Studying in Lyon
Lyon is France’s second-largest urban area, an elegant city at the meeting of two rivers, famous for its food. It hosts a large student population and strong programmes in science, medicine, engineering, and business, with a high quality of life and noticeably lower costs than Paris.
Universities and major institutes
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1
- Université Lumière Lyon 2 & Jean Moulin Lyon 3
- ENS de Lyon
- INSA Lyon (engineering)
- EM Lyon Business School
Cost of living
Lyon is more affordable than Paris. A room in a shared flat typically runs €450–€750 per month, with an efficient metro, tram, and bus network and discounted student travel.
Neighbourhoods for students
- La Guillotière (7th) — central, diverse, popular with students.
- Croix-Rousse — characterful former silk-weavers’ district.
- Villeurbanne — home to many campuses, more affordable.
- Presqu’île — central and lively, a little pricier.
Institutions in Lyon
ENS de Lyon
A highly selective Lyon grande école focused on training researchers and academics across sciences and humanities.
Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1
A major Lyon university specialising in sciences, health, and technology, part of the wider University of Lyon grouping.
Explore more: universities in France, cost of living, and student visas.