
Universities and programs
How to Choose the Right University
A practical way to evaluate universities against your goals, rather than a list of famous names.
8 min read
Read guideFrance offers a broad higher-education landscape across universities, grandes écoles and specialised institutions, with programmes available in both French and English.
Understand the destination, study options and student life.
France can suit students interested in European higher education, a broad academic system and programmes delivered in French or English.
France includes universities, grandes écoles and specialised institutions, creating different routes for academic and professional study.
Many programmes are delivered in French, while an increasing number of postgraduate programmes are available in English.
Paris and other French cities offer different combinations of academic institutions, lifestyle, transport and cost.
France has established institutions and programmes across business, engineering, sciences, arts, humanities and other disciplines.
Admission requirements vary by institution and course, so students should check the specific requirements of their chosen programme before applying.
Tuition arrangements vary between public and private institutions, programmes and student categories. The figures below are broad planning estimates.
| Study programme | Average annual tuition fees |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree | €3,000.00–€20,000.00 / year |
| Master's degree | €3,000.00–€20,000.00 / year |
| Doctoral degree | €3,000.00–€20,000.00 / year |
Figures are broad planning estimates. Actual fees vary by institution, programme and applicable student category.
Living costs depend strongly on the city and accommodation. Paris is generally more expensive than many other French student cities.
| Expense | Approximate monthly cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation and utilities | €480.00–€900.00 / month |
| Food and housekeeping | €160.00–€300.00 / month |
| Transport and personal expenses | €160.00–€300.00 / month |
All figures are indicative planning estimates, not quotations.
French institutions and external organisations provide scholarship opportunities for eligible international students. Eligibility and funding arrangements vary.
| Scholarship | Details |
|---|---|
| Eiffel Excellence Scholarship | A French government scholarship programme supporting eligible international students at participating institutions and study levels. |
| University Scholarships | French universities and institutions may offer scholarships or fee-support opportunities for eligible international students. |
| Research Funding | Research students may find funding through institutions, laboratories and external research programmes. |
France offers international students opportunities to develop practical experience through permitted student work, internships and graduate opportunities. Universities and institutions may also provide career services.
France has established sectors across technology, engineering, luxury goods, tourism, finance, healthcare and research. Work permissions and post-study options depend on applicable immigration rules, which can change, so students should check current official guidance.
International students generally need the appropriate French visa or residence permission to study. The process involves admission to an eligible institution and preparation of the required identity, financial and supporting documents.
French visa and immigration requirements can change, so students should always check the latest official French government guidance before submitting an application.
France offers a diverse higher-education system, major academic cities and programmes in French and English. Suitability depends on your programme, language, budget and location.
September is generally the main intake, although some programmes have different calendars or additional starts.
Costs vary by institution, programme, student category and city. Public and private institutions can have significantly different fee structures.
International students generally need the appropriate French visa or residence permission. Requirements depend on the programme and individual circumstances.
Yes. Government programmes, universities and research organisations provide different scholarship opportunities subject to eligibility.
Compare the programme, language, admission requirements, tuition, location, accommodation costs and academic environment.
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Universities and programs
A practical way to evaluate universities against your goals, rather than a list of famous names.
8 min read
Read guide
Scholarships and funding
Tuition is only part of the picture. Use this guide to think through living costs, funding and planning.
6 min read
Read guide
Applications
Documents, tests, timelines and the practical things to gather before you apply.
5 min read
Read guide