France is globally renowned for its excellent education system. With top-tier schools and universities that are notably more affordable than those in other countries with prestigious educational offerings, France is an attractive choice for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
France embraces its multicultural identity by welcoming students from across the globe. While fluency in French was once a requirement for studying in the country, many schools now offer programs exclusively taught in English. This shift promotes a diverse and inclusive learning atmosphere, fostering the exchange of ideas and enhancing intercultural understanding. International students can expand their perspectives and cultivate essential skills needed in today's interconnected world.
Furthermore, France provides a diverse list of scholarships and financial aid options for international students, thereby increasing accessibility to higher education. These support initiatives not only attract talented individuals globally but also enhance diversity within French educational institutions.
Lastly, diplomas earned in France hold international recognition, providing graduates with career opportunities worldwide. Employers highly regard the skills and knowledge gained from the French education system, positioning graduates favorably in the global job market.
Visas and entry requirements for foreign students in France
Citizens of the European Union (EU), Switzerland, Monaco, Andorra, and the European Economic Area (EEA) can enroll in French universities and faculties without needing to apply for a visa.
Non-EU nationals must apply for a student visa in their home country before traveling to France if their course of study exceeds 3 months in duration. For detailed information about the visa application process, refer to another article specifically focused on visas for France.
As a general rule, students wishing to enroll in a French higher education institution must have a foreign secondary school certificate or diploma.
While most French students apply with their French baccalauréat results, international students who have pursued other educational paths, such as the UK A-Level system, can also apply directly to French institutions for undergraduate studies.
Application procedures vary depending on the applicant's country of origin. Campus France offers a comprehensive overview of the specific requirements (see the "useful links" mentioned at the end of this article). Depending on the institution you wish to attend, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in spoken and written French. However, many schools, including prestigious postgraduate institutions, offer programs exclusively in English. Nonetheless, learning French is still recommended to facilitate integration.
Types of higher education institutions in France
The classification of higher education institutions in France differs somewhat from that commonly used in Anglo-Saxon countries. France prides itself on a highly competitive, merit-based education system, with private schools like École Polytechnique, École Nationale d'Administration (ENA), École Normale Supérieure (ENS), and École des Hautes Études Commerciales (HEC) symbolizing French excellence.
Together, these institutions attract France's most talented engineers, business leaders, and politicians. Graduates from these schools are highly sought after both within France and internationally. Even though the prestige and excellence of France's grandes écoles are not widely promoted globally, they can easily rival universities like Harvard or Cambridge in terms of undergraduate education.
France's Grandes Écoles are categorized into three main groups: engineering schools, business schools, and art and architecture schools. Students can choose from a wide array of universities across France for disciplines like medicine, mathematics, or law.
It's important to note that both schools and universities in France offer undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs. For those interested in business education, particularly MBAs, France stands out as a superb choice. The country hosts prestigious institutions that are more cost-effective compared to their American or British counterparts. This includes globally recognized schools like INSEAD and HEC.
Registering for higher education in France
International students can register directly with their chosen higher education institution:
- are already enrolled in a course or program at a French university;
- if they are applying for a graduate program at a university or other institution of higher education specializing in a given subject;
- in the case of enrolment following a competitive examination (this is the case, for example, with French engineering schools).
You will need to register via the Parcoursup website if you:
- have a French, European, German-French or foreign baccalaureate;
- are a citizen of the EEA or Switzerland;
- are an expatriate in France under an agreement between two universities;
- received a scholarship from the French government, an international organization, or a foreign government whose scholarships are managed by an accredited French organization;
- are stateless or a political refugee and hold an OFPRA (Office français pour les réfugiés et les apatrides) card;
- are the child of a diplomat posted to and residing in France;
- are in a preparatory class for the grandes écoles (CPGE);
- are in a higher technical section (STS);
- study at a polytechnic institution (IUT).
Language testing requirement for studying in France
Students applying through the Parcoursup website are required to take a French language test (TCF). Their written and oral proficiency will be evaluated by a Centre International d'études pédagogiques (CIEP), available at all universities. Typically scheduled in February and March, this exam's cost ranges from 60 to 160 euros, depending on the examination center and the type of TCF chosen (TCF tout public, TCF carte de résident, etc.). Exemptions are available for :
- nationals of officially French-speaking countries;
- foreign nationals from bilingual French-speaking sections (according to a list drawn up jointly by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs);
- holders of the Diplôme approfondi de langue française (DALF) and level B2 of the Diplôme d'études en langue française (DELF);
- candidates having obtained 14/20 in the written examination of the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
University fees in France
Campus France provides a complete list of tuition fees for higher education establishments.
In general, studying in France is significantly more affordable than in other countries, considering the quality of education and the opportunities it offers. However, it's important to note that postgraduate studies or attending private institutions can be more expensive.
Student cities in France
France is a country where, whatever the region, you'll find a variety of universities, faculties, and grandes écoles, all of varying degrees of prestige. However, some French cities are known as the best student cities according to criteria such as quality of life, attractiveness, employment, environment, and training. Currently, the following 10 cities are included in L'Étudiant's 2023–2024 ranking of the best student cities:
- Montpellier;
- Strasbourg;
- Rennes;
- Toulouse;
- Caen;
- Nancy;
- Orléans;
- Angers;
- Clermont-Ferrand;
- Grenoble.
Overall, this ranking features around forty cities across mainland France and its overseas territories. Rankings may change annually, making it a useful tool for selecting a city that offers both your desired specialty and a high quality of life.
About universities, faculties, and grandes écoles, we can mention the following, which are recognized worldwide and nationally as being among the best:
- Université PSL Paris-Sciences-et-Lettres;
- Sorbonne University;
- Université Paris-Saclay;
- École Normale Supérieure de Lyon;
- Le Mans University;
- Toulouse 1 Capitole University;
- University of Montpellier;
- NEOMA Business School.
Find a student job in France
Suppose you're interested in earning extra income during the school year. In that case, it's worth noting that many employers seek young individuals for part-time positions in stores, restaurants, supermarkets, institutions, and various other businesses. You're likely to find a student job that suits your preferences and schedule.
Firstly, anyone from an EU or EEA member country has the right to work in France. If you come from a non-EU country, and your stay lasts more than 3 months, your long-stay student visa will also allow you to work around 20 hours a week, or 964 hours over a year.
To find a student job in France, begin by checking with your university, as many have job listings specifically for students. Another option is to browse student job postings on France's national employment agency website, France Travail, or specialized student websites like Erasmusu, Student Job, and l'Étudiant. When applying, prepare a CV and cover letter in French. Additionally, leveraging word-of-mouth is also a common and effective method for securing a job in France.
Student life and leisure in France
Being a student in France involves preparing for your future career, but it also encompasses a range of enriching experiences. One of the most enjoyable aspects of student life is participating in leisure activities. Students can fully immerse themselves in French life and culture, taking advantage of special offers and discounts such as reduced admission to museums, cinemas, and theaters. Additionally, students benefit from discounted rates on public transportation passes throughout France.
Being a student in France involves preparing for your future career, but it also encompasses a range of enriching experiences. One of the most enjoyable aspects of student life is participating in leisure activities. Students can fully immerse themselves in French life and culture, taking advantage of special offers and discounts such as reduced admission to museums, cinemas, and theaters. Additionally, students benefit from discounted rates on public transportation passes throughout France.
Looking for a night out? Of course, studying is important, and you'll certainly be spending long hours in class, in the library, or at home revising for your exams, but going out at night with friends is also part of French student life! In every city, there are meeting places, bars, and clubs where students come together to party and have fun with friends.
Student accommodation in France
Coming to study in France also entails finding accommodation, which may be a first-time experience for some. France is well-prepared for students from around the globe, offering a wide range of accommodation options, although certain cities experience high demand. It's recommended to begin your search as early as possible to secure accommodation that fits your needs and budget.
One of the most popular types of accommodation in France is university residences, often referred to as "cité U" or student residences. These residences are affordable and offer peace of mind because they are state-managed. The Centre Régional des Œuvres Universitaires et Scolaires (CROUS) plays a key role in providing financial assistance to students, including housing support, ensuring you can secure accommodation for the entire academic year and potentially receive housing subsidies. As a foreign student, you are eligible for university residences, so rest assured that you will be well taken care of.
Each city has its own CROUS office, so you should contact the one that corresponds to your location. To apply for accommodation, visit the dedicated website: Mon logement CROUS.
If you prefer not to stay in a university residence, whether by choice, necessity, or due to availability issues in the student residences, there are other options available. You can find rental apartments, shared housing, or rooms in private homes at affordable rates for students.
Much of this accommodation is already furnished, so you can save money when you arrive. To help you in your search for individual or shared accommodation, we recommend the following websites:
They provide a very good basis for finding student accommodation. If you don't speak French, we advise you to contact the organization organizing your studies in France or your university, which can help you find your future accommodation.
Follow certain practices to protect yourself from scams. Before signing a lease, verify the property owner's identity and ensure they possess the necessary legal documents, such as a title deed or lease agreement. When making rental payments, opt for bank transfers or secure online payment platforms instead of cash or money orders.
Please note:
Don't pay any fees or deposits until you've visited the property or signed a rental contract. Be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true. Abnormally low prices can be a sign of a scam.
Useful links:
Campus France – University fees in France
French government – White registration file
French government – Green admission file
Campus France – Student benefits
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
