Have you ever wondered why thousands of international students choose France for higher education every year? 🌍 France is ranked among the top global destinations for study abroad experiences, offering affordable tuition fees, world-class universities in France, and programs taught in English. But how do you decide which university or program is right for you?
This article breaks down France’s best universities, scholarship opportunities, and the visa application process—everything you need to study in France in 2025. Whether you’re observing PSL University in Paris, Grenoble for STEM, or Bordeaux for wine studies, we’ll guide you step by step.
How will it help you? Choosing the right institution and planning your study abroad journey can feel overwhelming. We’ll simplify it, from tuition fees to Campus France USA support so you can focus on your future. Ready to explore🎓?
Key Takeaways
- Explore world-class programs at PSL, Grenoble Alpes, and Montpellier/Toulouse universities, offering English-taught STEM, business, and humanities courses.
- Public universities charge €200–€600/year for degrees, with vibrant student cities like Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux offering budget-friendly living options.
- Access scholarships (Eiffel, Erasmus+, Campus France grants) and part-time work (€10.85/hour) to cover costs, plus discounts on transport and housing.
- Use Campus France USA’s Etudes en France platform for applications, visa guidance, and deadlines (apply by January–April 2025 for most programs).
- Plan early, explore programs, and leverage Campus France’s resources to turn your French study dreams into reality—your future awaits!
Studying in France
Have you ever dreamed of studying in a country that blends world-class education with breathtaking culture and affordability? 🌍 France, a global leader in higher education, attracts over 300,000 international students annually, making it the 4th most popular study destination worldwide (OECD, 2023). But why choose France? The answer lies in its affordable tuition fees, English-taught programs, and Campus France USA’s seamless support for study-abroad journeys.
Why Study in France?
France is home to 15 of the world’s top 500 universities (QS World University Rankings, 2024), including PSL University (ranked #27 globally) and École Polytechnique. These institutions excel in STEM, business, and humanities, offering programs to prepare international students for global careers.
Why do students choose France?
- Diverse Programs: Over 2,500 courses are taught in English, including master’s and PhD programs.
- Research Opportunities: France invests 5.3% of its GDP in research (OECD, 2023), making it ideal for researchers.
- Cultural Immersion: Students explore iconic cities like Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux, blending education with history and art.
Affordable Tuition Fees Compared to Other European Countries
One of France’s biggest draws is its affordable tuition fees, especially at public universities:
| Country | Average Tuition Fees (per year) |
|---|---|
| France | €200–€600 (public universities) |
| UK | £10,000–£38,000 |
| Germany | €0–€1,500 (depending on state) |
| Switzerland | CHF 1,000–CHF 4,000 |
Visit Campus France’s tuition fee guide for detailed costs: Tuition Fees in France. button
Role of Campus France USA
Campus France USA is your go-to partner for studying in France. As the official French government agency for international education, it streamlines applications and visa processes for non-EEA students.
How does Campus France USA help?
- Etudes en France Platform: Upload documents, pay fees, and track applications.
- Admission Deadlines: Most programs close by April–June for the next academic year.
- Student Visa Requirements: Proof of funds (€12,000/year), tuition fees, and health insurance.
- Embassy Interviews: Guidance on preparing for visa interviews.
Pre-Arrival Resources
- Housing: Tips for finding accommodation in cities like Paris or Montpellier.
- French Language Courses: Options to improve French proficiency before arrival.
Start your application on Campus France USA’s portal: Apply Now. button
Top Universities in France for International Students
France’s higher education system is renowned for blending academic rigor with innovation, making it a hotspot for international students. Here, we highlight three top universities that excel in study abroad opportunities, scholarship support, and English-taught programs. Whether you’re targeting STEM, humanities, or business, these institutions offer world-class education while prioritizing international student success.
Paris-Saclay University (PSL)
Paris-Saclay University (PSL) consistently ranks among the top 50 universities globally (QS 2024) and is a leader in science, engineering, and humanities. With campuses in Paris and Saclay, PSL attracts international students seeking cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary studies.
Key Highlights
- Global Reputation: Ranked #27 worldwide (QS 2024), PSL collaborates with institutions like MIT and Oxford.
- Diverse Programs: Offers 150+ English-taught courses, including master’s in Data Science and PhD in Physics.
- Research Opportunities: Home to 30+ research labs and the Collège de France.
- Taught in English Options for International University Students
PSL’s English-taught programs cater to non-French speakers, including:
- MSc in Environmental Sciences
- Executive MBA
- PhD in Neuroscience
Tuition Fees
- Master’s: €10,000–€15,000/year (varies by program)
- PhD: €400–€600/year (public rates)
Grenoble Alpes University
Grenoble Alpes University (UGA) is a public university in Grenoble, a tech hub in southeastern France. Ranked #143 globally (QS 2024), UGA focuses on STEM, environmental science, and health, with strong ties to industries like Airbus and Intel.
Key Highlights
- Research Excellence: 40+ labs and partnerships with CERN and CEA.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Eiffel Scholarships (up to €1,180/month) and UGA Excellence Scholarships (€10,000–€15,000).
- Affordable Tuition: €200–€600/year for public programs.
- Focus on Higher Education in Engineering and Environmental Science
UGA’s English-taught programs include:
- MSc in Sustainable Energy
- PhD in Materials Science
- Master’s in AI & Robotics
Grenoble Alpes University Program Highlights
| Program | Tuition Fees | Language | Scholarships |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSc in Sustainable Energy | €10,000/year | English | UGA Excellence (€10,000) |
| PhD in Materials Science | €400/year | English | Eiffel Scholarship (€1,180/mo) |
Apply via Campus France: Grenoble Admissions. button
Montpellier and Toulouse Universities
Montpellier and Toulouse are student-friendly cities in southern France, offering affordable tuition and a lively study abroad experience. Both universities rank in the top 500 globally (QS 2024) and cater to international students with English-taught programs.
Montpellier University
- Strengths: Health sciences, environmental studies, and law.
- Tuition Fees: €200–€600/year (public rates).
- Programs: MSc in Wine Management (English) and Master’s in Marine Ecology.
Toulouse University
- Strengths: Aerospace engineering, business, and computer science.
- Tuition Fees: €200–€600/year (public rates).
- Programs: MSc in Aerospace Engineering (English) and Master’s in Data Science.
Vibrant Student Life
- Montpellier: Hosts 70,000 students; known for its Medieval architecture and beaches.
- Toulouse: “Pink City” with a startup ecosystem and student festivals.
| City | Tuition Fees | Monthly Rent | Student Discounts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montpellier | €200–€600/year | €400–€600 | 20–30% on transport |
| Toulouse | €200–€600/year | €450–€700 | Free museums |
Popular Programs and Degrees in France
France’s higher education system offers a wide range of programs tailored for international students, from master’s and PhD degrees to bachelor’s programs with minimal tuition fees. Whether you’re targeting STEM, business, or humanities, France’s English-taught courses and scholarship opportunities make it an ideal study-abroad destination.
Master’s and PhD Programs
France excels in master’s and PhD programs across STEM, business, and technology, with over 2,500 English-taught courses available. Top institutions like PSL University and Grenoble Alpes University offer specialized programs designed for international students:
| University | Program | Tuition Fees | Language | Scholarships |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSL University | MSc in Data Science | €10,000/year | English | Eiffel Scholarship (€1,180/mo) |
| Grenoble Alpes University | MSc in Sustainable Energy | €10,000/year | English | UGA Excellence (€10,000) |
Scholarship Options for International Students
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship: Covers tuition and living expenses for master’s and PhD students.
- UGA Excellence Scholarships: Up to €15,000 for master’s programs.
- Erasmus+: EU-funded grants for study abroad collaborations.
France’s master’s and PhD programs blend affordability with world-class research, especially in STEM and business.
Bachelor’s Degrees for Foreign Students
Public universities in France charge minimal tuition fees for bachelor’s degrees, making them ideal for international students on a budget:
- Montpellier University: €200–€600/year for health sciences and environmental studies.
- University of Caen Normandy: €242/year for humanities and social sciences.
Language Requirements and French Proficiency Tips
- French-Taught Programs: Require DELF/DALF certification (beginner to advanced levels).
- English-Taught Programs: IELTS (5.5+) or TOEFL (72+) scores.
- Language Support: Universities like Sorbonne offer French language courses for international students.
Check Campus France’s language guide for exam details: Language Requirements. button
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in France
France’s tuition fees and living expenses vary by institution and city, but it remains one of Europe’s most affordable study-abroad destinations.
Tuition Fees at Public vs. Private Universities
Public Universities: Minimal Fees for EEA Citizens and International Students
- Bachelor’s/Master’s: €200–€600/year (public rates).
- PhD: €400–€600/year (public rates).
- Private Institutions: Higher Costs but Specialized Programs
- HEC Paris: Top-ranked business school (€50,000/year for MBA).
- ESSEC Business School: MSc in Management (€25,000/year).
- Arts et Métiers Institute: engineering programs (€243–€600/year).
Public universities offer minimal fees, while private institutions provide specialized programs at higher costs.
Living Expenses in Major Cities
- Paris: €1,200–€1,500/month (rent, food, transport).
- Lyon: €900–€1,100/month (student discounts available).
- Bordeaux: €800–€1,000/month (affordable housing options).
Campus France Resources for Financial Planning
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Housing Platforms: Leboncoin and Appartager.
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Budget Guides: Campus France’s cost calculator.
Scholarships and Funding Opportunities
France offers numerous scholarship opportunities and funding programs to support international students pursuing higher education. These include government-funded initiatives, university-specific grants, and part-time work options.
Government and University Scholarships
Erasmus+ Program
A European Union initiative supporting student mobility (Erasmus+ Program). Provides grants for study abroad periods (3–12 months) at partner institutions across Europe. Covers travel and living expenses (€300–€600/month depending on destination).
How to Apply: Contact your home university’s Erasmus+ coordinator for eligibility and application details.
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
Managed by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, this prestigious scholarship targets master’s and PhD students in science, economics, law, and humanities. Read more about the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship.
Benefits
- Master’s: €1,181/month stipend, tuition fee waiver (at some institutions), and round-trip airfare.
- PhD: €1,700/month stipend, health insurance, and housing support.
- Eligibility: Non-French citizens under 25 (master’s) or 30 (PhD), with exceptional academic records.
- Application Deadline: January 2025 (for 2025 intake).
Campus France Grants for Study Abroad Experiences
- France Excellence Graduate Scholars: Full-tuition scholarships for master’s students at French universities. Launched in 2022 by the Embassy of France in the U.S. and Campus France USA.
University-Specific Scholarships
- PSL University: Offers International Master’s Scholarships (€10,000/year) for programs like Data Science and Neuroscience.
- Grenoble Alpes University Offers IDEX Scholarships (€10,000/year) to master’s students in STEM and environmental science.
- Aix-Marseille University: TIGER Scholarships (€10,000/year) for excellence in environmental science, health, and humanities.
Part-Time Work and Student Discounts
Job Opportunities for Non-French Speakers
- Work Hours: International students can work up to 964 hours/year (≈20 hours/week) on a student visa.
- Typical Roles: Tutoring, retail, cafes, or tech startups (e.g., in Paris or Lyon).
- Average Wage: €10.85/hour (France’s minimum wage).
Discounts on Transportation and Student Visa Fees
Transportation
- SNCF Student Card: 50% discount on train tickets (ages 12–27).
- Paris Navigo Pass: €35/month for unlimited metro/bus travel.
Visa Fees
- Reduced fees for EEA citizens (€60 vs. €99 for non-EEA).
- Campus France waives application fees for scholarship holders.
Application Process and Visa Requirements
Steps to Apply via Campus France
Etudes en France Platform
- Upload documents (passport, transcripts, language test scores).
- Pay a €200 application fee (waived for some scholarships).
Admission Deadlines:
- Master’s/PhD: January–April 2025 (program-specific).
- Bachelor’s: April–June 2025.
Student Visa Process
Requirements for Non-EEA Citizens
- Proof of funds: €12,000/year for living expenses.
- Tuition fees: Paid in full before visa approval.
- Health insurance: Mandatory coverage (€200–€500/year).
Embassy Interviews
- Questions focus on study plans, financial stability, and return intentions.
- Visa validity: 1–4 years (matches program duration).
Conclusion
France offers a world of opportunities for students and researchers! From top universities like PSL and Grenoble Alpes to affordable tuition fees and scholarships, your study abroad dreams are within reach. Whether you’re eyeing a Master’s, PhD, or Bachelor’s degree, France’s English-taught programs and vibrant student cities make it an ideal choice.
Don’t forget the Campus France USA team—they’ll guide you through applications, visa processes, and budget planning. With scholarships like Eiffel Excellence and part-time work options, funding your education is easier than you think.
What’s Next? Explore the universities we highlighted, check scholarship eligibility, and start your Etudes en France application today. Remember: Plan early, ask questions, and use Campus France’s resources to turn your French adventure into reality. Bonne chance—your future awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are universities in France free for international students?
No, but public universities charge minimal fees (€170–€650/year) for EU and non-EU students. Private universities cost €5,000–€30,000/year. France’s low tuition makes education accessible, unlike countries like the UK or the USA.
How much does it cost to study in France for international students?
Public universities: €200–€600/year (bachelor’s/master’s), €400–€600/year (PhD). Private institutions: €5,000–€30,000/year. Living costs: €700–€1,200/month (Paris is pricier). Total annual cost: €10,000–€20,000.
Is France cheap for international students?
Yes! Public universities and cities like Montpellier or Lyon offer affordable living (€600–€800/month). France ranks cheaper than the UK/USA for tuition and expenses.
Is IELTS required for a France student visa?
No, IELTS is not mandatory for the visa. However, universities may require it for English-taught programs (e.g., Sorbonne asks Ifor ELTS 6.5+). Always check your institution’s requirements.
How much can a student earn in France?
Students can work up to 964 hours/year (≈20 hours/week) at €10.85/hour for a maximum annual earnings of €10,470. Part-time jobs include tutoring, retail, or tech roles.
What is the total cost of studying in France from Pakistan?
Public university tuition €200–€600/year, and living costs €600–€1,200/month. The total annual cost is PKR 1.2–2.4 million (€5,000–€10,000). Scholarships like Eiffel Excellence can reduce costs.
Which course is best in France?
France excels in STEM (data science, engineering), business (HEC Paris), and humanities (Sorbonne). Popular fields include environmental science, medicine, and data analytics.
Is it cheaper to study in the UK or France?
France is cheaper. Public universities: €200–€600/year vs. UK’s £10,000–£38,000/year. Living costs in France are 8–10% lower than the UK.
Is France friendly to international students?
Yes! France aims to host 500,000 students by 2027. Initiatives like streamlined visas, scholarships, and English programs make it welcoming. 78% of students cite France’s cultural influence as a draw.
What is the best field to study in France?
STEM (engineering, data science), business (MBA at HEC Paris), and environmental science (Grenoble Alpes) are top choices. France’s research-driven approach benefits these fields.
Is studying in France better than Germany?
A: France offers more English-taught programs (1,500+) and vibrant student cities like Paris. Germany has free tuition but often requires German language skills. France’s cultural immersion and global rankings give it an edge.
How much bank balance is required to study in France?
Students need proof of funds for tuition and €615/month living expenses. The total is €8,580/year (tuition + 9 months of living costs). The exact amounts vary by embassy.
Who is eligible for study in France?
Bachelor’s: high school diploma. Master’s/PhD: prior degree + language proficiency (French/English). Scholarships like Eiffel require top academics (e.g., IELTS 6.5+).
Can I go to Paris without IELTS?
A: If your program is in French, DEFL/DALF is needed. IELTS may be waived for English courses if your prior education was in English. Check your university’s policy.
What is the minimum salary in France?
Minimum wage: €10.85/hour. Students can earn up to €10,470/year part-time. This helps cover groceries, transport, and entertainment.
What languages are spoken in France?
French is the official language, but many programs are in English (1,500+ courses). Universities offer French language classes. English is widely spokenin tourist areas.