Details

• France
• BaWiSo-23
• Undergraduate
• SoSe 2026
• Time spent at the partner university: 4 months

1. Preparation

My decision to come to Paris was driven by a genuine fascination with the city itself - its stunning architecture, the vibrant mix of people and cultures, and of course its legendary nightlife. Paris felt like a place where there was always something new to discover, and that energy was exactly what I was looking for in an exchange experience.

2. Accommodation

Start your search early - ideally two to three months before your arrival. Paris fills up fast, and last-minute bookings tend to be significantly more expensive. In terms of location, I would recommend looking at the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 8th, 9th, or 15th arrondissement. These areas give you easy access to the city and let you truly experience Paris day to day. I would advise against staying near the IESEG campus itself, as you would miss out on much of what makes the city so special. One more practical tip: pack stylish clothes - Paris is an incredibly fashion-conscious city, and you will feel the difference

3. Academic life at host university

The academic experience at IESEG was unfortunately marked by a notable lack of organization. Administrative processes are frequently mishandled, and because many exchange students' grades do not count toward their home university's transcript, a number of teachers seem largely indifferent to the quality of their teaching. This creates an environment where academic standards can feel inconsistent and, at times, frustrating. The campus itself is pleasant, but keep in mind that food options on-site are very limited - you will need to head to the nearest shopping mall for a proper meal. The staff in the upstairs office, while approachable, are often not adequately trained to assist with many of the administrative tasks exchange students typically need help with, so be prepared to be patient or to seek answers elsewhere. That said, not all courses were a disappointment. If you have the opportunity, I would strongly recommend enrolling in Sales Optimization, Data Analytics for Business, and Entrepreneurial Decision-Making - these stood out as genuinely well-structured and rewarding courses in terms of both fairness and what you actually take away from them. Compared to WU Vienna, the overall teaching style feels less rigorous and structured, so adjust your expectations accordingly and focus on making the most of the courses that do deliver.

5. Every day life in the host country

Paris is generally a safe city, though as with any major metropolis, your experience will depend a lot on where you are based. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid openly displaying valuables like watches or your phone, as pickpocketing can occur. Getting around the city, the metro is convenient but can add up in cost - whenever possible, opting for a bike is a cheaper and often more enjoyable way to explore the city. In terms of sports and fitness, Paris has a lot to offer: gyms are plentiful and of good quality, so staying active is easy. The social scene is one of Paris's strongest suits. There is always something going on, from events to parties, and the nightlife is genuinely excellent. One important tip for going out: dress well. Many clubs and bars in Paris have a strict door policy and will only let you in if your outfit meets a certain standard, so put some effort into your look before heading out.

6. Testimonial

My semester in Paris was defined by the people I met and the unexpected moments that came with it - wild interactions and stories I will not forget anytime soon. Discovering the city's hidden gems and secret spots made every week feel like a new adventure. What stood out most was the open-mindedness of the people around me, which made it easy to connect and feel at home in a city as big and vibrant as Paris.