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Eiffel Tower and the Seine in Paris

Why study here

France combines historic universities, grandes écoles and a growing set of English-taught programmes. Public tuition can be comparatively modest, while business schools and Paris living costs need a separate conversation.

  • Public universities with relatively modest tuition for many degrees.
  • World-recognised strengths in business, design, hospitality and the humanities.
  • A central European location for travel and internships.
  • Increasing English-taught master's options, especially in business and science.

Popular courses

  • Business
  • Fashion & Design
  • Hospitality
  • Engineering
  • Arts & Humanities

Top universities students explore

Names are for orientation only and do not imply partnership.

Sorbonne University

Paris

Université PSL

Paris

École Polytechnique

Palaiseau

Université Grenoble Alpes

Grenoble

emlyon / leading business schools

Lyon / Paris

Entry requirements

  • Academic transcripts; Campus France / Études en France procedures may apply.
  • English or French language scores depending on the programme.
  • Motivation letter, CV and, for some schools, interviews or tests.

Intakes

  • September (primary)
  • January (selected programmes, especially business schools)

Approximate tuition

Indicative ranges only. Fees vary by university, course and year.

Public universities

Often modest annual fees for many programmes

Grandes écoles / private

Indicative €8,000 – €25,000+ per year

Scholarships

  • Eiffel Excellence and other French government scholarships for selected profiles.
  • University and school-specific fee waivers.
  • Erasmus+ mobility support on eligible pathways.

Student visa overview

  • Long-stay student visas are typically processed after Campus France steps where required.
  • Proof of funds, insurance and accommodation evidence may be requested.
  • French consular authorities decide visas.

Living costs

  • Paris is significantly more expensive than Lyon, Lille or Toulouse.
  • Budget rent, transport, health coverage and meals.
  • CROUS residences and private student housing are common options.

Career opportunities

  • Luxury, hospitality, business, engineering and research are frequently explored.
  • French language skills expand internship and employment options.
  • Post-study residence depends on degree level and current immigration rules.

Study Plan Abroad support

  • Guidance through Campus France steps where they apply.
  • Shortlisting across public universities and specialised schools.
  • Language-path honesty — English-taught vs French-taught.
  • Visa and pre-departure support.

Questions about France

Yes, particularly at master's level in business, engineering and some sciences. Many bachelor's programmes are still French-taught. We filter this carefully.