As a foreigner in an unknown country, you will certainly have a lot of questions before and while you are studying at ESCIP. Hopefully you will find everything that students normally ask about and need to know on this website. This will help you to gain some insight and information you require in order to organize your stay at ESCIP.

We can only give you a small taste of the what to expect from our school; meeting and talking to our staff and students will offer you much more. Please feel free to contact us for more detailed information or if you have any further questions. Link to contacts
Why ESCIP?

ESCIP School of International Business is a small private school which prides itself on individual tutoring with its students. Strongly focusing on its international dimension (100 partner universities in 30 countries, two compulsory semesters abroad for all students, an ever increasing intake of international students), ESCIP represents a student population from all four corners of the globe.

There is also a strong emphasis on work experience – every year during their time at ESCIP, students are required to carry out an internship either at home or abroad.  This leads to employment in various fields in French and foreign companies for example Marketing, Human Resources...

Last but by no means least, there is the possibility to study for a double and triple diploma.
WHERE ARE WE?

Situated in the North of France, between the Belgian border and the Channel, Saint-Omer is one of the oldest and most beautiful towns in this region. A walk through the streets filled with history and patrimony is strongly recommended. The layout of the city centre offers interesting possibilities for walkers: a magnificent park two minutes away, a recent cultural centre with cinema for getting away from it all, cafés, restaurants and pedestrian streets.

Saint-Omer is at the centre of the Regional Natural Park, with its where landscapes: old peat bogs, ponds, damp pasture, wild rose gardens, forests…
Lille, the capital of Northern France, forming with Roubaix and Tourcoing an agglomeration of more than a million inhabitants, is about 50 minutes away. Paris, London, Cologne (Germany), and Brussels are all less than two hours away.
HOW TO GET TO SAINT-OMER / LONGUENESSE

From Paris, London or Bruxelles it is possible to travel by train to Saint Omer (62500).
  • In Paris, there are two international airports: "Roissy-Charles de Gaulle" and "Orly".
  • In "Roissy-Charles de Gaulle" there is a train station called "Aeroport CDG TGV" where you can buy your train ticket to St Omer via Lille. It will cost you around €45
  • In "Orly", transfers to the center of Paris can be made by shuttle bus, taxi or metro (Orlyval). In Paris, go to the train station “Gare du Nord” and take a train ticket to Saint Omer.
  • At St Omer train station a member of ESCIP'in touch association will welcome you and will show you your accommodation and the ESCIP.
    • Airline Information : All details (arrivals, departures...) at www.airfrance.com For all French airports : www.aeroport.fr

    Train Information: Information, reservations: www.sncf.com. There is a train station in Saint Omer (62500) which provides a frequent service from/to Paris, London, Bruxelles (via Lille or Hazebrouck or Calais) Travelling in France is easy. If you book in advance, you can save yourself money with the SNCF (French Train Network). The SNCF offers connections to all of France’s largest cities and almost all small towns. Stations are usually located in the city centre. Long and short distance trips are well co-ordinated and connected. Trains run frequently and quickly. Ticket prices vary according to the level of comfort (there are two classes) and departure time (rush hour or not). There are many attractive price options reserved for foreign travellers (Europass, Eurodomino, Inter-Rail …), which can be obtained from your country of origin before you leave. In order to travel cheaply (with the 12-25 card), present your passport and one photo at any SNCF station. This card costs 49 euros and allows you to have 50% discount for all your rail travel in France for a year. Note also that you must always punch your ticket before boarding your train (yellow ticket punching machines are situated at the end of each platform). If this has not been done, advise the ticket controller straight away to avoid paying a fine.

    By car :

    Before driving in France, make sure that you are familiar with the French Highway Code. You will find the official text of the Highway Code on the website www.legifrance.gouv.fr

    To find about the road signs, you can consult the website www.permisenligne.com . If you are driving from Great Britain, you can use the Eurotunnel. Consult the website www.eurotunnel.com . The road network is very well developed in France: nearly a million kilometres (600,000 miles), of which almost 8,000 kilometres (5,000 miles) are motorways. There is usually a toll for motorways. To find out everything about toll charges, service stations, rest areas, restaurants, petrol stations and hotels along your route, consult the website www.autoroutes.fr . Some Internet sites suggest different ways of getting from one place to another (from the quickest to tourist routes with stopovers …): www.viamichelin.com or www.mappy.fr . To find out about traffic conditions: www.bison-fute.equipement.gouv.fr

    In order to drive in France you must have a driver’s licence, a registration document called the “carte grise” (“grey card”) and an insurance certificate. If you plan to stay less than 6 months, you can drive freely throughout France with your vehicle.
    ARRIVAL IN ESCIP
    Orientation days

    There are two days of orientation where “ESCIP in Touch” and the International Department will help you with all administrative and academic matters (Insurance, bank, programme, Resident Permit ...). You will also have the opportunity to discover St Omer and meet the locals.

    Please check the date (the “rentrée incoming”) in the calendar.
    The School

    ESCIP School of International Business offers a 5-year programme, with a strong international focus. Our programme aims at ensuring that all students have the relevant knowledge and know-how to facilitate their entry into the professional world and therefore better succeed in their future career.

    Programmes

    The programme is very operational and intentionally focused on obtaining international experience. In order to achieve this, it combines academic lessons in management science (marketing, negotiation-sales) with internships in companies, stays abroad, and associative projects. The importance we attach to our international focus is illustrated by the detailed attention paid to the languages and multicultural dimension on the campus (exchanges with international students) and compulsory stays abroad.

    Our programmes exist in French (1, 2, 5 years) and in English (IBA, International Business Administration programme). The Programme in the 4th year is taught in both French and English. The IBA programme is integrated into the 7th semester which means that you will be studying with French students who have just completed one year abroad.
    For details of our courses, click on Find a course
    ESCIP - Study Programs
    Exchange students

    • The IBA (International Business Administration) programme has been specially created for our international students who have little or no knowledge of French.
    • International students who can speak French (level B1) have the possibility to follow the semester(s) which correspond to their level of studies.
    • International students wishing to follow a double diploma (based upon a bilateral agreement between your home university and ESCIP) must follow semesters 9 and 10 entirely taught in French (minimum level B).

    In all cases, students must follow the complete programme.
    Weekly French classes (IBA programme)

    Level 1 (beginners): in order to cope with everyday situations in France, you will need to know the basics of French. You will learn to communicate using basic French in different situations.
    Level 2 (intermediate):the course is especially designed for students who wish to develop their oral and written skills. The main features of French grammar are studied with a special emphasis on business French.

    These courses are free of charge.
    French language immersion course

    To help you with your first steps in France, ESCIP organizes orientation courses for all international students at the beginning of September. You will take part in a crash course combined with a cultural programme informing you about Saint-Omer and the surrounding area. French teachers give classes in groups. You should have lots of fun making friends with students from other countries.
    You will be helped with all formalities such as opening a bank account, obtaining a residence permit etc. Visiting cinemas, museums and important buildings as the famous cathedral of Saint-Omer will help you to become familiar with French culture.

    At the end of the course you should have improved your language and seen and experienced the French way of life. You may have made friends with other students or at least know where you can go to meet friends. If the course was able to help you to become a little more comfortable with the way of life in France then we will have achieved our goal. This course is free of charge.
    ECTS - European Credit Transfer System

    ESCIP - ERASMUS ESCIP - ERASMUS

    ESCIP actively participates in the European Union mobility projects and most notably in the Lifelong Learning Program (LLP, SOCRATES, ERASMUS) Erasmus University Charter 2007 – 2013.

    The Erasmus University Charter (EUC) provides the general framework for all European co-operation activities that higher education institutions may carry out. ESCIP School of International Business has been awarded the Erasmus University Charter (EUC) with a validity of 7 years (2007-2013) and carries out Erasmus Programme activities in the framework of the Lifelong Learning Programme.

    The ECTS - European Credit Transfer System was developed by the European Commission in order to provide common procedures to guarantee academic recognition of studies abroad. It provides a way of measuring and comparing learning achievements and transferring them from one institution to another.
    More information: http://ec.europa.eu/education/programmes/llp/erasmus/erasmus_en.html
    Campus facilities

    The EIPC-ESCIP campus is also home to an Engineering School (EIPC, Pas-de-Calais Engineering School).  The two schools share facilities which encourage exchanges between all the students.
    The Campus is equipped throughout with Wi-Fi terminals.  Our IT facilities are constantly updated to keep up with developments in new technology, communication systems and in-company equipment.

    ESCIP - language labs ESCIP - Computer
    Computer and language labs:  Students may use the computer lab for homework or e-mail and internet (each student receives a login code to connect to the extranet).  The audio and video labs may also be used on a free access basis
    		ESCIP - Media library
    Media library: Study area for students and newspaper & magazine archive
    Sports complex :

    Access to ARC INTERNATIONAL sports complex. ESCIP students have the opportunity to do over 30 sports.  These includes squash, archery, tennis, badminton, volley-ball, body-building, football, rowing, riding, basketball, body stretch, step, modern jazz, dance sport, aerobics, cross-country cycling, karate, gymnastics, table tennis, etc.

    If you wish to study at ESCIP within an exchange programme, you will already have heard which opportunities are open to you from sources at your home university. The programme is usually based upon a bilateral agreement between your home university and ESCIP. An agreement between two or more universities defines the exchange that is supposed to take place concerning study courses, length of stay, credit transfer and financial support. Places within an exchange programme tend to be limited and students are usually chosen by the home institution and the receiving institute. Application form



    There are two deadlines :
    - 1st term, Winter (September – December): 4th June
    - 2nd term, Spring (February – June): 15 January


    You can also attend ESCIP as a regular student if you satisfy certain conditions: For-regular-student
    Legal Requirements
    Visa :

    Depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay in France, it may be necessary for you to obtain a visa before leaving.  In this case, you should apply to the French consulate in your country.   You will find details of their addresses on the website of the French Ministry for Foreign Affairs: www.diplomatie.gouv.fr.

    All non-European students (i.e. those not from the countries of the European economic area, Andorra, Monaco, Switzerland, San Marino, or the Vatican) planning to stay for more than three months and less than one year should obtain a student long-stay visa in order to study in France (ceseda). This visa must be presented at the arrival in France. For citizens of European Union countries, a valid identity card is sufficient.

    Documents usually required when applying for a visa :

    • Proof of admission to an educational institution.
    • Proof of financial resources for one year.
    • Proof of the existence of a bank account from which funds will be transferred.
    • A valid passport whose period of validity encompasses the entire length of the visa period requested.
    • Depending upon the country, other documents may be required


    No vaccinations are required for entering France.
    Insurances :
    Health and Hospitalization :

    Foreign students must have health insurance cover for the complete period of studies


    European Union Students:
    You are exempt from French State medical Insurance if you provide us a copy or certificate of:

    • Your European Health Insurance policy duly completed.
    • A health insurance policy from your home country.
      • Attention: this form only covers treatment related to immediate and necessary health care – it is possible that you will have to pay in advance.
    • In any case you can apply for the French State medical insurance

    Non European-Union Students:
    You MUST provide a copy or certificate of your insurance policy (in French, English or Spanish) proving at least.

    • that you have health insurance for the period before cover by the French State medical Insurance begins in October
    • that you are fully covered in the event of repatriation during the period of studies

    In any case, you will HAVE TO take out French State medical insurance.

    French State Medical Insurance (http://www.ameli.fr) et (http://www.smeno.com/):

    • Basic insurance (compulsory) refund 70% of medical expenses. In order to be fully reimbursed, you need to take out complementary insurance (optional).
    • Cost for the basic insurance: around €200.
    • You will need to fill in the application form for this insurance in September but you will only be covered from 1st October.
    • Documents needed:
      • Your birth certificate (in French, English or Spanish)
      • Visa/passport
      • School certificate
      • Around 200 Euros

    Accommodation :
    In all cases, it is compulsory to have insurance for your accommodation (students are required to take out insurance on arrival and to give a copy to the ESCIP administration). This insurance policy can be taken out when you open your French bank account.

    Civil Liability :
    All students MUST take out insurance to cover civil liability (in case of physical or material damage to others).  This insurance must be taken out at the same time as insurance for accommodation and costs around 50 Euros/year.  These insurance policies can be taken out when you open your French bank account.
    Important

    French State medical insurance, Insurance (accommodation, civil liability), opening a bank account will take place during the orientation days (la rentrée). Therefore, please come with the necessary documents.

     

    Residence Permit (Carte de séjour) :

    • The decree 2009-47 of April 27th, 2009 has modified the conditions of residence for foreign students in France. Since June 1st, 2009, foreigners in possession of a "student" visa (ceseda) for more than 3 months and less than one year are not required to have a resident's permit. The students will have to, within the first 3 months of arrival in France, go to the French Immigration Department to submit: details about their civil status and place of residence in France; a photo with your head uncovered; the statutory medical certificate.
      All concerned students will be contacted by the OFII (Office Français de l'Immigration et de l'Intégration) for a medical visit.
    • All international students who live outside the European Union or European Economics Area must have a residence permit if they stay more than one year in France. The student can ask to a member of the International Department to accompany him in this step.
      The temporary residency permit is valid until the expiration date of the applicant's passport or until the date of completion of the applicant's academic program, whichever comes first. The residence permit costs around 50 Euros and must be renewed annually.

    Please note : you will need the residence permit in order to obtain housing assistance

    Documents usually required when applying for a "carte de séjour" :
    • 4 passport photos
    • Copy of your passport and visa
    • Proof of resources (grant certificate, document of the bank...)
    • ESCIP, school certificate
    • Proof of insurance (for medical fees, hospital, repatriation on medical grounds...)
    • 2 Birth certificates (including the name of parents)
    		  
    Bank :

    We strongly recommend that you have a bank account in France to facilitate everyday life (insurance, housing aid,...).

    Documents usually required in order to open a bank account :
  • visa/passport
  • school certificate
  • proof of address (contract)
    		•



    Are you citizen of the European Economic Area(1), Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or the Vatican?
    Yes
    Arrival in France
    You have to present a valid identity card.
    You are exempt from French State Medical Insurance if you provide us a copy or certificate of :
    • your European Health Insurance duly completed.
    • a health insurance policy from your home country.
    • in any case, you can apply for the French State Medical Insurance

    (1) Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cypryus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Irland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic Czech, Roumania, Slovakia, Slovénia, Spain, Sweden, Swistzerland, The Netherlands, The United Kingdom.

    No
    You should obtain a student long-stay visa in order to study in France (ceseda). Contact the French embassy.
    Take out health insurance for the period before the French State Medical Insurance begins in October
    Take out an insurance policy in the event of repatriation during the period of studies.
    Arrival in France
    Within the first 2 months of arrival in France, you will have to go to the French Immigration Department to submit: details about your civil status and place of residence in France; a photo with your head uncovered; the statutory medical certificate. All concerned students will be contacted by the OFII (Office Français de l'Immigration et de l'Intégration) for a medical visit.
    You will have to take out French State Medical Insurance. Basic insurance (compulsory: around €200) 70% of medical expenses are reimbursed. In order to be fully reimbursed, you need to take out complementary insurance (optional).
    You will fill in the application form for the French State Medical Insurance at the beginning of September but you will be covered only from 1st October. Documents needed: birth certificate (French, English or Spanish), Visa/Passport, School certificate
    What is the intended duration of your stay?
    More than 3 months and less than one year
    You are not required to have a residence permit.
    More than one year
    You must have a residence permit – carte de séjour. The students can ask a member of the International Department to assist them for this procedure.
    The temporary residence permit is valid until the expiration date of the applicant's passport or until the date of completion of the applicant's academic programmme, whichever comes first. The residence permit costs around 50 € and must be renewed annually.

    ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2010-2011



    PAYS DE SAINT-OMER SEMINAR

    ESCIP 1 - International Students –
    Parallel entries ESCIP 2 – 4

    To be defined

    BEGINNING OF CLASSES

    ESCIP 1 Parallel entries ESCIP 2
    ESCIP 2
    ESCIP 4
    IBA
    ESCIP 5

    Monday 6 September  2010 at 10h00

    Monday 13 September 2010 at 10h00
    Tuesday 7 September 2010 at 10h00
    Wednesday 1 September 2010 at 14h00
    Monday 4 October 2010 at 10h00

    WELCOME PARTY
    INTEGRATION WEEK-END

    International Students
    ESCIP 1 - 2 – 4 – 5

    To be defined

    ALL SAINTS HOLIDAY
    (All Saints: November 1st)

    ESCIP 1 - 2 – 4 – 5-IBA

    From Friday 22 October 2010 (evening) to
    Tuesday 02 November 2010 (morning)

    Campus closed: from Friday 29 October (evening) to
    Tuesday 02 November 2010 (morning)

    INTERNATIONAL DAY

    All promotions

    Wednesday 10 November 2010

    "WORK EXPERIENCE" INTERNSHIP

    ESCIP 1

    From Monday 29 November 2010 (for 4 weeks)

    CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS
    (Christmas: December 25th)

    ESCIP 1 – 2 – 4 – 5

    From Wednesday 17 December 2010 (evening)
    to Monday 3 January 2011 (morning)

    Campus closed: from Friday 23 December 2010 (evening) to
    Monday 3 January 2011 (morning)

    END OF SEMESTER IBA – 3

    ESCIP 2 – IBA

    Friday 17 December 2010

    END OF SEMESTER 1 - 7

    ESCIP 1 – 4

    To be defined

     "IMPORT EXPORT" INTERNSHIP

    ESCIP 2

    From Monday 03 January 2011 (for 8 to 10 weeks)

    WINTER HOLIDAYS

    ESCIP 2

    From Friday 25 February 2011 (evening)
    to Monday 7 March 2011 (morning)

    Campus closed: From Friday 25 February 2011 (evening)
    to Monday 7 March 2011 (morning)

    END OF SEMESTER 9

    ESCIP 5

    To be defined

    "PROJECT MANAGEMENT" INTERNSHIP

    ESCIP 5

    From Monday 04 Avril 2011 (for 24 weeks minimum)

    PUBLIC HOLIDAY (Easter Monday)
    (Easter: April 24th and 25th)

    ESCIP 1 – 2 - 4

    From Friday 22 April 2011 (evening)
    to Monday 2 May 2011 (morning)

    Campus closed: From Friday 22 April 2011 (evening)
    to Tuesday 26 April 2011 (morning)

    END OF SEMESTER 8

    ESCIP 4

    To be defined

    BANK HOLIDAY (Working Day)
    (Working day: May 1st)

    ESCIP 1 – 2 – 4

    Campus closed from Friday 29 April 2011 (evening) to
    Monday 2 May 2011 (morning)

    "PROFESSIONAL" INTERNSHIP

    ESCIP 4

    From Monday 09 May 2011 (for 18 weeks minimum)

    PUBLIC HOLIDAY (Victory 1945)
    (Victory 1945: May 8th)
    PUBLIC HOLIDAY (Ascent)
    (Ascent: June 2nd)
    PUBLIC HOLIDAY (Whitsun)
    (Whitsun: June 12th and 13th)

    ESCIP 1 - 2

    Campus closed from Friday 6 May 2011 (evening) to
    Monday 9 May 2011 (morning)
    Campus closed from Wednesday 1 June 2011 (evening) to
    Monday 6 June 2011 (morning)
    Campus closed from Friday 10 June 2011 (evening) to
    Tuesday 14 June 2011 (morning)

    END OF SEMESTER 2
    END OF SEMESTER 4

    ESCIP 1 - 2

    To be defined

    "COMMERCIAL" INTERNSHIP

    ESCIP 1

    From Monday 20 June 2011 (for 5 weeks minimum)

    SUMMER HOLIDAYS
    (Assumption: August 15th)

     

    Campus closed from Friday 12 August 2011 (evening) to
    Monday 22 August 2011 (morning)
    There are different kinds of accommodation available in St Omer/Longuenesse and its surroundings. ESCIP will send you a list of available accommodation. Please note: The Escip in touch association and the International Department can accompany you to your accommodation Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:30pm. Outside these hours and during the week-end, you will have to reserve a hotel or find other arrangements by your own means.
    University residences :

    Students’ residences in Longuenesse are not run by ESCIP but by two independent organisations – PAS-DE-CALAIS HABITAT and FOYER DES JEUNES TRAVAILLEURS.
    Exchange students have to apply for accommodation through the International Office of ESCIP.  Usually, the monthly rent for a room is between 200 euros and 250 euros.

    NB: Very limited number of places


    Private housing :

    One-room or studio or apartment Prices depend on location and standard of the accommodation and are between 250 euros and 350 euros.

    You are of course free to look for your own accommodation but bear in mind that possibilities are limited.


    Host Family :

    The main object of participating in the “host family” program is to provide lodging and meals to a foreign student who intends to study at ESCIP School of International Business. In exchange the family will receive a living allowance given by the student.

     
    We recommend that you come with :

    -Bedding
    -Towels

    However, all the above can be bought relatively cheaply in supermarkets.



    Insurance :

    In all cases, it is compulsory to have insurance for your accommodation (students are required to take out insurance on arrival and to give a copy to the Escip administration).  This insurance must be taken out at the same time as the civil liability insurance.  Price:  around 50 Euros/year

    NB:

    As a student, You must often pay an initial deposit (about the equivalent of 1 month’s rent at least), even for one room or a studio flat.


    For further information contact the International Assistant:
    Aurore DELAMAËRE (aurore.delamaere@escip.fr) - Tel. +33.321.388.543 – Fax +33.321.388.521).
    Most students need 400 to 550 Euros each month to cover the basic costs of food, transportation, and housing. The amount you will need depends on the type of housing you have.

      Minimum / month Maximum / month
    Accommodation €200 / 350 €350
    Food €100 €200
    Leisure €100 €200
      €400/550 €750

    On arrival, it is compulsory to have housing insurance (» €50/year), to pay an initial deposit for your housing (at least 1or 2 month’s rent), residence permit fees (» €50) and, if you are Non European Student, you will have to obtain the French State Health insurance (» €200/year).
    How much is...?

    • A meal at a fast-food restaurant: €8
    • at a local restaurant: from €10 to €20
    • Housing insurance: €50
    • French State Health insurance (Sécurité Sociale): €200/year
    • A cinema ticket: €7.60; student rate: €4.50
    • Entrance to a museum: €6
    • A sandwich: €3
    • Coffee: €1.50
    • A baguette: €0.80 • a butter croissant: €1
    • A wheel of camembert: €1.90
    • Six eggs: €1.20
    • A litre of milk: €0.90

    • A kilo of potatoes: €1.20
    • A kilo of rice: €1.90
    • A newspaper: €1.20
    • A postage stamp: €0.60
    • Identity photos from a booth: four photos for €4
    • A telephone card for public telephone booths: 50 or 120 units for €7.50 to €15
    • A round-trip train ticket between St Omer and Paris: €45
    • A litre of unleaded petrol: €1.10
    • One night in a three-star hotel: €60
    • A microwave oven: €120-€215
    • A television: €110-€200
    • A CD player: €55-€190
    • A music CD: €20
    Currency – money

    The Euro is the national currency of 16 countries within the European Union.
    You can exchange currency at many banks. Automatic cash machines can be found in most shopping centres. In France, banks are usually open from 10:00 am to 12:00 am and from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, Tuesday through to Saturday. Banks often close earlier the day before a public holiday.

    Currency exchange can be carried out at all bank branches and Post Offices. “Bureaux de change” can also be found in large department stores, railway stations, airports and near tourist sites. Please note: although the exchange rate is fixed, commission rates are not. These must be clearly displayed.
    Credit cards are accepted in a large number of shops, hotels and restaurants. Shopkeepers often state a minimum amount required to be spent.
    The Post

    In France, mail boxes are yellow and can be found along streets and in every Post Office. Mail collection times are displayed on them. You can buy stamps at any Post Office and at any tobacconist. Postage cost varies according to the weight of your mail and its destination. All rates can be found on  www.laposte.fr. A 0.60 EUR stamp is enough for an ordinary letter within Europe.
    The French mail service is efficient: allow 24 to 48 hours for a letter sent in France to a destination in France; from France to another country, allow 1 to 5 days.
    Due to the increase in internet and e-mail use, Internet Cafés are becoming more and more commonplace and can be found in most towns throughout France. Rates may vary, but you will be charged according to the amount of time spent using the computer.
    Telephone and Fax

    All telephone numbers in France are composed of 10 digits.
    To call or fax France from abroad, dial the country code  +33, then nine digits only out of the 10 digit number (drop the first digit which is always 0). To call someone in France when in France, dial the 10 digit numbers which starts with a 0.
    From France to a foreign country: dial 00 + the country number + the number of the person you are calling. You will find all telephone cards (recharges for mobile phones, pre-paid cards for phone boxes…) available at Post Offices, tobacconist’s souvenir shops …
    All rates and country numbers are at www.francetelecom.fr

    3 main French mobile phone companies operate in France. Find out from your own operator which French network to choose so that you can use your mobile phone in France.
    Health

    In case of emergency, you may call:

    • SAMU (medical emergencies): dial 15
    • Police emergencies: dial 17
    • First Service emergencies: dial 18
    • European emergency line: dial 112

    There are a variety of medical services available to you in France. Consultations and examinations by G.P.s, specialists, dentists etc., as well as emergency room facilities, will be provided at any hospital or health center. You can also make an appointment for surgery, or have a doctor visit you at home. There is always a doctor on call, but please be aware that home visits and consultations on Sundays and public holidays are always more expensive. In case of emergency, to find out the addresses and telephone numbers of local doctors, ask at the police station or dial 15 (SAMU).
    There is a wide network of pharmacies in most towns. Although their hours of business are usually the same for stores (9:00 am to 7 or 8:00 pm), there is always a pharmacy open at night, on Sundays and on public holidays.
    Certain medications may require a prescription, while others may be bought over the counter. The pharmacist will provide you with the necessary information, and will be able to advise you accordingly.
    If you are a citizen of a country belonging to the European Union, you can be refunded for your medical costs on your return. Make sure that you are in possession of your European health insurance policy.

    departement.international@escip.fr

    ESCIP School of International Business
    La Malassise - BP 60039
    F - 62967 LONGUENESSE CEDEX

    PHONE

    FAX

    WEB ADDRESS

    +33.321.388.523

    +33.321.388.521

    www.escip.fr
    French government grants for international students in France

    The French government funds approximately 22,000 students each year. Most of the aid is administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    The Ministry's programs are of two types :

    1 - Scholarship funds made available under bilateral assistance programs between France and foreign governments or under an annual scholarship program. Areas of study are identified in each agreement and generally correspond to the needs expressed by the foreign partner. Many grants are jointly financed. More than 80 percent of French government scholarships fall into this category.

    Scholarship information may be obtained from the cultural service of the French embassy in your country, or from the nearest French consulate.

    2 - Scholarships for excellence. Scholarship programs have been set up to enable French institutions of higher education to attract the finest international students and, through them, to develop interuniversity cooperation.

    Get more information on two such programs:Programme Eiffel and Programme Major (French only).
    The French Ministry of Education offers occasional grants to international students, subject to the availability of funds.  (French only) The best source of information on any of these programs is the cultural service of the French embassyin your country.

    ESCIP in Touch is an association run by our students to help welcome international students to our school and way of life. They are in contact from the moment you agree to come to ESCIP to when you leave at the end of your stay and will help you with everything from opening a bank account to finding the best restaurant and bars in town,....!

    “Hello everybody,

    We are a team of students keen to create an association focused on International students coming to study at ESCIP.
    Each of us has already had a year’s experience abroad, so we know what is like to live in a foreign country. That is why it is important for us to create this association in order that the international students get a hearty welcome and leave with good memories.
    The association email address is escipintouch@escip.fr. Do not hesitate to contact us.
    We have created a blog. It will be the permanent link between you and the association. You will be able to see pictures, articles about our school and our team. You can give the link to your family and friends so that they can follow your experience in France: http://escipintouch.canalblog.com.
    We also just created a forum. Do not forget this url: http://escip.chocoforum.com.
    It will be the best place to speak about everything you like and to know everything about school, parties…
    We will do everything we can to ensure that you spend a pleasant stay in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region by offering you our true welcome, theme party, visits and many other surprises!”

    Your ESCIP in Touch team

    “.... experiences in ESCIP, in France will be the treasure that I'll appreciate all my life. I still remember the first day I came here, Mr M... received us at the train station which made us feel so good. It was kind of feeling that we were not alone in this country any more. Also because of this, the first moment I saw ESCIP, it just looks like a home,which is comfortable… At that time, I was sure that I would learn a lot later and it's true. I know a lot of new friends from different countries, we talk a lot, and I began to know how to respect different cultures and learnt lots of things that I had never heard before. It was so great.
    Another thing which I learn a lot is the way of teaching here. Students are
    more active; we did the group work and lots of presentations that helped me a lot. Now I am not afraid of speaking in front of people any more, I became more confident and independent.
    I am proud of being here and really I want to say thank you to ESCIP!”


    FAN Y., China

    I arrived in France, early September in order to get my double degree in ESCIP School of International Business.(...)About my experience here, where the culture, the language and weather are so different to my country is a great opportunity to open my mind and discover another world.
    Here, in this small town, I have everything that I need next to my student’s apartment, also the people here in the north of France are kind and always I find somebody ready to help me.(...) The life is not so expensive and with the train you can go everywhere.(...) ...but the most important for me, was to know people from different countries like Mexico, Lithuania, France, Spain, Italy, Canada, Germany, China, etc. So, now I can say, that I stayed  in a small town in France, but I knew a lot of other cultures too, a lot of friends of different nationalities,  and now the world is not so big as I thought.


    Pablo U., Chili
    Accommodation :


    How much does accommodation generally cost?
    Room in the halls of residence costs between €200 and €250 per month. Private accommodation in the town, rented directly from the landlord/landlady or through an estate agency costs between €200 and €260 for a furnished room, and between €250 and €300 per month for a small flat or studio room.

    Do I have to take out insurance?
    Yes, you must take out an insurance policy to cover fire, theft, flood damage, broken windows etc. The owner/hall of residence will require written proof of the policy.

    How far is it to the school?
    The hall of residence is just 15 minutes walking distance from the school. Accommodation in the town centre is about 30 minutes away on foot. Check out the address in specialised web site like www.mappy.fr

    When is the accommodation available?
    When you book your accommodation, indicate your expected date of arrival. You can then move in as soon as you arrive. In the event of a change of date, please inform ESCIP beforehand.

    Is the accommodation private or shared?
    You can choose. Some rooms are private, but some accommodation may be shared with other students (private room with kitchen and bathroom shared with 1 or 2 other students).

    Is the accommodation furnished?
    In general, yes. The bedroom has a bed, a desk, a chair, a cupboard, and a bedside table, and the kitchen has a table, chairs, refrigerator, electric hotplates, sink, and a storage unit. You should bring your own bed linen, kitchen utensils etc. but you can also rent these from ESCIP.

    What facilities are available at the student residence?
    There is a pay-as-you-go laundry service with washing machine, dryer and iron. The fitness centre and TV lounge are free of charge.

    Do the halls of residence have Internet connection?
    Some of the residences do. You pay a little extra for the connection.

    Do I have to pay when I reserve?
    If you book accommodation through an estate agency or a private landlord, you must sign a lease and return it as soon as possible, together with by a down-payment as guarantee (in general, the guarantee is equal to one and a half months rent). If you wish to book accommodation in the hall of residence, you sign the lease after filling in the application form and pay the guarantee when you arrive in France.

    How do I pay the rent?
    For the hall of residence, you can pay by money order or bank transfer. For private accommodation, you can pay by cheque or bank transfer.

    Do I have to leave the accommodation as soon as the courses are finished?
    It is up to you to decide when you want to leave (please indicate this on your application form). You just need to warn the owner or the estate agents from one and a half to 3 months before your departure date or you will have to pay extra charge.


    Course/Internship

    When do I have to register with ESCIP?
    The deadline for the 1st semester (September - December) is 4th of June. The deadline for the 2nd semester (February - May or February - June) is 15th January. Please check our calendar for more details.

    When do the courses at ESCIP start?
    The 1st semester begins in the beginning of September so you should arrive during the first week of September. The 2nd semester begins at the beginning of January, so you need to arrive during the first weekend of January. Please check out the calendar we will send you.

    Do I have to pay extra to take part in the French Language courses and the intensive French courses?
    No, these courses are entirely free.

    When do I have to register for the courses?
    You first decide on the course you want to join when you register at Escip, and you confirm your choice when you arrive at the school (with the help of the International Department).

    Which documents do I need to enrol?
    4 photographs (passport format), a copy of your passport, proof of sufficient financial resources (bank document attesting to the solvency of the student or their guarantor), certificate from the home institution, personal liability insurance certificate (for medical expenses, hospitalization, repatriation), birth certificate, language diploma (TOEFL for example).

    How do I know that my registration has been accepted?
    ESCIP will send you a letter of acceptance enabling you to apply for the study permit.

    Is the internship compulsory ? How is it organized?

    Your home institution decides whether the internship is compulsory or not. A list of companies offering work placements is available to the students at ESCIP. Students can also consult the Kompass company directory.


    Administrative documents

    Do I have to take out insurance?

    • European Union Students:

    You are exempt from French State medical Insurance if you provide us a copy or certificate of:

    • Your European Health Insurance policy duly completed.
    • Non European-Union Students:

    You MUST provide a copy or certificate of your insurance policy (in French, English or Spanish) proving at least.

    • that you have health insurance for the period before cover by the French State medical Insurance begins in October
    • that you are fully covered in the event of repatriation during the period of studies

    In any case, you will HAVE TO take out French State medical insurance.

    Do I need a visa ?
    You should contact the French Consulate in your country for more information about the formalities necessary to obtain a study permit and resident visa (for a stay over 3 months).

    Do I need to open a bank account in France ?
    We recommend that you open a bank account as soon as you arrive to facilitate your stay. Opening a bank account will enable you to have a cheque-book and bank card (for payment and withdrawals).


    Miscellaneous

    What will happen when I arrive in France ?
    As soon as you inform ESCIP’s International Department of the date and time of your arrival at Saint-Omer, a group of our French students will be there to welcome you and to take you to your accommodation on Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:30pm. Outside these hours and during the week-end, you will have to reserve a hotel or find other arrangements by your own means.

    Can I rent equipment? A limited number of bicycles can be rented at a reasonable rate, as well as crockery, kitchen utensils, and bed linen.