French student admin isn't a checklist. It's a chain.
Do CAF before social security and it fails. Skip the bank account and nothing works. Answer three questions and we'll map the right order for your situation — with a live deadline for your titre de séjour.
The standard order of operations
- 01
Open a French bank account
You need a RIB for almost everything else — CAF, phone, rent.
Read the guide → - 02
Get a French phone number
Required for official portals, 2FA on government sites, and most appointments.
Read the guide → - 03
Register for social security (Ameli)
Free for students. Needed for healthcare and as a quiet prerequisite for CAF.
Read the guide → - 04
Validate your titre de séjour
Non-EU only. A strict window after you arrive — missing it risks your right to stay.
Read the guide → - 05
Apply for CAF housing aid
Often €100–200/month you're entitled to. Only works once bank + social security are done.
Read the guide → - 06
Sort a guarantor for your lease
Landlords want a French guarantor most internationals don't have. Visale can stand in.
Read the guide →
Get deadline reminders
We’re building saved roadmaps and reminders before each step. Join the list — one email when it’s ready.
You’re on the list — we’ll be in touch.
Guidance only, not legal advice. Official rules and deadlines change — always confirm on service-public.fr, the ANEF portal, and your préfecture's site.