Starting a new academic year is an exciting time, especially when you have just arrived in France. This guide brings together the key information you will need to settle in and begin your studies at Rennes 2 University with confidence.
If you haven't yet prepared your arrival, please consult our Preparing Your Arrival guide for information on accommodation, health insurance, residence permits, banking and life in Rennes.
Pré-rentrée Orientation Week
Taking place from 1 - 4 September 2026, the programme includes a series of information sessions introducing you to the organisation of your studies, the courses you will be taking, and all the essential administrative information you will need throughout the academic year. During Orientation Week, you will:
- meet your academic department;
- discover your campus;
- learn how your programme is organised;
- receive practical information about your studies;
- meet other students;
- discover the many services available to support you throughout your time at Rennes 2.
Attendance is mandatory for all students enrolled in a full degree program.
Find out more about this week here (available in French).
Welcome Week for Exchange Students
If you are joining Rennes 2 through an exchange programme, you will take part in a specific Welcome Week from 1 - 4 September organized by the International Office.
This programme is designed specifically for exchange students and includes:
- practical information sessions;
- campus tours;
- administrative support;
- opportunities to meet other international and French students;
- cultural and social activities.
Please note that attendance is compulsory for exchange students.
Are you an exchange student and have questions prior to your arrival? Find a list of contacts for our International Office here.
International Students' Day #13
To celebrate the new academic year, the International Mobility Centre (CMI) is hosting its 13th edition of International Students' Day — a great event for all new international students – on Thursday, September 3rd.
What to Expect:
- Welcome Pack
- Info sessions: “What is the CMI and how can it help me during my stay in Rennes?”
- Partners Forum: Meet organizations like CROUS, CAF, CPAM, university services, and cultural and transport partners
- Guided tours of Rennes' historic city center
- Chill zone, outdoor games, photo booth, refreshments
- Booking of shows and day trips
No registration needed
See more information on the International Students' Day #13 page of the CMI website.
Your First Academic Steps
Once your administrative enrolment has been validated, you will also need to complete your course registration (known in France as inscription pédagogique).
This step allows you to:
- choose optional courses (where applicable);
- finalise your semester timetable;
- complete your academic registration.
Specific registration periods vary depending on your programme.
Support Throughout Your Studies
Studying abroad comes with new challenges, but you won't be facing them alone.
Rennes 2 offers a wide range of support services, including:
- International Office
- Student Health Service
- Disability Support Service (Relais Handicap)
- University Libraries
- Academic Support Services
Careers and Employability Services
These services are here to help you succeed academically and make the most of your university experience.
Looking for more help as an international student?
Student Life Office (Service Vie Étudiante – SVE)
The Student Life Office (SVE) supports students throughout their university experience by promoting well-being, inclusion, and campus life. It provides guidance on student support services, health and social initiatives, student employment opportunities, and participatory projects. The SVE also organises events and works closely with partners such as the CROUS to help students make the most of university life both on and off campus.
The International Mobility Centre
If you are an international student coming to Rennes as part of an exchange or degree programme, the Centre de Mobilité Internationale (CMI) can support you with practical and administrative procedures, including residence permits, health insurance, and settling into life in France. Rennes 2 University is a member-institution of the CMI and as such students can contact them for any additional questions they may have. They also publish a welcome guide for international students.
- CMI website: https://cmi.univ-rennes.fr/en
Life outside of the classroom
University life at Rennes 2 extends far beyond the classroom.
Take advantage of:
- over 90 student associations;
- several sports activities;
- concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events;
- volunteering opportunities;
- language exchange activities;
- campus events throughout the year.
Getting involved is one of the best ways to meet new people, improve your French and feel at home in Rennes. Get familiar with the campus life offering by attending our Campus Week Festivities. Save the dates:
- Campus Week: 8 and 9 September on the Villejean Campus
- Campus Day: 10 September on the Mazier campus
- Cultural Season Launch: 10 September at Le Tambour (Villejean Campus)
Student Guides & Campus Maps
Download your campus-specific student guide (in French):
Find out everything you need to know about health, housing, academics, and daily life.
