ISMAC staff and student volunteers will welcome you on your arrival days. We can help you:
Find your way from the airport to your accommodation.
Settle into your room or apartment.
Discover the neighbourhood around campus and the closest shops, bakeries, and metro stations.
You can also be paired with an international student buddy. This student will accompany you during your first errands in Paris, such as buying a SIM card, organising your metro pass, or doing your first grocery shopping.
During Orientation Week, you will receive a free 48‑hour RATP transport ticket. Once it expires, you will need to choose a regular transport pass for your daily commute.
The most common options for students are:
Navigo Imagine R : annual pass for students under 26 in France, about €350 per year, with monthly instalments.
Monthly Navigo : standard monthly pass for about €86.40, available at any metro station.
Our International Office can help you choose the option that best fits your budget and how often you travel.
Getting a French SIM Card
A French phone number is essential. You will usually need it to register with CPAM, CAF and your bank. We recommend buying a prepaid SIM card during your first days in Paris.
Several affordable mobile operators are available near campus.
Free Mobile offers plans starting from about €2/month, including a small amount of data.
Lebara starts from about €5/month and is often a good choice if you make many international calls.
Lycamobile is available at many tabacs and convenience stores, with monthly plans generally between €5 and €10.
To buy and activate a SIM card in France, you will usually need your passport and sometimes a proof of address, such as your accommodation confirmation.
