Practical Information

Immigration

European Union nationals are entitled to stay in France with their valid EU identification (passport). Non-EU nationals must acquire a long-stay visa before arriving in France and they must check the process with the consular authorities in their own country as it may depend upon particular agreements between France and the country concerned. To apply for a visa, it is necessary to meet several conditions and to present a certain number of documents: a valid passport as well as documentary evidence of the object of the stay (registration or pre-registration) and conditions of residence in France (resources, housing...). A long-stay visa is mandatory for non-EU nationals to apply for a residence permit later.

Bank Account

The official French currency is the Euro. On arrival in France, before you establish a French bank account, you should be able to pay easily with your “home” credit card if it is one of the major names like Visa and MasterCard. However, students staying over three months will need a bank account to pay for essential services. A valid passport, proof of address, and residence permit for non-EU nationals are required to open a bank account.  

Health insurance

EU nationals must have a European Health Insurance card issued by the appropriate authorities of their originating country as well as a photocopy of this document (or the E128 form). Non-EU nationals will automatically have to join the French social security system upon registration. Complementary health insurance that covers the difference between medical costs incurred and the Social Security reimbursements is not mandatory but recommended.

Accommodation

EPITA helps international students to be accommodated in residence halls, private rooms or flats (350 to 500 euros per month). Registered students can have access to housing ads on the EPITA web site. Students can also benefit from a privileged access to three student residences situated next to the campuses, in Kremlin-Bicêtre and Villejuif. In addition, the school has several agreements with housing services in Paris.

Housing aid

If you pay a rent and have few resources, you may be eligible for housing aid. This financial assistance is paid out by the CAF (“Caisse d'Allocations Familiales”). The amount can reach 50% of the rent, within certain limits.

Learning French

Following admission and registration, international students are granted access to e-learning in order to start or improve their French and facilitate their integration upon arrival. This e-learning access remains available for one year.
Additional French lessons for foreigners are also available.

Sports Equipments

The school has several courts and sports facilities. 
In addition, students can benefit from a preferential access to one of the main private gyms in France.

Organizations and Activities

Students have created many clubs to fulfill their diverse interests ranging from hands-on experience in IT aspects, to Japanese culture and various sports activities. Social events and entertainment are coordinated and promoted by our very dynamic students government through the school network. Dinners, crêpe parties, skiing in the Alps or dancing in famous Parisian nightclubs constitute not only welcome breaks but also invaluable means to experience the French way of life and meet new friends.