Groupe des Ecoles des Mines - Money

The Euro (€) is the currency in France as for the rest of the European Union (except for the UK, Denmark and Sweden). Its rate is close to that of the US Dollar. Traveling from one country to another is simplified thanks to this and it is easier to compare prices.

Following is the list of coins and bills that are currently in circulation in France :

"Copper" coins: 1 cent, 2 cents, 5 cents.
"Golden" coins: 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents.
Bi-color coins: €1, €2.
Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500.

The Banque de France website gives all of the necessary information concerning this question.
http://www.banque-france.fr

On arrival you should open a bank account. Your GEM school will advise you on the procedure. Opening a bank account is generally free of charge.

It is not recommended to have a job during your studies at a GEM school unlike in US universities. The classes and homework take up a lot of your time and leave little time for part-time jobs. However, for students who do seek to complete there income with small jobs during their studies (baby-sitting, language lessons, temping, etc.), french labor legislation is specific.

For details consult:
http://www.egide.asso.fr/uk/vivre/uk.travailler/