CampusFrance
"Le véritable voyage de découverte ne consiste pas à chercher de nouveaux paysages, mais à avoir de nouveaux yeux". - Marcel Proust
(The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes.)
PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE
You are about to embark on what we hope will be a very rewarding experience. Good planning and keeping an open mind will be important in these final stages of your preparation.
This Pre-departure guide aims at giving you a clear overview of the issues to consider leading up to your departure.
We wish you a safe journey and a successful international experience.
Bon Voyage
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
THEY’VE BEEN THERE, DONE THAT… ................................................................ 3 IMPORTANT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS ..................................................................... 5
Passport .......................................................................................... 5 VISA .............................................................................................. 5 TRAVEL INSURANCE ................................................................ 6 AIR TRAVEL ................................................................................ 6
The FRENCH VISA APPLICATION PROCEDURE ................................................. 6 REGISTRATION AT THE INSTITUTE IN FRANCE ................................................. 8
TRANSCRIPTS ............................................................................. 8 BIRTH CERTIFICATE ................................................................ 8 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT IDENTITY CARD (ISIC) ......... 8
SCHOLARSHIP HOLDERS ..................................................................................... 8 CARTE DE SÉJOUR - TEMPORARY STAY PERMIT (applicable to students with stay in France for more than one year) .................................................................. 10
PROCEDURE .............................................................................. 10 7 PACKING YOUR BAGS ...................................................................................... 11 8. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO FRANCE ....................................... 13
TRAVEL ABROAD .................................................................... 13 TRAVEL RESOURCES .............................................................. 13
MONEY & MEDICAL MATTERS ............................................................................ 14
EXCHANGE RATES .................................................................. 14 TRANSPORTING MONEY ....................................................... 14 OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT ............................................... 14 CASH ........................................................................................... 15 TRAVELER’S CHEQUES .......................................................... 15 CREDIT CARDS ......................................................................... 15 ATMS .......................................................................................... 16 MEDICAL MATTERS ................................................................ 17
LANGUAGE PREPARATION ................................................................................. 17 THE CLASSROOM EXPERIENCE ........................................................................ 17 CULTURAL ADJUSTMENT ................................................................................... 19
CULTURAL ADJUSTMENT CYCLE ....................................... 20 FOOD ........................................................................................... 22 YOUR SAFETY .......................................................................... 22
TRAVEL ................................................................................................................ 23
EXCURSIONS ............................................................................ 23 HOSTELS .................................................................................... 23 MODES OF TRANSPORTATION ............................................. 24
STAYING IN TOUCH WITH HOME ....................................................................... 24
MAIL ........................................................................................... 24 TELEPHONE .............................................................................. 25 E-MAIL ........................................................................................ 26
STUDENT LIFE ...................................................................................................... 26
LIVING ACCOMMODATION .................................................. 26 LIVING WITH OTHER STUDENTS ......................................... 26
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LIVING WITH A HOST- FAMILY ........................................... 27 LIVING WITH A GROUP OF INDIAN STUDENTS ............... 27 POLITICAL ACTIVITY ............................................................. 28 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS .................................................................. 28 TIPS FROM PAST STUDENTS ................................................. 29
FRANCE ................................................................................................................. 30
FACTS AND STATISTICS ........................................................ 30 Important Web sites ............................................................................................... 34 Important contact details: ....................................................................................... 34
THEY’VE BEEN THERE, DONE THAT…
Testimonials from Indian students who have studied in France:
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Studying in France is a great experience, allowing students be part of competitive and challenging courses and to meet new interesting people. Being part of the French student body is one of the best openings into the country’s rich cultural, historical and political heritage. Possibilities are endless for anybody who’s willing to work hard, take a chance and give the whole experience one’s all! - Smitha Chakravarthy, Graduate - Sciences Com’, école de communication, Nantes
I now have a French degree, and a job offer from a French company. This for me is the successful conclusion of a personal project which would not have been possible without the help of Campus France all along the way. I can trace it all back to June '04 when I started learning French at the Alliance Française de Bangalore - Hareesh V.H. Graduate - Euromed-Marseille Ecole de Management
N+i program gave me a tremendous opportunity to come to France and a platform to excel, learn and grow. However, you need to have a vision along with a dream; it’s not a cakewalk until n unless you are really focused. The INSAs have a world wide reputation for their achievements in the field of Science and Research and it has been pleasure to be a part of this institute. The courses were really good, especially the labs and the infrastructure to support project work in final year of the M-tech. - Pankaj Thakkar, Graduate - INSA Toulouse (n+i), Sales and Marketing Executive, ALSTOM Power France
The International MBA in Grenoble was a rigorous course with plenty of classroom sessions, case study assignments and finally the industrial internship coupled with a 25000 word thesis. The multicultural classroom with people from Peru, El Salvador, China, Japan, Mexico, Canada, all across Europe meant that we learnt a lot from each other. And then of course skiing, wine and the French cuisine... - Mahesh Marathe, Graduate - Grenoble Graduate school of Business, Associate, Media & Entertainment; Infosys Technologies Ltd
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IMPORTANT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Passport
To travel outside of your home country, you must have a passport. You
should already have applied for a passport if you don’t have one, but if you
haven’t, you must apply for one immediately.
Important points to note:
• Your passport should be valid for the ENTIRE duration of your stay
in France.
• Emergency Passport: On payment of Rs.1,500/- extra under the
“Tatkaal” scheme, you can receive your passport in a week or in ten
days.
• It is advisable to pay Rs.500/- more and get a “Jumbo passport” with
extra pages.
• Getting the ECNR (Emigration Check Not Required) stamp is a
relatively simple procedure. Please do so before you leave.
• A passport is a valuable document, especially when you are abroad.
You must be careful with your passport since it is the document that
allows you to travel.
• Since it is possible to lose you passport while abroad, please make
sure that a set photocopies of this all-important document is left
behind with your family and another set in your unaccompanied
baggage while traveling.
• You will need the passport number for various reasons during your
travels, so keep it handy or memorize it.
VISA
A passport is an international document that is recognized by all countries. Visas represent each individual country’s way of regulating visitors’ passage through their borders. Each country varies with regard to its entry restrictions. If you are required to have a student visa for the country in which you plan to study, you must apply for it at the consulate or representative agency of the country where you are planning to study or visit. (See section 3, page 6, for information on Visa application procedure…)
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Important!http://passport.gov.in/
http://www.amb-inde.fr/
CampusFrance
TRAVEL INSURANCE
• Determine clearly if the travel insurance policy meets your
anticipated travel needs for the first three months.
• Travel insurance is not the same as health insurance. Some travel
insurance packages will offer additional health coverage but you
should be clear about the details of your coverage if you purchase
these packages.
• From the point of view of the French Consulate, your insurance
policy must cover you for at least three months from the date of
onward travel and it must have a repatriation clause. This will be one
of the documents you will need to produce during the visa application
procedure.
AIR TRAVEL
• Purchase a flexible ticket, if your finances allow you to, to make
changes in planning easier to accommodate.
• Students going on long-term programmes may consider buying a one-
way ticket.
• Ensure that all ticket details are correct.
• Reconfirm your flight at least 72 hours prior to departure.
• If you are transiting, ensure that you have relevant information on airport
terminals and on transit visa regulations.
• Plan how you will get from the airport to your institution or place of
accommodation before you leave India.
• Arrive early enough to allow time to settle into your accommodation and
new environment.
• Communicate your travel itinerary and contact details with the institute
in France. This might be useful in emergencies.
• Check appropriate websites for travel advice.
• Inform your airline that you have an International Student Card. This
may allow you more baggage!
• If you are already in touch with other students going to the same
institute, contact them to coordinate your travel plans if possible.
• TGV tickets can be booked right away. Or fly!
The FRENCH VISA APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Once your travel plans are fixed, seek an appointment from the assigned Consulate
for submission of the visa application file and for the actual stamping. You may please
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Important!
www.lonelyplanet.com
www.travelwatchdog.com
www.seatguru.com
www.flymycase.com
www.hostelworld.com
www.lowcostbeds.com
www.whatsonwhen.com
www.travelblog.org
Important!The French institution will help
you with the insurance
packages available in France.
CampusFrance
contact the VFS for this (http://www.vfs-france.co.in/). You will then need to get an
appointment with the Education Adviser of the nearest CampusFrance office to obtain
a NO OBJECTION CERTIFICATE. The entire process will take between a week and
ten days from the time you have finished your NOC interview.
The list of documents you will need to carry for the appointment with the Campus
France Counselor are:
• Valid passport (first and last pages)
• Copy of bio-data (CV)
• Copy of academic records (Class X, XII, Bachelor's and other degrees -
certificates + marks cards of the same)
• Proof of Accommodation
• Proof of finance + Bank statement for the last six months (In the case of
Parents / Guardian sponsoring the course, bank statements of the Parents /
Guardian + letter from the sponsor)
• Overseas medical insurance coverage (for a minimum of three months with
a repatriation clause)
• Letter of admission from the Institute in France / Letter from the French and
Indian institution if the student is going on an exchange programme
• Official document confirming award of scholarship (if applicable)
• A Demand Draft drawn in favour of “CEDUST” payable at New Delhi for Rs.
7,000/-. (Please recheck the amount from our website – www.india-
campusfrance.org )
• Long stay visa application form for those who are going for more than 90
days & short stay application form for those going for less than 90 days (will
be given to the student on the day of the NOC interview), duly filled with a
photograph affixed (carry 3 more photos with light background)
• Confirmed reservation print-out of the air ticket
The student will have to bring all the above-mentioned documents in ORIGINAL AND
TWO SETS OF PHOTOCOPIES. Please ensure that the two sets of photocopies are
arranged in exactly the same order. ALL students must complete the on-line
registration on the CampusFrance Web site (www.india-campusfrance.org ) before
the NOC interview. The procedure will take a minimum of one hour.
Once the NOC interview is over, you will have to proceed to the assigned Consulate
for the stamping.
The report sent to the French Consulate, after the interview, is confidential and
will not be made available to the students. The French Consulate reserves the
right to accept or reject an application.
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Important!Contact the nearest
CampusFrance Counselor
www.india-campusfrance.org
CampusFrance
REGISTRATION AT THE INSTITUTE IN FRANCE
Ensure that ALL formalities involving your admission are completed
BEFORE you leave and request a written confirmation of the same from the
institute in France (contact the International Relations office or the person
who has dealt with your file).
TRANSCRIPTS
You will need to carry ALL transcripts and degree certificates that you have
declared during the admission procedure. These documents MUST BE
translated, attested and certified by the Alliance Française. It is
recommended that you carry at least five sets.
BIRTH CERTIFICATE
The Birth Certificate must carry your name. If this is not the case, please
ensure to get a notarized document to this effect. The Indian Embassy in
Paris is also authorized to certify this. Please arrange to have your birth
certificate translated and attested in French as this is a very important
document in France. The Class X marks sheet IS NOT considered an
equivalent.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT IDENTITY CARD (ISIC)
• ISIC is the only internationally accepted proof of student status. More
information can be found on http://www.stictravel.com/students/ .This card
accesses a world-wide network of specialist student travel offices offering
you savings on accommodation, tours and transportation.
SCHOLARSHIP HOLDERS
Once you have arrived in France, you will have to report to the Egide office
nearest to his institution (mentioned in the letter granting the scholarship) and
produce the following documents:
• Scholarship letter that you will receive prior to your departure.
• Admission letter
Keep a set of birth certificate and academic records (marks sheets and
degree certificates) handy though this may not be required.
Upon submission of the above documents, you will receive:
• Insurance for the first month,
• A cheque for initial expenses (of 200 Euros approximately)
• An attestation Egide acknowledging your status as a French
Government scholarship holder.
• A student guide.
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Important!In certain cities Egide will
arrange to pick you up at the
airport.
http://www.egide.asso.fr/
CampusFrance
6 NEW LONG STAY VISA VALID AS RESIDENCE PERMIT
FOR STUDENTS GOING ON LONG TERM STUDY PROGRAM ( Duration of study: 03 months – 12 months)
With effect from 1st June 2009, visas valid for a stay above three months in France will exempt such visa holders from applying for a residence permit during the validity period of the visa.
Which are the categories concerned?
This reform affects:
spouses of French nationals visitors students employees in France temporary workers in France
Applicable areas:
These provisions concern the French Departments (mainland and overseas) as well as Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. However, they are not applicable for stays in New Caledonia, French Polynesia, Wallis and Futuna, and Mayotte. This does not concern Algerian nationals either, whose entry and stay in France are governed by a bilateral agreement.
What has changed: It is no longer necessary to apply for a residence permit at the Prefecture.
While submitting the visa application, the applicant must attach a document called the “attestation OFII” which must be sent within three months of their arrival in France to the competent “Délégation territoriale de l’Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration” according to one’s residential area in France (the addresses of the territorial delegations are listed overleaf in the attestation form as well as on the website of the OFII. The OFII will call the applicant to proceed to registration formalities. This formality is mandatory and in the absence of registration within three months of arrival in France, the visa holder will be considered to be in an irregular situation by the French authorities.
Such visa holders will be able to move freely through Schengen territory during the validity period of the visa for stays not exceeding three months.
A minimum of one week (varying according to nationality and the reason for the stay) should be allowed for obtaining a visa.
What has not changed:
The long stay visa application form has not changed.
The supporting documents to be furnished, in accordance with the reason for staying in France, have not changed.
Where to apply:
Visa Section of the Embassy of France in New Delhi
CampusFrance Offices – For Student Visas.
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CARTE DE SÉJOUR - TEMPORARY STAY PERMIT (applicable to students with stay in France for more than one year)
PROCEDURE
Once you have completed the registration formalities in the institute in
France, you will be given a student card. You will have to then submit the
student card along with photos, insurance, accommodation, admission, proof
of financial resources (scholarship/bank account/sponsor details) passport
and visa copies, birth certificate (proof of birth) and a completed application
form to the local prefecture.
Please note that the above mentioned documents must be certified
translations in French if the originals are in any other language.
This file can be either sent by post or handed over in person at the
prefecture. In some cases the school will send it for you. Once they receive
the application and if all your documents are in order, you will receive a
"récépissé" (a receipt acknowledging your application which also serves as a
temporary proof of residence) - this is normally valid for 3 months. The “carte
de sejour” will, in principle, be granted within this period if not, you can ask
for an extension of the récépissé. You will receive a call for a medical exam
for which a fee has to be paid at a local bank or post office. With this letter
and proof of payment, you have to report to the medical center assigned to
you on the appointed date and time. Please retain the receipt that you will be
given after the medical test.
When you receive an intimation that your carte de séjour is ready, you can
collect it on the specified date by producing your passport (original), the
receipt from the medical centre and your student card.
This entire procedure will take about 3 months (the period indicated in the
récépissé), but this can vary depending on the city.
IMPORTANT:
- You CANNOT travel outside of France with just a récépissé, you
need the carte de séjour to do so. If you have only a récépissé
and you want to go out of France and during the first three
months, you will have to request a "visa de retour" from the
prefecture. This may take between a week and 15 days, again
depending on the city.
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Important!All students must carry their
passport and Carte de séjour
at all times.
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7 PACKING YOUR BAGS
• Remember the golden rule: less is best!
• Remember the silver rule: if you can’t afford to lose it, don’t bring it!
• Pack in compartments. Put clothes, toiletries, maps and guide books into
separate compartments so that you can find them easily. Pack the heaviest
items in the bottom and close to your back (in a travel backpack), for better
balance.
• You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage when you arrive at the
overseas airport. Having an unmanageable amount of luggage only makes
things worse.
• Identify your luggage.
• Remove old tags with incorrect information, especially airline destination
tags.
• Since brown and black bags are very common, it makes things much easier
if you put an identifying sign on your bags such as a piece of brightly colored
tape.
• Be aware that airports have strict security requirements for safety reasons.
• Departing India – If you are departing India with expensive items (such as
computers, cameras and video cameras) and you intend to bring them back
to India, you can register these items with Customs. Once registered, you do
not need to declare these articles to Customs on your return to India but you
should keep the registration form handy in case Customs has any questions.
• Never carry items for strangers and make sure that you have packed your
own suitcases and know what they contain.
• Pack your most personal and valuable items in your carry-on bag to
minimize loss if your baggage is misplaced!
• Make sure that nothing in your carry-on bag can be construed as a weapon
ex. nail files, nail scissors, pen knife, etc.
• Many students find that a large backpack (not an external frame backpack)
is more convenient than a suitcase.
• Travel light but prepare for changes in temperature. Carry at least one heavy
weight coat and one waterproof one.
• Universal travel adapters may be needed for electronic items.
• Since laundry facilities are expensive in Europe and are often hard on
clothes, carry easy-to-care-for clothing that can be washed at home and
drip-dried.
• Get ready to walk much more than one normally does in India. It is
imperative to pack a good pair of shoes for this.
• Roll your clothing when you pack it. You can fit more in your suitcase and
your clothes will be less wrinkled.
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Important!For baggage regulations, check
with your airline well in advance.
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Things NOT to carry:
- Too many clothes or shoes
- Anything that you are too attached to...jewelry;
valuables…Remember the silver rule!! If you can’t afford
to lose it, don’t bring it.
- Food except maybe spices or special things you fear you
cannot purchase overseas
- Musical instruments that cannot take a beating
SAMPLE PACKING LISTTwo day overnight backpack
Bath towel
Tissue packets
Contact Lenses (extra pair)
Travel size toiletteries
Eye Glasses (extra pair)
Compact umbrella
Rain gear
Sleeping bag/Cover sheet (for weekend excursions)
Alarm
Flashlight
Camera
Walkman / IPod
Batteries
Converter/Adapter (for electric current)
Pocket knife (packed in your checked baggage)
Diary
Travel books ( Let’s Go…, Lonely Planets)
Money belt (invaluable for carrying important travel documents ie tickets passport,
money)
EuroRail Pass
Youth Hostel Card
Photos of family
Snacks to keep you going until you find a local grocery store
Zip lock plastic bags to assist separate but keep items in your luggage identifiable
Copies of CV
Passport size pictures (20 copies – colour and black and white)
If it’s important for you to cook, carry a small pressure cooker
Pack an extra bag in your luggage to use on your way home.
Expense sheet
Money (See section 9)
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THE IMPORTANT DOCUMENT
FOLDER
Photocopies of
Airline ticket
Passport
Visas
Credit cards
Traveler’s cheques
Certified copies of birth
certificate academic records
Admission letter
Address book
Medical records
Prescription
Bank details
&
This Predeparture Guide!
Leave behind a set of photocopies of
the above with your family and put
one away in your unaccompanied
baggage.
CampusFrance
8. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO FRANCE
TRAVEL ABROAD
One of the most exciting parts of study abroad is the opportunity to travel.
Not only can you travel around the region and throughout the city where you
are studying, but you also have the chance to explore other areas. If you are
going on a short-term exchange programme (LESS than 90 days, you will be
allowed to travel within the Schengen states, others please check section on
“Carte de Séjour”)
TRAVEL RESOURCES
Libraries and bookstores have hundreds of travel books. There are books for
every region, every budget and every style of travel. They are extremely
helpful and informative. If you are going to study abroad, you should take the
trouble to research the area where you will be staying. Travel books are a
great way to do this. They will give you information on the places to visit, to
stay, to eat, and other helpful information. Read as much as you can before
you leave but you should also invest in buying a book to take with you.
Lonely Planet (http://www.lonelyplanet.com/) is popular among college
students because they focus on the low budget options and cater to the
interests of younger travelers.
Visit the “Office du tourisme”, a feature in every city in France, for information
and useful tips on what to see and do in places. http://us.franceguide.com/.
Travelling in France is extremely convenient: look for coach and train
schedules in the central train station in every city – “la gare”. All major cities
are well connected by train and as a student, one can avail heavy discounts
on train fares. Buy the “12-25” card at the onset (about 50 euros) which will
allow for 50 percent discounts on all or most train ticket purchases.
To travel economically all over Europe, try the coach “Eurolines”. Coaches
connect all major cities over Europe and ply practically all week. They are
extremely convenient, quite inexpensive and are a good way to meet fellow-
students from different countries.
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Important!
http://us.franceguide.com/
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/
CampusFrance
MONEY & MEDICAL MATTERS
EXCHANGE RATES
Exchange rates can affect the amount of money you actually have. A helpful
web site for exchange rates is The Universal Currency Converter at
http://www.xe.net/currency/. It will take a little time to get used to exchange
rates. Just stay aware of them while you are abroad, and pay special
attention if you plan to travel outside France. Also, remember that exchange
rates fluctuate daily depending on the world economy. The longer your stay,
the more drastic the changes can be.
TRANSPORTING MONEY
If you are traveling on weekends, banks and currency exchange agencies
may be closed. You will most likely be able to find various exchange
companies that do remain open every day, but they can have poor exchange
rates or charge high commissions, and they may be difficult and time
consuming to find.
You can always exchange money at the airport from which you are
departing. Airports generally have poor exchange rates, but if you are only
exchanging a small amount of money, it is a minimal difference.
OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT
• Open a bank account as early as possible. In some cases you will
need a letter of introduction from a bank indicating that you have an
account in India and that you are of good standing. Try to obtain a
letter of introduction prior to leaving and if possible, keep a translated
version of this letter.
• Opening an account at “La Poste”, the post office, is simpler. They
do have attractive offers and function exactly as another bank would.
• When opening up a bank account overseas, try to do so with a large
national bank as opposed to a state/local bank where charges might
be higher and branches less accessible.
• Make sure that someone at home has authority to act on your behalf
i.e. he / she is authorized to be your Power of Attorney. They should
be able to transfer money to you immediately.
• Ask your local branch in India about the procedures for wiring money
to an overseas account.
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CASH
You should carry approximately 100 to 150 Euros with you when you leave.
This will save you time and trouble once you arrive. This money might be
used for transportation from the airport to your institute and it will also be
helpful if you want to purchase food or drink upon arrival. Having this cash
will prevent you from scrambling around looking for a currency exchange
booth. This is especially important if you plan to arrive on a Sunday. DO
NOT carry too much money in cash: it’s dangerous and cannot be replaced.
TRAVELER’S CHEQUES
Traveler’s cheques are the safest way to transport money. Small
denominations make exchanging easier.
Be careful to use well-known traveler’s cheques with good name recognition
so businesses will not question these cheques when you attempt to cash
them (e.g. American Express, Thomas Cook, Visa, etc.).
When you purchase traveler’s cheques from the bank, you should receive a
receipt that lists the serial numbers of all of your traveler’s checks. Keep
these receipts in a safe place. If any checks are lost or stolen, these receipts
provide the proof needed for you to get a refund from your traveler’s cheques
company.
Tip:
To encash your traveler’s cheques, use the post office rather than any bank.
The post offices will cash them for no commission whereas certain banks
charge a small percentage.
If you are in a small city/town and are cashing large amounts, the local post
office might need a day or two to arrange for that cash. But in bigger cities
and main post offices, they will have the cash at hand.
CREDIT CARDS
Even if you do not plan to use it, a credit card provides a safety net in case
you have an emergency or just need money that you did not budget for.
These cards may also allow you to write personal checks at banks or, if you
request this service, you can get cash advances on your card at ATMs and in
banks around the world. It is always a good idea to call your credit card
companies prior to your departure to let them know that you will be using the
card abroad. If you haven’t advised them of your intended use of the card
overseas, they may block it thinking it has been stolen. By taking a few
minutes to call them, you can save yourself a lot of frustration. Make sure
your cards can be used in France. Find out what services are available with
Indian credit cards. Credit services usually have conversion charges at a
certain percentage as well as interest charges if you do not pay off your
balance by the due date. Use credit services ONLY if absolutely unavoidable.
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ATMS
ATMs offer a number of advantages. It is no longer difficult to find ATMs
around the world, especially in Europe. They are often open 24 hours and
the fees are minimal. The exchange rate is immediate and often favorable.
However, if you plan to count on this as a means of organizing your funds
overseas, you will want to be certain your card can be accepted overseas.
Using your Visa or MasterCard debit card is very handy since it will be
accepted internationally as both a credit card and an ATM card just like at
home. Make sure that you know your PIN numbers before you leave. In
addition to debit cards, there are ATMs worldwide that accept Visa,
MasterCard, and American Express and allow you to make a cash advance
with a PIN number. Debit cards attached to a savings account will NOT work
in ATMs abroad.
Talk to your bank about the options open to you while overseas. Some banks
even offer a listing of all ATMs in the area where you will be studying. As with
credit cards, inform your bank that you will be using the card abroad. If you
haven’t advised them of your intended use of the card overseas, they may
block it thinking it has been stolen. Be sure to have the customer service
phone numbers that you will need to contact if your card is blocked. (You
should ask your bank for the number to contact a person rather than an
automated menu if possible.) Pre-planning can make all the difference.
The best advice is to plan on having money available in a few different forms
(traveler’s checks, credit cards & ATM cards). Create a plan and be certain
you have access to enough funds to secure your lifestyle abroad.
IMPORTANT:
• Wear a money belt when traveling around.
• BUDGET, BUDGET, BUDGET! You must exercise some financial
planning especially noting the fluctuating exchange rates.
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MEDICAL MATTERS
• It is advisable to have full medical and dental check-ups prior to
departure.
• You must have prescriptions of any medication, including common
medicines that you carry. This is very important as some medicines /
drugs are considered illegal.
• You should take with you a detailed letter from your doctor explaining
any ongoing/existing medical conditions and medication that may be
required in case of health related emergencies. Try and include both
the chemical and commercial names of any medication.
LANGUAGE PREPARATION
If you are traveling to a country and you do not have a strong grasp of their
language, it is very helpful to learn some basics before you depart. The most
helpful method is to take a course in this language. Another way to try to pick
up the basics and to get a peek into the culture is to watch films from that
country or in that country’s language. Most video stores have a foreign film
section.
Living in a culture where a different language is spoken is extremely exciting.
It will make your experience even more significant if you try to use and
understand the language. Once you are abroad it is good to seek out
experiences that allow you to use it, such as ordering food in the language,
spending time with local residents, seeing plays or movies in the language or
just paying attention to the signs and conversations around you. It can be
frustrating but the experience is well worth the struggle.
Even if you do not have time before you leave to do extensive language
study, attempt to familiarize yourself with some of the most often needed
words. You can purchase an inexpensive phrase book at most book stores
that will provide you with the basics. Most good travel guides will provide you
with a list of the translation of several key words as well as their
pronunciation. This is information that you might want to carry around with
you for a while. This is an easy task that can be a huge help to you once you
arrive overseas.
You may also visit www.clickonfrench.com for information on online French
courses.
THE CLASSROOM EXPERIENCE
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French classes are organized into cycles for first-, second-, and third-year
students. Classes are usually very large. Although semester-length courses
are offered more and more frequently, students should expect many year-
long courses with exams at the end of the academic year that test an entire
year’s instruction.
There are two main types of classes within the French university system.
One type, called “Cours magistral”, consists of a series of lectures held in
amphitheaters for large groups of students. The lectures present a broad
theoretical analysis of major issues and trends in the given field. The
“Travaux dirigés” or “Conférences de méthode” are the other types of classes
and are conducted in smaller groups and follow more closely the pedagogical
pattern practiced in American universities.
Although assigned homework is rare, professors do provide extensive
bibliographies from which students are expected to select books to read.
Small classes require you to be active in the classroom environment.
Students should bring familiar reference books and key works which are
important for their majors, since these materials might not always be readily
available in English. Generally speaking, all books from the reading lists may
be found at the university libraries.
On the final exam, students may be asked to present a broad, conceptual
analysis of a given question based on lectures and independent reading.
Students must obtain a comprehensive knowledge of the subject through
judicious reading.
Be ready for strict attendance policies and hence it is very important to
acquaint yourself right from the beginning on attendance and examination
policies of the institute in France, it may lead to rather stringent action.
Do not hesitate to question your professors on the way they expect you
to structure your presentations, essays etc. This is a strong point with
the French and by and large all students are expected to stick to
prescribed patterns. Do not wait for the last minute to do this as your
grades will suffer.
Join students’ recreational clubs – it’s a great way to interact and will
distract you from any feeling of homesickness that might surface on
and off!
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CULTURAL ADJUSTMENT
Adjusting to a new culture is one of the most critical parts of the overseas
experience. Each individual will have a different reaction to cultural
adjustment, but there has been a documented process that most students
experience. The following section explains that process. Reading and
understanding these stages will ease your adjustment to a new culture.
Each of us has experienced the feeling of being a stranger in a new situation.
For you it may have been going to summer camp; moving to a new city with
your family; or during your first semester at college.
Making the transition to a new environment (city, school, etc.), can be difficult
on two levels.
The first level of adjustment relates to the transition into a new situation.
Although it can be difficult at first, you will find that understanding the various
components of your new experience will help you greatly. You will be
spending a semester or summer session, or possibly a year or more, with a
new group of people in a different culture. Even if you know some of the
other participants, it will not be like it is at your home institution. You will be
meeting new people and leaving your comfort zone. Keeping an open mind
and being willing to get to know new people is the key to making this
transition.
The second level of adjustment has to do with studying in a different culture;
with a different home; and possibly in a different language than the one you
are used to. Unless you have lived abroad before, you will not be able to truly
understand the impact of this change until you get there. There are a million
things that are specific to our culture that we take for granted each day.
Going overseas can be a wake up call to this. Getting used to these
differences will be a stress on your system if you are not ready for them, but
it is part of what makes going abroad such an incredible learning experience.
Everyone goes through this - you must remember this - but it is crucial that
you know what to expect before you begin to experience it. Even if you
choose to ignore this section before you leave, keep it handy once you arrive
overseas and read it once you begin going through your cultural adjustment.
You WILL experience this cycle, so educate yourself beforehand and know
what to expect.
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CULTURAL ADJUSTMENT CYCLE
The following information is adapted from Bring Home the World by Stephen
H. Rhinesmith.
When you move from one culture to another you will experience culture
shock. This is the condition that occurs when you experience anxiety after
moving to a new culture. The intensity and length of this anxiety will depend
on the individual and the situation that they are experiencing. To overcome
this anxiety you must go through an adjustment cycle.
1. Selection/Pre-departure Anxiety
2. Honeymoon
3. Initial Culture Shock
4. Surface Adjustment
5. Mental Isolation
6. Integration/Acceptance (Duration of Program)
1. Selection/Pre-departure Anxiety: After an applicant is accepted to their
program, there is a feeling of excitement and anticipation as the experience
draws closer. They begin to make preparations for the term abroad such as
travel arrangements, passport applications, and purchasing items they will
need. Expectations are high during this stage which continues until just
before departure when some anxiety can return. INDICATORS: insomnia,
less interest in current activities.
2. Honeymoon: Positive feelings of excitement return during the first weeks
abroad. Changes in routine are exciting and the new world is fascinating.
Expectations for the experience are high. With lots of arrival introductions,
the visitor is often overwhelmed with being the focus of attention and activity.
He/she is shown a level of respect and concern which might be quite
uncommon back home. INDICATORS: insomnia, stomach queasiness.
3. Initial Culture Shock: After the initial fascination and excitement
subsides, the stress of overseas living begins to manifest itself physically.
The constant differences wear on the students making them tired and
anxious. They experience changes in their eating and sleeping habits,
difficulties in dealing with others, language struggles, and mental fatigue.
Everything seems new and the student longs for the comforts and familiarity
of home. To help get through this stage it is helpful for a student to
investigate the city and find places to which they feel some attachment. It is
important that students find people with whom they feel comfortable during
this stage. INDICATORS: tired, restless, irritable, crying, impatient, minor
health problems.
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4. Surface Adjustment: After a few weeks, students begin to adjust to the
new environment. Things that seemed different and new begin to feel
familiar. Students discover the area they are living in and start to feel like it is
home. A big part of this stage is feeling a connection to the country and
people. Language begins to get easier in this stage. INDICATORS: sense of
accomplishment.
5. Mental Isolation: After the novelty wears off completely, students begin to
feel the difficulties again. These become very frustrating, and a desire to be
in control of the situation can lead students to isolate themselves. This can
be a very lonely period. Some might feel that they have discovered the area
and are no longer interested in it. Everyday struggles affect the student
greatly and can become larger issues. INDICATORS: fatigue, colds,
headaches, boredom, lack of motivation, hostility towards local people and
customs, crying, lack of self-confidence.
6. Integration and Acceptance: Students get tired of these negative
feelings and begin to explore the country and culture on a deeper level. They
start to feel more at ease with their surroundings. Differences become
understandable and they enjoy finding ways to work with them. Students feel
at home. INDICATORS: normal health
REMEMBER – You can always get in touch with the CampusFrance
Counselor back home! Homesickness can affect your grades hence do
not wait for too long before you deal with it. Make sure you talk about it.
Dealing with Culture Shock (Stages 1 – 6)This is just an introduction to what you may go through. Remember that
everyone experiences this cycle differently, but even the most experienced
travelers go through this when living, working or studying in a new place. Be
open to new experiences and the feelings that go with them. Most
importantly, talk about what you are going through with other
participants or your program advisor. Since everyone goes through this, it
is helpful to share your feelings so you and the other participants can learn to
cope with them. Here are some useful hints from How to Adapt to a New
Country (Adapted from work by Kay Clifford, University of Michigan,
International Center, 1991):
1. Explore: Get a sense of the physical environment and norms of behavior.
2. Be slow to judge: If you do not understand a behavior, ask a local resident
about it and remember that the Indian culture is one of hundreds of different
cultures. The way the Indians do things is not the only way – or the best way
- to do things.
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FOOD
When you visit a new country, you will want to try all of the local cuisine. This
is part of the cultural experience, but let it be gradual. Don’t feel that you
have to try every new dish or drink during your first week.
Food habits are very different in France. If you are vegetarian make sure to
find out if what you are being served is “vegetarian” in the way you
understand the word! Get acquainted with a couple of restaurants and once
you’ve broken the ice, they are likely to whip up food to suit your palate!
YOUR SAFETY
As in other settings, the decisions you make before and during the program,
and by your day-to-day choices and behaviors, can have a major impact on
your health and safety abroad.
In general, you should:
• Read and carefully consider all materials given to you that relate to safety,
health, legal, environmental, political, and cultural conditions in the France.
• Participate fully in orientation programs.
• Provide your family with emergency contact information, and keep them
informed on an ongoing basis.
• In being an ambassador of your country we encourage you to be respectful
of the laws and customs in France. You are subject to the rules and
regulations applicable to students in France and could be subjected to
disciplinary action if you breach these.
• Be aware of local conditions and customs that may present health or safety
risks when making daily decisions. Promptly express any health or safety
concerns to the program staff or other appropriate individuals.
• Behave in a manner that is respectful of the rights and well being of others
and encourage others to behave in a similar manner.
• Accept responsibility for and consequences of your own decisions and
actions.
• Become familiar with the procedures for obtaining emergency health and
law enforcement services in France.
• You should expect to feel jet lag upon arrival overseas. It will take a few
days for your system to adjust to the time and climate changes, so pace
yourself. Get plenty of sleep before you travel and drink lots of fluids before
and during the flight to prevent dehydration. Don’t overestimate your level of
energy in the first few days!
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Important!
When it’s time to return home, you may
experience what is known as “return
anxiety”. Register on www.ifan.in, it’ll
help!
CampusFrance
• Protect yourself and your belongings. Do not leave your purse or wallet
accessible to thieves or pickpockets. Be especially careful in crowed areas
such as airports, train stations and big department stores.
• Avoid threatening or dangerous situations, e.g. walking alone at night or
going to an unknown area of town at night (even in pairs or in a group).
• Do not hitchhike.
• Avoid large crowds such as demonstrations or political rallies.
• Inform the program director on site in the event of illness or a necessity for
medical attention.
• Whenever you leave the program site and choose to travel on your own for
whatever length of time, leave your itinerary with the program director AND a
friend or roommate. This should include information on where you are going,
how you are going to get there, where you will be staying and when you
expect to be back.
• Using illegal drugs will result in immediate dismissal from the programme
and judicial sanctions. If you see illegal drug use, remove yourself
immediately from the scene.
• Use the same common sense that you would use here at home when
meeting new people.
TRAVEL
EXCURSIONS
Many students take the opportunity to travel around the region in which they
are studying while abroad. This is especially true in Europe, which has an
extensive and efficient railroad system. If you are considering doing this, you
should plan ahead. Speak with a travel agent or the International relations
office to help you make arrangements.
A travel agent will be able to suggest reliable modes of transportation for
travel, areas of the region that are popular, travel restrictions and where to
get information about places to stay and things to see. It is advisable to ask
students from the area what is the best way to travel, what the deals are, and
where to go.
HOSTELS
Many college students choose to stay in youth hostels while traveling. A
hostel is an inexpensive accommodation option whereby a group of people
share a room and bathroom. Although they can be of a lower quality than a
hotel, they are cheap and a good way to meet other young travelers.
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Many hostels are beginning to require advance reservations, especially
during high traffic periods. Check for the dates of any local holidays or
festivals before you go; this may impact availability in particular hostels.
Hostels often provide lockers for safety reasons. The following are interesting
Web sites for hostels in France.
http://www.fuaj.org/
http://www.hostels.com/fr/
http://www.french.hostelworld.com/country.php/Hostels/France
MODES OF TRANSPORTATION
Public transportation in Europe is one of its strong points and is the cleanest,
cheapest, fastest way to get around. It is also a good way to get know the
culture.
When you arrive in France investigate the options for transportation. Many
train or subway systems offer monthly passes at a discounted rate for
students. Due to the many variations in driving laws, insurance, speeds and
even on which side of the road to drive, we do not recommend renting or
driving any personal vehicle. Even if the public transportation is great, don’t
forget to walk sometimes.
Walking is often the best way to get to know a city, not to mention good
exercise. Bicycles are another very good option. In many cities, they can
often be rented or purchased inexpensively, and they provide a fun
alternative to walking. Biking is very popular in many European countries.
STAYING IN TOUCH WITH HOME
You are about to embark on one of the most exciting adventures of your life.
You are going to want to share these experiences with friends and family
back in India. However, other countries have different systems of
communication so it may take you a little bit of time to adjust. Read through
this section to examine the different options for communicating.
CampusFrance too will be happy to hear from you once in a while!
Overseas mail is famously slow and sometimes unreliable. Sending things
via fax is more practical.
Postcards are also a great way to communicate with friends and family and
make for great memories when you return.
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Important!Once you have settled in, please
e-mail CampusFrance with all
your contact details.
CampusFrance
Courier services must clear customs, so it may be delayed for several days
or even weeks. Inquire about delivery times and guarantees before you
spend the money.
French mailboxes are yellow in colour and they can easily be found in public
places and on the outer walls of post offices. Collection times are indicated
on each box. In general, mail sent within France that is posted before the last
collection, arrives the next day, unless sent economy rate. Mail sent abroad
will take a little bit longer, and delivery times depend on the destination—on
average it takes between one to five days. Stamps are available in post
offices, which are open from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday,
and on Saturday mornings. In Paris the main post office, located at 52, Rue
du Louvre (metro station “Louvre”) is never closed! It is the only post office in
France open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Stamps are also
available from tobacco shops, called “tabacs”, at the same rates as the post
offices. These shops are identifiable by a red or orange diamond-shaped
sign.
Sending parcels home from post offices is generally convenient and reliable.
Sturdy yellow shipping boxes with self fastening systems are available in all
sizes at moderate costs.
Another safe and reliable way to send large items, parcels, or luggage within
France is by using the SERNAM. This forwarding service operates out of all
major train stations. For a reasonable charge SERNAM will forward an item
by rail
TELEPHONE
Everyone wants to hear a friendly voice from home every once in a while.
Here are some things to remember:
• You may not have a telephone that can call overseas in your living
accommodations. In this case, it may be necessary for you to use public
phones or a cell phone. The best way to call from a public phone is to get a
calling card. “Euro Latina” is a card highly recommended by past students as
it is very reasonable. It is very expensive to make calls on cell phones in
Europe, whether you are calling a local number or a destination abroad. (You
should never call home from a cell phone.) However, receiving calls on your
cell phone is often free. The same applies to sending and receiving text
messages.
• Make sure your family is aware of the time difference between India and
France!
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Some programs provide their students with access to an e-mail account for
free or for a nominal fee. If your program provides you with this service, this
is the cheapest and most effective way to communicate. The transmission is
virtually instantaneous and convenient for most of your friends back at school
and your family if they have internet access. Getting access to computers
abroad may be limited to a certain time of the day and may only allow you to
be on the computers for a limited amount of time.
There are much fewer Cyber cafés in France than in India!
STUDENT LIFE
You will only be living abroad for a limited time. Make the most of your
experience. Discover the region in which you live. Be sure to get to know the
city in which you live. Many students hop trains every weekend and explore
all the sites around them and leave without really knowing the town they lived
in. Meet the locals. Go to cultural activities like operas, plays, fairs and
concerts. Visit the historical sites and museums. Discover the art houses in
your city. Hike around the area. Go to sporting events or even enroll in
intramural activities. Look at the architecture. Eat at local restaurants.
Investigate the nightlife. Find activities and festivals that are unique to your
area and attend them. Become a part of campus organizations and
participate in events that are organized, especially those that are organized
for international exchange students.
Even if you are on a limited budget, you can do most of these things. Use
your ISIC card to look for student discounts. Make the most of your time as a
student in France.
LIVING ACCOMMODATION
There are many different options for accommodations depending on the
program you attend. You may live independently in an apartment, with a host
family, or in a residence hall. Regardless of which situation you are in, it is
important to remember that living conditions in other countries will be
different from those in India. The point of living abroad is to immerse oneself
in the lifestyle of another culture. Living as the citizens of that country do is
the first step in achieving this. So be open to differences in living
accommodations, and remember that it is all part of the experience of being
abroad.
LIVING WITH OTHER STUDENTS
Many of you will have the opportunity to live with other students. Whether
they be French or other international students, this experience comes along
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only once in a lifetime. As with any living situation in your home country, you
may run into clashes and differences. Be sure to handle these times with
respect and maturity. Living with other students gives you an insight into the
city, culture, and sense of humor of the people that is nearly impossible to
tap into otherwise. Sometimes you can get the names and numbers of
roommates before you leave for your program; you may want to think about
contacting them and talking beforehand.
LIVING WITH A HOST- FAMILY
If you are living with a family, learn to respect their rules. They are opening
their home to you. Respect this commitment and generosity by taking the
time to get to know them and to follow the rules they give you. Living with a
foreign family can be an incredible experience if you open yourself up to
getting to know them and understanding their customs. Ask them about what
you can and cannot do.
Telephones for instance may be available, but limited. You may have to pay
a deposit up front.
Meal times are often set. If you plan on being out, inform the family in
advance. If you have special dietary needs be sure to notify the program
coordinator and include any special needs on your housing applications. It is
customary to bring gifts to your hosts, especially treats for the children. If any
problems with your host family arise it is always better to talk to someone
about a potential problem sooner rather than later in order to reach a
resolution. It is important to make the most out of this opportunity;
communicating and working on the relationship is the only way to make it
work for everyone.
LIVING WITH A GROUP OF INDIAN STUDENTS
If you are going on an exchange program, you may be housed with other
Indian participants. You will probably get to know each other very quickly and
share one of the most amazing times of your life together. Although exploring
and experimenting in your new setting with your peers is exciting and
enriching, be sure to take time to get into the culture your are visiting. You
will probably regret spending all your time abroad with Indians, so make an
attempt at meeting new people and really giving your new surroundings a
chance.
A good way to make your accommodations feel more like home is by getting
to know the area in which you live. Take the time to meet local shop owners
or neighbors. Take a long walk around your area. The key is to always seek
out new experiences.
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POLITICAL ACTIVITY
From time to time, every country in the world undergoes political change.
This can result in changes in leadership, variations in the economy, and even
social unrest. Such political changes may occur from the national level to the
local and even institutional levels. In some parts of the world universities
themselves may become the focus of such political changes. Specifically,
you may encounter political party campaigning, student strikes or union
demonstrations. Although it may be tempting to participate in such activities,
it is highly recommended that you be only a passive observer.
In many countries such activities can often lead to unpredictable violence. If
you become involved, there is no way to ensure your safety. If you do choose
to observe from a distance, stay close to your residence, follow all
instructions from your host university and most importantly, stay in touch with
the nearest Indian Embassy.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
France has 11 public holidays that correspond to religious holidays or to
historical dates.
Government offices and private companies are closed as well as most
businesses.
Police stations and hospitals remain open.
• January 1st: First day of the year.
• Easter Monday (March or April depending on the year). Religious
holiday
• May 1st: Labor Day.
• May 8th: WWII Armistice Day in 1945.
• Ascension Thursday (in May or June): Religious holiday
• July 14th: National holiday (anniversary of the storming of the
Bastille on July 14
• 1789, symbolic date of the beginning of the French Revolution).
• August 15th: Assumption day, religious holiday
• November 1st: All saints day, religious holiday
• November 11th: WWI Armistice Day in 1918
• December 25th: Christmas day, religious holiday
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TIPS FROM PAST STUDENTS
• Make a sincere attempt to learn the French language.
• Administrative procedures can be slow but you will receive help from
the international relations office. If you have trouble with
administrative procedures/other kinds of settling in problems, don’t
hesitate to involve people around you: your institution, friends, fellow-
classmates etc. More often than not, they admire the courage and
the will in Indians to come so far away from home and study/live, so
they’re very willing to help when they can. But do read up on/ get
information on your own, because whatever problem you’re likely to
face as an international student, the locals will be very unaware of,
and will not have any idea about how to go about things. Armed with
the information, you can get them to help you execute things, like
getting a support letter, asking for help with writing letters, getting
someone to accompany you to an official meeting and so on and so
forth.
• Make an effort to keep in touch with alumni.
• Register on the IFAN website.
• If you loose your passport contact the Embassy of India in Paris
(http://www.amb-inde.fr/).
• Have an open mind and a willingness to appreciate diversity of
culture and languages.
• Read up as much as you can on various aspects on India and on
France.
• Learn to cook! – take along photocopies of favorite recipes
• Try to make friends with new people. Do not hang out with a familiar
clan, the learning will be greater
• Take advantage of cultural events
• Be street smart
• Exercise caution when moving around alone
• Try to do something different each day
• Not everything needs to be planned
• When in doubt, take a chance!
Q. If a student finishes his studies and has applied for extension of stay to look for a job, what steps need to be taken and will he be still on student visa or another titre ? A. A student must apply for an extension of stay to look for a job. The students must go via the Prefecture .The procedure to obtain an extension takes 2 months and hence the students must accordingly apply for the extension before he completes his last semester of his program. In such a case, he will be required to furnish his first semester mark sheet.
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Q. Can working on this student visa lead to legal hassles if a student is hired and needs to start immediately? If a student is hired then he can work provided he changes his status of visa immediately and thus he cannot work on student visa.
Q. International Driving licenses given in India are they valid or not in France (we had an HEC student who landed in trouble at the Spanish border as this was not recognized.).
In each Prefecture, there is a bureau de circulation cell, if a student has an International Driving License given in India then they should approach the bureau de circulation to get the license validated without which the student will face trouble.
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Once you have settled in, write to us at Campus France and give us your contact details.
You must also mail your details to [email protected] upon arrival in France.
FRANCE
FACTS AND STATISTICS
• Location: Western Europe, bordering Andorra 56.6 km, Belgium 620
km, Germany 451 km,
• Italy 488 km, Luxembourg 73 km, Monaco 4.4 km, Spain 623 km,
Switzerland 573 km
• Capital: Paris
• Climate: generally cool winters and mild summers, but mild winters
and hot summers along
• the Mediterranean; occasional strong, cold, dry, north-to-
northwesterly wind known as mistral
• Population: 60,424,213 (July 2004 est.)
• Ethnic Make-up: Celtic and Latin with Teutonic, Slavic, North African,
Indochinese, Basque minorities
• Religions: Roman Catholic 83%-88%, Protestant 2%, Jewish 1%,
Muslim 5%-10%, unaffiliated 4%
• Government: REPUBLIC
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Languages in France
French, the official language, is the first language of 88% of the population.
Most of those who speak minority languages also speak French, as the
minority languages are given no legal recognition. 3% of the population
speaks German dialects, predominantly in the eastern provinces of Alsace-
Lorraine and Moselle. Flemish is spoken by around 90,000 people in the
northeast, which is 0.2% of the French population. Around 1m people near
the Italian border, roughly 1.7% of the population, speaks Italian.
French Society & Culture
Food is a passion with the French. French cooking is highly refined and
involves careful preparation, attention to detail, and the use of fresh
ingredients. It varies by region and is heavily influenced by what is grown
locally.
French Family Values
The family is the social adhesive of the country and each member has
certain duties and responsibilities. The extended family provides both
emotional and financial support. Despite their reputation as romantics, the
French have a practical approach towards marriage.
Relationships - Public vs. Private
The French are a private people and have different rules of behavior for
people within their social circle and those who are not. Although the French
are generally polite in all dealings, it is only with their close friends and family
that they are free to be themselves. Friendship brings with it a set of roles
and responsibilities, including being available should you be needed.
Etiquette & Customs in France
The handshake is a common form of greeting.
Friends may greet each other by lightly kissing on the cheeks, once on the
left cheek and once on the right cheek.
First names are reserved for family and close friends. Wait until invited
before using someone's first name.
You are expected to say “bonjour” or “bonsoir” (good morning and good
evening) with the honorific title Monsieur or Madame when entering a shop
and “au revoir” (good-bye) when leaving.
If you live in an apartment building, it is polite to greet your neighbors with the
same appellation.
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Gift Giving Etiquette
Flowers should be given in odd numbers but not 13 as it is considered
unlucky.
Some older French retain old-style prohibitions against receiving certain
flowers: White lilies or chrysanthemums as they are used at funerals; red
carnations as they symbolize bad will; any white flowers as they are used at
weddings.
Prohibitions about flowers are not generally followed by the young. When in
doubt, it is always best to err on the side of conservatism.
If you give wine, make sure it is of the highest quality you can afford. The
French appreciate their wines.
Gifts are usually opened when received.
Dining Etiquette
If you are invited to a French house for dinner:
Arrive on time. Under no circumstances should you arrive more than 10
minutes later than invited without telephoning to explain you have been
delayed. The further south you go in the country, the more flexible time is.
If invited to a large dinner party, especially in Paris, sends flowers on the
morning of the occasion so that they may be displayed that evening.
Dress well. The French are fashion conscious and their version of casual is
not as relaxed as in many western countries.
Table manners:
Table manners are Continental - the fork is held in the left hand and the knife
in the right while eating.
If there is a seating plan, you may be directed to a particular seat.
Do not begin eating until the hostess says “bon appetit”.
If you have not finished eating, cross your knife and fork on your plate with
the fork over the knife.
Do not rest your elbows on the table, although your hands should be visible
and not in your lap.
Finish everything on your plate.
Do not cut salad with a knife and fork. Fold the lettuce on to your fork.
Peel and slice fruit before eating it.
Leave your wineglass nearly full if you do not want more.
Business Meetings Etiquette
Appointments are necessary and should be made at least 2 weeks in
advance.
Appointments may be made in writing or by telephone and, depending upon
the level of the person you are meeting, are often handled by the secretary.
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Do not try to schedule meetings during July or August, as this is a common
vacation period.
If you expect to be delayed, telephone immediately and offer an explanation.
Meetings are to discuss issues, not to make decisions.
Avoid exaggerated claims, as the French do not appreciate hyperbole.
Dress Etiquette
Business suits are understated and stylish.
Men should wear dark-coloured, conservative business suits for the initial
meeting. How you dress later is largely dependent upon the personality of
the company with which you are conducting business.
Women should wear either business suits or elegant dresses in soft colours.
The French like the finer things in life, so wear good quality accessories.
Include any advanced academic degrees on your business card.
French business cards are often a bit larger than in many other countries.
The information in this guide is accurate at the time of printing.
Information may be subject to change.
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Important Web sites
www.france-in-india.org
www.india-campusfrance.org
http://passport.nic.in/
http://www.amb-inde.fr/
www.voyages-sncf.com
http://www.fuaj.org/
http://www.hostels.com/fr/
http://www.french.hostelworld.com/
Important contact details:
CITY TELEPHONE E-MAILNEW DELHI +91 11 30410000 [email protected]
KOLKOTA +91 33 22830769 [email protected]
MUMBAI +91 2222091556 [email protected]
PUNE +91 20 64017969 [email protected]
BANGALORE +91 80 41231346 [email protected]
HYDERABAD +91 40 27700734 [email protected]
CHENNAI +91 44 28279803 [email protected]
AHEMDABAD +91 79 26561734 [email protected]
CHANDIGARH +91 172 2668627 [email protected]
We thank Abhishek Chandrashekar, Hareesh V.H., Smitha
Chakravarthy, Asha Jayaraman and Shayan Mujawar for their valuable
inputs and their assistance in putting this pre-departure guide together.
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