Study in France

France combines near-free public university tuition, prestigious Grandes Ecoles, and one of the richest cultural experiences on earth — here's why over 400,000 international students choose it every year.

• Public university tuition from EUR 170/year (EU) or EUR 2,770/year (non-EU) — a fraction of UK or US costs.
• Home to world-ranked Grandes Ecoles, top business schools (HEC, INSEAD), and research powerhouses (PSL, Sorbonne).
• Over 1,500 English-taught programs across all degree levels.
• 4th most popular study destination worldwide with 400,000+ international students.

A complete planning guide covering the French academic calendar, Campus France procedure, credential recognition, language requirements, and how to choose between universities and Grandes Ecoles.

• The French academic year runs September to June, with applications opening 12-18 months ahead.
• Campus France's Etudes en France platform is mandatory for students from 60+ countries.
• DELF/DALF for French-taught programs; IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programs.
• The LMD system (Licence-Master-Doctorat) aligns with European standards.

A comprehensive guide to French higher education institutions — public universities, Grandes Ecoles, business schools, engineering schools, and the 1,500+ English-taught programs available.

• 75+ public universities, 200+ engineering schools, and world-ranked business schools.
• Over 1,500 English-taught programs across all degree levels.
• Top-ranked institutions include PSL, Sorbonne, Ecole Polytechnique, HEC Paris, and Sciences Po.
• The LMD degree system (Licence-Master-Doctorat) aligns with European standards.

Navigate the French admissions process — Campus France, Etudes en France, Parcoursup, Grandes Ecoles concours, DAP procedure, and application timelines for international students.

• Students from 60+ countries must use the Etudes en France platform managed by Campus France.
• Parcoursup handles undergraduate admissions for EU and French applicants.
• Grandes Ecoles use competitive exams (concours) or dossier-based international admission tracks.
• Application timelines start 10-12 months before the September intake.

A complete breakdown of tuition fees, living costs, scholarships, CAF housing aid, and budgeting for studying in France — one of the most affordable destinations in Europe.

• Public university tuition: EUR 170/year (EU Licence) to EUR 3,770/year (non-EU Master's).
• Monthly living costs range from EUR 700 in regional cities to EUR 1,200+ in Paris.
• CAF housing aid can reduce your rent by EUR 50-250/month — available to all students.
• Major scholarships include Eiffel Excellence, Erasmus+, CROUS grants, and university-specific awards.

Everything you need to know about the French student visa (VLS-TS), Campus France procedure, OFII validation, health insurance enrollment, and your first weeks in France.

• Non-EU students need a VLS-TS (long-stay visa equivalent to residence permit) for studies.
• Campus France pre-approval is required for students from 60+ countries before the visa application.
• OFII validation must be completed within 3 months of arrival to activate your residence status.
• EU students do not need a visa but should register with their local Prefecture for stays over 3 months.

Everything you need to know about student life in France — major cities, CROUS housing, private accommodation, transport, healthcare, French culture, and making the most of your time.

• Student cities range from Paris (academic capital) to affordable gems like Toulouse, Montpellier, and Lille.
• CROUS offers student housing from EUR 200-500/month and meals for EUR 3.30.
• CAF housing aid reduces rent by EUR 50-250/month for all students regardless of nationality.
• Student transport passes cost EUR 10-40/month in most cities.

Part-time work rules, student job opportunities, mandatory internships (stages), post-graduation APS permit, and career pathways for international graduates in France.

• Students can work up to 964 hours/year (approximately 20 hours/week) on a student visa.
• Internships (stages) are central to French education — many programs require 3-6 month placements.
• The APS permit allows non-EU graduates to stay 12 months after graduation to find work.
• France is home to global leaders in luxury, aerospace, energy, tech, and finance.