Semester in Rennes
Unique Experiences
Discover the rugged coastline of Saint-Malo
and learn about local famous privateers
Explore Mont Saint-Michel
a tidal island and UNESCO World Heritage site with breathtaking views. Hike barefoot through the wet sands, explore the medieval town, and climb to the awe-inspiring abbey at the top
Make a difference locally
as you earn credit and experience teaching at a Rennes school or volunteer at the Franco-American Institute — the last remaining bi-national institute in France
300+
HISTORICAL MONUMENTS
150+
FESTIVALS EACH YEAR, INCLUDING THE FAMOUS TRANS MUSICALES MUSIC FESTIVAL
130
DIFFERENT NATIONALITIES
Your Destination
Located just an hour and a half west of Paris by train and an hour from the sea, Rennes is known for technology and dynamic economy. The city is consistently rated as one of the best places to live in France and provides study abroad students the opportunity to learn the distinct Celtic traditions particular to this region of France. Half-timbered medieval houses in the historic center contribute to the city’s esthetic charms and contrast with more recent and modern urban architecture.
Rennes’ 60,000-strong student population gives the city a young feel, with a rich variety of cultural events. Despite its small size, Rennes has everything a big city would offer and MORE: arts, food, sports, festivals, concerts, shopping, urban life, country life, and nature.
What students like about Rennes is its human scale: the city is not too big, not too small, safe, and accessible thanks to its excellent bus and metro transport system. After a couple days in Rennes, students can navigate the city very easily and within just a few weeks, they can develop new routines and seek their soon-to-be favorite crêperies, bakeries, cafés, and boutiques! The city is well connected thanks to its conveniently located small international airport, with destinations to Amsterdam, Barcelona Berlin, Lisbon, London, Prague, and Rome – and European train station.
The Culture
Excursions & Activities
While participating in the Semester in Rennes program, you’ll have the chance to:
- Explore regional landmarks during day trips to Mont Saint Michel, Saint-Malo, Nantes, or Fougères
- Discover the secrets of winemaking and explore the subtle art of paring food through a wine-tasting experience led by expert
- Dabble in the art of pastry-making with a local chef. Make (and taste!) traditional specialties, such as sablé breton or tarte Tatin or galette and crêpes
- Experience Rennes from a new perspective while canoeing or kayaking the canal Saint Martin
Projects
Gain practical work experience in a variety of sectors by working with companies or non-profit organizations, with most opportunities conducted in French. In addition to the on-site work placement experience, students participating in an internship program have a regular classroom component, which provides academic support to their practical experience. Students applying for an internship are required to submit additional materials during the course selection process.
Volunteer opportunities
Students can give back to the host community and meet locals by:
- Leading discussion clubs at the Franco-American Institute
- Tutoring French children with their English
- Keeping company to elderly people at a retirement home
- Working at a coop on the rehabilitation of shared community gardens
Program Blogs
Sick in France : an opportunity to reflect on the healthcare system
Getting sick while studying abroad is never part of the plan, but it became an unexpected learning experience for me in France. While it was stressful in the moment, it... keep reading
Hosting Loved Ones in France
When my mom came during our winter break, we traveled together to Paris, Annecy, and Nice. It was a week full of slow mornings, long afternoons at coffee shops, and... keep reading
Première rencontre avec une personne inconnue à Rennes / My first interaction with a stranger in Rennes
«T’as pas froid ?» dit une voix venant de ma droite. «…» le temps de comprendre que quelqu’un me parle. «Me–euh moi ? Non, il fait pas trop mauvais pour... keep reading
Housing & Meals
Housing
CIEE Rennes offers a variety of housing options to ensure you are comfortable in your home away from home. From homestays to residence halls, all housing has access to services and public transportation.
- Standard Housing: Includes an individual room in the home of a French family, with or without another CIEE student. Students share meals (breakfast and dinner on weekdays; all meals on weekends) and common spaces with their hosts. Homestays are located within a 35-minute commute from CIEE Rennes.
- Select Housing: Includes a single studio with a private bathroom and kitchenette in a residence hall. Residence halls are located within a 40-minute commute from CIEE Rennes. Select housing requires an additional fee.
A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive. Non-standard housing options require an additional fee that can be found in the program Dates and Fees.
Meals
- Homestay: All meals are offered at the homestay on the weekend and students typically eat breakfast and dinner with their hosts on weekdays. Lunch can be purchased at local cafés, restaurants, and markets throughout the city.
- Residence Hall: Meals are not included.
Academics
Students will have the opportunity to take a unique mix of courses at CIEE’s partner institution, Institut Catholique de Rennes (ICR) and at CIEE Rennes. Students with advanced French language skills (minimum of 4 semesters of college-level French or equivalent) can enroll in courses in French at ICR as well.
Institut Catholique de Rennes (ICR)
Located in Bruz, approximately 8 miles south of Rennes city center, the Institut Catholique de Rennes (ICR) is situated in a modern, functional building (constructed in 2012) on the green and welcoming campus Ker Lann. Founded in 1989, ICR allows its students to have a rich student experience.
Students enjoy a rich experience with access modern amenities, including amphitheaters, a library, a computer and language lab, spacious classrooms with large windows equipped with the latest technology, and a cozy student lounge – creating an ideal environment for learning and growth. The campus is well served by public transport (bus lines to/from Rennes in 30 minutes; train to/from Rennes in 8 minutes + 10 min walk to the ICR).
Course Information
Course Information
For students who want to take classes in French: a minimum of 4 semesters of college-level French (or equivalent) or equivalent B2 level in French. Student will need to complete a language placement test post-acceptance to confirm their level and determine if additional language French courses are recommended.
Academic Projects
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Education
Languages and Cultural Studies
Visual and Performing Arts
Social Sciences
Academic Projects
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Education
Languages and Cultural Studies
Visual and Performing Arts
Social Sciences
Institut Catholique de Rennes (ICR)
Institut Catholique de Rennes (ICR) courses in English are offered by the English, Law, Business, and Administration & Management Departments. ICR courses in French are offered by the Department of Business, Administration & Management, the Department of History, the Department of Law, and the Department of Letters.
Course offerings may vary from semester to semester. Not all courses listed are offered every semester, and some courses have prerequisites. The final list of courses is made available during the course enrollment process. Courses are taught in English or French as listed are typically 1 to 1.5 U.S. credits each (2 to 3 ECTS credits).
The following list of courses constitutes a representative sample of course offerings through the Institut Catholique de Rennes (ICR) and is subject to change. Here is a sample of ICR courses:
Fall courses (in English)
- British Civilization
- British and US Governments
- British Literature
- Business Law
- Competition Law
- Contract law
- Corporate Law
- Eloquence and Leadership
- Globalization
- History of European Union
- History of Ideas
- Intellectual Property Law
- International Economics
- International Public Law
- Introduction Common Law
- Labor Law
- Marketing-Project Management
- US Foreign Policy
Spring Courses (in English)
- British Civilization
- British Literature
- Business Law
- Business Management
- Comparative Law
- Cybersecurity
- Circular Economy
- Corporate Social Responsibility
- Distribution Law
- Family law
- Geopolitics of the English-Speaking World
- Intellectual Property Law
- International Law
- International Trade Law
- Introduction to International Relations
- Introduction to Security Studies
- Irish Civilization
- History of Christian Art
- Law - Practical Cases
- Macroeconomics
- Marketing-Project Management
- Tort Law
- US Criminal Justice
- US Foreign Policy
Courses in French
- Administrative Institution
- Administrative Liability Law
- Advanced General Accounting
- Ancient Greek
- Ancient History
- Applied Mathematics and Statistics I
- Applied Mathematics and Statistics II
- Applied Mathematics and Statistics III
- Applied Mathematics and Statistics IV
- Approach to Literary Genres
- Civil Liability Law
- Classic Humanities
- Company Law
- Constitutional Law and Political Intuitions
- Contemporary General Culture
- Contemporary History
- Corporate Communication
- Criminal Procedures
- Digital Communication
- Economic Policies
- Economics
- Education Sciences
- European Institutions and Politics
- European Union Law
- Family Civil Law
- French Literature
- General Administrative Law
- General and Comparative Literature
- General Criminal Law
- General Theory of Contracts
- Geography - The Climates of The Earth
- Geography - Maghreb and Middle East
- Geography - Rural Areas
- Geography - The populations of the World
- Geography - Urban spaces
- Geography of France
- Geopolitics of Europe
- Historiography
- History of Ancient Art
- History of Christian Art (British Civilization)
- History of Contemporary Art
- History of Contemporary Economic, Political and Social Events
- History of European Construction
- History of International Relations
- History of Law and Public Institutions
- History of Medieval Art
- History of Modern Art
- History of the Press
- Information and Communication Sciences
- Institutional Communication
- International Humanitarian Law
- International Relations
- Introduction to General Accounting
- Introduction to General Public Law
- Introduction to Geopolitics 1: Doctrine and Theory
- Introduction to Humanitarian
- Introduction to International Relations
- Introduction to Journalism
- Introduction to Law
- Introduction to Macroeconomics
- Introduction to Political Sciences
- Introduction to Sociology
- Irish Civilization
- Journalism
- Journalistic Technique - Video
- Labor Economics
- Language Didactics
- Law of Obligations
- Law of Special Contracts
- Legal Methodology
- Literature Methodology
- Management Control
- Mathematics
- Medias
- Medieval History
- Microeconomics
- Modern History
- Pedagogical Practice Workshop
- Political Economy
- Political Sociology
- Principles of Criminal Procedure
- Private International Law
- Public Finances
- Public Liberties
- Risks and Societies
- Sociology of Organization
- Technique and Theory of Civil Law
- The fundamental Principles of Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure
- Urban Planning
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.
Discover Internship Opportunities
We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.
Explore Industry Options
Rennes features a diverse work scene with thriving industries like cybersecurity, agriculture, and eco-industries. Known for its cultural and creative sectors, the city offers live performances and audiovisual productions. Numerous festivals provide opportunities in communication, web marketing, and design.
Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications
Immerse yourself in today's cutting-edge global media by working in film studios, media companies, the theater, and more.
Education and Training
Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.
Hospitality and Tourism
Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.
Human Services
Deepen your knowledge of human services through social welfare work, community development, and international advocacy.
Browse Internship Opportunities
Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.
Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.
Scholarships & Grants
CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.
Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:
- Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
- MSI Grant
- Trailblazer Grant
To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Fees & Housing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Fall 2025 16 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | Fees & Housing $19,950 | |
| Program Academic year 2025-2026 37 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Spring 2026 17 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Participation Confirmation | $300 * |
| Educational Costs | $15,206 ** |
| Housing | $4,250 *** |
| Insurance | $194 |
| Visa Fees | $0 |
| Total Fees | $19,950 |
Optional Housing
CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.
| Select Housing Fee | $800 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
| Meals not included in program fee | $800 † |
| International Airfare | $1,200 †† |
| Local Transportation | $150 ††† |
| Books & Supplies | $50 |
| Visa Fees | $560 †††† |
| Potential travel to consulate for visa | $500 ††††† |
| Personal expenses | $260 †††††† |
| Total Costs | $3,520 |
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals per day on weekdays and 3 meals per day on weekends. For students in apartments, you should budget approx. $280 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.
††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
†††Bus/metro pass
††††Average cost, including regular service costs and onsite OFII fees. Please note that starting Fall 25, changes to French Visa Processing that will affect students applying for long stay visas. New fees + new visa applications service provider TLScontact
†††††If no consulate in your home area
††††††$100 emergency fund + local phone communication + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Pre-departure Advising
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Orientation
Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city
On-site Staff
Full-time program leadership and support in your city
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Travel Protection
CIEE iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Daniel Audaz
Director
Daniel Audaz has been the Director of the CIEE program in Rennes since 2008. He is originally from Marseille and studied at the University of Aix-en-Provence (France) where he obtained his M.A. in Geography and then specialized in FLE/S (Français Langue Etrangère et Seconde).
Valentina Scaccia
Program Assistant
Valentina is originally from Italy. She studied at the University of Roma where she graduated in languages and mediation in cross-cultural exchanges. Then she decided to step out of her...
Get Started
1
2
Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
3
Contact CIEE
We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
4
Interested in an optional internship?
After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with CIEE staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. CIEE will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!
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