France

Flag of France
Country

France

France is famed for its fashion houses, classical art museums including the Louvre and monuments like the Eiffel Tower. From the dazzling city lights and sights of Paris to the coastal sun and fun of the French Riviera, students love the romanticism of France. The majority of programs offering the chance to study in France for free are taught in the native language. However, there are a growing number of opportunities to study in English, particularly at the graduate level. Alternatively, you can also attend a preparatory school to perfect your French skills before beginning your degree, but you’ll have to pay for this.

Programs are available in such diverse locations as cosmopolitan Paris or medieval Avignon, with options in either French or English. Even if you chose to enrol in a study abroad program in France taught in English, some prior French language study is highly recommended, especially if you are living outside of the main centres. Be aware that occasional union protests can shut the country down. But hey, it’s all part of the experience.

The top universities in France vary according to the rankings. But Université Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC) and Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris stay on top among all the major universities in France across all three lists. France also has five of the top 100 student-friendly cities in the world. Paris alone has approximately 18 universities that cater to students from France as well as around the world. Living costs in France are also relatively affordable compared to other European countries.

Students can live reasonably well on around €800 a month (other than Paris, which is more like €1,000): accommodation €215–€450; food €210; books/stationery €50 and other €250, depending on location and lifestyle. An accommodation grant may be available for international students from the 2nd month (the amount varies according to rent, e.g., for a university room at €215, the grant is around €95). Tuition fees vary considerably, €7000–€15,000 per year.

Partner

Universities

Collège de Paris
IPAG Business school
EM Strasbourg Business School
Burgundy School of Business (BSB)
Grenoble Ecole de Management
Le Cordon Bleu
Kedge Business School

FAQ's

Do I need to know French to study in France?
Not required if the student wants to pursue English taughthigher education programmes.
What does the student long-stay visa authorise?
The long-stay visa allows the student to stay in France for up to one year for studies after which he needs to apply for multi-year student residency permit to continue to study in France. It also gives the right to travel freely and stay in countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This visa, also gives the student the permit to work 964 hours annually averaging to about 20 hours per week.
What will be the average cost of studying in France?
The average tuition fees and living accommodation costs is 16,000 – 19,000 Euro per year.
How to obtain a student residency permit?
You can renew your right to stay in France to continue your studies under certain conditions and also request a multi-year residency permit at least two months before the long-stay visa expires. The duration of the residence permit may vary from one to four years.