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France is one of the world's leading study destinations, with a prestigious higher education system that includes grandes écoles, research universities, and institutes of technology. Programs range from affordable public degrees to private and engineering schools. France welcomes over 400,000 international students annually.
Study Levels
Bachelor, Master, PhD, Exchange
Main Language
French; English
Tuition
Varies by institution
Living Costs
Higher in major cities
Scholarships
Available
Visa
Required for most
France operates a dual-track higher education system. Public universities (universités) are governed by the state and offer degrees at fixed national tuition rates. Grandes écoles are selective, prestigious institutions focused on engineering, business, and public administration, and typically charge higher fees. Classes préparatoires (CPGE) are competitive post-BAC programs that prepare students for selective school entrance exams.
Most international students can apply to French higher education if they hold a recognized secondary school qualification equivalent to the French BAC (for Bachelor programs) or an equivalent undergraduate degree (for Master programs). EU and non-EU applicants are subject to different tuition rates at public universities.
Eligibility varies by program and institution. This guide covers the general framework — verify your specific situation on the university's official admissions page.
| Level | Duration | Language | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor (Licence) | 3 years | French / some English | €2,770–€15,000/yr Public universities: fixed national tuition. Selective grandes écoles: higher. |
| Master | 2 years | French & English | €3,770–€20,000/yr Many programs in English. Highly competitive for leading schools. |
| PhD (Doctorat) | 3–5 years | Primarily French | €3,770/yr + supervisor Often funded through research contracts. Requires research proposal. |
| Exchange Program | 1 semester – 1 year | Varies | Home university fees usually apply Requires institutional agreement between universities. |
Tuition figures are indicative. Verify current amounts with the specific institution.
The documents required vary by program and study level. These are the most commonly requested:
Typically require DELF B2 or DALF C1. Exact requirements vary — verify on the program page.
Typically IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 80+. Exact thresholds vary by institution and program.
Some programs waive the language test for students from countries where the language is official. Verify your specific case on the program page.
Visa type: Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS)
Requirements can vary by nationality and consulate. Always verify the latest information on the official visa website.
Assuming all programs use the same application process — some use Campus France, others apply directly.
Preparing translations too late — certified translation can take 2–4 weeks or more.
Missing institution-specific language score requirements — always check the actual program page.
Relying on an unofficial deadline sourced from a third-party website.
Starting the visa process before receiving official proof of admission acceptance.
Need help completing this process? The Pathly team can work with you personally.
Get a personalized step-by-step guide based on your current level and study goal.
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