In this article, we’ll walk you through the top courses, fashion schools, tuition fees, student life, and everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
- Why choose Paris for fashion?
- Best fashion design courses in Paris you should explore
- Types of fashion design courses in Paris
- Cost of fashion design courses in Paris
- Living expense
- Best fashion design schools in Paris
- How to get into a fashion design school in Paris
- What’s it like to study fashion in Paris?
- Student accommodation in Paris
- Scholarships and financial aid for fashion students
- Post-study work opportunities in France
- FAQs
Why choose Paris for fashion?
Picture yourself sketching designs in the same cafes where Coco Chanel once dreamt up her revolutionary ideas, or walking past the iconic boutiques on the Champs-Élysées for daily inspiration.
Paris isn't just a city, it's a living, breathing fashion playground where your creativity can truly come alive. As the world's fashion capital, this magical city offers you the chance to learn from the best whilst being surrounded by centuries of style and elegance.
Whether you're people-watching at trendy Parisian cafes, exploring vintage markets in Montmartre, or getting goosebumps at Paris Fashion Week, every moment becomes part of your fashion education. Paris is the home to legendary fashion houses like Chanel and Dior, practically on your doorstep, plus a vibrant student community from around the globe.
Ready to turn your fashion dreams into reality in the most stylish city on Earth? Read on to know more.
Best fashion design courses in Paris you should explore
Paris has many top-tier fashion design programmes, offering you a perfect blend of technical training, creative exploration, and industry connections. Below are ten standout courses for aspiring fashion professionals:
1. Bachelor in Fashion Design – Institut Français de la Mode (IFM)
Duration: 3 years, Tuition: EUR 12,000/year
2. MFA in Fashion Design – Parsons Paris
Duration: 2 years, Tuition: EUR 19,200/year
3. Bachelor's in Fashion Design – Paris College of Art
Duration: 4 years, Tuition: EUR 15,500/year
4. Fashion Design Programme – ESMOD Paris
Duration: 3 years, Tuition: EUR 11,200/year
5. Diploma in Fashion Styling – IFA Paris
Duration: 1 year | Tuition: EUR 14,800
6. BA in Fashion Design – LISAA School of Design
Duration: 3 years | Tuition: EUR 10,300/year
7. MA in Luxury and Fashion Management – Istituto Marangoni Paris
Duration: 1 year, Tuition: EUR 18,200
8. Fashion Design Intensive Programme – Studio Berçot
Duration: 2 years, Tuition: EUR 9,000/year
9. Summer Fashion Workshop – Paris American Academy
Duration: 4 weeks, Tuition: EUR 4,500
10. Bachelor in Fashion & Textile Design – École Duperré
Duration: 3 years, Tuition: EUR 600/year
Types of fashion design courses in Paris
You’ll find various programmes suited to your goals and experience levels:
- Bachelor’s degrees
- Master’s & MBAs
- Diplomas & Certificates
- Short courses & summer schools
Paris caters to all kinds of fashion learners, whether you're just starting or aiming to specialise further. These courses can focus on design, business, marketing, or styling, offering you flexibility in choosing your path and shaping your future.
Cost of fashion design courses in Paris
Studying in Paris can be an investment, but there are programmes across a wide range of budgets:
| Programme type | Fee range (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree | 10,000 - 15,500/year |
| Master’s/MBA | 14,000 - 20,000/year |
| Diploma/Certificate | 6,000 - 15,000 total |
| Public institution | 200 - 600/year |
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Living expense
Living expenses in Paris typically range from EUR 800 - EUR 1,400 per month. Besides tuition, you should budget for accommodation, transport, food, health insurance, and course materials.
While studying in one of the world’s most stylish cities can seem expensive, like many students, you can manage costs through part-time jobs, scholarships, and public housing support.
Public institutions are very affordable and offer great value. Private schools may charge more, but they often provide better studios, international faculty, and high-profile internship opportunities.
Not sure which course fits your style and goals? Get started with us for a free consultation and let’s build your fashion future together!
Best fashion design schools in Paris
Choosing the right school is just as important as selecting the course. Here are some of the top fashion design schools in Paris known for their academic excellence, industry links, and international recognition:
| School | Degrees offered | Tuition (EUR/year) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| IFM Paris | Bachelor, Master, MBA | 12,000 - 19,000 | 1 - 3 years |
| ESMOD Paris | Bachelor, Diploma | 11,200 | 3 years |
| Parsons Paris | Bachelor, Master | 15,000 - 19,200 | 2 - 4 years |
| Paris College of Art | Bachelor, Master | 15,500 | 4 years |
| LISAA | Bachelor | 10,300 | 3 years |
How to get into a fashion design school in Paris
You’ll need to prepare a solid application. Admissions can be competitive, especially at top-tier institutions, but don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Here’s what you’ll generally need:
- Academic qualifications: A high school certificate for bachelor’s programmes or an undergraduate degree for master's courses. Your academic transcripts should show good performance, particularly in art, design, or related subjects.
- Creative portfolio: This is your key asset! Your portfolio should showcase 15 to 20 of your best pieces, including fashion sketches, technical drawings, completed garments, and any digital design work. Include a mix of hand-drawn illustrations and finished pieces to demonstrate both your creative vision and technical skills.
- Language proficiency: Most programmes require proof of English (IELTS or TOEFL 90) or French proficiency (DELF B2 level). Some schools offer foundation courses if you need to improve your language skills before starting your main programme.
- Supporting documents: A strong Statement of Purpose explaining your passion for fashion and career goals, a professional CV highlighting any relevant experience (even retail or creative projects count!), and 2 to 3 letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, or mentors who can vouch for your creativity and dedication.
- Interview preparation: Many schools conduct interviews (in-person or online) to assess your passion, creativity, and fit with their program. Be prepared to discuss your portfolio, fashion inspirations, and future goals with confidence.
Pro tip
Start your application early, as many programmes close by January or April. This timeline gives you enough time to perfect your portfolio, gather all documents, and apply for scholarships.
Apply today for some of the best fashion design courses in Paris!
What’s it like to study fashion in Paris?
Imagine walking through the same streets that Chanel, Dior, and Saint Laurent once walked. Studying in Paris isn’t just about textbooks; it’s about experiencing the city’s culture, style, and art. Whether you’re attending masterclasses or sketching in a museum, the learning never stops.
Here’s what your experience might include:
- Attending high-profile fashion shows and exhibitions
- Interning with world-renowned fashion houses
- Collaborating with international classmates and creative mentors
- Experiencing iconic fashion events like Paris Fashion Week
You’ll grow not just as a designer, but as a creative thinker, ready to make your mark on the global fashion scene. It's immersive, vibrant, and full of inspiration.
Student accommodation in Paris
Finding the perfect place to call home whilst studying fashion in Paris doesn't have to be a nightmare! The city offers brilliant accommodation options to suit every budget and lifestyle preference.
University halls of residence are your most affordable bet, typically costing between EUR 400-800 per month and often located near transport links. Many fashion schools like ESMOD and Parsons have partnerships with student housing providers, making your search much easier.
Private student residences are increasingly popular amongst international students, offering modern amenities like gyms, study spaces, and social areas where you can connect with fellow creatives. Expect to pay around EUR 700 - EUR 1,200 monthly for these stylish digs.
If you fancy a more authentic Parisian experience, consider a homestay with a local family (EUR 600 - EUR 900/month); it's brilliant for improving your French and understanding the culture.
If you want complete independence, flat-sharing with other students is fantastic for building friendships whilst splitting costs. Popular student areas include the Latin Quarter, Belleville, and République, where you'll find trendy cafes and vintage shops perfect for fashion inspiration.
Scholarships and financial aid for fashion students
Don't let finances hold back your fashion dreams! Paris offers numerous scholarship opportunities and financial support options that can make studying in the world's fashion capital surprisingly affordable. You’d be delighted to discover that with the right funding, your Parisian fashion education becomes much more accessible than initially expected.
Here's how you can secure funding for your fashion studies:
Merit-based scholarships: Most fashion schools offer awards ranging from EUR 2,000 to EUR 8,000 annually for outstanding portfolios and academic achievements.
Schools like Parsons Paris and Paris College of Art frequently award partial tuition scholarships to you if you demonstrate exceptional creative potential.
Government scholarships: The French government provides brilliant support through the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme, offering EUR 1,181 monthly allowance plus tuition coverage for master's students from developing countries.
The Campus France scholarship database lists hundreds of opportunities specifically for international students like you.
Industry sponsorships: Many luxury fashion houses sponsor talented students through partnerships with schools – Chanel, LVMH, and Kering all offer educational grants and mentorship programmes.
These corporate scholarships often include internship guarantees and networking opportunities.
Additional support: EU students benefit from significantly reduced tuition at public institutions, whilst non-EU students can explore payment plans, work-study programmes, and emergency financial assistance funds that most schools maintain for those who are facing unexpected difficulties.
Post-study work opportunities in France
Yes! France offers a 1–2 year post-study work visa, allowing you to kick-start your career right after graduation. This is a fantastic opportunity if you want to gain global experience in the heart of Europe’s fashion industry.
Study in France's creative economy, where fashion graduates are in high demand. Paris, being a global hub, gives you direct access to fashion houses, emerging labels, design consultancies, and international fashion weeks where connections turn into careers.
After completing your course, you could explore careers as a:
| Career Path | Estimated Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Fashion Designer | €28,000 – €40,000 |
| Visual Merchandiser | €25,000 – €35,000 |
| Fashion Stylist | €24,000 – €32,000 |
| Brand Marketer | €30,000 – €45,000 |
| Textile Specialist | €26,000 – €38,000 |
You can land internships and job placements during your course, which often convert into full-time roles. Networking is key, and Paris is the perfect place to build your professional circle.
FAQs
Can I apply to fashion design courses without a portfolio?
For most design-focused programmes, a portfolio is required because it shows your creative skills and design thinking. Some business or marketing-focused fashion courses may not need one, but it’s always good to have a creative sample if you can.
When should I start my application?
Ideally, you should start preparing at least 6 to 8 months in advance. Many top schools in Paris have early deadlines, which fall between January and April. This timeline also gives you a chance to gather documents, write a strong statement of purpose, and apply for scholarships.
Can I work part-time while studying in Paris?
Yes! International students can work up to 964 hours per year in France, which is about 20 hours a week. Part-time jobs in boutiques, creative agencies, or at fashion events are excellent ways to earn money and gain experience.
