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Education France

 

The large, long-established American community in France makes possible a wide range of educational opportunities for Americans. Essentially three types of schools are available: private American schools, bilingual schools where both French and English are used, and the French school system, taught in French, which is designed to lead to the Baccalaureat examination.

The following institutions are members or partners of AmCham France and are preferred by many expatriates :

Primary through High School

American School of Paris
41, rue Pasteur, 92210 SAINT-CLOUD
tel. 01 41.12.82.82, fax. 01 41.12.82.82, web: www.asparis.org
Contact: Dr. Daryle Russell, Interim Head of School

Ecole Active Bilingue
117, boulevard Malesherbes, 75008 PARIS
tel. 01.45.63.62.22, fax. 01.45.63.62.22, web: www.eab.fr
Contact: Conchard, Marie-France - Principal, Anglophone Section - The Victor Hugo School, infovh@eab.fr
The Ecole active Bilingue (EaB) is an elementary and secondary school with 50 years experience in international education. It offers a bilingual education from kindergarten to high school and three different programs: French, British and American. EaB has a state contract with the French Ministry of Education. EaB International the Victor Hugo School has a new building from September 2005 with laboratories, computer, multimedia classes, documentation centre, cafeteria, etc... 23 rue de Cronstadt PARIS 15th and continues to feature the IB Program as well as American and British qualifications within an English language curriculum with French language courses at all levels.

Ecole Active Bilingue Jeannine Manuel
70, rue de Theatre, 75015 PARIS
tel : 01 44 37 00 80, fax : 01 45 79 06 66, web: www.eabjm.org, email : info@eabjm.net
Contact: Zeboulon, Elisabeth – Directrice Generale
English and French are the working languages for Secondary school classes. French Programs, audio visual methods and English language. Preparation for American universities, French and International Baccalaureates.

International School of Paris
6, rue Beethoven, 75016 PARIS
tel. 01.42.24.09.54, fax. 01.42.24.09.54, web: www.isparis.edu
Contact: Peverelli, Audrey – Head of School  info@isparis.edu.
Truly international school, representing more than 60 nationalities among its 700 students. International Baccalaureate programmes from Pre-K through Grade 12. IB and American High School Diploma in Grades 11 and 12. ISP is accredited by N.E.A.S.C. and C.I.S.

Marymount School

72, boulevard de la Saussaye, 92200 NEUILLY-SUR-SEINE
tel. 01 46.24.10.51, fax. 01 46.24.10.51, web: www.marymount.fr
Contact: Hill R.S.H.M., Anne-Marie - Headmistress, headmistress@marymount.fr
Pre-K-8th grade, Co-ed, Catholic school open to all nationalities and religions.

Universities & Post-Secondary Education

Advancia- Negocia
8 avenue de la Porte de Champerret, 75838 PARIS CEDEX 17
tel. 01.44.09.39.70, fax. 01.44.09.35.23, web: www.advancia.fr; www.negocia.fr
Contact: Vidal, Frank - Dean, fvidal@advancia-negocia.fr
Ecole de la Chambre de Commerce et d'industrie de Paris

American Business School
12, rue Alexandre Parodi, 75010 PARIS
tel. 01.40.03.15.04, fax. 01.40.03.15.04, web: www.absparis.org
Contact: Mlodzik, Arlene - Dean, amlodzik@groupe-igs.org
Founded in 1985, the American Business School offers an entirely English language taught Bachelor of Business Administration curriculum in partnership with AACSB accredited Universities and welcomes students from all around the world. The school also has an MA in International Business Development for students with a 4-year business degree.


American Graduate School in Paris
101 boulevard Raspail, 75006 PARIS 
Tel: 01.47.20.00.94, Fax: 01.47.20.81.89, info@ags.edu, www.ags.edu
Contact: Chaillet, Corentine - Communications, corentine.chaillet@ags.edu
The American Graduate School in Paris offers US-accredited programs in France to students from all continents. It specializes in business, economics, international relations and diplomacy. Programs include Executive Masters of Science in Finance and in Marketing, an International MBA, an M.A. and a Ph.D. in International Relations and Diplomacy, as well as various certificates and part-time programs for professionals. AGS also offers dual Master's programs in international law, strategic negotiations, or conflict resolution, in partnership with French or American universities.  The language of instruction is English - no French is required to apply.

American University of Paris
31 avenue Bosquet, 75343 PARIS CEDEX 07
tel. 01 40.62.06.00, fax. 01 40.62.06.00, web: www.aup.edu
Contact: Gadsby, William P. - President's Office, william.gadsby@aup.fr
Founded in 1962, The American University of Paris is a higher education institution dedicated to the advancement of the arts and sciences in an international, multicultural, and plural environment. AUP brings together the outstanding strengths of the American higher education system with its privileged location in Paris and Europe.  Accredited in the U.S. by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, AUP offers the BA, BS, MA, and MSF degrees in over twenty major fields of study.  AUP has an international student body of over 1,000 from over 100 different countries.

CEFAM
47 rue Michel Berthet, 69009 LYON
tel. 04.72.85.71.71, fax. 04.72.85.71.71, web: www.cefam.fr
Contact: Perrenot, Jean-Michel - Directeur Général
CEFAM is an undergraduate level business school working in partnership with 5 American universities: Northeastern University (Boston), Temple University (Philadelphia), Pace University (New York), Siena College (Loudonville, NY) and Old Dominion University (Norfolk). At CEFAM, the language of instruction is English and all courses are taught by professors with advanced degrees and experience in their areas of expertise. CEFAM is open to students from all around the world who seek to add on international dimension to their business studies. Located in Lyon, France's second largest city, CEFAM has built its reputation on high academic standards as well as on the European and American perspective it offers to program participants.

Ecole Centrale Paris

Grande Voie des Vignes, 92295 CHATENAY MALABRY CEDEX
web: www.ecp.fr
Contact: Cripps, Christopher - Dean of International Affairs, christopher.cripps@ecp.fr
Grand établissement d'enseignement supérieur scientifique pour la formation d'ingénieurs et de cadres dirigeants d'entreprises.

ENPC School of International Management
28 rue des Saints-Pères, 75007 PARIS
tel. 01.44.58.28.58, fax. 01.44.58.27.49, web: www.enpcmbaparis.com
Contact: Kervennal, Larissa - Executive Program Coordinator, kervennal@enpcmbaparis.com

Essec Management Education
CNIT, BP 230
2 place de La Défense, 92053 PARIS LA DEFENSE
Contact: Webber, Jeremy - Directeur Corporate Education, webber@essec.fr

Grenoble Ecole de Management
BP 127
12 rue Pierre Sémard, 38003 GRENOBLE CEDEX 01
tel. 04.76.70.60.60, fax. 04.76.70.60.60, web: www.grenoble-em.com
Contact: Grange, Thierry - Dean & Director, thierry.grange@grenoble-em.com

Institut Supérieur de Gestion
8 rue de Lota, 75116 PARIS
tel: 01.56.26.26.26, fax:01.56.26.26.00, web:www.isg.fr                       
Contact: Emmanuelle Revelut, Responsable Formation Continue, emmanuelle.revelut@isg.fr

ISIT- Institut de management et de communication interculturels
21 rue d'Assas, 75270 PARIS CEDEX 06
tel: 01.42.22.33.16, fax: 01.45.44.17.67, web: www.isit-paris.fr
Contact: Nathalie Gormezano, Directrice des Etudes

HEC Paris
MBA Program
1 rue de la Libération, 78351 JOUY-EN-JOSAS CEDEX
tel. 01.39.67.95.98, fax. 01.39.67.95.98, web:
Contact: Philippe Gaud, Acting Director, MBA Career Development Services, mbacareers@hec.fr

ECE INSEEC Lyon
21 rue Alsace Lorraine, 69001 LYON
tel. 04.78.29.80.28, fax. 04.78.29.80.28, web:
Contact: Monahan, John - Director, jmonahan@groupeinseec.com

ISIT- Institut Supérieur d'Interprétation et de Traduction
21 rue d'Assas, 75270 PARIS CEDEX 06
tel. 01.42.22.33.16, fax. 01.42.22.33.16, web: www.isit-paris.fr
Contact: de Branche, Sophie - Directrice des Relations Entreprises, s.debranche@isit-paris.fr

Léonard de Vinci
12 avenue Léonard de Vinci, 92400 COURBEVOIE
tel: 01.41.16.71.07, fax: 01.41.16.70.68, web: www.devinci.fr

 

Paris School of Business

35, av. Philippe Auguste 75011 Paris

tel: 0155256948 web: http://www.psbedu.com

Contact: Smullen,Helen, hsmullen@psbedu.com

Paris School of Business is part of a larger network of schools, Pôle ESG (The Paris Schools of Management). Founded in 1975, Pôle ESG is a private institution made up of five Business School Units (ESG Management School, ESGCI, ESGF, MBA ESG, and Paris School of Business) which are located on 4 campuses in the heart of Paris...

 Schiller International University
9 rue Yvart, 75015 PARIS
tel. 01.45.38.56.01, fax. 01.45.38.56.01, web: www.schillerparis.com
Contact: Akiki, Souha - Directrice, sakiki@schillerparis.com
Schiller International University is an independent American university (accredited in the United States by the Accrediting Council for Independent College and School [ACICS]) offering degree programs in Business Administration and International Relations and Diplomacy at both the undergraduate (BA-BBA) and graduate (MA-MBA) levels at seven campuses in Europe and one campus in Dunedin, Florida. Students can transfer freely among campuses and can also follow full-time or part-time programs. The language of instruction is English. There are 50 different nationalities represented in the student body.

St. Edward's University
17 rue Merlet de la Boulaye, 9000 ANGERS
tel: 02.41.86.90.79, web: www.stedwards.edu
Contact: Benoît Patier, Directeur, benoitp@stedwards.edu
 

Training

Achieve Global
4 rue de Châtillon, 75014 PARIS CEDEX
tel. 01.43.95.75.00, fax. 01.43.95.75.00, web: www.achieveglobal.fr
Contact: Richard, Dominique - Directeur Associé, dominique.richard@achieveglobal.fr
AchieveGlobal is the world leader in helping organizations translate business strategies into business results by developing the skills and performance of their people. Our learning-based solutions focus on skills training and consulting services in sales performance, customer service and leadership. We have more than 1,600 employees in offices throughout the world and have unmatched expertise in global implementations. Our programs and services - which we continually adapt and translate to meet the needs of different cultures – are available in more than 40 languages and dialects.

Bartosik, Curtis
c/o Seneca S.A.R.L.
71 rue de la Tombe Issoire
75014 PARIS
tel. 01.43.20.17.69,  web: www.seneca-co.com
email: c.bartosik@seneca-co.com

Dale Carnegie Training (K2 Développement)
91 rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré, 75008 PARIS
tel. 01.44.71.35.67, fax. 01.44.71.35.67, web: www.dale-carnegie.fr
Contact: Lefevre, Laurent - Managing Director, laurent.lefevre@dalecarnegie.com

Other education related institutions
(AmCham members or partners)


American Library in Paris
10, rue du Général-Camou, 75007 PARIS
tel. 01 53.59.12.60, fax. 01 53.59.12.60, web: www.americanlibraryinparis.org
Contact: Witt, Adele - Assistant Director, adwitt@americanlibraryinparis.org
The Library is a private, non-profit lending library, founded in 1920 with books sent over for the boys in the trenches, and run like an American public library. It has a substantial book collection of fiction and non-fiction and an extensive range of periodicals. Membership is 42% French and 37% American. Programs include Children's Story Hours and Evenings with an Author. Over the years, Edith Wharton Gertrude Stein, Colette, William Styron, Diane Johnson, Ernest Gaines, and many others have participated in our author's programs. Internet access available.

Aquarius
Studio albatros
52 rue du Sergent Bobillot, 93100 MONTREUIL
tel. 01.42.87.49.78, fax. 01.42.87.49.78, web: www.aquariusabroad.org
Contact: Gonzalez del Valle, Xavier - President, xgonzalez@aquariusabroad.org
International mobility of students.

Intrax Intern Abroad 

600 California Street, 10th Floor 
San Francisco, 94109 CA  
tel: +1 (415) 434 5611,  fax: +1 (415) 434 5455 web: www.intraxinternabroad.com
Contact: Terry Cumes, Managing Director, tcumes@intraxinc.com
Intrax is a leader in work-based cultural exchange programs. Since 1980, Intrax has consistently delivered innovative, quality programs through our dedication to operational excellence and outstanding participant experiences.


Parenthèse
39 rue de l'Arbalète, 75005 PARIS
tel. 01.43.36.37.07, fax. 01.43.36.54.48, email: contact@parenthese-paris.com, web: www.parenthese-paris.com
Contact: Bozorgmehr, Maryam - Owner/Director, mbozorgmehr@parenthese-paris.com
Parenthèse, an educational program company specialized in international mobility for students and professionals up to the age of 40, is based in Paris, France. As the official partner and exclusive representative of CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange), we distribute CIEE's J-1 visa programs: Internship, Professional Career Training and Summer Work & Travel.  We simplify the administrative process by providing specific, clear, and up-to-date information to students interested in internships or summer jobs in the US, to companies wishing to send their employees abroad or to individuals with an international project.  With over 60 years of experience, we ensure that participants get their visa paperwork processed in the fastest, most efficient way.  Parenthèse also offers Internship and Work programs in Australia through its partner AIFS in addition to Junior language programs.

The French Educational System

2 to 6 years - Maternal or Preschool education: this instruction which is not compulsory is offered in the Ecoles Maternelles and the Classes Enfantines attached to primary schools.
6-10 years- Elementary Education: Instruction on this level is the same for all children in all elementary schools. Elementary education includes three courses - the preparatory (6 years old), the elementary course (7 to 8 years old) and the intermediate course (9 to 10 years old).
11 to 14 years- Premier Cycle- First Cycle: The Premier Cycle, which covers four years (Classes de 6e, 5e, 4e et 3e) and which admits students who have been promoted from the cycle élémentaire (elementary school), at the level of the classe de 6e. For the duration of the premier cycle, the teachers meet periodically in a class council under the direction of the homeroom teacher for the purpose of determining pupil aptitudes or interests to guide the pupils in the type of education best suited to them. The guidance council examines the proposals offered by the class councils and gives parents their considered opinions. At the end of the Classe de 5e and at the end of the Classe de 3e, if the parents follow the advice of the guidance council, the student automatically enters the recommended section of education. If the parents feel that their child should pursue one of the sections of education that was not recommended by the council, the child must take an entrance examination.
15 to 17 years- Second Cycle Education: Following first cycle education, pupils are guided according to their aptitudes, interests, and their previous work toward one of the following branches of study or sections: (L) literature and the humanities; (ES) Economics and Social Sciences, (S) science and mathematics or toward specialization in technology. (STT, STI). They will continue their studies in universities based on the work that has been accomplished over these two extremely important years.
18 years and older- Higher Education: Higher Education is offered in private institutions as well as in the public establishments. The public institutions include: a) the Facultés grouped in Universities, which are authorized to grant State degrees; b) the University Institutes of Technology are designed to train future high-ranking administrators and technicians in the industry; c) the great scientific and literary institutions and research and study institutions.

Registration

Public School Registration : Contact the Service des Ecoles at the Mairie (City Hall) or secondary school. It should be noted that French schools are usually over-crowded, and applications should be made in the spring before the fall Term. Except at the most elementary levels, most French public schools will accept foreigners whose French is adequate to follow the class instruction.

US Grade French Equivalents
Prior to 6 years Ecole Maternelle physical & sensory exercises & exercises in language and observation
Elementary School from 6 to 10
1st Grade Preparatory (CP) reading, writing, spelling, reasoning
2nd Grade Elementary I (CE1) study of history, geography, science by observation, grammar
3rd Grade Elementary II (CE2) continuation of above
4th Grade Intermediate I (CM1) “
5th Grade Intermediate II (CM2) “
First cycle Collège
6th Grade: 1st cycle “6ème” (Collège) study of 1st foreign language, math, history, geography, French, science, technology, art, and P.E.
7th Grade "5ème" continuation of above plus study of Latin optional
8th Grade "4ème" continuation of above and introduction to a 2nd foreign language,
9th Grade "3ème" revision and advanced studies of subjects learned previously; decision by teachers and students council and student’s parents to be promoted to the 10th grade Lycée
Secondary: 2nd Cycle Lycée
10th Grade Seconde decisive year due to orientation toward the different branches or sections to be taught in 11th and 12th grades première and terminale: this choice will lead to similar studies at the university level. (L) philosophy, literature and the humanities (S) science and mathematics (ES) economics and social sciences and other options in technology (STT, STI) introduction to a 3rd foreign living language optional; Greek optional
11th Grade Première different areas of study are developed according to the branch chosen in 10th grade
12th Grade Classe Terminale Completion of studies conducted in 11th grade; introduction to philosophy is mandatory for all students to pass this grade successfully

 

Carte de Sejour (Residence Permits) for Students

Some students and au-pairs who have acquired a long-stay visa for under one year are exempted from obtaining a carte de séjour as long as their visas are currently valid. This exemption will be written directly on the visa.

 First Application for Student Residence Permits in Paris
Students applying for their first residence card may start the application procedure Monday through Thursday from 8:35 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday from 8:35 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the following address :
Centre de Réception des Etudiants Etrangers
13 rue Miollis, 75015 Paris
Métro Cambronne or Ségur.
Students renewing their residence permits must do so by appointment only.

For complete information please refer to the following website since certain academic
establishments have concluded agreements with the French authorities concerning French residence cards : http://www.prefecture-police-paris.interieur.gouv.fr/module_rdv/etudiants/

 

Documents required for a student’s first request for a carte de séjour, residence permit :

1. Proof of identity:
• Your valid passport with one photocopy of the passport identification page (photo, date and place of birth and validity);
• A copy of your French visa page;
• Birth certificate translated into French by a translator licensed by French courts (original plus one photocopy, please refer to separate information sheet for a list of translators);
• In the case of marriage or divorce, where your name does not appear on your passport, provide a photocopy of the marriage or divorce certificate or an identity certificate issued by the consulate.

2. Visa to enter France (original and one photocopy):
• A long-stay visa, over 3 months, with the mention “student”;
• Or a short-term visa that mentions étudiant-concours (student exam) and an examination certificate as proof of passing the exam for which the visa has been issued.

3. Proof of residence in Paris:
• If you rent or own an apartment or house: the last electric or gas bill; the last rent receipt, quittance; an insurance contract or the rental agreement, if it is less than 3-months old (original and one photocopy);
• If you live in a private person’s residence: your host should provide an affidavit certificat d’hébergément stating that you live at the address that he/she provides. The host must also provide a copy of his/her identity card or residence permit, the last electric bill, or last rent receipt, quittance or house insurance contract;
• If you live in a foyer (hostel): please provide a recent affidavit issued by the director of the foyer. (This document must be less than three months old).

4. Proof of resources (original and photocopies):
• Proof of finances: you must provide documents indicating that you have financing at a minimum level of 430 euros per month, if you do not have dependents. Exceptions if you have a scholarship or have been admitted to one of the European Union Special Programs: Leonardo, Erasmus, Jeunesse et Service Volontaire Européen;
• Present all documents justifying funds provided for the preceding year; (This is requested for applicants who are renewing their residence cards or who are requesting a change of civil status.)
• Present the scholarship documents (financial proof) stamped by the French Consulate for issuance of the visa. (This is requested for applicants of a first residence card only.)

If you cannot provide financial proof, or if you are renewing your residence card, or requesting a change in status present all documents pertaining to the current school year as follows:
• If you have a scholarship: An affidavit indicating the amount, the duration and the nature of yourstudies on the letterhead of the organization that attributes or manages the scholarships;
• If your resources are provided by a guarantor in France: proof of financial sources requires an affidavit of commitment signed by the guarantor, including his name, address, the amount of the monthly allowance and the duration of his commitment, a photocopy of his ID card or residence permit, proof of his income (pay sheets, tax returns, etc);
• If your resources are granted by funds coming from abroad, the most acceptable proof of financial resources is a statement from the applicant’s bank, travelers checks, exchange forms or any document proving that you regularly receive funds from abroad and indicating their monthly amount;
• If you contemplate working part time, provide a copy of the job offer stating the nature of the job, the number of hours to be worked and the salary;
• If you are an au-pair: The au-pair contract signed by the service de la Main d’Oeuvre Etrangère, 127, boulevard de la Villette, 75010 Paris. If this document is not immediately available, a letter stating the job offering signed by the family who will employ you.

5. Documents justifying your studies (original and a photocopy);
Certificate of pre-inscription or inscription in a private or public institution, university, high school, institution for technical studies, etc or;
• a certificate stating that you have been admitted on a program of the European Union (Leonardo, Erasmus, Jeunesse et Service Volontaire Européen);
• or an internship contract (convention de stage, tripartite: étudiant, employeur, organisme de formation);
• or a professional training contract.

6. A certificate stating the nature and intent to study and certificates pertaining to exams taken and passed during the previous year of study, with grades and Fench diplomas.

7. Three recent ID pictures, format (3.5cm x 4.5cm) taken full face, no head appareil and not scanned

To renew a student residence permit
Two months prior to the expiration of your residence permit (carte de séjour,) you must make an appointment on the website of the Préfecture de Police: (http://www.prefecture-police-paris.interieur.gouv.fr) under prise de rendez-vous option étudiants étrangers. You should complete the webform in order to make an appointment.You will be given a date and place for an appointment. You may also call tel. 08 21 00 19 75 (toll call) general information in English and French and information on scheduling and appointment.

To obtain a copy of your student residence permit or advise of a change of address, change of civil status état-civil (marriage, divorce, etc):

You must make an appointment on the website of the Préfecture de Police: (http://www.prefecture-police-paris.interieur.gouv.fr) under prise de rendez-vous option étudiants étrangers. You should complete the webform in order to make an appointment. You will be given a date and place for an appointment. You may also call 08 21 00 19 75 (toll call). In case of loss of your residence permit you must submit a certificate provided by the U.S. consulate with your photograph. If your passport, with the residence card was stolen, you must obtain a police report from the nearest police station and a new U.S. passport.

 Change of Student Status
In certain circumstances, a student may change his/her residence status in France. If a student is in possession of a signed conditional letter of employment from a French company, or a signed contract to work in France he/she may apply for a change in of resident status. You must present your current residence card and go to student centers (on page 16 of this guide) without an appointment for further information.

Student Part-Time Employment
American students in France can, under certain conditions, obtain a temporary work permit (autorisation provisoire de travail) for part-time work during the summer vacation months or during the academic year. Exceptions: students at the Sorbonne's Cours de Civilisation Française, and the Alliance Française, or any other school which does not provide French Social Security medical insurance coverage, are not eligible for temporary work permits.

Students, over the age of 18, who are enrolled in courses at the University level in France, may work a total of 830 hours during a one-year period on the basis of a 35 hour work week. Students may not work full time for more than 3 consecutive months during the year. Long term (CDI) and short term contracts (CDD) are permitted.
Temporary work permits are usually given to students who do not have sufficient private resources to pursue their studies. Thus, recipients of student grants or scholarships and those who have sufficient financial means are not authorized to have temporary work permits.

Where to apply for a temporary work permit:
In Paris, students should apply at :
Service de la Main d'Oeuvre Etrangère
127 Boulevard de la Villette, 75010 Paris
Métro: Jaurès or Stalingrad / Tel: 01 44 84 42 86 / 16
Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

American students attending French universities outside of Paris should apply for their autorisation provisoire de travail at the Direction Départementale du Travail, Service de la Main d'Oeuvre Etrangère, of the area (départment) in which they are a student.

Students must provide the following documents in order to apply for a temporary work permit (autorisation provisoire de travail) or A.P.T.:
• Photocopy of the valid long-stay visa and the title page, including photo, name, date and place of birth, validity;
• Photocopy of the valid student identification card;
• Original university registration form (attestation d’affiliation de l’ecole);
• Original letter of employment from employer or copy of the work contract: these documents must be dated within a month of the request for the temporary work permit and must include, the name and address of the applicant, position or job description, the salary and number of working hours, place of work and length of employment;
• One self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Please consult the office of the Ministry of Labor, Service de la Main d’Oeuvre Etrangère if you are:
• Attending a remunerated training course;
• Carrying out research;
• A teaching assistant or research assistant;
• Attending an training course as an accountant or lawyer;
• Are a nurse or nurse’s aide.

 How to find part-time employment:
For those students who receive authorization to work part-time, it is up to the student to find his/her employment. Those attending a French university can consult the Centre Régional des Oeuvres Universitaires et Scolaires (CROUS) which will have job opportunities on file. Students can also consult the classified sections of local newspapers.

A good source of information about temporary employment in France is the Centre d’Information et de Documentation Jeunesse (CIDJ) 101 Quai Branly, 75740 Paris Cédex 15, Tel: 01 44 49 12 00. The CIDJ offers a useful information sheet: Reglementation et Recherche d’Emploi pour les Edudiants Etrangers pendant les Vacances Universitaires (No. 5.543.) There are several CIDJ in France.
The annual grape and other agricultural harvests in France offer opportunities for students for temporary jobs. Also, some summer camps (colonies de vacances) need foreign students because of their language qualifications. Such employment would not come under the 35 hours per week limitation; ask the CIDJ for their information sheet on Travaux Saisonniers Agricoles.

The Council on International Educational Exchange provides assistance for students seeking employment in accordance with the French Ministry of Labor’s requirements. This program allows international higher education students to obtain the necessary documents to work legally in France. Students on the Work in France program need to have an intermediate, or advanced level of French. Students will be asked to find employment and are free to choose almost any position offered. Program participants typically work as waiters/bartenders, salespersons, teachers, amusement park and hotel staff.

Eligibility:
• Students must be 18 years of age or older;
• Be registered as a full-time student outside of France;
• Expect to stay in France no longer than 3-months;
• Have an intermediate to advanced level of proficiency in French;
• Have sufficient personal funds to cover initial expenses.

If you would like to know more about this C.I.E.E. program, or find out how to apply, contact:
Council on International Educational Exchange
Tel: 01 58 57 20 50
112 ter rue Cardinet Tel: 01 58 57 20 41
75017 Paris
Email: info@councilexchanges-fr.org

Work Abroad
Council on International Educational Exchange
Tel: 2l2 66l l4l4
205 East 42nd Street
New York, NY l00l7

Information Sources:

Association Inter-Etudiants en Sciences Economiques et Commerciales (AIESEC)
14 rue Rouen
75019 Paris
Tel: 01 40 36 22 33
Fax: 01 42 05 94 77

Services des Echanges et des Stages Agricoles dans le Monde (SESAME)
9 square Fabriel Fauré
75015 Paris
Tel: 01 40 54 07 08
Fax: 01 40 54 06 39

Centre d’Information et de Documentation Jeunesse (CIDJ)
101 Quai Branly
75740 Paris Cédex 15
Tel: 01 44 49 12 00
Fax: 01 40 65 02 61

Club des Quatre Vents
1 rue Gozlin
75006 Paris
Tel: 01 43 29 60 20
Fax: 01 43 29 06 21

Council on International Educational Exchange
112 ter rue Cardinet
75017 Paris
Tel: 01 58 57 20 50

Inter Echanges
2 avenue Géneral Leclerc
75014 Paris
Tel: 01 40 47 54 54
Fax: 01 40 47 54 55

Maison Internationale de la Jeunesse et des Etudiants
11 rue Fauconnier
75004 Paris
Tel: 01 42 74 23 45

Work Abroad - Council on International Educational Exchange
205 East 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017
U.S.A.
Tel: 2l2 66l l4l4

Au-Pair Employment
Some students and au-pairs who have acquired a long-stay visa for under one year are exempted from obtaining a carte de séjour as long as their visas are currently valid. This exemption will be written directly on the visa.
Au-pair programs are available to foreign students studying in France, male as well as female. An au-pair receives room, board and spending money in return for light housework, baby-sitting, and help at mealtimes. These programs are monitored by the French Ministry of Labor which has established the rules and requirements for au-pair work. For administrative purposes, an au-pair is designated as a stagiaire aide familiale.

Basic requirements:
An au-pair must be at least 18 years of age and no more than 30. The student is expected to have a fair knowledge of, and to be studying, the French language. During the school year, a minimum stay of three months is required. The regular program length is normally one year, but may be extended to a maximum of 18 months. A student may stay with more than one family during the au-pair period, but the total stay cannot exceed 18 months. There are also summer au-pair programs of one to three months. In these cases, the requirement that the au-pair should be taking French courses is waived if the student has completed at least one year of college-level studies in French.

The Au-Pair’s family (famille d’accueil):
The objective of the au-pair program is to give the foreign student the opportunity to practice and perfect their French and to benefit materially and psychologically from their studies and their temporary stay in France by sharing in a French family's life. Consequently, foreign families in France and unmarried persons without children are usually not authorized to hire an au-pair. The family must provide room and board. The au-pair will normally share meals with the family members and, insofar as possible, be lodged in a private bedroom.

The Au-Pair’s schedule:
The daily work schedule should be arranged in advance between the family and the au-pair allowing the student enough time for his/her studies. Normally, the au-pair is not expected to work more than five hours a day. The family should give the au-pair one day off each week, one of which should be a Sunday. The au-pair should always have the opportunity to go to church even if Sunday is a working day.

Au-Pair visa requirements:
American citizens coming to France to work as an au-pair must obtain the appropriate au pair visa in the U.S. from the French Consulate having jurisdiction over their place of residence. This requirement is mandatory: it is not possible to enter France as a 'tourist' and then change status to that of au-pair.
The classic au-pair (one who will be taking some French language and civilization courses while working for a French family) should arrange a work agreement or contract directly with a family, or through an au-pair organization (see list below,) and then apply to the nearest French Consulate for a visa de long séjour as a stagiaire aide familiale. A work contract approved by the French Ministry of Labor is a prerequisite for a visa. See the Embassy's information sheet on "Visa Requirements for France" for a list of the addresses of French consular offices in the United States. Americans who have come to France with a student visa and have obtained a residence permit and registered at a French university or school can obtain au-pair status after arrival in France. As in the case of the classic au-pair, the student au-pair will need to find a family and obtain the French Ministry of Labor's approval of the work contract.

Pocket Money:
The au-pair should receive approximately 270 euros per month in pocket money (as opposed to wages as such.) Some families provide their au-pair with a carte orange (a monthly pass valid for the Métro, buses, and suburban trains,) but they are not required to do so by Ministry of Labor regulations.

Social Security Coverage:
The family must declare the au-pair as a stagiaire aide familiale to the French Social Security Administration (U.R.S.S.A.F.) and make the monthly contribution (côtisation,) in order for the au-pair to receive social security benefits in the event of illness or accidents. The monthly contribution, paid by the host family, is approximately 144 euros.

Approval of work contract:
The French family or au-pair organization can obtain contract forms in triplicate from the Foreign Labor Branch of the Ministry of Labor office (Direction Départementale du Travail et de la Main d'Oeuvre) at the Préfecture in each of the 95 French departments. In Paris, this address is: Service de la Main d'Oeuvre Etrangère, 127 Boulevard de la Villette, 75010 Paris / Tel: 01 44 84 42 86/41-00 Métro: Jaurès or Stalingrad
The completed contract forms, signed by both parties, must be returned to the Service de la Main d'Oeuvre Etrangère accompanied by:
1) A medical certificate from a doctor who has examined the au-pair within the last three months, along with a French translation and;
2) The student card (if applying as a student already resident in France) or transcript or other evidence of student status in the United States (if applying for the visa in the United States as a regular au-pair.) The Service de la Main d’Oeuvre Etrangère will approve and stamp the contract form, returning two copies to the family or organization, which must provide one copy to the au-pair for use in applying for the visa and for residence and work permits.

Residence and work permits:
After arrival in France with a visa, the classic au-pair must apply within eight days for a residence permit. (See the pages on "Residence Permits (Cartes de séjour) for France.")
Some students and au-pairs who have acquired a long-stay visa for under one year are exempted from obtaining a carte de séjour as long as their visas are currently valid. This exemption will be written on the visa.
Along with the work contract, the classic au-pair must present evidence of registration in a French language school (Alliance Française, the Sorbonne, etc.). Evening classes are not acceptable. After obtaining a carte de séjour, the au-pair returns to the Service de la Main d'Oeuvre Etrangère to receive a temporary work permit (autorisation provisoire de travail.) The permit is normally valid for six months, and is renewable.

Au-Pair organizations:
The organizations listed below assist students in finding au-pair employment. While the Embassy cannot assume any responsibility for the competence and integrity of these organizations, it has verified that all of those on this list are prepared to assist Americans. They usually charge a registration fee for their services.
• Accueil Familial des Jeunes, 23 rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006 Paris; Tel: 01 42 22 50 34
• L’Alliance Française, 101 Boulevard Raspail, 75006 Paris; Tel: 01 42 84 90 00
• Institut Catholique, 21 rue d'Assas, 75006 Paris; Tel: 01 45 48 31 70

Non-Renumerated Employment
Semi-skilled or unskilled work on collective work projects :
Young men and women, including Americans and other foreigners, have the opportunity in France during the summer vacation months to obtain room and board in exchange for unskilled and semi-skilled labor on collective work projects. These projects include agriculture, environment, handicrafts, social welfare, restoration of buildings and monuments, archeology and others -- all in an international educational and cultural context aimed at the development of youth. Project sites are located in various regions of France.

Conditions of programs:
Participants do not have to be students, but most programs have a minimum age requirement (see list below.) Some require the participant to be less than 30 years old; others have no age limit. Most expect the participant to work from five to eight hours daily, five days a week. The programs vary in length from a few weeks to several months; some are available the year around. The foreign participant must pay his own transportation costs to and from France, as well as the costs of travel to and from the program site in France. The sponsoring organization usually charges registration and participation fees, including liability and health insurance.

Program Organizations:
At present there are ten associations in France sponsoring voluntary work programs (chantiers de jeunes volontaires bénévoles) under the overall administration of Cotravaux 11 rue de Clichy – 75009 Paris, Tel: 01 48 74 79 20. The ten associations are listed below. Interested persons should write directly to a specific association for detailed information about its program.

Sponsoring associations for non-renumerated employment:
Compagnons Batisseurs
5 rue des Immeubles Industriels
75011 Paris
Tel: 01 43 73 70 63
Minimum age: 16

Concordia U.N.A.R.E.C
1 rue de Metz
75010 Paris
Tel: 01 45 23 00 23
Minimum age: 15

Etudes et Chantiers
33 rue Campagne-Première
75014 Paris
Tel: 01 45 38 96 26
Minimum age: 13

Jeunesse & Reconstruction
10 rue de Trévise
75009 Paris
Tel: 01 47 70 15 88
Minimum age: 15

Neige & Merveilles
La Minière de Vallauria
06430 Saint-Dalmas de Tende
Tel: 04 93 04 62 40
Minimum age: 18

Solidarites Jeunesses
38 rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis
75010 Paris
Tel: 01 48 00 09 05
Minimum age: 15

Union R.E.M.P.A.R.T.
1 rue des Guillemites
75004 Paris
Tel: 01 42 71 96 55
Minimum age: 14

Solidarites Jeunesses
38 rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis
75010 Paris
Tel: 01 48 00 09 05
Minimum age: 17

Service Civil International
8 rue Camille
75018 Paris
Tel: 01 42 54 62 43

Federation Auberges de Jeunesse
27 rue Pajol
75018 Paris
Tel: 01 44 89 87 27

 

 

 

 

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