Everything international students need to know about studying in France

 

 

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to study at a university in France? if yes, this article is for you.

France is already a popular destination for international students. Not only does the country offer interesting history, incredible cuisine, and beautiful landmarks, but it is also the home of many leading universities and international companies. French also happens to be the third most common language in the business world.

If France sounds like the place for you but you are not sure where to start, this article will explain everything you need to know when choosing to study abroad in France.

 

What kind of universities are in France?

France offers many higher education options, including specific schools for doctoral studies, business, and engineering. However, out of the 3,500 public and private institutions for higher education, 72 are classed as universities. Out of those, 39 French universities are ranked in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022. 

Many of France's top universities are located in the country’s capital, Paris. However, other locations to consider include Marseille, Bordeaux, and Montpellier. 

 

Applying to graduate programs

Masters and doctorate applications, terms, and deadlines range across several dates, depending on the university you choose to apply to. The best thing to do is to check the individual university requirements and dates before starting your application. 

 

Are French university courses taught in French or English?

Students wishing to study French courses must sit for the TCF – Test de connaissance du français, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages exam. Each university will have a minimum score, and this will be listed with the entry requirements.  Some will also require an English language test, usually the IELTS or TOEFL.

Postgraduate students will be asked to take the same exams but the minimum score for applications will be higher than for undergraduates. France was one of the first non-English-speaking countries in Europe to offer programs taught in English. It varies depending on the university and course; more information is provided in a university’s course directory. French universities tend to offer more postgraduate courses in English.

If you are a non-native speaker applying to any of these programs, you are required to sit for an English proficiency exam and the minimum grades are often higher than in other European countries.

 

How much does it cost to study in France?

Tuition fees in France are often lower than in other areas of Europe. For international students outside of the EEA, a bachelor’s degree is €2,770 per year, €3,770 for a postgraduate, and €380 per year for PhDs. Non-EU Ph.D. candidates are treated the same and therefore are not subject to differentiated tuition fees. If you are a citizen or permanent resident of an EEA country, the costs are significantly lower.

 

Livelihood

Accommodation in France is cheaper than in other parts of Europe, but it depends on the city you choose to study in. The universities offer a few options for students looking to live on or near campus. You can consider student halls, renting an apartment, or home-stay (which also includes at least one meal a day). These range in price from €120 to €800 per month depending on which option you choose and what is included.

Bills in France usually break down to about €60 for gas and electricity, €25 for internet, €50 to €100 for books and supplies, and €20 to €50 for health insurance, which is highly recommended. If you wish to have a phone, you can get deals beginning at around €10 a month, and renting cars, travel cards and student bikes are also an option.

France is one of the best countries for student discounts, so you can often ask for a discount when dining out, shopping for clothes and groceries, or visiting a museum.

 

What scholarships are available for international students in France?

There are a few scholarships that students can apply for which can help towards living expenses and tuition fees. However, these are often reserved for Erasmus exchange students and some selective business, engineering, and medical students who come from former French-speaking countries or colonies.

 

Can I stay and work in France after studying there?

International students with a study visa can work while they are in France for up to 964 hours a year (which is about 60% of a full-time job).  After you graduate, if you have a master’s degree or higher, you can apply for a one-year temporary residence permit, which will allow you to continue working 60% of a typical working week to support yourself while you look for full-time employment.

Once you find a job, you can then apply for a work permit. The final visa option is a Talent Passport visa, a four-year permit reserved for specialized graduates, artists, and other creatives.

Here you have it. I hope this information helps you to decide on your utmost choice to study in France.

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