Université Catholique de l'Ouest (UCO)

My French has improved a lot since I am here, but it is true that it would have not been the case if I had not tried to mixed with French students. Most of my friends here are French.

Make sure you write to the CAF to get an "allocation" for your accommodation!

One thing I have to say is that internet access is REAAAAAALLY bad. Internet cafes are mad expensive. Just make sure when you arrive that you either find a computer room that is usually open and free! or that you get an authorisation if you are an IPLV student (Institut de Langues Vivantes) to have the keys of a computer room. If you plan to travel around buy the 12-25 train card to get between 25 and 50 percent off train tickets. Ah! I forgot to mention: if the place where you are staying does not have a washing machine/dryer be ready to pay around 6€ in the "laverie"! That is all I can think of...

Just make sure you send the accommodation form together with the registration form otherwise you will find it EXTREMELY difficult to find accommodation when you arrive. The university will send you addresses of French families who rent rooms to students. If you'd rather live in your own flat/studio start hunting early! it is quite hard to find one plus it can be quite expensive because you need to get an insurance and pay taxes... Halls of residence are not very near the university and unless you contact them 6-8 months before the beginning of the academic year you will not find rooms available! Lodging is one of the main problems here in Angers.

The Mardi Cafes!!!! a MUST! You will be told all about these soiree when you arrive. A great way of meeting French students!