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    Study in France

    France offers low tuition at public universities, prestigious Grandes Écoles, and one of Europe's largest English-taught Master's catalogues. The 'Passeport Talent' visa and 2-year post-study work permit attract international graduates.

    Universities
    297
    Tuition-free
    0
    Active scholarships
    0
    Top student city
    Angers

    Why study in France?

    Public university tuition under €4,000/year

    Grandes Écoles for elite business and engineering

    1,700+ English-taught programs

    2-year post-study residence permit (APS)

    Top universities in France

    Ranked by global ranking. 297 total universities in our database.

    1

    IMT Atlantique

    Global rank #350
    2

    University of Burgundy

    Global rank #800
    3

    SKEMA Business School

    Bachelor
    Master
    Doctoral
    4

    INSEAD

    5

    Université d'Angers

    AngersPublic
    Bachelor
    Master
    PhD
    6

    National Institute of Applied Sciences of Toulouse

    7

    IÉSEG School of Management

    8

    Central Supélec

    9

    Académie de Paris

    10

    Académie d'Aix-Marseille

    Popular fields of study

    Business
    Engineering
    Fashion
    Culinary Arts
    International Relations

    Admission requirements for France

    Typical entry criteria, language tests, application timeline and document checklist for international students.

    Academic entry

    Bachelor's

    Higher Secondary with 60%+. French-taught programs require DELF B2.

    Master's

    Bachelor's with 60%+ in a related field; Grandes Écoles often require GMAT/GRE.

    Standardised tests

    GMAT 600+ for top business schools (HEC, INSEAD, ESSEC).

    Language requirements

    English-taught programs

    IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 83 for English-taught programs.

    Local-language programs

    DELF B2 / DALF C1 / TCF for French-taught programs.

    Application portal

    Études en France (Campus France) / Parcoursup (Bachelor's EU) / direct portals

    Application timeline

    1. Oct – Dec

      Études en France portal opens (for ~70 eligible countries)

    2. Jan – Mar

      Submit Études en France application + Campus France interview

    3. Mar – May

      Receive admission decisions

    4. May – Aug

      Apply for long-stay student visa (VLS-TS) at French consulate

    5. Sep / Jan

      Fall / Spring intake begins

    Document checklist

    • Valid passport (≥6 months validity)
    • Academic transcripts (translated + certified)
    • Degree certificates / provisional certificate
    • Statement of Purpose (SOP) or motivation letter
    • Updated CV / résumé
    • 2-3 Letters of Recommendation
    • English-proficiency test score report
    • Passport-size photographs
    • Proof of funds (bank statement / sponsorship letter)
    • Campus France 'Études en France' file (CEF countries)
    • Proof of accommodation in France
    • Proof of funds: €615/month minimum for visa

    Requirements vary by university and program — always confirm on the official admissions page before applying.

    Frequently asked questions

    How much does it cost to study in France?

    International tuition at universities in France typically ranges from EUR 6,004 to EUR 6,004 per year. Living costs vary by city — use our Cost Calculator for a personalised estimate.

    Can I work after graduating in France?

    Yes. France offers post-study work pathways for international graduates. Visa rules change frequently — check our Visa Tracker for the latest requirements based on your nationality.

    What are the most popular fields of study in France?

    International students in France most commonly choose Business, Engineering, Fashion and International Relations. Our AI matcher recommends programs based on your profile and budget.

    Do I need to speak French to study in France?

    Not necessarily. Many universities in France offer English-taught Bachelor's and Master's programs, especially at the postgraduate level. However, learning the local language improves part-time job and post-study work prospects.

    Are scholarships available for international students in France?

    Yes — government, university and external scholarships are available. Sign up to get a personalised list of scholarships matched to your profile and country of origin.

    What are the intake seasons and application deadlines in France?

    Most universities in France have two main intakes: a primary autumn/fall intake (applications typically due 3–9 months in advance) and a smaller spring intake. Competitive Master's programs and scholarships often have earlier deadlines than university admissions — start at least 9–12 months before your target start date. Our Smart Calendar tracks deadlines per university automatically.

    What IELTS or TOEFL score do I need to study in France?

    Most English-taught Bachelor's programs in France require IELTS 6.0–6.5 (or TOEFL iBT 75–90), while Master's and top universities typically ask for IELTS 6.5–7.5 (TOEFL 90–100+). Some universities accept Duolingo, PTE Academic or a Medium-of-Instruction letter. Check exact requirements on your shortlisted programs — they vary by faculty.

    How much money do I need to show for a France student visa?

    Most France student visas require proof of funds covering one year of tuition plus living expenses — typically a bank balance, sponsor letter, education loan or (for Germany) a blocked account. Exact amounts depend on your nationality and city. Our Visa Tracker shows the current financial proof requirement for your passport.

    Can international students work part-time while studying in France?

    Yes — most student visas in France allow part-time work (commonly 20 hours/week during term and full-time during holidays), enough to offset living costs but not tuition. Roles in hospitality, retail, research assistance and on-campus jobs are most common. Knowledge of French significantly widens your options.

    Is there a permanent residency pathway after studying in France?

    France offers post-study work visas that can lead to permanent residency for graduates who secure skilled employment, particularly in shortage occupations like Business, IT and healthcare. Timelines and points requirements change frequently — check our Visa Tracker for the latest PR pathway for your nationality.

    How much are university application fees in France?

    Application fees in France typically range from free (many public universities) up to EUR 100–250 per program at private institutions. Budget for additional costs: document translation, English test fees (USD 200–250) and visa application (USD 100–500 depending on nationality).

    How much does accommodation cost for students in France?

    Student accommodation in France averages EUR 300–700/month for university dorms and EUR 500–1,200/month for shared private apartments, depending on city. Angers and other major student hubs sit at the higher end. Apply for university housing early — places fill 3–6 months before each intake.

    Can I bring my spouse or family on a student visa to France?

    Many student visas in France allow dependents (spouse and minor children) to accompany you, especially for Master's and PhD students with proven funds. Dependents usually receive work rights with restrictions. Eligibility and proof-of-funds add-ons vary by nationality — confirm via our Visa Tracker before applying.

    How long does a France student visa take to process?

    Processing times vary by embassy and season, but most France student visas take 4–12 weeks from application to decision. Peak periods (Jun–Aug before the fall intake) can extend to 16 weeks. Apply as soon as you receive your university acceptance letter to avoid delays. Track real-time processing estimates with our Visa Tracker.

    What documents do I need for a France student visa?

    Standard requirements include a valid passport, university admission letter, proof of funds (bank statements, sponsor letter or education loan), passport photos, visa application form, and health insurance. Check the exact checklist for your nationality with our Visa Tracker.

    What are the steps to book a France visa appointment?

    First, complete the online visa application form and pay the fee. Then, create an account on your country's embassy/consulate portal, upload scanned documents, and select an available appointment slot. Attend the biometric/interview appointment in person with all original documents. Start this process 2–3 months before your departure date.

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