Meet people and student community in Bordeaux
The networks, associations and welcome desks that turn a big city into a place where you know people.
Updated 2026-06-20
Arriving alone in Bordeaux is normal - and there is a whole network built to help you meet people. Here are the associations, welcome desks and exchanges that plug you into student life fast.
ESN: the Erasmus Student Network
ESN is the volunteer network that welcomes international students - trips, parties, buddy programmes and practical help. Your local section: ESN Bordeaux.
Your university: associations and welcome offices
Every institution has student associations (BDE) and an international/welcome office. The main institutions in Bordeaux:
- Université de Bordeaux
- Université Bordeaux Montaigne
- Sciences Po Bordeaux
- KEDGE Business School
- Bordeaux INP
Other ways to meet people
Beyond your campus, these help you build a circle in Bordeaux:
Language exchanges and tandems
A language exchange (tandem) is the easiest way to practise French and meet locals at the same time. ESN sections and university language centres run them; the Nuit des Etudiants du Monde (via CROUS) is another good entry point.
Common questions
I do not speak much French - can I still meet people in Bordeaux?
Yes. ESN and international student groups work mostly in English and exist precisely for newcomers. Language exchanges (tandems) are built for beginners, and you will pick up French fast by using it.
How do I join ESN or a student association?
Contact your local ESN section (linked above) and your university's international office during welcome week (rentree). Membership is cheap or free and gets you into trips, parties and the buddy programme.
Sources
- Agenda culture, sport et loisirs - Ville de Bordeaux · 2026-06-20
- ESN Bordeauxofficial · 2026-06-20
- Bordeaux Fête le Vin · 2026-06-20
- Fête de la Musiqueofficial · 2026-06-20
- Place de la Victoire · 2026-06-20
- Quartier Saint-Pierre · 2026-06-20
- Bibliothèque Mériadeck · 2026-06-20
- Étudier à Bordeaux - city student info page · 2026-06-20
- TBNight (TBM) · 2026-06-20
Planning your student life in Bordeaux?
Tell us your plan and your country, and we will help you with the school, the visa, housing and settling in - in plain terms. Free, no agency.