Montpellier is a big student city in the south of France. It is known for a lively campus life, a warm climate, and many study options in medicine, science, business, law, arts and engineering. If you want to study there, you should check each university or school page for the exact programme, language, fees and deadlines.
What study options are in Montpellier?
Montpellier has both public universities and specialised schools. The best-known public institutions include the University of Montpellier and Paul-Valery University Montpellier 3. The city also has business schools, engineering schools and art or design schools.
- University of Montpellier - strong in science, health, medicine and research.
- Paul-Valery University Montpellier 3 - known for humanities, languages, social sciences and arts.
- Business and management schools - often focus on business, marketing, finance and international study.
- Engineering and specialist schools - often offer technical or career-focused programmes.
In France, public universities usually cover many subjects and are often the first place to check for bachelor's, master's and PhD study. Private schools can be more specialised. Always use the university's admissions page or the school website for the programme details.
Can you study in English?
Yes, some programmes in Montpellier are taught in English, especially at master's level and in business or international programmes. But many courses are taught in French, especially at public universities.
- Check the programme page for the teaching language.
- Look for words like "English-taught", "taught in English" or "international track".
- Even if your programme is in English, some daily life and admin will still be in French.
- Some programmes ask for proof of English, and others ask for French.
If French is not your strongest language, start early. A simple language course can help with housing, transport, part-time work and student life.
What do living costs look like?
Montpellier is often cheaper than Paris, but it is still a busy student city. Costs vary by area, housing type and your lifestyle. Rent is usually the biggest cost.
- Shared flats are often the cheapest private option.
- Student residences can be easier for new arrivals.
- Private studios usually cost more than shared housing.
- Food, phone plans and local transport add to monthly costs.
As a rough guide, many students in French cities try to keep monthly living costs in a moderate range by sharing housing and cooking at home. In Montpellier, your budget will depend a lot on whether you rent alone or with others. For an up-to-date estimate, check the university's student services page, the CROUS housing pages, and local rental listings.
Where can students live?
Student housing in Montpellier can be competitive, so it is smart to start early. The main options are university residences, private student residences, shared flats and private studios.
- CROUS residences - public student housing; often the first option students check.
- Private student residences - usually furnished and simple to move into.
- Shared flats - popular with students who want lower rent.
- Studio apartments - more privacy, usually higher cost.
Ask each residence about deposits, guarantor rules, bills and what is included. If you are new to France, also ask if they help with the housing file, because French rental paperwork can be strict. The official source to check is the university accommodation office or CROUS.
Transport, part-time work and student life
Montpellier has trams, buses, cycling routes and a city layout that works well for students. Many students use a tram pass or bike to get to campus, shops and the centre.
- Check the local transport operator for student fares and pass options.
- Many students use bicycles because the city is fairly flat.
- Living near a tram line can make daily travel easier.
International students may be able to work part-time, but you must follow French immigration rules and your residence permit conditions. Always check the national immigration authority and your university's international office before you start work. Part-time jobs can help with expenses, but they should not replace your study plan.
Student life in Montpellier is active. There are bars, sports, festivals, beaches not far away, and many student associations. It is a social city, but you still need to plan your budget and your study time carefully.
How to get noticed by admissions offices
In Montpellier, as in many cities, admissions offices and schools look for clear, complete profiles. They want to see your field of study, education level, grades or results, language level and any documents that support your application.
- Prepare a simple CV and clear study history.
- Upload transcripts, diplomas and language proof if you have them.
- Write your subject interests clearly.
- Keep your contact details up to date.
- Use the university admissions page to check how they want applications sent.
If your programme uses a portal or application platform, follow the steps exactly. If the school can search for candidates first, a clear profile can help you appear in the right search results.
Common questions
Is Montpellier a good city for students?
Yes, many students choose Montpellier because it has several universities, an active campus life and a warm climate. It is a strong choice if you want a student city with both academic options and a social atmosphere.
Is it expensive to live in Montpellier?
It is usually less expensive than Paris, but not the cheapest city in France. Rent can still be high in popular areas, so it helps to compare housing types and check official student housing options early.
Can international students work while studying?
Often yes, but you need to follow French rules and your visa or residence permit conditions. Check the national immigration authority and your university's international office before taking a job.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first. You stay in control, and you can be easier to discover by the right schools.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.