The École des Mines de Saint-Étienne is proud to welcome students from around the world each year. Our international campus offers not only academic excellence but also a dynamic and inclusive environment, perfect for experiencing an enriching intercultural experience.
Each international student is welcomed in a spirit of conviviality and openness. You will quickly discover the school’s welcoming tradition, complete your initial administrative procedures, and experience unforgettable moments at the heart of student life, punctuated by evenings, outings, and intercultural activities.
A comprehensive and personalized welcome programme
To facilitate your arrival and integration, Mines Saint-Étienne offers a personalized welcome programme including:
- Administrative orientation
We assist you with all necessary procedures, such as registration, obtaining a residence permit, and opening a bank account. - Orientation session
Upon your arrival, an orientation session allows you to discover the campus, the city, and meet the Mines International Students (MIS) team. - Student mentoring (Buddy Program)
Each international student is paired with a Mines Saint-Étienne student, facilitating integration and creating connections from the first days.
The Mines International Students Association
The Mines International Students (MIS) association plays a central role in the integration of international students. In partnership with the Student Union (BDE), MIS offers initiatives to welcome and support you throughout your journey at Mines Saint-Étienne. In addition to contributing to the school’s international influence, MIS promotes internationalization “at home” by strengthening cultural diversity on campus.
MIS Initiatives
- Welcome and integration guide in multiple languages to guide you from your first days.
- Buddy programme: each international student is paired with a local student to facilitate their integration.
- Festive events and outings (after-work gatherings, themed parties, trips) to discover French culture and create friendships.
- Language café: a friendly space to exchange and improve language skills.
Joint Actions Between the School and MIS
To ensure a warm welcome and successful integration, the school and MIS organize several important events together:
- Welcome and integration days to familiarize you with the school and the city.
- International Mobility Forum to encourage intercultural exchanges.
Participation in the Solidarity Initiatives Forum of the Conference of Grandes Écoles, where students can meet associations and discover volunteering opportunities.
The Student Welcome Desk: Personalized Support
To facilitate your settling in, the Student Welcome Desk offers you free, tailored support for your visa formalities, as well as a varied programme of integration activities:
- Festive discovery of Saint-Étienne and its surroundings, with cultural visits and sports activities (pétanque tournaments, hikes).
- Culinary workshops and language cafés to share convivial moments.
- A rich programme in September and October, offering events dedicated to all international students.
International Students Meeting
The Association of Grandes Écoles of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region (AGERA) organizes the International Students Meeting in Lyon every October. It’s a large-scale event with 400 students from all corners of the world! Starting from Place Bellecour, Lyon becomes the city of world students for an afternoon and a festive evening.
Young Ambassadors Programme
The Young Ambassadors programme, open to international students at the École des Mines, also offers a unique opportunity to build connections with local companies around internationally focused projects. Through this programme, you can:
- Discover the regional economy and immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Collaborate with a coach to lead an international project, with the possibility of winning a Young Ambassadors Trophy for the most innovative projects.
- Meet other students and professionals, allowing you to develop your personal and professional network.
Cost of Student Living
The cost of living on our campuses in Saint-Étienne and Aix-Marseille-Provence is particularly affordable, especially compared to large cities like Paris.
- Housing: access to university residences and reduced-cost rental options.
- Transportation: the city’s public transport network facilitates your travel at a lower cost.
- Food and leisure: student rates for various activities allow you to fully enjoy local life.
Welcome to the École des Mines de Saint-Étienne!
We look forward to welcoming you to our international community and accompanying you on this unforgettable adventure, where learning, culture, and enriching encounters come together every day.
