Everything you need to know about student discounts in France

Discounts on transport: trains, metro, buses

Transportation costs can take up a significant portion of a student’s budget, but the good news is there are many ways to save!

1. Trains: SNCF offers the “Avantage Jeune” card for young people aged 12 to 27. This card gives you a 30% discount on TGV and Intercités trips, plus additional benefits for some TER routes. The card costs around €49 per year but quickly pays for itself if you travel frequently, especially if your family lives far away.
2. Metro and buses: In large cities like Paris, Île-de-France offers the Imagine R Pass, an annual subscription for students under 26. For about €350 per year, you get unlimited access to public transport. Other major cities like Lyon, Marseille, and Bordeaux also offer reduced fares for students. Check your local transport network’s website for more details.

By doing your research, you can enjoy daily commutes at reduced rates and save money in the long run.

Reduced rates for cultural activities: museums, cinemas, shows

Want to explore French culture without emptying your wallet? In France, culture is accessible to everyone, especially students!

1. Museums: Many national museums, such as the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou, are free for EU residents under 26. It’s the perfect opportunity to deepen your artistic and cultural knowledge!
2. Cinemas: Chains like UGC and Pathé Gaumont offer discounted tickets for students, often between €6 and €7 compared to the regular price of €12 to €15. Independent cinemas may also have special student rates. Additionally, in the Paris region, the Imagine R Pass gives discounts at select partner cinemas.
3. Shows: If you enjoy theatre, opera, or concerts, you can find student-friendly pricing. Venues like the Comédie-Française or Opéra Garnier regularly offer discounted tickets for young audiences. Watch out for last-minute deals, as student tickets are often available!

Savings on phone and internet subscriptions

Phone and internet plans can quickly strain your budget. Fortunately, major providers like Orange, Free, Bouygues, and SFR offer special student rates.

These plans typically include high-speed internet and unlimited calls at affordable prices, sometimes under €10 per month for no-contract deals. Additionally, some student plans offer perks like extra data or reduced activation fees. Don’t overlook virtual operators like RED by SFR or Sosh, which often have attractive promotions.

Reduced rates for gyms and sports clubs

Want to stay active? Many gyms and fitness clubs offer student memberships at lower prices. Chains like Basic-Fit and Fitness Park have attractive deals for young people. Some universities even have their own sports facilities, often free or very affordable.

You can also find discounts on team sports, yoga, boxing, or dance classes by checking out student-specific offers in your city.

Discounts at restaurants and fast-food chains

Eating well on a budget isn’t always easy, but some restaurants and fast-food chains have special student menus. Brands like McDonald’s, Burger King, and Subway offer deals or student-specific menu options. Restaurants near university campuses often have budget-friendly options too.

Meal delivery apps like UberEats and Deliveroo sometimes offer promo codes for students, which can help you diversify your meals without overspending.

Shopping deals: clothing and school supplies

Shopping can be expensive, but many stores offer student discounts. Brands like H&M, Zara, and Nike partner with platforms like Unidays to provide discounts on clothing. For school supplies, stores like Cultura and Fnac regularly run promotions at the start of the academic year.

Second-hand marketplaces like Leboncoin or Vinted are also great options for buying books and equipment at a lower cost.