Welcome to Rouen
The city of a hundred bell towers!
Rouen, the historical capital of the northern French region of Normandy, is in the path of the river Seine. Surrounded by an amphitheatre of hills and boasting of a skyline dominated by historical buildings, Rouen is a charming blend of Gothic and flamboyant architecture, of the old and the new. Painted by the most celebrated Impressionist painter Claude Monet and revered to be his favourite muse, the spires of the Rouen Cathedral soar majestically into the sky.
Fall in love with Rouen’s cobblestone streets and mediaeval half-timbered houses, its abundance of museums and churches, its warm and friendly environment and its thriving landscape of education, industry and technology.
Visit Rouen here: https://en.visiterouen.com/
To know more about student life in Rouen & France,
Our support to prepare your stay in France
Before you leave your home country
We make sure to guide you step by step through the various procedures, providing all the information you need to organize yourself smoothly.
Once you have received your admission, and before you leave for France, you will receive an invitation to participate in our pre-departure webinar, designed to help you get ready in the best possible way and to provide you with the necessary information for your arrival in Rouen (airport pick-up service, welcome days, practical advice, etc.).
You will receive also a document with your ESIGELEC credentials. These credentials allow you to access the student digital workspace, log in to your ESIGELEC email account, and install the app before your arrival.
Our support during your studies at ESIGELEC
Once you are settled in, we will assist you with everyday administrative procedures: registration with the French health insurance system, applying for housing assistance from the CAF, opening a bank account, practical information about Rouen and its surroundings, information about available public transport networks, etc.
At the start of each academic year, ESIGELEC hosts a Partners’ Forum where you can complete all your administrative procedures on campus.
The “Ready, Set, Go!” Forum brings together ESIGELEC’s partners — banks, health insurance, housing assistance (CAF), and public transportation network – around various stands in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. All the details about the forum will be sent to you by email before your arrival in France.
Student associations also organize welcome events — don’t hesitate to take part!
Apply for a visa:
Our support upon your arrival
Settling in
Welcome days
The first few days in a new country can be quite overwhelming. To help you tide over this phase, ESIGELEC organizes fun-filled orientation days that will give you a sneak peek into what to expect during your stay in France
These days are organized around several key points:
- introducing you and other new coming students to the campus and school facilities
- getting to know the Welcome Desk team
- holding informational sessions about all administrative procedures to be carried after your arrival and eating a friendly lunch with students from our Buddy program.
In short, you will get to know your new environment and classmates on this day. Make sure you don’t miss this day. It is generally organized before the start of classes.
To find the list of documents to prepare before your trip, click here Travel documents
If you come from a non-European Union country, a visa is required to enter and study in France. If you need a visa, this is the very first step after receiving your final offer letter (admission letter for the Exchange Program). The duration of the procedure varies depending on your country of residence and the time of the year, but it generally takes several weeks. Get started as early as possible.
• Get in touch with the nearest Campus France office / Consulate General of France / Embassy of France. They will be able to confirm whether or not your country is part of the Study in France procedure (Études en France- EEF). In either case you will receive guidance. Follow instructions carefully.
Students with disabilities
At ESIGELEC, disability is not seen as a limitation but as a source of enrichment and shared experiences. We are committed to supporting students with disabilities from the very start of the admission process and throughout their time with us.
Here’s how we ensure inclusive support:
Our campus facilities are fully accessible, meeting all standards to accommodate students with disabilities. A dedicated advisor within the school provides academic support, while a family liaison advisor assists with non-academic matters, such engaging in campus life. Student disability representatives are available to offer peer-to-peer support and help with integration whenever needed. If you are in this situation, please email us at: international@esigelec.fr
Find out more: https://www.campusfrance.org/en/disabled-student-France
Budgeting is key
Whatever the duration of your studies at ESIGELEC is, it is essential to plan your budget before departure in order to anticipate your expenses during your stay in France. Make sure to plan your “daily life” budget : housing, transportation, food, etc…
IMPORTANT: International bank card
Most payments in France are made by bank card, and cash is rarely used. Make sure you have an international payment card to use during your first few days in France until you can open a bank account and obtain a French payment card.
Accommodation
Student Accommodation in France
In France, international students live off-campus, in student residences. You have access to a wide variety of student-housing options in Rouen (CROUS, Private residences, etc.), which are more affordable than in the bigger cities. Start your search early, this will give you more options and you avoid last-minute stress!
Accommodation Assistance at ESIGELEC
Option 1: In partnership with Studapart, our online platform gives you access to hundreds of listings (shared apartments, studios, etc.) to suit your requirements. We strongly recommend this end-to-end, hassle free, personalised paid service. Studapart will also help you find accommodation later on, if you find an internship in another city in France.
Learn more : https://esigelec.studapart.com/
Option 2: Private student residences in Rouen occasionally make a limited number of rooms available to ESIGELEC, closer to the intake. In this case, the information will be shared with you at the earliest.
In this case, you must complete all necessary procedures and payments within the specified deadlines.
Note: If you choose option 2, you will not have confirmed accommodation early enough (since this is available closer to the intake) and may impact your chances of being granted the student visa.
Other Options
You may also opt to find accommodation on your own, in which case ESIGELEC will provide a list of contacts of various service providers.
Note: If you choose this option, you will have to follow up on your own and send the accommodation details to ESIGELEC, once confirmed.
Some options for private owners:
- Real estate agencies also provide rental services.
- Several hotels are located near the school, at Technopole or on Avenue des Canadiens
Other useful websites : (not verified by ESIGELEC)
VISALE
Visale Is a no-cost solution to the problem of student security deposits. Having a security deposit is compulsory in France for public and private residences. With VISALE, students find housing more quickly and property owners are assured that rent will be paid. This service is provided for students between the ages of 18 and 30. You don’t have to know your address in France before applying for VISALE. The entire process is online, on www.visale.fr/
Once you submit your file you will receive a response in two days. This request must be made before signing any rental agreements or contracts. In addition, while creating your Visale file, make sure to check your eligibility for other assistance or benefits, offered by the Action Logement. Loca-Pass and Mobili-Jeune are the two main services provided by this organisation that are cumulative and free.
For more information, visit https://www.actionlogement.fr/
CVEC: A mandatory step
Unless you come through an exchange program, you will need a CVEC attestation before you’re able to complete your enrolment. The Student and Campus Life Contribution (CVEC) finances student services such as health, sports, culture and student initiatives. This contribution is mandatory for all students living in France, no matter their nationality.
Please note: the CVEC payment must be renewed each academic year, regardless of your year of study.
For the CVEC payment process, go to: www.cvec.etudiant.gouv.fr
Guess what?
ESIGELEC and MondoPal have Partnered!
Settling into a new life in a new city, won’t be a challenge anymore!
What is MondoPal?
MondoPal is a start-up recently launched in Rouen. It’s a service designed for students and provides all the basics they need to feel at home quickly. MondoPal helps students transition into their new life seamlessly.
Home packs for students
MondoPal offers students all the basic needs for their new home. From bedroom to kitchen, the essentials are delivered right at their doorstep. Starter to Comfort, the range is wide and whatever the budget, there is something for everyone.
How it works
It’s a breeze! Create an account on www.mondopal.com, (it’s free and takes just 2 minutes!). MondoPal verifies the student status. And you’re set! MondoPal will take care of the rest.
Useful information
Tips, life hacks and information on Rouen, it’s all on the MondoPal blog!
On the MondoPal Forum, you can share your tips with the MondoPal Community.
Housing and Personal Liability Insurances
Housing Insurance
You must pay the housing insurance before arriving in France, in order for the housing to be handed over to you, on the day you arrive. A housing insurance certificate will be required upon your arrival at your new accommodation, whether it is a privately rented apartment or a student residence.
Note: Personal liability insurance is generally included in housing insurance, verify and ensure that you get both housing and personal liability insurance at the same time. SMENO or ADH are some insurance brands often chosen by students:
https://www.assurances-etudiants.com/en/5349-student-accommodation-insurance-prices-warranties.html
https://www.smeno.com/welcome/#c4748
Health Insurance
France has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, provided by the State! Subscribing to French health insurance is mandatory and free for all students in France, irrespective of their nationality.
Once you arrive, you will receive information on the process, however, you must subscribe to a private health insurance policy before you leave your home country and for a minimum period of 3 months, while waiting for the former to be finalised.
To complete registration, you must have soft copies of the following documents, before you arrive in France:
- Proof of identity (passport)
- Proof of civil status: birth certificate with an official translation in French
- Valid student visa
- And as soon as you arrive in France: A certificate of enrolment from ESIGELEC
If you are a student from the European Union, you must obtain the European Medical Insurance Card, which is valid in France.
Plan your trip from Paris to Rouen & Airport Pick-Up Service
A free pick-up service from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is organized by ESIGELEC on a specific date. If you would like to benefit from the airport pick-up from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to Rouen, you must inform the welcome desk: international@esigelec.fr. Your e-ticket has to be uploaded in the travel document section of ESIGELEC ONESTOP.
Please make sure your arrival date matches the airport pick-up date and time (Local time in France).
Information about the airport pick-up service (registration link, date, pick-up time, and departure time) will be provided to you in due time, by email.
Note: If you plan to arrive before or after the prescribed date, you will have to reach Rouen on your own.
Settling in
Orientation Days
The first few days in a new country can be quite overwhelming. To help you tide over this phase, ESIGELEC organises a fun-filled orientation week that will give you a sneak peek into what to expect during your stay in France
During this week, you will:
Get detailed information about your course, teachers and classrooms
Find out how and where to access student services and support on campus
Make new friends
Don’t miss the events, workshops and activities that will help you adjust to the new
setting.
The ESIGELEC Buddy Programme
What better way for an international student to transition into a new country than with a Buddy who has been there and done that? New international students are paired with current students in order for them to settle into their new world easily
The ESIGELEC Buddy helps typically with:
Receiving students
when they arrive
in Rouen
Administrative
formalities
Orientation
Receiving students
when they arrive
in Rouen
And much more…
Residence Permit | Advice & Assistance
ESIGELEC has a dedicated department to advise you on the processes that involve your residence permit, making sure you do not miss deadlines, and provide explanations related to your residence permit and visa status.
Student-led Support and Activities
The ESIGELEC Buddy Program
Student Clubs at ESIGELEC
One of the most rewarding and enjoyable facets of university life is to explore your new social and cultural environment through student clubs. At ESIGELEC, there are student clubs for any and every interest, passion or hobby.
There are more than 30 student associations at ESIGELEC — covering sports, culture, gaming, music, and much more. All students are welcome to join!
Festive events are also organized throughout the year by the student clubs as well as by the school itself. A gala is also held every March to celebrate the new graduates.
Join a student club to:
Meet
new people
Find or build a
new community
Develop
new skills
Build a
network
Boost
your resume
Work with diverse
groups of people
Have a
lot of fun!
To know more about the various student clubs at ESIGELEC, click here.
Travel Documents
Passport
You must have a valid passport. Hand-carry your passport with you at all times during your travel.
Note: if you require a visa to enter French territory, check the required duration of the validity of your passport with the Consulate General of France.
Visa
A visa is an official document that allows the bearer to enter a foreign country legally. The types of visas vary, based on the nature of travel. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter French territory. You will have to confirm this at the Embassy of France in your country.
If you need a visa:
Students who have been granted admission to a degree awarding programme at ESIGELEC, must apply for a long-stay visa (more than 90 days). Students who have been granted admission to an Exchange programme, of a duration of less than 90 days, will have to apply for a short-stay visa.
While applying for a visa, it is advisable to make sure your application is complete and provides all the information that the authorities need. Explaining your reasons for choosing France, the institution of higher education and your plans after completion of your studies are standard questions. It is important for you to be as honest and as clear as possible. Rehearsed and contrived answers will not work in your favour.
All Your Essentials
Food at the University
Anyone associated with ESIGELEC, has access to the CROUS Cafeteria within the school. Card Payments are accepted and you can even pay using the credit on your student card LéoCarte.
With a few exceptions, the cafeteria’s opening hours are as follows:
From Monday to Friday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm
You can have breakfast for 2.20€ and lunch for around 3.50 €.
You can also have your meals at the university restaurants for around 3.30€.
CROUS University Restaurants
Restaurant du Madrillet, avenue de l’université, Saint-Etienne-du-Rouvray
Medical Facilities
Maison de l’Université
1st Floor, Rue Lavoisier
76821 MONT-SAINT-AIGNAN
Phone Number: 02.32.76.92.92, Fax : 02.32.76.92.91
Opening Hours:
8:45 – 5:30 from Monday to Friday
A Medico-psycho-social team comprises doctors, nurses, psychologists, social
service assistants and administrative staff.
Services offered:
Without appointment:
Consultation, information, advice, guidance, nursing – Emergency Care, Vaccinations, Psycho-Social Aid Services: Social Assistant – Psychological Support, Health Education – STDs – AIDS – Smoking – Alcohol – Drugs – Contraception – Dermatology – Stress – Sleep, etc) Receiving students with disability
With appointment:
Preventive medical visits, with prior appointment (first-time students and newcomers to ESIGELEC and students with specific health issues). Specialised consultations, on the students’ request: phone number: 02.32 76.92.92, Contraception – Acupuncture (Anti-stress and anti-smoking consultation) – Dermatology, Doctor-Psychiatric-Psychologist – Follow-up of students with disabilities, Nutritional Advice, Sexology (sexual difficulties – care and follow-up) – Sophrology.
MADRILLET University Site
Infirmary of the UFR des SCIENCES Phone Number: 02 32 95 51 18 – First Aid Care – Preventative Medical Visits – vaccinations
Timings : 8:30 am to 4:00 pm
Getting around
Four wheeler
ESIGELEC is located at the southern entrance of Rouen (close to Zenith), in the Technopôle du Madrillet, in the commune of Saint Etienne du Rouvray. Access is quick through the A13 (5 minutes).
Train
Rouen can be reached in 1 hour and 15 minutes from Paris. Stop at Rouen Rive Droite. Take the Metro or Bus to reach ESIGELEC.
Metro
The metro has two lines:
Georges Braque > Grand-Quevilly > Boulingrin > Rouen
Boulingrin > Rouen > Technopôle du Madrillet > Saint-Etienne-du-Rouvray
For ESIGELEC, stop at Technopôle du Madrillet (35 minutes from the Rive Droite Station, and then 5 minutes on foot).
ted at the southern entrance of Rouen (close to Zenith), in the Technopôle du Madrillet, in the commune of Saint Etienne du Rouvray. Access is quick through the A13 (5 minutes).
Bus
The bus has a network of lines that serve Rouen
and its region. For ESIGELEC, take line 7 and then
27, Stop: ESIGELEC (right in front of the school).
Website: http://www.reseau-astuce.fr/
Timings: http://www.reseau-astuce.fr/horaires/?rub_code=23
Connect with a
student
The Grad school experience is best understood from the perspective of former or current students. Hear from them first-hand on what life and study at ESIGELEC look like, whether you are researching, have applied with us or are soon to join us in France.