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Student associations that welcome you in your city

Meet new people, explore your new city, and settle in smoothly thanks to Welcome Weeks, social events, and cultural outings organized by student associations across France.

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Members of an ESN section holding flags at a welcome event for international students.

About the ESN Network

When looking for student associations, you’ll likely come across an ESN section. But what exactly is ESN, and what’s its mission?

🌍 Founded in 1989, Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is the largest student association in Europe.

📢 Its mission: to promote and facilitate student mobility, both within the Erasmus+ program and beyond. Today, ESN has around 15,000 members, spread across more than 530 local sections in 42 countries.

🤙 ESN’s local sections support and guide Erasmus exchange students. They also organize trips, events, and meetups to bring student life to life. In France, 37 ESN sections are ready to welcome you with open arms!

💡 Good to know: local sections are always looking for volunteers! If you’d like to get involved in student life on your campus, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Frequently asked questions

Looking for info? You’re in the right place!

  • Why join a student association?

    Joining a student association is one of the best ways to meet other students—both international and French—and quickly feel at home in your new city.

    Associations organize events all year round, including trips, parties, cultural outings, and sports activities, with a peak in events at the start of the academic year: Welcome Weeks, administrative support, buddy programs… everything you need for a great start to your stay! 👌

  • How can I find an association in my city or university?

    Use our search tool to explore the associations already listed. If you don’t find the one you’re looking for, check your university’s website and social media, or ask local students directly 😉

  • My association isn’t listed — how can I add it?

    If your association welcomes international students but isn’t yet on our site, reach out to us, and we’ll add it quickly!

  • Can I join an association even if I’m not an exchange student?

    Absolutely! Many associations are open to all students, whether you’re on an exchange program, a full-degree course, or any other type of mobility. Feel free to contact them to see how you can get involved.

  • How can I become a volunteer in a student association?

    If you’d like to get involved as a volunteer, contact the association that interests you directly. Most of them regularly look for motivated students to help organize events and welcome new arrivals.

  • Do I have to pay to join an association?

    Some associations charge an annual membership fee (usually between €10 and €20) to fund their activities, but many also offer free events. Check directly with the association to learn more ☺️

List your student association here

Welcomes international students but isn’t in the directory yet? Reach out — we’ll add it so students can find you and get involved.

Add your association