Details

• France
• MACEMS-25
• Graduate
• SoSe 2026
• Time spent at the partner university: 4 months

1. Preparation

Connect with local/home students in order to find accommodation at more reasonable prices. Many of the proposed housing platforms, including some recommended by HEC, are significantly overpriced and often take advantage of the urgency and uncertainty exchange students face when moving abroad. In practice, it works very well to connect directly with other students who are also going on exchange and are looking to sublet or rent out their apartments temporarily.

2. Accommodation

Accommodation search experience: I found that connecting directly with local/home students was by far the most effective way to find reasonably priced accommodation. Many housing platforms, including some recommended by HEC, were extremely expensive for what they offered (compared to normal local prices). Moreover, for most places, landlords did not even respond. Type of accommodation (student residence or private housing): Private housing through a student sublet/exchange arrangement. Location, safety, and proximity to the university: Choosing a safe area with good public transport connections makes a significant difference in daily life and overall experience. I would recommend not staying on campus in order to get the full Paris experience, especially since classes are usually scheduled in blocks rather than throughout the entire day and multiple dates. Tips and advice I wish I had known beforehand: Use student networks, WhatsApp groups, and exchange communities early on, as many students rent out their apartments while they are abroad themselves.

3. Academic life at host university

HEC offers a wide range of sports classes and extracurricular activities, which are a great way to try new things and meet people. The academic culture felt different from WU Vienna, with a stronger emphasis on group work, often accounting for a large share of the final grade. Compared to my experience at WU, students appeared somewhat less academically engaged in class, but very active and involved in student clubs and campus initiatives. Regarding courses, I would especially recommend Future of Money and Luxury Management, both of which were particularly interesting and well taught.

5. Every day life in the host country

Public transport in Paris is well-connected and makes it easy to get around the city, although overall living costs, especially sports and leisure activities outside campus, are noticeably higher. However, HEC offers many free sports classes. In terms of safety, my experience was very positive, but it depends strongly on the area you live in. Paris offers an incredible variety of events, cultural activities, restaurants, and exhibitions.

6. Testimonial

My exchange in Paris was an incredibly enriching and lively experience. What made it especially memorable was meeting and connecting with people from all over the world while experiencing the diversity and energy of the city every day. I also had the opportunity to discover new sports, explore fascinating subjects, and create many beautiful memories throughout my time at HEC.