Lyon, often called the “Capital of Gastronomy” is a picturesque European city offering a harmonious blend of history, culture, and a vibrant student life.
This hidden gem, known for its architectural diversity and charm, features iconic landmarks like the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and enchanting Renaissance-era traboules. Walking along cobblestone streets and crossing its picturesque rivers, Lyon’s charm has nothing to envy of the French capital.
For students, Lyon caters to diverse interests. With approximately 100 museums and cultural attractions, the city is a haven for art and history enthusiasts. Known for its diverse student community and thriving scene, it hosts many festivals, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year.
Lyon’s public transportation is affordable, with a yearly student pass costing about €250.
Renting a student apartment typically ranges from €450 to €700, which alligns with the current prices for student accommodation in most European cities. However, start your housing search early, as the demand is quite high.
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Lyon’s higher education landscape includes public and private institutions, well-known internationally for their engineering and business schools, offering students a diverse academic environment:
Tuition fees vary depending on the type of institution. At public universities, they are set by the French government and typically charge around €600 per year. On the other hand, Private schools have a more diversified fee structure, with costs ranging from €3,000 to €10,000 per year, depending on the specific program.
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Lyon hosts a diverse range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, IT, and healthcare. Its diverse economy and status as a prominent business hub in France make it an ideal destination for recent graduates to begin their careers.
Platforms like Indeed or StudentJob.fr are often used by students for finding job opportunities.
Lyon has a thriving job market for graduates, home to major companies such as Bayer, Sanofi and Renault Trucks, as well as a dynamic start-up ecosystem that is growing every year. While many of these companies operate in English, it’s advantageous for international graduates to have some proficiency in French.
ɫ Tip: Lyon offers a variety of part-time student job opportunities, including tutoring, babysitting, delivery services, and roles in the hospitality sector. If you need some financial help, these positions are a good option for students to support their studies while gaining valuable experience and income.
Lyon benefits from excellent transport connections. Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport offers direct flights to various European and international destinations and is conveniently located just 15 kilometers from the city center.
Traveling to Lyon by train or bus is straightforward due to its central European location strategically located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Notably, a high-speed train line connects Lyon to Paris in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Additionally, Lyon has a well-structured public transportation system, with trams, buses, and a metro, making it very convenient to navigate the city and also explore other beautiful landmarks such as the Alps or Provence.