Table of Contents
- Why is France an amazing destination for international students?
- Why choose universities in France?
- Best universities in France for international students
- Admission requirements for international students
- Scholarships and financial aid for international students
- Opportunities for international students
- Student life in France
- FAQs
Why is France an amazing destination for international students?
France is one of the world’s most popular study destinations, and it’s easy to see why. With its rich culture, high-quality education, and vibrant student life, studying at the best universities in France for international students can be a life-changing experience.
Whether you’re drawn to the historic campuses of the most prestigious universities in France or looking for excellent programmes at affordable public universities in France, you’ll find options that suit your goals and budget.
By the end, you’ll have everything you need to start planning your journey to study in France with confidence.
Thinking about studying in France? Discover top universities you should know about!
Why choose universities in France?
The universities in France are a fantastic choice if you want a world-class education without the high costs of studying abroad. Here’s why they’re a smart option for international students:
Plenty of English-taught programmes
Many universities offer a wide range of programmes taught in English, especially at the master’s level, covering fields like engineering, business, political science, and environmental studies.
Strong student support services
French universities also help you adjust with services such as:
- Affordable housing support
- Visa and residence permit guidance
- French language courses and cultural activities
- Career counselling and internship opportunities
Vibrant multicultural communities
French universities attract students worldwide, creating diverse campuses with active student associations, sports clubs, and cultural events to help you settle in and make connections.
Renowned research and academic excellence
Many French universities rank highly globally and are known for cutting-edge research, excellent faculty, and modern facilities.
Planning your education abroad? See which French universities fit your goals!
Best universities in France for international students
France is home to a diverse range of globally recognised universities offering high-quality education and strong career prospects. Here are some of the best institutions you can explore through Edvoy:
Paris School of Business
Located in Paris, the Paris School of Business this institution is renowned for its business and management programmes. It’s one of the best universities in Paris and offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in international management, marketing, and finance.
Tuition fees: EUR 10,000–12,500 per year
INSEEC Business School
With campuses in Paris, Bordeaux, and Lyon, INSEEC is known for its industry-oriented approach and specialised courses in business, marketing, and luxury brand management.
Tuition fees: EUR 9,000–11,500 per year
ESSCA School of Management
ESSCA is a triple-accredited business school offering programmes in management, marketing, and digital transformation. Known for its strong international partnerships and campuses in Paris and Angers.
Tuition fees: EUR 10,500–13,000 per year
ESC Clermont Business School
Recognised for its focus on entrepreneurship and innovation, ESC Clermont offers business degrees with specialisations in digital, strategy, and international business.
Tuition fees: EUR 9,000–11,000 per year
KEDGE Business School
Headquartered in Marseille and Bordeaux, KEDGE is one of the best universities in Paris, known for its expertise in supply chain, sustainability, and wine management. It offers globally ranked master’s and MBA programmes.
Tuition fees: EUR 11,000–14,000 per year
Université Grenoble Alpes
This is one of the leading French public universities, known for excellence in engineering, computer science, and environmental studies. It offers affordable degrees with strong research output.
Tuition fees: EUR 2,770 per year (bachelor’s), EUR 3,770 per year (master’s)
Admission requirements for international students
Applying to the universities in France involves gathering the right documents and meeting each university’s specific entry criteria. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- Academic transcripts and certificates: Provide official transcripts of your previous qualifications, translated into French or English if required.
- Proof of language proficiency: For English-taught programmes: IELTS or TOEFL scores. For French-taught programmes: DELF or DALF certification.
- Motivation letter or statement of purpose: Explain why you want to study in France, your academic interests, and your career goals.
- Letters of recommendation: Academic references from your teachers or professors attesting to your skills and potential.
- Valid passport: A copy of your current passport.
- CV or resume: Especially important for master’s programmes, where relevant work or research experience can strengthen your application.
- Portfolio (if required): For programmes in art, design, or architecture, you’ll need to submit samples of your work.
- Interview or entrance exam: Some of the most prestigious universities in France and competitive programmes require an interview or additional test.
Application timelines
The applications to French universities usually open in October and close between January and March for September intakes. The Grandes Écoles and some top universities may have earlier deadlines. It’s always best to check the respective university websites for the latest information.
Need help with your application? Book a free consultation with our expert counsellors today!
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Scholarships and financial aid for international students
France offers generous scholarships and funding options to make studying more accessible for international students. Here are some popular opportunities:
Eiffel Excellence Scholarships
Prestigious awards covering tuition and living costs for master’s and PhD students in priority fields like engineering, law, economics, and political science.
Campus France scholarships
A wide range of national and regional funding programmes is available for students from many countries.
University-specific scholarships
Many of the best universities in France for international students, like Sciences Po and HEC Paris, offer merit-based and need-based awards.
External scholarships
Programmes like Erasmus+ and funding from your home country may also help reduce your costs.
Pro tip: Start researching scholarships at least 12 months before your planned intake, as deadlines often come early.
Start building your future — explore leading universities in France now!
Opportunities for international students
Studying at the best universities in France for international students opens up incredible opportunities for your future. French universities welcome students from around the world, offering programmes taught in English and a truly international campus environment. This means you’ll build a global network of friends and professional contacts that can benefit your career anywhere.
As an international student, you can also take advantage of internships with top French and European companies in fields like business, engineering, technology, and the arts. After graduation, France offers post-study work permits that let you stay and work in France for up to 24 months, giving you a head start on your global career.
Student life in France
Life as an international student in France is an unforgettable experience filled with culture, travel, and personal growth. Here’s what you can expect:
- Vibrant campus life: Student associations, sports clubs, cultural events, and parties make it easy to meet friends and feel part of the community.
- Affordable lifestyle: You can enjoy discounts on transport, meals, museums, and entertainment.
- Rich cultural experiences: From Parisian museums and historic castles to festivals and outdoor adventures, France offers endless opportunities to explore.
- Convenient travel: With France’s central location in Europe, it’s easy to travel to countries like Spain, Italy, Germany, or Belgium on weekends or holidays.
- Support services: Universities offer help with housing, health insurance, mental health support, and academic assistance to help you settle in smoothly.
Key takeaways
- France is one of the most popular and rewarding destinations for international students, offering a unique blend of top-ranked education, vibrant culture, and affordable options.
- The best universities in France for international students include prestigious ones like École Polytechnique, HEC Paris, and Sciences Po, and affordable public universities include Université Grenoble Alpes and Université de Strasbourg.
- Tuition at public universities is among the lowest in Europe, typically EUR 2,770/year for bachelor’s and EUR 3,770/year for master’s programmes.
- Many French universities offer programmes taught in English, especially at the master’s level, making France accessible even if you don’t speak French fluently.
- Scholarships like the Eiffel Excellence and Campus France awards can significantly reduce your costs.
- French universities provide excellent student support, helping you with housing, visas, language courses, and career opportunities.
- Post-study work permits let you stay in France for up to 24 months after graduation, giving you a head start on your global career.
FAQs
Are there programmes taught in English at French universities?
Yes! Many of the best universities in France for international students offer English-taught programmes, especially at the master’s level.
Do I need to speak French to study in France?
Not necessarily. While French is helpful for daily life, many top-ranked and public universities offer programmes in English, so you can study without advanced French skills.
Are English-taught programmes available outside Paris?
Yes. While Paris is home to many top universities, cities like Lyon, Toulouse, Grenoble, Lille, and Bordeaux also offer excellent English-taught programmes with a lower cost of living.
Is health insurance required for international students?
Yes. As an international student, you must have health insurance to study in France. Students under 28 are usually covered by the French social security system, and registration is often free. Private insurance may be needed for older students or additional coverage.
France could be your next step — find the right university for you!
