Why choose France
Build Your Future in France
Discover a European education destination combining academic excellence, innovative research, specialist schools and international career opportunities.
- Internationally recognised degrees and qualifications
- English-taught and French-taught programmes
- Specialist education in business, fashion, luxury and engineering
- Government, university and institutional scholarships
- Public universities, Grandes Écoles and private institutions
- International student experiences and cultural diversity
Explore Study Areas
Explore undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across France's leading academic and specialist disciplines.
Business & Management
Engineering & Technology
Fashion, Luxury & Design
Hospitality & Tourism
Science & Life Sciences
Economics, Law & Social Sciences
Cost of Studying in France
Tuition fees in France depend on the institution, programme, degree level and eligibility for exemptions. Public universities may offer comparatively affordable education, while private business schools and specialist institutions can charge substantially higher fees. All figures below are indicative annual planning estimates.
Leading Universities in France
Explore public universities, Grandes Écoles and specialist institutions across France. Verify programme language, accreditation, qualification recognition, tuition and entry requirements before applying.
France Intakes
Plan ahead and check the exact application deadlines for your university and programme. Students applying from India should allow sufficient time for admission, Campus France formalities where applicable, and visa processing.
Scholarships
International students can explore French government scholarships, university grants, regional funding and institution-specific fee reductions. Eligibility, benefits and deadlines depend on the scholarship scheme and programme.
Popular Scholarship Opportunities
France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship
Supports eligible international students at master's and doctoral levels in selected disciplines. Applications are submitted by participating French institutions, not directly by students. The scholarship provides a monthly allowance and certain additional services but does not itself cover tuition fees. The published institutional submission deadline for 2027 is January 8, 2027.
University Scholarships & Fee Exemptions
Public universities and private schools may offer merit-based awards, tuition reductions, international student grants and financial assistance.
French Government & Embassy Scholarships
Students can explore funding opportunities published through Campus France and the French Embassy in their home country.
Private Institution Scholarships
Business schools, engineering schools and specialist colleges may offer entrance scholarships, academic excellence awards or partial tuition waivers.
Best Student Cities
Compare French cities by academic opportunities, living costs, student lifestyle and specialist career sectors.
Paris
Ideal for business, fashion, luxury management, arts, technology and international careers. Living expenses, particularly accommodation, are generally higher.
Lyon
Popular for business, engineering, biotechnology, hospitality and science, with a substantial student population.
Toulouse
Known for aerospace, engineering, computer science and research opportunities.
Grenoble
Well suited to students interested in science, engineering, innovation and environmental research.
Lille
Offers options in business, management, engineering and digital technology, with connections to wider European business networks.
Bordeaux
Attractive for business, hospitality, humanities, food-related studies and selected science programmes.
Cost of Living in France
Living expenses depend on your city, accommodation and lifestyle. Paris is generally more expensive than many regional cities, so prepare a budget based on your intended destination.
After your studies
Post-Study Work Visa and Benefits
France offers post-study opportunities for eligible international graduates, including options to seek employment or establish a business. Eligible non-EU graduates who have completed a master's degree or an equivalent qualification in France may be able to apply for the relevant job-search or business-creation residence permit or long-stay visa. The route generally allows eligible graduates to remain for one year, subject to the applicable requirements.
- Job-search or business-creation permit: eligible non-EU graduates may apply for the relevant residence permit or visa to seek qualifying employment or establish a business related to their studies.
- Qualification requirements: eligibility depends on the qualification obtained, nationality, immigration status and the applicable rules.
- Graduate employment: explore opportunities in business, engineering, technology, fashion, luxury, hospitality, research and other relevant sectors.
- Professional development: use internships, university career services, professional networks and employer events to build experience.
- Language skills: French-language ability can broaden employment opportunities, although requirements vary by employer and role.
Health Insurance in France
Eligible international students can access the French social security system to receive reimbursement for eligible healthcare expenses. Registration, coverage and supplementary insurance requirements depend on individual circumstances.
Confirm your eligibility, coverage, registration procedure and any additional insurance requirements with the official French student health insurance service and your institution.
Student Safety
Safety & Student Support
- France is generally a safe destination for international students, although basic precautions are recommended.
- Universities offer international student support services, including guidance on accommodation, health, and student welfare.
- Students should keep important documents, emergency contacts, and health insurance information accessible.
- For all emergencies, including situations requiring fire, police, or medical assistance, call 112.
- For police or gendarmerie assistance, call 17.
- For medical emergencies, call 15 (SAMU).
- For fire emergencies or rescue services, call 18 (Fire Brigade).
- For emergency assistance by SMS or app for people with hearing or speech disabilities, contact 114.
Part-Time Employment
Work While Studying
Eligible international students in France can work part-time alongside their studies, subject to applicable immigration and employment rules. Part-time work can provide professional experience and supplementary income, but should not be relied upon to cover all tuition and living expenses.
Application & Student Visa Documents
Prepare your university admission documents and student visa application separately. The final checklist depends on your programme, personal circumstances and the current requirements of the relevant authorities.
University Application Documents
- Valid passport and identification documents required by the institution
- Class 10 and Class 12 mark sheets and certificates for undergraduate applications
- Academic transcripts and school-leaving qualifications, where applicable
- Bachelor's degree certificate and academic transcripts for postgraduate applications
- Statement of Purpose or motivation letter, if required
- English- or French-language proficiency results, where required by the programme
- CV or résumé for selected postgraduate and specialist programmes
- Letters of recommendation, where required
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about studying in France.
Why study in France?
France offers internationally recognised qualifications, research opportunities and programmes in business, engineering, fashion, technology, hospitality, arts and many other fields.
What are the popular courses in France?
Popular study areas include Business and Management, Engineering and Technology, Fashion and Design, Hospitality and Tourism, Science and Life Sciences, Economics, Law and Social Sciences.
When can I apply to study in France?
September is the main intake for many degree programmes. January entry is available at selected private schools and for specific courses. Deadlines vary by institution and application route.
How much does it cost to study in France?
Tuition varies by institution and programme. Indicative annual budgets including tuition and living expenses are around €12,000–€30,000 for public universities and €18,000–€35,000+ for private institutions.
Are scholarships available in France?
Students can explore the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship, university grants, government funding, fee exemptions and private institution scholarships. Eligibility and benefits vary.
Can international students work while studying?
Eligible international students can generally work up to 964 hours per year, subject to applicable rules and their immigration status.
Can I stay in France after graduation?
Eligible non-EU graduates with a qualifying master's degree or equivalent qualification may be able to apply for a job-search or business-creation residence permit. Individual eligibility requirements apply.
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