1. Why Study in Strasbourg France?

1.1 Capital of Europe, Heart of the EU

Strasbourg is unique: it is both a French city and a European capital. It hosts the European Parliament, the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights. This gives the city a special international and political atmosphere.

If you are interested in European affairs, law, international relations, public policy, diplomacy or human rights, studying in Strasbourg gives you direct proximity to real institutions and events, not just theory in a textbook.

1.2 A True International Student City

Strasbourg welcomes many international students every year and actively promotes itself as a student-friendly, cosmopolitan city. The University of Strasbourg alone has tens of thousands of students, with a significant share of internationals from more than 150 countries.

You will be surrounded by students from Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas. There are many student associations, international events, language tandems and cultural activities to help you integrate and feel at home.

1.3 Cross-Border Lifestyle: France and Germany in One Place

Strasbourg is located directly on the border with Germany. You can cross into the German town of Kehl by tram, bike or even walking over a pedestrian bridge. This means:

• You live in France but can experience Germany every week if you want.
• You can benefit from two cultures, two languages and two labour markets.
• You have access to Franco–German programmes, internships and jobs that value cross-border skills.

1.4 Human-Sized City with Strong Transport Links

Strasbourg is big enough to have everything you need (universities, hospitals, shopping, culture), but small enough to stay human, walkable and bike-friendly. The city is famous for its cycling culture and efficient tram network.

At the same time, Strasbourg has high-speed train connections and an international airport, making it a perfect base to travel within France and Europe during your studies.

2. Universities and Schools in Strasbourg

2.1 University of Strasbourg – Research and International Reputation

The University of Strasbourg (Unistra) is a large, research-intensive public university with around 50,000 students and a strong international profile. It regularly appears among the top French universities in global rankings.

The university is known for:

• Strong programmes in sciences, medicine, life sciences, chemistry and physics.
• Well-established faculties in law, humanities, social sciences, languages and arts.
• A history of Nobel Prize winners and high-level research labs.

For international students, Unistra has an International University House and a dedicated International Welcome e-desk that guide you through administrative steps before, during and at the end of your stay.

2.2 EM Strasbourg Business School

EM Strasbourg Business School is integrated into the University of Strasbourg and offers a combination of Grande École business training and public university environment.

Highlights include:

• A strong position in the Financial Times Master in Management ranking.
• A high percentage of international students and many partner universities worldwide.
• Masters and specialised programmes that link directly to the European job market.

EM Strasbourg is a great option if you want to study management, marketing, finance, international business or European management in a city that is deeply connected to European institutions.

2.3 INSA Strasbourg – Engineering and Architecture

INSA Strasbourg is part of the national INSA network and specialises in engineering and architecture. It offers programmes in civil engineering, mechanical systems, energy, industrial systems and more.

Many programmes integrate apprenticeships (alternance), strong industry links and international exchanges. If you want to become an engineer or architect in a cross-border region, INSA Strasbourg is a strong candidate.

2.4 Other Institutions

Strasbourg also has schools of art, design, music, communication and teacher training, as well as specialised institutes in health and social work. StudyConnectFrance can help you map all relevant options and choose the best fit.

3. Study Programs and Languages in Strasbourg

3.1 French-Taught Degrees

Most Licence (Bachelor) programmes at the University of Strasbourg are taught in French. Many Masters are also French-medium, especially in humanities, law, health and sciences.

For these programmes, you normally need at least a B2 level in French (sometimes C1 for demanding fields). You may have to provide DELF, DALF, TCF or TEF results depending on the programme and your country.

3.2 English-Taught and Bilingual Programmes

If you want to study in English, Strasbourg offers several options, especially at Master level and in business.

• EM Strasbourg programmes in international management, digital business, European management and more.
• Selected English-taught Masters at Unistra in fields like science, engineering or European studies (depending on the year).
• Bilingual and trilingual programmes combining English, French and German.

This allows you to start your studies in English while progressively building your French for internships and daily life.

3.3 German as a Strategic Extra

Because Strasbourg is on the German border, German language skills are a big advantage. Many programmes offer Franco–German double degrees or encourage students to study German.

Even if you start from zero, Strasbourg is a great place to learn German at the university language centre and to practice in everyday life.

4. Admissions, Campus France and Visa for Strasbourg

The process to study in Strasbourg France follows the national French framework for international students:

• Choose programmes at Unistra, EM Strasbourg, INSA or other schools.
• Check entry requirements: degree level, grades, language scores and deadlines.
• Apply via university portals, Parcoursup / Mon Master, or specific school systems.
• If your country uses Études en France / Campus France, complete your application on that platform.
• After admission, prepare your France-Visas and VFS/TLS file for your student visa.

The University of Strasbourg’s International Welcome services provide detailed checklists for each stage. With StudyConnectFrance, you don’t navigate this alone: we help you structure your study project, motivation letters and administrative timeline.

5. Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in Strasbourg

5.1 Tuition Fees

At the University of Strasbourg, tuition fees are generally low for public university degrees, especially compared with countries like the UK or USA. Some non-EU students may benefit from reduced fees under partial exemption policies.

At EM Strasbourg and INSA Strasbourg, tuition is higher than at the public university but still competitive compared with business and engineering schools in many other countries.

5.2 Cost of Living

Strasbourg’s cost of living is usually lower than Paris but you still need a solid budget. A realistic monthly range (excluding tuition) might be:

• Housing: ~€350–€750+ depending on type and location.
• Food & groceries: ~€200–€250.
• Transport (tram/bus pass, student tariff): ~€25–€35.
• Phone & internet: ~€15–€30.
• Health & mutuelle: ~€20–€50+.

Many students receive CAF housing aid, which helps reduce net rent. Student discounts on transport, food and culture also make life more affordable.

6. Housing and Neighbourhoods for Students in Strasbourg

You can choose between several housing options:

• CROUS and university residences – often the cheapest; you need to apply early.
• Private student residences – more comfort and services, higher rent.
• Shared flats (colocation) – popular among students and often cost-effective.
• Studios and small apartments – more independence, more responsibility.

StudyConnectFrance helps you understand which areas are popular and practical for students and how to check lease contracts, deposits, guarantors and CAF eligibility.

7. Student Life, Culture and Everyday Living in Strasbourg

7.1 European, Multicultural Atmosphere

Because Strasbourg is a European capital, you feel an international vibe everywhere: in the tram, in cafés, at events and on campus. You will hear many languages and meet people involved in European projects, NGOs and cultural organisations.

7.2 Culture and Events

Strasbourg is famous for its UNESCO-listed historic centre, the impressive Strasbourg Cathedral and its Christmas market, one of the best-known in Europe.

All year round, you can enjoy museums, theatres, cinemas, festivals, concerts and student events. The mix of French and German influences creates a special atmosphere in food, architecture and traditions.

7.3 Parks, Cycling and Outdoor Life

Strasbourg is one of the most bike-friendly cities in France, with many cycle paths and green areas. You can easily move around by tram or bike, and you are close to the Vosges mountains, the Rhine and the Black Forest for weekend trips.

8. Working While Studying and Career Opportunities

8.1 Part-Time Work During Studies

As a non-EU student with a long-stay student visa, you are usually allowed to work up to 964 hours per year. In Strasbourg, part-time jobs exist in:

• Cafés, restaurants and shops.
• Tourism, culture and events (especially during busy seasons).
• University services (tutoring, student jobs, campus roles).

French – and sometimes German – language skills increase your chances of finding part-time work.

8.2 Internships and Graduate Careers

Strasbourg’s economy is driven by European institutions, finance, business services, logistics, engineering, tourism and wine. Schools like EM Strasbourg and INSA have strong company links and can help you find internships and first jobs.

StudyConnectFrance supports you in aligning your programme choice, language plan and internship strategy so your time in Strasbourg leads to solid, realistic career outcomes.

9. Pros and Cons of Studying in Strasbourg France

10. How StudyConnectFrance Helps You Build a Strasbourg Plan

When you work with StudyConnectFrance on your study in Strasbourg France project, we support you in three main phases:

• Strategy & programmes – analysing your profile and shortlisting realistic options at Unistra, EM Strasbourg, INSA and other schools.
• Applications & visas – preparing your CV, SOP, Campus France file and visa documents with a clear story about why Strasbourg matches your goals.
• Arrival & integration – guiding you through housing, CAF, health insurance, residence permits, part-time work and next steps after graduation.

11. Frequently Asked Questions – Study in Strasbourg France

Q1. Is Strasbourg good for international students?

Yes. Strasbourg is one of the most international cities in France, with a large number of foreign students, strong welcome services and a safe, organised environment.

Q2. Is Strasbourg cheaper than Paris?

In general, yes. Rent and everyday costs are usually lower than in Paris, especially when you combine student discounts, CROUS housing and CAF aid.

Q3. Can I study in English in Strasbourg?

Yes, especially at Master level and in business or European-focused programmes. However, building your French remains essential for internships and long-term life in France.

Q4. Is Strasbourg safe?

Strasbourg is generally considered a safe, student-friendly city. As in any urban area, you should follow basic safety rules, but overall the city is well organised and comfortable.

Q5. What careers can I aim for after studying in Strasbourg?

You can target careers in European institutions, international organisations, cross-border business, engineering, finance, tourism, wine and research, depending on your field and degree level.