French Students are ditching the US for Canada - Here's the Tea 🇨🇦💅

The Deets

Okay, so peep this: Canada is straight-up winning when it comes to attracting French students. The numbers don't lie - we're talking a fivefold increase in the last 20 years, reaching 23,850 in 2023! That's a whole lotta croissants and maple syrup, fam. They're the fifth most repped nationality in Canada. But why the sudden glow-up for the Great White North?

Well, according to the students themselves, Canada has that "kind and peaceful" vibe that the US just isn't giving. Plus, they're saying the French education system is kinda rigid and hierarchical - Canada offers a more chill and vocational vibe, easier access to funding and tuition discounts. Canada's whole model of society, ya know, openness and inclusion, is also a major draw. It's giving 'good vibes only'.

But it's not just about the classroom, okay? These students are also looking for a personal glow-up. They wanna explore the world, level up their English, and just generally expand their horizons. And it looks like most of them are feeling the social vibe. Finding their cliques, making friends with other internationals and locals, and praising the country's openness to LGBTQ+ and racialized people. They’re getting involved in campus activities, which is pretty bussin'.

And when they're done with the books? Big career ops, apparently! Internships, specialized courses, and student jobs are giving them a sneak peek into the Canadian work scene and helping them build their networks. And get this: even though a minority originally planned to stay long-term, over half end up sticking around after graduation! They're vibing with the Canadian culture, lifestyle, and those higher salaries! Some are even thinking about a potential return to France, but for now, Canada's where it's at.

The Canadian government is all in on this, BTW. They're actively encouraging universities to welcome more French students. It's part of their strategy to boost French-speaking immigration. Smart move, tbh. This has lead to some concerns of Brain Drain. But Canada doesn't think so. It's just global mobility.

But wait, there's more... Museums in France you can't miss!

In France, the following museums are a must-see:

Musée du Louvre (Paris): Art galore. Book ahead, trust. Also, check out the family-friendly studio in the Richelieu wing.

Musée International de la Parfumerie (Provence): All things perfume. This museum features three millennia of perfume history, interactive displays, and even a fragrant garden.

Carrière Wellington (Arras): Wanna check out a WWI-era network of quarry tunnels? Tours available, but be warned: it's cold and damp AF.

Musée National de Préhistoire (Dordogne): Prehistoric artifacts from UNESCO World Heritage sites. Makes visiting Lascaux II and IV (reproductions of cave paintings) way more meaningful.

Musée Narbo Via (Narbonne): Roman artifacts on display, including a "Stone Wall." You can also access L’Horreum and Amphoralis with a joint ticket. Total W.

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon (Dijon): Located in the Palais des Ducs. Includes the Tombs of the Dukes of Burgundy. If that's not epic, idk what is.

Musée des Confluences (Lyon): Science and humanities museum at the meeting point of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Thematic exhibitions = always something new.

Musée de l'Histoire de l'Immigration (Paris): Immigration history in France. Learn about migrants' experiences and their impact. Super important stuff.

The Centre Pompidou (Paris and Metz): Modern and contemporary art vibes. Paris location is closing for renos in 2025, so hit up Centre Pompidou-Metz instead.

Musée des Arts et Métiers (Paris): Inventions and industrial design in a former royal priory. For all you STEM nerds. (jk, love you).

Musée Picasso (Antibes): Picasso's studio in the Château Grimaldi. See his works, photos, and ceramics. Also, Musée National Picasso-Paris is a thing.

Musée Dunkerque 1940 (Dunkirk): Traces events of Opération Dynamo during WWII. Military uniforms and original vehicles on display. History buffs, this is your spot.

Musée Christian Dior (Normandy): Childhood home of Christian Dior. Open April to November.

So, yeah, French students are choosing Canada, and France has amazing museums. The more you know! ✨