transport passes will make getting around easier and more affordable.
Use Your Free Time to Travel
Your free time is the perfect opportunity to explore the cultural and natural treasures of France and Belgium. These countries boast diverse landscapes and vibrant cities waiting to be discovered. Take time to visit neighboring cities, wander through small villages, or stroll in nature parks.
The train and bus networks are well-developed and offer economical options for travel. Don’t miss out on must-see destinations like Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, Brussels, or Bruges. You could even broaden your horizons by exploring other European countries!
Many travel articles about France and Belgium are available on our blog. Feel free to check them out!
Manage Your Budget Wisely
Managing your budget wisely is essential for enjoying your stay without financial stress. Life in France or Belgium can be expensive, but there are many ways to save money.
Shopping at local markets and discount supermarkets can lower your food costs. Use your student card to get discounts at museums, cinemas, and on public transport.
Finally, planning a monthly budget will help you better control your finances and avoid unpleasant surprises.
To conclude,
Having been an Erasmus student myself, I understand the challenges of adapting to a new country. I hope these tips, which I wish I had received upon arrival, will be helpful to you.
Your experience in France or Belgium will be what you make of it! Be curious, keep an open mind, and don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone. Every encounter and discovery will enrich your stay. Make the most of this European adventure, and feel free to share your own tips with others in the comments section below.
Wishing you a smooth transition and an unforgettable stay!
Lilas, OLS Community Manager — French