About the City – Why Students Love to Study in Bordeaux
Looking to study in Bordeaux? You’re not alone, and for good reason.
Nestled in the heart of southwest France, Bordeaux is a city where old-world elegance meets modern student life. Known globally as the wine capital of the world, Bordeaux has so much more to offer than vineyards. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that buzzes with cafés, trams, bookstores, art, and, most importantly, an incredibly vibrant student population.
With a metro area of over one million people and near 100,000 students, Bordeaux is one of France’s liveliest university cities. And thanks to its mild climate, rich history, and waterfront charm, it’s a destination that delivers both academically and socially.
You’ll find top universities, English-taught programs, world-class research labs, and campuses that blend classic French architecture with cutting-edge modernism. Plus, it’s just a train ride away from Paris and a bus ride from Spain.
To study in Bordeaux is to live brilliantly, on your own terms.
Why is Bordeaux Important for International Students?
Bordeaux isn’t just a pretty city, it’s built for learning, growing, and connecting globally. Here’s why it continues to attract thousands of international students every year.
1. World-Class Education Environment
Bordeaux is home to multiple high-ranking institutions offering hundreds of degrees in English or bilingual formats. Fields range from wine & viticulture (of course!) to AI, medicine, law, business, aerospace, and design. Research programs are top-notch, and international collaboration is strongly encouraged.
2. Multicultural and Inclusive
With more than 13,000 international students, Bordeaux has built strong support systems, international student offices, language assistance, and orientation programs. Students arrive here from every continent.
3. Affordable, Compared to Paris
Let’s be real, Paris is iconic, but costly. Bordeaux gives you a high-quality French student life without the elite price tag. Accommodation, food, and even tuition are ~30% cheaper here than in the capital.
4. Accessible and Well-Connected
Located just 2 hours from Paris by high-speed rail, Bordeaux is incredibly connected. You can hit Basque Country, the Alps, or even hop over to Spain for the weekend. Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport also serves international flights from across Europe.
5. Quality of Life
Sunshine. The Garonne River. French pastries. Mild winters. Outdoor festivals. In Bordeaux, students can actually enjoy life between lectures.
The takeaway: If you’re after academic excellence wrapped in lifestyle perks, study in Bordeaux.
Top 10 Universities or Colleges in Bordeaux
1. University of Bordeaux (Université de Bordeaux)
A powerhouse in science, medicine, and engineering. Offers a huge range of English-taught master’s and research programs. Ranked among Europe’s best public universities.
2. KEDGE Business School
Globally ranked and EQUIS/AMBA accredited. Popular among international students pursuing MBAs, entrepreneurship, sustainable business, and global supply chain management.
3. Sciences Po Bordeaux
Elite institution for political science, international law, and development theory. Great for those looking to enter diplomacy, EU organisations, or NGOs.
4. Bordeaux Montaigne University
Specializes in arts, literature, languages and social sciences. Known for its excellent French language programs for foreigners (FLE).
5. ENSEIRB-MATMECA
Engineering school within the University of Bordeaux ecosystem. Focus on IT, electronics, applied mathematics, and aerospace disciplines.
6. ESME Sudria – Bordeaux Campus
Engineering with a creative twist. Programs in robotics, energy, and innovation. Strong international exchange programs.
7. BEM – Bordeaux École de Management (KEDGE affiliate)
Focuses on next-generation business models, digital transformation, and sustainability.
8. ECV Bordeaux (École de Communication Visuelle)
School for design, animation, and visual communications. Offers English-taught courses in creative industries.
9. INSPE Bordeaux
Teacher training institute affiliated with University of Bordeaux for education, pedagogy, and youth development.
10. EBBS (European Bordeaux Business School)
A private business school offering degrees in marketing, finance, international relations, and digital business strategies.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Bordeaux
- Nemea Appart’Etud Bordeaux Campus
- Cardinal Campus – Côté Garonne
- Studéa Bordeaux Centre
- Ecla Campus – Bordeaux
- Les Estudines Bordeaux Charles Domercq
- UXCO Bordeaux Bassins à Flot
- Fundation Campus Student Residence
- Residence YouFirst Campus Bordeaux Victoire
- Kley Bordeaux
- Logifac Les Chartrons
Most are fully furnished, with high-speed Wi-Fi, study lounges, communal kitchens, bike storage, and laundry facilities, everything a student needs to call Bordeaux home.
Top 10 Student Areas in Bordeaux (with Nearby Universities)
1. Victoire
- Nearby: University of Bordeaux (Humanities, Law)
- Accommodation: Studéa Bordeaux Centre, YouFirst Campus
Student-central with nightlife, cheap eats, and proximity to the faculty buildings.
2. Chartrons
- Nearby: KEDGE, Fine Art Schools
- Accommodation: Logifac Les Chartrons
Trendy and artsy, with riverside cafes and a more relaxed vibe. Ideal for creatives.
3. Talence
- Nearby: University of Bordeaux (Sciences & Engineering)
- Accommodation: Nemea, Ecla Campus
One of the most classic student zones. Massive campus, affordable housing, and chill hangout spots.
4. Pessac
- Nearby: Bordeaux Montaigne, KEDGE
- Accommodation: CROUS, private rentals
Suburban, green, and very student-focused. Great tram connections to city centre.
5. Saint-Michel
- Nearby: Sciences Po, University’s Law Faculty
- Accommodation: Cardinal Campus
Bohemian and multicultural. You’ll find markets, vintage bookshops, and Moroccan bakeries.
6. Bastide
- Nearby: ECV & other digital campuses
- Accommodation: Studio flats, shared houses
Across the bridge from city centre. Quiet and scenic. Perfect for morning joggers and sunset watchers.
7. Caudéran
- Nearby: Private institutions & internships
- Accommodation: Higher-end shared rentals
Residential and quiet. Great for master’s students or those in need of serenity.
8. Bordeaux-Lac
- Nearby: KEDGE Executive Campus
- Accommodation: UXCO Campus, serviced apartments
Modern builds, larger rooms, and fewer distractions. Good for focused study periods.
9. Le Bouscat
- Nearby: Mixed access via tram
- Accommodation: Private co-living spaces
Suburban meets city. Slightly upscale but safe, spacious, and loaded with parks.
10. Meriadeck
- Nearby: Administration buildings, city centre
- Accommodation: High-rise studios
Urban-core, convenient, and closer to shopping centres and central transport.
Cost of Living in Bordeaux – Student Budget Breakdown
Living in Bordeaux isn’t dirt cheap, but it’s significantly lighter on your wallet than Paris. Here’s an average monthly breakdown for students:
| Item | Avg Cost per Month (€) |
|---|---|
| Rent (Studio/Shared) | €450 – €750 |
| Food & Groceries | €150 – €250 |
| Public Transport Pass | €30 |
| Internet & Mobile | €30 – €50 |
| Leisure & Social Life | €80 – €150 |
| Health Insurance (EU: Free/Non-EU: Paid) | €20 – €50 |
💡 Total Average Monthly Spend: €800 – €1,200
Pro tip: Buy fresh from weekly farmers’ markets, invest in a bike, and apply for CAF (housing financial aid) if you’re eligible. Little things can stretch your money a long way.
Local Transport Facilities in Bordeaux
Students in Bordeaux rarely need a car. Here’s how they roll:
1. Tram System (TBC)
Reliable, clean, and affordable. There are currently 4 tram lines that make navigating the city a breeze. Student passes cost about €30/month.
2. Bus Routes
Bordeaux’s bus network is impressive and complements the tram grid. Comes in handy after tram hours.
3. VCub Bikes
A city-wide electric bike lending program. Just €1 to use and free for the first 30 minutes. Perfect for sunny days.
4. Regional Trains (TER)
Want to visit Paris, Toulouse, or the coast? SNCF’s student discounts make weekends away very doable.
5. Pedestrian Paths
The city is easily walkable. Especially within the historic centre where trams, cafés, and classes are all within 10–15 minutes of each other.
Summary – Why You Should Study in Bordeaux
To study in Bordeaux is to live at the intersection of quality education and laid-back luxury. It’s where golden light hits Gothic spires, where lectures are followed by city strolls or riverside picnics.
You’ve got academic excellence from globally respected universities, access to cutting-edge research, and a cost of living that won’t kill your budget. Add in warm weather, mouthwatering food, and a young, international energy, and it’s easy to see why Bordeaux is climbing the list of Europe’s favorite study abroad destinations.
Top 10 FAQs About Studying in Bordeaux
1. Is Bordeaux safe for international students?
Yes. It’s student-friendly, generally safe, and very walkable, especially around campuses.
2. What language is used in classes?
Many degrees are offered in French, but English-taught programs are available, particularly in business and master’s programs.
3. How much does it cost to live in Bordeaux as a student?
Expect a monthly budget between €800–€1,200, including rent and extras.
4. Can I get student housing support (CAF)?
Yes, many international students are eligible, which can reduce rent by €100–€150 monthly.
5. What’s the weather like in Bordeaux?
Mediterranean vibes! Mild winters, long sunny days, and warm springs.
6. Is Bordeaux better than studying in Paris?
Yes, if you prefer affordability, relaxed city life, and less tourist hustle.
7. Can I work while studying in France?
Yes. International students can work up to 964 hours per year (about 20 hrs/week during term).
8. What are the best universities in Bordeaux?
University of Bordeaux, KEDGE Business School, and Bordeaux Montaigne are standouts.
9. Do I need to speak French?
Not always, but basic French helps. Many programs offer French classes for international students.
10. How do I apply as an international student?
Through Campus France or directly via university portals depending on your country of origin.
