Study in France – Admission Requirements, Visa, Tuition Fees, Scholarships & FAQs
France
Study in France
France – Overview
France, officially the French Republic, is a country located primarily in Western Europe, known for its rich history, culture, and global influence. Its capital and largest city is Paris, a major global centre for art, fashion, and cuisine.
Key Facts
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Capital & Largest City | Paris |
| Official Language | French |
| Currency | Euro (€) (EUR) |
| Population (Jan. 2025 est.) | ~68.6 million |
| Total Area | 632,702.3 km² (244,287.7 sq mi) |
Geography
Metropolitan France, which has a distinct hexagonal shape, borders the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Mediterranean Sea to the southeast. Its land borders connect with Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Andorra, and Spain. The country's diverse landscape includes the flat plains in the north and west, the mountainous Pyrenees in the south, and the Alps in the east, which are home to Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak. France also comprises several overseas regions and territories across the globe, including French Guiana in South America and islands in the Caribbean and Indian Ocean.
Culture & Economy
France is a developed country with one of the world's largest economies, noted for its high- quality agriculture, aerospace industry (Airbus), and a strong focus on tourism. It is the most visited country in the world, with attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Palace of Versailles. French culture, known for its contributions to art, science, philosophy, and gastronomy, has had a profound global influence. French cuisine, including its world-famous wines and cheeses, was added to UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage in 2010.
Why Study in France?
Key Reasons to Study in France
- World-Class Education System France is home to top-ranking universities and prestigious "Grandes Écoles" (like HEC Paris, Sorbonne University, and École Polytechnique) renowned for their rigorous, research-driven programs in fields such as business, engineering, fashion, and the arts. French degrees are globally recognized and highly valued by international employers.
- Affordable Tuition Fees The French government heavily subsidizes public higher education, resulting in significantly lower tuition costs compared to the US or UK. International students at public universities can expect to pay around €2,770 annually for a Bachelor's and €3,770 for a Master's degree.
- Financial Aid & Student Benefits Students, including international ones, can access various scholarships (such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship) and government aid, including housing subsidies (CAF), which can cover a significant portion of rent.
- Career and Post-Graduation Opportunities France is a major economic power and home to many multinational corporations like Airbus, L'Oréal, and LVMH. International students are allowed to work part-time (up to 964 hours per year) during their studies. After graduating with a Master's degree, students can apply for a 2-year post-study work visa (APS) to seek employment or start a business, with pathways to permanent residency.
- Multicultural Experience and Lifestyle As the world's top tourist destination, France offers a rich cultural heritage, vibrant student cities (Paris, Lyon, Toulouse), and the famous "art de vivre" (art of living). Its central location and inclusion in the Schengen area make it an ideal base for exploring the rest of Europe.
- English-Taught Programs To accommodate international students, French institutions offer over 1,500 programs in English, especially at the Master's level, in a wide range of disciplines. While many courses are in English, daily life provides an excellent opportunity to learn or improve French, a major global business language.
Admission Requirements to Study in France
Admission requirements for studying in France generally include relevant academic qualifications, language proficiency proof, and a comprehensive application package. Specific requirements vary by institution and program level (Bachelor's, Master's, PhD).
General Requirements
- Academic Transcripts/Degrees: High school diploma/transcripts for undergraduate programs; a relevant Bachelor's degree for Master's programs, and a Master's degree for PhD programs.
-
Language Proficiency: Required in either French or English, depending on the
program's language of instruction.
- French-taught programs: Generally, require a B2 level (intermediate) in French, demonstrated by a DELF or TCF exam certificate.
- English-taught programs: Proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS (average 6.0-7.5), TOEFL, or PTE scores, is typically required. Some universities may waive this requirement if your previous education was in English.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) / Motivation Letter: A personal essay explaining your academic goals, reasons for choosing France, the specific program, and career aspirations.
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Usually two letters from professors or employers who can comment on your academic or professional abilities.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume: An updated resume detailing your educational background, work experience, and achievements.
- Identity Documents: A valid passport and passport-sized photos.
- Standardized Tests: GRE or GMAT scores may be required for specific competitive programs, such as in management or engineering.
- Proof of Financial Means: You must show proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses, generally a minimum of around €615 per month (approx. €7,380 for a year).
- Health Insurance: Proof of medical insurance is required for your stay in France.
Tuition Fee and Scholarships in France
Tuition fees for international students in French public universities for the 2025/2026 academic year are generally €2,895 annually for Bachelor's (Licence) programs and €3,941 for Master's programs. Numerous scholarships are available to help cover these costs and living expenses.
Tuition Fees for International Students
The French government heavily subsidizes higher education. While the actual cost of an education is around €10,000 per year, the government covers a large portion of this expense.
| Institution Type | Degree Level | Average Annual Fees (Non-EU Students) |
|---|---|---|
| Public Universities | Bachelor's (Licence) | ~€2,895 |
| Public Universities | Master's | ~€3,941 |
| Public Universities | Doctorate (PhD) | ~€397 (same as EU students) |
| Private Institutions & Grandes Écoles | Bachelor's/Master's | €6,000 - €30,000+ |
Note: Many public universities may choose to exempt non-EU students from the differentiated fees, charging the same low national rate as EU students (around €170-€250 per year for Bachelor's/Master's), so it is important to check the specific university's policy.
Scholarships for International Students
A wide range of scholarships are available from the French government, the European Union, and individual institutions.
| Scholarship Name | Provider | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Eiffel Excellence Scholarship | French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs | Monthly allowance (€1,200 for Master's, €2,100 for PhD as of Jan 2026), international/national transport, health insurance, and assistance in finding accommodation. |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters | European Union | Full tuition fee waiver, monthly allowance, travel, and accommodation costs (for programs involving study in at least two different countries). |
| Emile Boutmy Scholarship | Sciences Po University | Merit-based tuition grants for non-EU students (ranging from partial to full tuition waivers). |
| Charpak Scholarship Program | French Embassy in India | Tuition fee waivers, monthly stipends, and visa fee reimbursements (specific to Indian students at Bachelor's and Master's levels). |
| University-Specific Scholarships | Individual French Institutions | Many universities (e.g., Université Paris-Saclay, ENS Lyon) offer their own merit- or need-based scholarships, often including stipends and travel allowances. |
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Frequently asked questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about studying in France, including visas, admission, costs, scholarships, and post-study options.
Yes, non-EU/EEA students planning to study for more than 90 days need a long-stay student visa with a residency permit (VLS-TS). The Campus France process is the first step for this visa.
It depends on the program. Most undergraduate programs are in French and require proficiency tests like the DELF or DALF (B1/B2 level typically). Many master's and doctoral programs are taught in English, but the university may still require an English proficiency test (IELTS, TOEFL) or a language evaluation during your interview.
For a bachelor's degree, a high school diploma with good academic standing is required. For a master's, you need a relevant bachelor's degree. Specific requirements vary by institution and program.
Tuition fees at public universities for international students are relatively low compared to other countries, around €2,770 per year for a Bachelor's and €3,770 for a Master's program. Private institutions and grandes écoles (elite schools) can charge significantly more, often ranging from €3,000 to over €10,000 annually.
Living expenses vary by city. You should budget approximately €800-€1,000 per month outside of Paris, and €1,000-€1,300 per month in Paris, to cover accommodation, food, transport, and leisure.
Yes, various scholarships are available, including the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program and grants from the EU (Erasmus program), regional councils, and individual universities.
Yes, international students with a VLS-TS visa can work part-time for up to 964 hours per year (around 20 hours per week). The minimum wage is guaranteed by French law.
Yes, you can apply for a one-year, non-renewable temporary residence permit (APS) after obtaining a master's degree or higher, to look for a job or start a business. Once you secure a job, you can apply for a change of residency status.
PR options exist, and holding a master's degree from France is a strong asset. The process involves several steps and requires you to meet specific criteria, often after working in France for a certain period.
