Our 5 tips for when you arrive in Nancy for your studies

Our 5 tips when arriving in Nancy for your studies

Have you just moved to Nancy or are you preparing for the upcoming academic year? With more than 50,000 students, representing around one in six residents, this city stands out for its vibrant atmosphere and welcoming spirit. Between its historic squares, green spaces and lively cultural scene, you will quickly discover an ideal living environment. To help you settle in successfully and approach this new chapter with peace of mind, Nemea Appart'Etud offers you a practical guide to the essential procedures and best tips.

1. Activate your Pass Stan and plan your journeys ahead

Although central Nancy is easy to explore on foot, you will quickly need to use the bus or tram depending on the location of your institution. To reach major areas such as the Artem campus or the Faculty of Science in Vandœuvre, for example, you will need to allow for a slightly longer journey from the city centre.

The Réseau Stan operates the city's bus network and the main public transport routes across the metropolitan area. It is recommended that you order your monthly or annual pass online at the end of summer to avoid queues at agencies when the academic year begins. For fans of sustainable mobility, the city has an extensive network of cycle paths. The VélOStan service allows you to rent a conventional or electric-assist bicycle at a preferential rate for students.

2. Collect your student card and Pass Culture

Once your university registration has been completed, your institution will issue you a Pass Campus card. This card brings together several essential services: it serves as your university library card and allows you to pay for meals at Crous facilities once you have activated your Izly payment account.

Also remember to find out about the schemes set up by the Métropole du Grand Nancy. They are an excellent source of advice for making the most of Nancy as a student while keeping your spending under control. The Pass Culture, in particular, offers significant discounts for attending concerts at L'Autre Canal, going to the theatre or opera, or visiting the Musée des Beaux-Arts, ideally located on Place Stanislas.

3. Find your university restaurants

Maintaining a balanced diet while sticking to a limited budget is a priority when first settling in. Nancy has numerous university restaurants run by the Crous de Lorraine. Whether your campus is located in Monbois, Stanislas, Artem or Brabois, you will find a facility nearby. A complete meal is available at the social rate of €3.30, reduced to €1 for scholarship students or students experiencing financial hardship.

If you are facing financial difficulties, solidarity-based solutions are available. AGORAé, a solidarity grocery store located on the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences campus, allows students to purchase essential goods at low prices. Managed by the Fédélor association, this space is also a place where everyone can find support and exchange with others.

4. Enjoy Place Stanislas on a budget

Place Stanislas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the city's main meeting point. It is the perfect place to sit on a terrace, admire the summer projections or marvel at the giant Christmas tree during the Saint Nicholas festivities. If you are planning to spend a weekend in Nancy to discover your future surroundings, this square is an unmissable stop.

However, prices at establishments located directly on the square can be high. For going out, head instead to the surrounding streets, which are particularly popular with the student community. Grande Rue, located in the Old Town, is home to numerous friendly bars and pubs. When it comes to food, Rue des Maréchaux, known as the "gourmet street", offers a wide range of affordable places to eat.

5. Take part in back-to-school and integration events

The first few weeks of the academic year are a great opportunity to meet people and discover student organisations. Don't miss the Nocturnes Étudiantes, a major gathering organised in the city centre by the municipality, featuring concerts, activities and information stands.

Also stay up to date with Fédélor's news. In addition to coordinating integration weekends, the federation organises the 24 heures de Stan every two years. This legendary cart race is one of the biggest student events in the region and brings together the city's different schools in a festive atmosphere.

Where should you live to succeed in your studies in Nancy?

Choosing the right accommodation is key to enjoying the best possible conditions during your studies. Choosing a student residence such as Nancy Campus provides a safe and functional living environment, highly valued by both students and their parents.

By choosing a residence such as Nemea Appart'Etud, you benefit from modern, fully equipped furnished accommodation. Located in the immediate vicinity of public transport and universities, these residences make it easy to combine personal independence with practical everyday services.

Q&A: practical questions about student life in Nancy

How much does a meal at a Resto U in Nancy cost?

The standard price for a complete meal at Crous facilities is €3.30. This price is reduced to €1 for scholarship students or students who meet social eligibility criteria.

What kind of weather can you expect in Nancy during the academic year?

Nancy has a semi-continental climate. While the transitional seasons are pleasant, winters are often cold and wet. It is advisable to have a warm coat and an umbrella ready from the start of the academic year for your daily journeys between November and March.

How can you discover Nancy over a weekend?

You can start your visit at Place Stanislas and the adjoining Parc de la Pépinière. Then explore the historic streets of the Old Town to see its medieval gates before stopping on Rue des Maréchaux to sample traditional Lorraine specialities.