Practical Information
Cost of living
This obviously depends of the student’s lifestyle. The official required amount, defined by the French authorities (for 2009) is 5160€ per year. However, this can prove to be insufficient. Indeed, Aix-en-Provence is one of the most expensive student cities in France, especially regarding accommodation. It is advised that international students should open a French bank account; note that this is mandatory for non EU/EEE students. The Association Internationale will give help where required.Banks are usually open Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm and on Saturday mornings.
Students can get discounts on many services such as public transport and cultural activities (theatres, cinemas, museums etc).
Accommodation
Student accommodation (halls of residence)A room in student halls of residence is by far the cheapest accommodation option in Aix. However, available services might seem basic compared to halls of residence in other countries (shared showers, toilets and kitchen). The rent is approximately 135 € per month. A deposit representing one to two months of rent is required.
Erasmus students who wish rent a room in student halls of residence must go through the International Relations office of the IEP. A reservation form must be completed before 15 May for the autumn semester and before 15 October for the spring semester.
The IEP helps international students to get a room in a hall of residence by grouping all the applications and submitting them directly to the CROUS (organisation dealing with student accommodation). Students will then be asked to register on line (mid-July) and pay their deposit.
Private accommodation
Students may wish to find their own accommodation and rent a room or apartments in the city centre (alone or in in a flat-share). Many landlords rent rooms, studios and flats to students. (These are not usually furnished) Both comfort and prices increase significantly (from at least €300 to €450 per month).
A notice board in the IEP displays offers for renting.
For further information, contact moniteur-ri@hotmail.com
Housing benefit (Allocation de logement social)
International students, just like their French counterparts, can apply for housing benefit to the Caisse des Allocations Familiales (CAF). For a single student, living alone, this benefit is approximately 80 € per month.
The procedure is relatively complex and the first payment will only come through after several months. Prior to applying for housing benefit, international students must apply for their residence permit as the CAF will require a receipt to validate their demand. A proof of accommodation will also be required. (lease, etc)
Social cover and Insurance
EU/EEE students must bring a European health insurance card delivered by the health services of their country. Quebec students must bring a SE401Q106 form. In the event of potential medical expenses, this document will enable the (partial or total) reimbursement of costs by the Social Security.
It is mandatory for students from other countries to become affiliated to the French social security, the annual cost being approximately 195 €.
In order to receive full reimbursement of expenses, complementary health cover is available through two insurance organisations. For more information, contact:
La Mutuelle Des Etudiants (LMDE)
3, rue des Allumettes
13100 Aix-en-Provence
or
Mutuelle des Etudiants de Provence (MEP)
2, rue Reine Jeanne
13090 Aix-en-Provence
Both these organisations are represented at the IEP during orientation week.
All students must be covered against risks such as accidents, repatriation, civil responsibility (responsabilité civile in French)
Students having chosen the private accommodation option will have to subscribe to a property insurance (Student prices (discounts) are offered by the LMDE and MEP; find addresses above)