Key takeaways
- You can study in France without IELTS through MOI certificates, interviews, or alternative assessments.
- France offers affordable tuition fees and living costs compared to the UK or the USA.
- Scholarships like the Eiffel Excellence Programme make studying more accessible.
- Post-study work visas allow you to gain global work experience.
- Edvoy simplifies your journey by guiding you through admissions, documents, and visa information.
Book a call with our counsellors at Edvoy now
Studying abroad is one of the most impactful decisions you can make, and France stands out as a destination that blends world-class education, cultural diversity, and affordability. Many international students worry about English language test requirements, particularly IELTS, as a barrier to applying. The good news is that you can study in France without IELTS at a wide range of institutions.
At Edvoy, we simplify this process for you. We work directly with universities in France that waive IELTS requirements, offering clear pathways to admission based on alternative proof of English proficiency. This guide gives you a complete roadmap to studying in France without IELTS, covering tuition fees, admission processes, universities, scholarships, student life, visa guidance, and career outcomes. Keep reading to find out more.
Table of Contents
- Why study in France without IELTS?
- Key benefits of studying in France without IELTS
- How can you study in France without IELTS?
- Top universities in France without IELTS
- Tuition fees in France
- Cost of living in France
- Scholarships in France
- Admission process without IELTS
- Visa process without IELTS
- Career opportunities after studying in France
- Student life in France
- Sample SOP (Study in France without IELTS)
- Sample LOR (Study in France without IELTS)
- FAQs
Why study in France without IELTS?
France is home to more than 3,500 higher education institutions and welcomes over 350,000 international students each year, making it the fourth most popular study destination in the world (UNESCO, 2023). The country offers a blend of affordable education, globally ranked universities, and post-study work opportunities.
According to the French Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, the number of international students in France has increased by 8% in the last two years alone.
This surge is partly due to the availability of English-taught programmes and flexible entry requirements.
Key benefits of studying in France without IELTS
- Access to top universities with English-taught programmes.
- Affordable tuition fees compared to the UK, USA, or Australia.
- Alternative admission pathways based on your previous education in English.
- Scholarships are available for international students.
- Post-study work opportunities to build your career.
- Global employability with degrees recognised worldwide.
How can you study in France without IELTS?
You can apply to French universities without IELTS if you meet one or more of the following conditions:
- Medium of Instruction certificate (MOI): If your previous education was taught in English, many French universities accept a certificate from your school/college confirming this.
- English interview: Some universities conduct an online interview to assess your language skills instead of requiring IELTS.
- Alternative English proficiency tests: Universities may accept TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo English Test.
- Foundation/Pathway programmes: You can join preparatory courses before your degree, which may waive IELTS.
At Edvoy, we help you identify universities that accept MOI or interviews as proof of English proficiency, ensuring you don’t need to spend time and money on IELTS.
Need personalised help? Speak to an Edvoy counsellor today.
Top universities in France without IELTS
Here are some universities and business schools where you can apply without IELTS (with Edvoy’s partnership):
- Paris School of Business
- INSEEC Business School
- ESC Clermont Business School
- ESCE International Business School
- HEIP – Hautes Études Internationales & Politiques
- Aivancity School for Technology, Business & Society
- CY Tech Cergy Paris University
- Cambridge Education Group France
- Berlin School of Business and Innovation (France campus)
- Sup de Pub
- ECE Engineering School
- KEDGE Business School
- Spéos – International Photography School
- IESA Arts and Culture
- LISAA School of Design
These institutions are popular for their industry connections, English-taught programmes, affordable tuition, and extensive support for international students.
Compare universities in France for your degree.
Related articles
Tuition fees in France
One of the main attractions of studying in France is affordability compared to English-speaking countries.
| Degree level | Fees at public universities | Fees at private institutions | Fees at business schools |
| Bachelor’s | EUR 2,770 – 10,000 | EUR 8,000 – 15,000 | EUR 9,000 – 20,000 |
| Master’s | EUR 3,770 – 12,000 | EUR 10,000 – 20,000 | EUR 12,000 – 25,000 |
| MBA | EUR 10,000 – 20,000 | EUR 18,000 – 30,000 | EUR 12,000 – 25,000 |
Compared to an MBA in the USA (USD 60,000+ per year), a French MBA at schools like INSEEC or KEDGE costs significantly less while maintaining international recognition.
Cost of living in France
Living expenses vary depending on the city:
| City | Average monthly living cost (EUR) |
| Paris | EUR 1,200 – 1,800 |
| Lyon | EUR 900 – 1,400 |
| Toulouse | EUR 800 – 1,200 |
| Lille | EUR 750 – 1,100 |
| Bordeaux | EUR 850 – 1,300 |
On average, students need EUR 10,000 - 15,000 annually for living expenses.
Scholarships in France
Several scholarships help reduce costs for international students:
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme: Provides a EUR 1,200 per month stipend.
- Campus France Scholarships: Various awards for international students.
- École Normale Supérieure (ENS) International Selection: Covers tuition and provides a monthly stipend.
- Erasmus+ Scholarships: For exchange students.
- Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarship: EUR 10,000 per year + travel grant.
Admission process without IELTS
- Choose your university with Edvoy guidance.
- Prepare required documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Passport copy
- Medium of Instruction certificate (if applicable)
- English proficiency proof (if not IELTS)
- SOP (Statement of Purpose)
- LOR (Letter of Recommendation)
- CV/Resume
- University interview (if required).
- Receive admission offer.
- Apply for a student visa.
Visa process without IELTS
To study in France, you need a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS). Requirements include:
- Admission letter from a French university.
- Proof of funds: At least EUR 10,000 per year.
- Proof of accommodation.
- Medical insurance.
MOI or interview clearance in place of IELTS.
The French visa authorities do not mandate IELTS, provided the university accepts your admission without it.
Career opportunities after studying in France
France is home to global companies like L’Oréal, Airbus, BNP Paribas, Capgemini, and Renault. International graduates are highly employable in:
- Business & Management
- Engineering
- IT & Technology
- Finance & Banking
- Arts & Design
- Luxury & Fashion industries
Did you know? Post-study work visas allow you to stay in France for up to 2 years to find employment.
Student life in France
France offers a vibrant student experience with:
- Cultural richness – art, cinema, fashion, gastronomy.
- Student discounts on transport, museums, and restaurants.
- Diverse international student community.
- Opportunities to travel across Europe with a Schengen visa.
Sample SOP (Study in France without IELTS)
Statement of Purpose
I am writing to express my strong interest in pursuing a Master’s in International Business at INSEEC Business School, France. With a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and three years of professional experience in marketing, I aim to enhance my academic knowledge and develop global business skills.
During my undergraduate studies, I focused on courses like Marketing Management and International Trade, which sparked my interest in global business. For my thesis, I explored consumer behaviour in digital markets, further developing my analytical and research skills.
My decision to study in France is driven by its reputation for innovation, cultural diversity, and strong industry-academic linkages. I am particularly drawn to INSEEC’s curriculum, which blends theoretical knowledge with practical exposure through internships and corporate projects.
Although I have not taken IELTS, my entire education from high school to university was conducted in English. I’m confident that my communication skills, professional background, and academic record demonstrate my proficiency in English.
My long-term career goal is to contribute to global marketing strategies in multinational organisations, and I believe that studying in France will provide the ideal platform. Though I aim to gain global experience, I am committed to returning to my home country to contribute to its growing business sector.
I am excited about the opportunity to join INSEEC Business School and contribute to its dynamic community. Thank you for considering my application.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
Sample LOR (Study in France without IELTS)
Letter of Recommendation
To the Admissions Committee,
INSEEC Business School, France
It is my pleasure to recommend [Your Full Name] for admission to the Master’s in International Business programme at INSEEC Business School. I have known [Your Name] for over three years in my capacity as [his/her/their] Marketing Manager at [Company Name], where [he/she/they] worked as a Marketing Executive. During this period, I have been deeply impressed by [his/her/their] professionalism, analytical ability, and commitment to continuous learning.
From the outset, [Your name] displayed a remarkable understanding of marketing concepts, consumer behaviour, and international market trends. [He/She/They] consistently contributed valuable insights during campaign planning and was instrumental in executing digital marketing projects that improved brand visibility and customer engagement. One of [his/her/their] notable achievements was leading a market analysis project that increased our campaign efficiency by 25%.
Beyond technical expertise, [Your name] has demonstrated excellent communication skills and an innate ability to work collaboratively across diverse teams. [He/She/They] often took the initiative to mentor new team members and coordinate between departments, reflecting strong leadership potential. These attributes, coupled with [his/her/their] curiosity about international business environments, make [him/her/them] a perfect fit for an advanced global business programme.
Academically, [Your Name] has a solid foundation in commerce and marketing, which aligns seamlessly with INSEEC’s interdisciplinary approach. [He/She/They] has always expressed a deep interest in understanding cross-cultural management and international trade dynamics — areas that are central to your curriculum. I am confident that [he/she/they] will bring the same enthusiasm, analytical mindset, and dedication to [his/her/their] postgraduate studies as [he/she/they] did to our organisation.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend [Your full name] for admission to your Master’s in International Business programme. I am certain that [he/she/they] will not only excel academically but also contribute meaningfully to the INSEEC community.
Please feel free to contact me for any additional information.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Full Name]
[Designation]
[Company Name]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
Also read: Letter of Recommendation: Everything you need to know
Studying in France without IELTS is not only possible but also an excellent opportunity to access world-class education, global career prospects, and cultural enrichment. With affordable tuition, scholarships, and flexible admission pathways, France is a destination where you can thrive academically and personally.
At Edvoy, we make the journey smooth for you. From identifying universities that don’t require IELTS to helping with SOPs, LORs, and visa guidance, we are your trusted study abroad partner. Your dream of studying in France is within reach, and you don’t need IELTS to get started.
Book your counselling session and get started now.
FAQs
Is France affordable for international students?
Yes, studying in France is relatively affordable, with tuition fees ranging from EUR 2,770–20,000 annually and average living costs of EUR 10,000–15,000 per year, making it more cost-effective compared to destinations like the UK, USA, or Australia.
Do French universities offer English-taught programmes?
Yes, a large number of French universities and business schools provide undergraduate and postgraduate programmes entirely in English, particularly in areas such as business, engineering, technology, and design.
Can I work while studying in France?
Yes, international students in France are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, which helps them manage living expenses while gaining practical experience.
What are the post-study work options in France?
Graduates in France can apply for a two-year post-study work permit, and many also find pathways into long-term employment opportunities within French companies or across the wider EU job market.
Do I need French language skills to study in France?
No, French is not required for admission to many universities since numerous programmes are offered in English, though learning basic French can be very useful for everyday life and future career prospects.
