Université de Savoie

The Curial was the only thing offered to most British students, cost 440€/month and there were several problems - e.g. the internet connection was free, but rarely worked for some people; also the "kitchenette" didn't have an oven or freezer, and several rooms were smaller than others paying the same amount. It being a "hotel", it was difficult to have parties etc in the Curial, because there were non-students staying there, and the owners were very strict on noise. If you're already going there don't worry too much, it's easy to meet other students there, and I enjoyed that, but I wish the surroundings had been different. If it's possible, I would recommend that you avoid a privately-run residence like the Curial and, if you can, come to Chambery beforehand to arrange an apartment/house (perhaps with fellow Erasmus students from your university, if any). It's certainly what I would have done, and although you're not living near other students, you'd get more space and wouldn't have to deal with the wardens/'helpful' people who run halls.

I didn't have to pass any exams, so my view is probably different to that of someone who had to - I think I would find it tough going if I had to. I only had to study courses worth 30 ECTS points. At the beginning of the year I started several courses, then dropped the ones I disliked until I was down to 30pts. I didn't do the exams, although that was more to save 440€ rent, not because I particularly disliked the exams. For some reason it was much easier to get to know other international students than French students; I'm not really sure why that is. For some reason French uni classes are like being in school, with, in my experience, more formal teacher-student relationships than in Britain (the teacher is called "monsieur" (well, assuming he's male); once the classroom was empty, but everyone waited until he had entered before they went in).

There's way, way, way too much bureaucracy. That's a general trend in French life, but the university's no different.

Quite a few things; there are cultural differences to what I'm used to, some things are better (e.g. travel on train & bus), some are worse. Not "different", not "special", just worse, and frankly, they take getting used-to or just ignoring. Maybe these are just minor things, but it's best to 'keep an open mind'.

Try not to be surprised by anything.