Université Jean Moulin: Lyon III

Since I already spoke French fluently before I went, my main goal was to perfect my skills in terms of pronunciation and grammar. I learned a lot of slang and idiomatic expressions which is something you don't learn from books

You can get student discounts almost anywhere, be sure to bring your card. An interail pass is essential if you plan to do extensive travelling in several different countries. Get the 12-25 student rail card for train discounts within France. Tuesday night is cheap night at the movies. Go to the CAF and get your housing subsidy - it usually is worth one third of your total rent.

Bring your sense of adventure! Débrouillez-vous is basically how things work. A lot of the time, people won't be able to give you the answers you're looking for. Sometimes they will be able to help you find the person who has the answers, sometimes not. You really have to be independent and think for yourself. Be prepared for a different style of life - the French really have their own way of doing things. It's hard to meet French students (most of my friends were other exchange students in the same situation as me), but persevere and you will.

They give a listing of recommended residences run by the private sector and do their best to give you your first choice. All the residences that are recommended meet certain standards and are very good for students.

Get a pass'culture if you like the arts, it gives you access to 6 shows at selected venues for 60 euros. Get a 12-25 train pass to travel within france. We liked the Johnny Walsh's Irish pub, the Hot Club, Mi Barrio and La Marquise.