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France has always been an attractive destination for international students who want to pursue higher education abroad. It is known for its high quality of teaching and is considered a very student-friendly country owing to its welcoming student life, affordable healthcare, and accommodation laws.
Why is France A Good Study Destination?
Studying in France offers a student life similar to that of other European countries such as Germany and Spain, but it may differ slightly from that of the United States. Although university sporting activities are not as popular as in the United States, the most common social activity for students in France is going out for drinks, as the surrounding area of campuses often has affordable bars and pubs.
The cost of living for international students studying in France depends on where you end up (a big city like Paris or a smaller place like Toulouse) and your general lifestyle.
France ranks 3rd in the preferences of students who want to experience a new culture and lifestyle due to its rich cultural heritage, cuisine, tourist attractions, and internationally recognized universities.
France is also an active participant in global trade fairs, a leading member of the European Union and the Eurozone, and a member of the United Nations Security Council, the Group of Seven (G7), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the United Nations, and contributes to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the World Trade Organization (WTO). Over 250,000 international students choose France as their study destination, which is unsurprising as France ranks 8th in the world and 5th in Europe among the most popular study-abroad destinations.
Pros of Studying in France
Studying in France is great because the cost of education and living is moderate, in addition to very high educational standards, making it an affordable and attractive destination. National healthcare and strong tenancy rights benefit students regardless of where they come from. Students in France usually enjoy a rich social life, with numerous opportunities for cultural activities and exploration.
Cons of Studying in France
The challenges you face while studying in France include language barriers and requirements. Most application processes require proof of a certain level of French language proficiency, but some programs may also require proof of English language proficiency. The application process, including student visa applications, is also very strict regarding specific deadlines and required documents.
How French Higher Education System Works
In France, there are three types of higher education: universities, Grandes écoles, and specialized schools. The French higher education system also has three cycles or levels of study.
- First cycle study, a license, is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.
- Second cycle study, equivalent to a master’s degree.
- Third cycle or doctoral degree (Doctorate or Ph.D.) study.
Universities in France are public institutions that award high school graduates academic, technical, and vocational degrees. They offer science, literature, languages, arts, humanities, medicine, and sports programs.
Grandes Écoles are the most competitive and selective type of higher institution. They admit students based on exam results and interviews. These institutions offer individual degree programs in engineering, business, and architecture. Please note that non-EU students applying to Grandes Écoles must apply for a special three-month selective visa called Étudiant Concours to take the exam.
Specialized Schools, both public and private, prepare students for professional careers in fields such as the arts, social work, and tourism. These institutions award degrees and certificates that the state may or may not recognize.
Application Guide
The application process for international students wanting to study in France depends on their country of residence/birth and the type of university they want to pursue.
EU students applying to study in France apply directly to their desired university, just like French nationals. They simply select their program and upload their documents to a national registration platform called Parcoursup.
Students from non-EU countries applying to study in France must go through a unique application process called “Études en France on Campus France,” which includes applying to the university and applying for a visa. Before enrolling in their first year, non-EU students must obtain the DAP (Demande d’Admission Préalable) admission certificate from the Campus France website. This also includes an exam in French. Applicants must have a B2 level. If applying to the second or third year of a bachelor’s or master’s degree program, or if you have a European or International Baccalaureate, or if you have a French government scholarship, you do not need the DAP.
Documents Required For Application
Before studying in France, do adequate research to know the specific academic program requirements you are applying for. To apply to a French university, you should have the following documents:
Passport or ID card
Passport photo
DAP certificate (for first-semester students from non-EU countries)
General exam scores such as GRE, GMAT, LSAT, if necessary
Letter of motivation
Proof of language skills: English (TOEFL or IELTS) or French (DELF/DALF or TCF)
Past certificates and high school diploma
Letter of recommendation (not required but recommended)
Resume (for Masters and PhD programs)
Proof of means (at least 800 euros per month)
Copy of birth certificate
Cost of Tuition in French Institutions
Tuition fees in France vary depending on several factors, including whether the program is private or public and the status of the students—whether they are from the EU or have special status. The French government subsidizes higher education, so tuition fees at public universities are relatively low, even for international students.
Tuition fees at private institutions, especially private business schools, are generally much higher than public institutions, ranging from €3,000 to €10,000 per year.
The French government covers most of the cost of European students studying at public universities. At the same time, students from non-EU countries who wish to study in France may be required to pay a differentiated registration fee when they register to study for a bachelor’s, master’s, or engineering degree. If you are not a permanent resident of France, the state covers two-thirds of the cost of education and tuition fees.
