France has a healthcare system renowned for its excellence and the quality of its medical care. Thanks to social security, available free of charge to everyone regardless of age or nationality, and supplemented by affordable private top-up insurance, international students have near-free access to standard medical care and emergency surgery.
French Social Security (CPAM – AMELI)
- Mandatory and free registration for all international students
- Exception: European students with a European Health Insurance Card (to be requested before departure)
- Reimbursement: 70% of medical expenses, 35 to 65% of prescribed medications
- Registration is possible as soon as you receive your enrolment certificate, without waiting for a residence permit or bank account
Supplementary Health Insurance (mutuelles)
- Not mandatory but strongly recommended
- Cost: €15/month (standard plan) to €40/month (premium plan)
- Covers the remaining costs not reimbursed by CPAM
- Free alternative: Complémentaire Santé Solidaire (CSS) if annual income is under €9,000
How Healthcare is organised
- GP (general practitioner): must be declared to optimise reimbursements (appointments via Doctolib or Keldoc)
- Pharmacist: advice for minor issues and over-the-counter medications
- SOS Médecins: medical emergencies outside of opening hours (dial 36 24)
- Specialists: referral through your GP is required, except for gynaecologists, ophthalmologists, and dentists
- Hospital A&E: for serious accidents only
University Preventive Medicine and Health Service (SUMPPS)
The SUMPPS (Service Universitaire De Médecine Préventive Et De Promotion De La Santé) is a prevention service, not a treatment centre, though it can respond to emergencies. Its main goal is to support students in achieving academic success, both physically and mentally. All visits and consultations are free, confidential, and subject to medical confidentiality. The service is open to all students of the University of the Antilles.
Emergency Numbers
- Police: 17 (to report an offence)
- Fire Department: 18 (danger or accident)
- SAMU (ambulance): 15 (medical emergency)
Health & Environment
Mosquitoes thrive in the warm, humid climate of the Antilles. While most bites simply cause itching, some can transmit diseases similar to flu-like illnesses and may require prompt medical attention.
Tip: It is best to protect yourself from insects using locally purchased products, as they are better suited to the local environment.
Access to water
Guadeloupe is experiencing a significant water crisis that visitors are rarely informed about before arrival. Scheduled water cuts are a daily reality: 3 to 4 days a week, the water supply is cut off from 6pm to 6am, or from noon until the following morning. Many homes are now fitted with storage tanks to compensate during these cuts, but it is important to check for one before renting. If no tank is present, plan ahead and store tap water in advance.
For drinking water, bottled water is still recommended.
SMGEAG, the company managing the water network, publishes a weekly schedule of planned cuts for each area of the island.
Martinique does not face these recurring water distribution issues.
Natural Risks
The islands, as beautiful as they are, lie in a region frequently affected by climate and seismic events that require vigilance and awareness. Specific information sessions will be organised during the start-of-year welcome weeks to inform you of these risks and the appropriate responses.