Study in France

France is one of Europe's most popular study destinations, offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes across universities, grandes écoles and specialist institutions. The French higher education system follows the European Licence-Master-Doctorat (LMD) structure, making qualifications and ECTS credits easier to understand and transfer across Europe and internationally.

International students can choose from programmes in business, engineering, computer science, arts, design, fashion, hospitality, medicine, social sciences and many other disciplines. France also offers a growing selection of programmes taught fully or partly in English.

Public higher education is significantly supported by the French government. Tuition fees therefore vary considerably by institution, programme and student status, with public universities generally costing less than private institutions.

International students can explore scholarships and funding opportunities offered by the French government, universities, institutions and other organisations. Eligibility, application deadlines and funding levels vary, so students should research opportunities early and check the conditions for each scholarship.

Admission requirements depend on the university and programme. Students may need to demonstrate English or French language proficiency and, for certain programmes, complete entrance examinations or other assessments. Always check the requirements of the institution before applying.

Professional guidance can help students shortlist suitable programmes, understand admission requirements, prepare application documents and plan their visa process. Students should ensure that any advice they receive is based on current official requirements.

Education consultants can assist international students with university selection, applications, documentation, scholarships and pre-departure planning. Students should verify important admission and visa information against official university and government sources.

French higher education follows the European Licence-Master-Doctorat (LMD) structure. A Licence generally takes three years and corresponds to 180 ECTS credits. A Master normally requires two additional years and 120 ECTS credits, bringing the total to 300 ECTS. Doctoral studies generally follow a Master's degree and involve advanced research.

Students can study at public universities, grandes écoles, engineering schools, business schools, art and design institutions, architecture schools and specialist higher education institutions. Admission requirements vary according to the institution and programme.

The application process depends on the level of study, nationality, institution and programme. Students should first identify suitable courses and check their academic and language requirements.

A typical application may require academic transcripts and certificates, proof of language proficiency, a CV, statement of purpose or motivation letter, recommendation letters and a valid passport. Some programmes may also require entrance examinations, interviews, portfolios or additional documents.

International applicants should carefully check application deadlines and whether they need to complete procedures through Campus France or another official application platform.

Tuition fees in France vary according to the type of institution, programme and student's nationality or residency status. At public higher education institutions, government subsidies keep tuition comparatively moderate.

For the 2026–2027 academic year, the published registration fees at many public institutions are:

• EU/EEA/Swiss students: approximately €178 per year for Licence, €255 for Master, and €398 for Doctorate.
• Non-EU students subject to differentiated fees: €2,902 per year for Licence, €3,950 for Master, and €398 for Doctorate.

Some students are exempt from differentiated fees, and private institutions generally charge substantially higher tuition. Students should always confirm the exact fee directly with their chosen institution.

Living costs depend heavily on the city and lifestyle. Paris and other major cities generally require a higher budget than smaller student cities. Students should plan for accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance or related expenses, study materials and personal expenses.

Accommodation is usually the largest monthly expense. Students can explore university residences, private student residences, shared apartments and private rentals. It is advisable to arrange accommodation as early as possible, particularly in major cities.

Students who require a visa should complete the appropriate procedure through the official France-Visas system. Visa requirements vary according to nationality, programme and duration of stay.

Applicants should prepare their admission documents, passport, financial and accommodation documentation and any other documents requested for their specific situation. Students should check the latest requirements before submitting their application because visa procedures and documentation can change.

The official France-Visas portal should be used as the final reference for current visa requirements.

International students with the appropriate status can work part-time while studying in France. The general limit is 964 hours per year, equivalent to 60% of the normal annual working time in France. This employment is intended as supplementary income and should not be relied upon to cover all study and living expenses.

Students should check the conditions attached to their residence status before starting employment.

International students can choose from university residences, private student residences, shared apartments, homestays and private rentals. Availability and prices vary significantly by location.

Students should begin their accommodation search well before arrival. Universities and international offices can also provide guidance about local housing options. France-Visas notes that students applying for a visa may need to provide an address for their initial stay.

France welcomes students from around the world and offers a diverse higher education environment. International students can choose between universities, grandes écoles and specialist institutions, with programmes available in French and, increasingly, in English. Admission requirements, tuition fees and application procedures depend on the institution and programme.

Students should check the specific admission requirements, language requirements, application deadlines and visa requirements before applying. Campus France and the official France-Visas portal provide important information for international applicants.

Graduates may explore opportunities to continue their education, undertake research or enter professional employment in France, subject to the residence and employment rules applicable to their nationality, qualification and individual circumstances.

France also provides specific residence arrangements for certain graduates seeking employment or creating a business. Eligibility and salary or employment conditions can apply, so graduates should consult the latest information from the French administration before making plans.

France offers international students a wide choice of higher education programmes across business, engineering, technology, arts, fashion, hospitality, sciences and humanities. The country's LMD system aligns higher education with the wider European framework, while universities and grandes écoles provide different academic pathways.

Students considering France should compare universities, course content, tuition fees, living costs, language requirements, admission criteria and career opportunities before selecting a programme.