Study in France

Home to renowned universities and Grandes Écoles, offering globally recognised degrees.
A top destination for Business, Fashion, Arts, Culinary Arts, Engineering, and Political Science.
Affordable tuition at public universities, with strong government subsidies and scholarships.
A leading hub for research and innovation, especially in Sciences, AI, and Technology.
Centrally located in Europe, offering Schengen Zone travel opportunities.
Rich cultural experience with world-famous art, history, and cuisine.

University	QS World Ranking (2025)	Known For
PSL University (Paris Sciences & Lettres)	#24	Sciences, Humanities, Research
Sorbonne University	#59	Arts, Humanities, Medicine
École Polytechnique	#48	Engineering, Mathematics
HEC Paris	Top 10 (Business)	Business, MBA, Management
Sciences Po Paris	Top 50 (Politics)	Political Science, International Relations
University of Paris-Saclay	#71	Sciences, Technology

France is a global leader in Fashion, Luxury Management, and Culinary Education, attracting thousands of international students.

September (Fall) – Main intake with the widest range of programs.
January/February (Spring) – Limited intake, mostly for business and short courses.

Deadlines:

Public Universities (subsidised):
- Undergraduate: €2,770/year
- Master’s: €3,770/year
- PhD: €380/year
Private Universities/Grandes Écoles: €8,000 – €20,000 per year (Business, Engineering, MBA).
Living Costs: €9,000 – €12,000 per year (Paris is more expensive than other cities).

Scholarships: Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, Campus France scholarships, Erasmus+.

English-taught Programs: IELTS 6.0 – 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 70–90.
French-taught Programs: B2 level French (DELF/DALF, TCF, or TEF).
Many universities accept MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificates for English programs.

Undergraduate: No SAT/ACT required, but strong academic records are needed.
Postgraduate: GRE/GMAT may be required for MBA and Business programs.
Specialised Schools: Fashion, Culinary, and Arts programs may require portfolios or entrance interviews.

12–15 months before intake: Research programs via Campus France (official portal).
Prepare Documents: Passport, transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL/French certificate, SOP, LORs, CV.
Apply via Campus France: Required for most students applying from outside the EU.
University Admission: Universities review applications and issue offer letters.
Visa Application: Once admitted, apply for France Student Visa (VLS-TS) through Campus France and consulate.

Visa Type: Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS)
Visa Fee: €99 (approx. USD $110)
Required Documents:
- Campus France acceptance confirmation
- University admission letter
- Valid passport
- Proof of funds (~€7,380 per year)
- Proof of accommodation
- Health insurance (mandatory for students under 28)

Visa validity is 1 year, renewable annually, and serves as both a residence permit and student visa.

During Studies: Students can work up to 964 hours/year (~20 hours/week).
After Graduation:
- Non-EU students with a Master’s degree can apply for a 1–2 year post-study work visa.
- Graduates can transition to a work permit or long-term residence if employed.

France’s strong business, fashion, hospitality, and tech sectors make it attractive for long-term careers.

France is now fully structured and aligned with the rest of the guide.