Studying in France
Studying in France is a top choice for international students, offering prestigious universities and a rich cultural environment.
French universities are renowned in fields like humanities, engineering, art, medicine, and law. Tuition is free at state universities for French-language programs, while private universities charge fees ranging from 3,000 to 20,000 euros for English-language courses.
To study in France, applicants need to meet specific requirements and submit necessary documents. After completing studies, a study visa must be converted to a work or investment visa to stay. For more details about immigration to France, contact Malekpour Institute for a free consultation.
Advantages of Studying in France
France is one of the best countries for pursuing education. It is first essential to know why you should study in France. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of studying in France can help you make the best decision. Among the disadvantages of studying in France, one can mention the difficulty and challenges in learning the French language, and we will further discuss the advantages.
- Affordable education
- Offering courses in English
- Quality universities
- Possibility of obtaining a work visa after graduation
- Possibility of getting acquainted with different languages and cultures
- Education without providing a language certificate
Conditions for Studying in France
France, known for its beautiful environment and top-ranked universities, is a destination for many educational migrants. Generally, France is considered a low-cost country for education. The conditions for studying in France are summarized as follows:
- Minimum French language certificate with a B2 score
- English language certificate IELTS or TOEFL
- Age requirements appropriate to the level of study in France
- Financial capacity to pay fees
- Grades and GPA of previous studies
- Student insurance
| Admission Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Language of Study | English and French |
| Minimum GPA for Study | Minimum GPA of 14 or 15 |
| French Language Proficiency | Minimum French language certificate with B2 score |
| English Language Proficiency | IELTS around 6 or TOEFL 76 |
| Age Limit for Study | Maximum age for Bachelor’s: 23 years, for Master’s: 27 years |
Age Conditions for Studying in France
Although there are stringent laws regarding age conditions for studying in France and issuing educational admissions, the issue of age will arise when visa issuance is considered. The age condition for studying in France at the undergraduate level is a maximum of 23 years, and for the master’s level, it is a maximum of 27 years.
Financial Ability for a French Study Visa
For educational immigration to France, the applicant must demonstrate a certain level of financial ability. Financial ability for French Study Visa involves proving the ability to cover living and educational expenses in France. Therefore, it is necessary to have approximately 620 euros monthly in your bank account or that of your parents, and this should be verified through a bank certificate submitted to the embassy to prove sufficient financial means.
Studying at different levels of education in France
Study in France is possible at the following levels of education:
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Studying in French Schools
One of the educational levels is studying in French schools. Foreign students can study in the top universities in France in the future by studying in French schools. In the table below, you can read the complete conditions for studying in French schools:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| School Hours | 8 AM to 4 PM |
| Types of Schools | Public schools, Private schools, Religious schools, International schools |
| Age Range for Education | 6 to 16 years old |
| Top Schools in France | École Jeannine Manuel, Lycée Louis-le-Grand, The British School of Paris, International School of Paris (ISP) |
| School Fees | Public schools: Free, Private schools: €2,000 – €10,000, International schools: €10,000 – €30,000, Religious schools: €1,000 – €5,000 |
| Exams | Baccalauréat exams (le bac) or Professional Baccalauréat (le bac prof) for secondary education |
| Holidays | Two-month summer break, two to three weeks during Christmas and Easter holidays |
| Educational Levels | Primary school (école), Middle school (collège), High school (lycée), Kindergarten (écoles maternelles) |
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Studying Bachelor’s degree in France
Bachelor’s degree in France is available at various colleges and universities. To apply, you need a high school diploma or equivalent. The academic year runs from mid-September to June, with some institutions accepting applications year-round. It’s essential to plan ahead and submit your application at least two months before the course start date.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Conditions for Undergraduate Study | High school diploma or equivalent, language proficiency, and passing the entrance exam (if applicable) |
| Language Level | French language proficiency B2 or IELTS 6 |
| Age Range | Up to 23 years old |
| Duration of Study | Maximum of 4 years |
| Popular Majors | Business, Humanities and Culture, Engineering and Technology, Information Technology, Literature, Design, and Media |
| Academic Year | Mid-September to the end of June the following year |
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Master’s degree in France
The duration of a master’s degree in France is normally two years and its requirements can be seen in the table below.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration of Master’s Studies | Typically 2 years |
| Academic Year | Nine months, from September or October to May or June |
| Master’s Programs | A thesis or a developed research project |
| Language Requirements | Provide proof of French or English language proficiency |
| Tuition Fees for Master’s | €5,000 to €30,000 at private universities, public universities are almost free |
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Studying PhD in France
A PhD in France is a little different from a PhD in other countries, with an emphasis on training professional researchers. Institutions will vary in how you achieve your qualification, but you will typically need to complete several other components in addition to your thesis. You will need to conduct your research to meet the objectives of your project, which will ultimately lead to the preparation of a thesis.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration of Master’s Studies | 3 to 4 years |
| Requirements | Academic CV and proof of language proficiency related to the program |
| Research Courses | 150 hours of teaching sessions and seminars related to the project |
| Language Requirements | IELTS 6.5 or C1 level in French |
Steps to Apply for Study in France
If you’re an international student looking to study in France, the application process involves several important steps. France is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, offering a range of programs in arts, sciences, engineering, and humanities. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of applying to French universities.
1. Choose the Right University and Major
The first step to studying in France is choosing the right university and program. France has top universities offering degrees in arts, engineering, science, and humanities. Check each university’s website for admission requirements, tuition fees, and program details. Reviewing rankings and accreditation helps ensure you select a reputable institution.
2. Check Admission Requirements
Before applying, it’s crucial to check the specific admission requirements for both the university and the program you’re interested in. Requirements often include:
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Previous Academic Qualifications: For undergraduate programs, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. For master’s and doctoral programs, you’ll need a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
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GPA Requirements: Make sure you meet the minimum GPA required for your program.
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Language Proficiency: Depending on your program, you may need proficiency in French (B2 level or higher) or English (IELTS, TOEFL).
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Motivation Letter: This letter explains why you’ve chosen your program and university.
Each program and university may have its own specific set of requirements, so always check their official website.
3. Prepare and Translate Required Documents
Once you’ve reviewed the admission requirements, it’s time to prepare your application documents. Common documents required for applying to French universities include:
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Academic Qualifications: High school diploma, bachelor’s degree, or higher.
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Official Translations: All academic documents must be officially translated into French or English.
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Language Proficiency Certificates: Depending on your program, you may need a French language certificate (e.g., DELF) or an English proficiency test score (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
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Motivation Letter: Your personal statement explaining why you want to study in France and why you’ve chosen the program.
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Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed record of your academic and work history.
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Letters of Recommendation: These are typically required from your professors or previous employers.
4. Submit Your Application
Applications are typically submitted online through the university’s application system or through national platforms such as Campus France (https://www.campusfrance.org/en). Be sure to register in the system and submit your documents according to each university’s instructions. Keep in mind that application deadlines for French universities range from November to April, so make sure to apply early.
5. Wait for the Admission Decision
Once you’ve submitted your application, the university will begin reviewing your documents. This process can take several months. If you’re accepted, you will receive an acceptance letter confirming your place at the university. Some universities may also require online or in-person interviews as part of the selection process.
6. Apply for a French Student Visa
After receiving your acceptance letter, the next step is to apply for a French student visa. You’ll need to visit the French embassy or consulate in your home country to submit your visa application. Documents typically required include:
- Your passport
- Acceptance letter from the university
- Health insurance proof
- Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover your stay in France
A student visa is usually issued for one year, but it can be extended if necessary.
7. Final Registration at the University and Arrival in France
Once you arrive in France, you’ll need to visit your university for final registration. Make sure to bring all necessary documents with you. Additionally, you may be required to register with the French healthcare system and complete other necessary steps for living in France.
Free Study in France
If you want to study for free in France, you must have a French language certificate of at least B2 to be able to apply for study in French public universities. Studying in public schools and universities is almost free and students can achieve free education if they have a good level of French.
Language Certificate for Studying in France
For studying at public universities, you must have at least a B2 level French language certificate. Applicants whose first language is not English and who wish to study in English in this country must provide a certificate from an English language test (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.).
Having a language certificate and a strong resume is mandatory for studying at a French university. The minimum requirements for the English language test, including the type of test and the minimum required score, are detailed in the list below:
| Exam Type | Score |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 76 |
| TOEFL (Computer-based) | 230 |
| TOEFL (Paper-based) | 550 |
| IELTS | 6.0 |
| Cambridge Exam | C |
| Cambridge Advanced Exam | B |
Studying in France in English
Studying in France in English is possible for students who do not have a French language certificate, in which case students must present their English language certificates with the scores mentioned above. Private and international universities welcome English-speaking students.
- TOEFL
- IELTS
- Cambridge Advanced Test
Studying in France in French
As previously mentioned, if you plan to study in France in French, you must have at least a B2 level in French for the undergraduate level. Additionally, you can participate in language courses in France before applying for your main study course. After successfully completing these courses, you can take advantage of studying in France in French.
Studying in France without a Language Certificate
Studying in France without a language certificate is not possible, and students must present an appropriate language certificate prior to admission, which is either a B2 in French or an IELTS score of 6 and above, or its equivalent in TOEFL. If the applicant does not have a language certificate, they may participate in French language courses; however, providing a language certificate is mandatory for studying in this country.
Requirements for studying in France with a diploma
It is possible to continue your studies with a 12-year high school diploma in French colleges and universities. If you wish to register, you should specify your requirements in advance and submit the relevant application at least two months before the start date of your desired course of study.
One of the most important requirements for studying in France with a diploma is to provide IELTS or TOEFL scores. International students are also required to submit their passport along with several passport-sized photos. To study at any French university, you need to complete an admission application.
Scholarships in France
The general requirements for obtaining a scholarship in France for students who want to reduce their education costs are as follows:
- High grade: Most scholarships are awarded to students with an outstanding academic background.
- Language proficiency: Students must have sufficient proficiency in French or English (depending on the program). Language proficiency such as DELF or IELTS is usually required.
- Submit a strong research proposal: For graduate degrees, it is mandatory to submit a detailed research proposal based on the academic interests and needs of the desired academic program.
| Scholarship Name | Details |
|---|---|
| Eiffel Scholarship | Offered by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs for master’s and doctoral programs in political science, law, economics, management, and engineering. Covers living expenses, health insurance, and some travel expenses, but not tuition fees. |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees | Supported by the European Union. Offers international students the opportunity to study in several European countries, including France. Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel expenses. |
| CROUS Scholarship | Offered by the CROUS based on financial need. Provides financial assistance for living expenses and is available to international students with financial difficulties. |
| ENS (École Normale Supérieure) Scholarships | Available for outstanding international students in the sciences and humanities. Covers tuition fees and living allowance. |
| PSL (Paris Sciences et Lettres) Scholarships | Offered for master’s and doctoral degrees. Includes a living allowance and sometimes a tuition fee reduction. |
| Université de Lyon Scholarships | Offered for international students studying for a master’s degree. Covers tuition and living expenses. |
| Fondation de France Scholarships | Offered for talented students with special circumstances or financial need, usually at master’s and doctoral levels. Covers living expenses and sometimes tuition fees. |
| AFD (Agence Française de Développement) Scholarships | Offered to students from developing countries studying sustainable development and the environment. |
Cost of Studying in France
In the topic of studying in France, one of the most important issues is the cost of studying in France. Many students are concerned about the cost of studying, which is presented separately in the table below:
| Education Level | Public Universities | Private Universities | Schools |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | Nearly free | €3,000 to €20,000 | |
| Master’s | Nearly free | €5,000 to €30,000 | |
| Doctorate | Around €380 per year | €5,000 to €20,000 | |
| Schools (Public) | Free | Free | |
| Private Schools | €2,000 to €10,000 | ||
| International Schools | €10,000 to €30,000 |
Below, we have provided you with the tuition fees of a number of French universities, but please note that these amounts change over time and it is best to check the tuition fees on each university’s website before taking any action.
| University | Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
| Paris-Saclay University | €1,000 to €7,000 |
| University of Paris | €262 per year |
| University of Montpellier | €180 to €700 per year |
| University of Strasbourg | €184 to €610 per year |
Cost of Living in France
One of the things to consider when studying is the cost of living in France. Some scholarships cover living expenses to some extent, but without a scholarship, the applicant must also consider the cost of living in France.
These estimates help students manage their living expenses properly.
| Expense Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent and Housing | €1,200 per month in cities like Paris; €400 to €800 per month in smaller cities |
| Food and Groceries | €150 to €300 per month |
| Transportation | €30 to €40 per month |
| Health Insurance and Healthcare | Up to €50 per month |
| Internet and Phone | €20 to €50 per month |
| Total Monthly Expenses | Paris: €1,000 to €1,500; Smaller cities: €700 to €1,000 |
Work while studying in France
One way to reduce the cost of studying is to work in France. Working part-time can help students cover part of their tuition fees. Students will be allowed to work while studying in France for up to 20 hours per week.
In 2024, the minimum wage for students working part-time in France is set at €11.65 per hour. International students are allowed to work up to 964 hours per year, which is approximately 60% of a full-time job. Based on these rates, students can expect to earn around €7,900 per year. However, this is usually not enough to fully cover the costs of living and studying in France.
Dependent visa for studying in France
The applicant for immigration to France through study can also bring his spouse or children with him to France as companions, but only if he has lived in France for 18 months, has sufficient financial means and provides housing for his family. The cost of the companion visa in France is free.
The applicant must enter France after 3 months of receiving the visa and must register within two months of entering France at the local branch of the OFII (Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration) at the following website address:
Introducing the top universities in France
If you want to study in France, you need to know which French universities are among the best in the world. According to the Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings 2020, 38 French institutions are among the top universities in the world.
The ranking includes nine institutions in Paris, the best city in France, and other options scattered throughout France. Below, we will introduce the best universities in France.
| University | QS World University Ranking 2026 | QS World University Ranking 2025 | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paris Sciences et Lettres (PSL) | 28 | 24 | psl.eu |
| Sorbonne University | 72 | 63 | sorbonne-universite.fr |
| Paris-Saclay University | 70 | 73 | universite-paris-saclay.fr |
| Institut Polytechnique de Paris | 41 | 46 | ip-paris.fr |
| University of Paris (PLS) | 114 | 114 | u-paris.fr |
| École des Ponts ParisTech | 205 | 174 | ecoledesponts.fr |
| Aix-Marseille University | 428 | 481 | univ-amu.fr |
| University of Bordeaux | 494 | 535 | u-bordeaux.fr |
| École Normale Supérieure de Lyon | Not ranked | Not ranked | ens-lyon.fr |
Best Study Subjects in France
France is one of the best study destinations in the world and offers a wide range of study subjects at prestigious universities and institutions. The country is particularly renowned in some fields such as arts, humanities, engineering, medicine and management. Some of the best study subjects in France include:
- Engineering
- Management and Business
- Art and Design
- Law
- Basic Sciences
- Medicine and Dentistry
Study in Medicine in France
Study in medicine in France is a long and competitive process. Students must first enter a one-year preparatory course called PACES (Première Année Commune aux Études de Santé), at the end of which they must take a competitive exam. Only students who achieve a passing score in this exam will be allowed to continue their medical studies. Medical courses in France are usually taught in French and students must have sufficient proficiency in this language.
After passing PACES, the medical course is divided into three stages:
- Cycle 1: which includes the first three years of general medical education and training.
- Cycle 2: is a three-year course that includes clinical internship and specialized medical training.
- Cycle 3: This course includes medical specializations and final internship, which may last between 3 and 5 years depending on the chosen specialization.
Study in Dentistry in France
Dentistry education in France is similar to medicine and students must first enter the PACES course and then take a competitive exam. If students succeed in obtaining a passing score, they will enter the specialized dental course. The dental course usually lasts 6 years and is divided into three stages:
- Cycle 1: three years of initial theoretical and practical training.
- Cycle 2: two years of specialized training and internship.
- Cycle 3: one year of final training that includes research projects and internship.
Documents Required for a French Study Visa
To study in France, you must apply for a visa if you are staying for more than 90 days. You must provide proof of acceptance to study in France from your desired academic institution. Below are the documents required for a French study visa that you must submit to the embassy.
- Acceptance letter from an academic center in France
- A valid passport
- Identity documents
- A passport-sized photo
- A letter of no criminal record
- A language certificate appropriate to the course of study, which can be English or French
- Providing sufficient financial means to study in France and live in this country
- Providing medical documents for the countries mentioned above
- Health insurance of around 20 to 50 euros per month
Student Insurance in France
All foreign students studying in France must have health insurance. This requirement applies not only to citizens of EU countries, but also to students from other countries. The French public health insurance system, Sécurité Sociale, allows most students to benefit from free or very low-cost health coverage.
- Public Health Insurance (Sécurité Sociale) for Students
Students who are registered in France and are under 28 years of age can benefit from the public health insurance system. However, additional costs, such as the cost of certain medications, specialized medical examinations, or certain other services, may not be fully covered. Students can usually take out supplementary insurance at a lower cost to cover these costs.
- Supplementary Insurance (Mutuelle)
Supplementary insurance in France, known as Mutuelle, is an additional option for students to reduce medical expenses not covered by public insurance, such as dental and eye care. Supplementary insurance is optional but can take a significant financial burden off students. Various companies, such as LMDE and SMEREP, offer supplementary insurance services to students.
Post-study work opportunities in France
Non-European graduates can apply for an APS (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour), which is a temporary residence permit. It is valid for 12 months for a bachelor’s degree and 24 months for a master’s degree and is non-renewable. Graduates of a professional bachelor’s or master’s degree are required to look for work during this period and find a job that is suitable for their studies.
Best Cities to Study in France
France is one of the most popular destinations for international students due to its rich culture, prestigious universities, and advanced education system. The country has several cities with excellent educational facilities and student life. Some of the best cities in France to study in are:
- Paris: This city has internationally renowned universities such as Sorbonne University and École Normale Supérieure.
- Lyon: Claude Bernard University Lyon 1 and Université Lumière Lyon 2 are among the most important universities in the city.
- Toulouse: Université Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier is one of the best universities in Toulouse.
- Montpellier: Montpellier is one of the oldest student cities in France, home to the Université de Montpellier.
- Lille: Université de Lille is one of the most prestigious universities in the city.
- Bordeaux: Université de Bordeaux is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the city.
Obtaining citizenship after studying in France
One of the most important and fundamental questions of many applicants for studying in France is the conditions for obtaining residency after studying in France and obtaining a French passport. By studying in France, you have a good opportunity to enter the process of obtaining permanent residency in this country by converting your study residency into a work residency.
According to the general law of the European Union, if you can work in France for 5 years and pay taxes, you can become a permanent resident, and if you prove things such as no criminal record, paying taxes, learning the French language, and adapting to the culture of this country, you can apply for a French passport.
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in France
- What are the general requirements to study in France?
- To study in France, international students typically need to meet the following requirements:
- A valid passport
- Proof of previous academic qualifications (such as a high school diploma or bachelor’s degree)
- Language proficiency (French or English, depending on the program)
- Proof of financial means to support living expenses
- A valid study visa for non-EU/EEA students
- How much does it cost to study in France?
The cost of studying in France depends on the type of university and program. Public universities charge minimal tuition fees (around €200 to €700 annually), while private institutions can range from €3,000 to €20,000 per year. Additionally, living expenses in cities like Paris can range from €1,000 to €1,500 per month, while smaller cities may be less expensive.
- Can I work while studying in France?
Yes, international students can work up to 964 hours per year (20 hours per week) during their studies. This work should not interfere with academic progress, and students typically find part-time jobs in hospitality, retail, or tutoring. It is important to check specific visa regulations before starting work.
- Are there scholarships available for international students in France?
Yes, there are several scholarships available for international students, such as the Eiffel Scholarship, Erasmus Mundus, and various university-specific scholarships. These scholarships often cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs, but eligibility criteria and coverage vary. It is advisable to research specific scholarships and apply early.
Conclusion:
This article provides a comprehensive guide on studying in France, including visa requirements, living costs, scholarships, and the education system. France is an attractive destination for international students due to its low-cost public universities and rich culture. Written by the Malekpour Immigration Institute, this article aims to enhance your understanding of studying in France.
For personalized advice, we recommend consulting our experts for free. Contact Malekpour Institute today, and feel free to submit your questions and comments through the provided platform.
