Work and study in Paris

Paris Meconnu, JonGlez

I continue sharing with you my experience of studying in Paris (I will write in English because the topic can be more interesting for future students outside of France).

A far as I have noticed not many people who want to study in France know about apprentissage (apprenticeship) as a type of education which is quite popular in France. So here are the most important points about it. 

1. Apprentissage is a form if education available in French universities and schools that allows you to combine studies and works. 

2. The rhythm of education process depends on the university program; it could be 3 days in a company and 2days in a university or 1week/1week and so on.

3. You don’t pay for university enrollment, it’s the company where you will find your apprenticeship pays for you.

4. Since apprentices have an employee status, you are eligible to receive a salary, company bonuses, and you can even have holidays. Isn’t it great?

Apprenticeship might be an ideal solution for those who are willing to start working but at the same time need to obtain a degree. It sounds good, you may think, but what are the drawbacks?

You are right, there are a few…

1. Since it’s an apprenticeship, your schedule in the university is likely to be very tough (something like from 8am to 8pm) with a lot of homework. So, forget about weekends! (Here I am joking, I’ve rarely seen French students working two weekends in a row).

2. Since you have an employee status in a company, you are treated also like a real team member (late meetings, tough deadlines and so on). However, there are always companies where students have nothing to do. Poor guys!

3. You should be flexible, multitask and well-organized. Believe me, it’s not so easy to switch from the company duties to university projects and exams. But if you have already experienced jumping from one task to another without confusing things, you are likely to manage it!

What about the future?

To be clear, many students hope not only to have a degree from a French university and working experience, but also to find a real job. And here is another bad surprise: 95% of apprenticeship contracts will never be converted into a CDI (contract for an indefinite term) or a CDD (fixed term contract). Why? Yes, the famous economic crisis… and the cost reducing policy. Obviously it’s cheaper to have an intern or an apprentice rather than sinning a CDI. Sad, but it’s life…

Anyway, let’s be optimistic… Choosing an apprenticeship program you live in France, meet new friends (mostly international, it’s difficult to make friends with the French), receive a salary (around 1500 euro/month or more (depends on the company) which is not so bad for students). If you pass the exams, you will receive your degree free of charge, and if you are brilliant and the company has a budget, perhaps, you will manage to sign a contract.

Bon courage!

And I am at your disposal for any questions…

Yours,

NN