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Last reviewed: 2026-07-04

# 🇫🇷 Studying in France for international applicants

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Contents

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## Higher education in France at a glance {#c1}

SKEMA Business School - Paris / Sophia Antipolis / Lille

France is a global hub for business education, fashion, design and gastronomy. It is home to some of Europe's best business schools and legendary culinary and fashion schools, while public universities charge only moderate fees.

Education follows the Bologna system. Public universities teach mainly in French, while private schools (Grandes Écoles, business schools) offer many English-taught programs.

## Advantages of studying in France {#c2}

- Top business schools and legendary schools of fashion and gastronomy.
- Low fees at public universities.
- English-taught programs at private schools.
- Degrees are recognized across the EU.
- Rich culture and the chance to learn French.

## The price of study {#c3}

Istituto Marangoni Paris - Paris

Public universities charge moderate fees even for non-EU students, while private business and fashion/gastronomy schools are fee-based and more expensive. The cost of living depends on the city (Paris is pricier).

In a consultation we'll share current amounts for the specific program.

## The way in {#c4}

Admission is based on your school diploma and proven language (French or English). For private schools, motivation and sometimes a portfolio matter.

We'll help you choose a university/school, prepare documents and arrange a visa.

Step by step:

1. Campus France. For most CIS applicants the application runs through the state Campus France platform: dossier, motivation, interview.
2. Language. French B2 (DELF/TCF) for French-taught programs; English tracks live in business schools and graduate programs.
3. Pick your track. Universities are affordable; Grandes Écoles and business schools cost more but carry strong career weight.
4. Deadlines. Campus France campaigns open in autumn and close in winter-spring - a year ahead.
5. Visa and housing. Student visa follows the Campus France result; CROUS student housing is cheap but scarce - book early.

## After 11th grade: direct entry

France accepts 11-year certificates directly - no preparatory year; first-year (Licence 1) applications go through Campus France. Selection is dossier-based: grades, motivation letter, French level. That makes France one of Western Europe's most accessible direct routes. Comparisons - in our [study-abroad guide](https://www.studyu.org/en/blog-where-is-it-easiest-to-study-abroad).

## Master's degrees in France

Bachelor diplomas are accepted directly. Graduate level is where France shines: English-taught business programs, the Eiffel scholarship for strong international candidates, and moderate public fees. The study permit allows up to ~20 hours of work a week.

## What studying in France costs

| Expense | Budget for |
| --- | --- |
| Public universities (non-EU) | about €3,000-4,000 / year |
| Business schools / Grandes Écoles | from €10,000 / year |
| Living | €800-1,200 / month; Paris well above the regions |
| CROUS housing | cheapest option - book right after admission |

## FAQ {#c-faq}

### What is France strong in academically?

Business education, fashion, design and gastronomy - home to the world's best schools in these fields.

### Do I need to know French?

For public universities, usually yes; private business schools and international programs are in English.

### Is it expensive to study?

Public universities charge a moderate fee; private schools cost more. You see the tuition and extra costs before we send the application.

### Is a French degree recognized?

Yes, across the EU (the Bologna system).

### Can I apply to France right after an 11-year school?

Yes, directly: the certificate is accepted and Licence 1 applications go through Campus France. Dossier, motivation letter and B2 French decide.

### What is Campus France?

The state platform international students apply through: dossier, motivation, interview. Campaigns start in autumn - prepare a year ahead.

### How much does studying in France cost?

Public universities charge non-EU students about €3,000-4,000 a year; business schools from €10,000. Living runs €800-1,200 a month.

### Do I need French?

For bachelor's generally yes (DELF B2 or TCF). Graduate programs and business schools offer many English-taught options.

Thinking about studying in France?

We'll tell you about the options, universities and costs - free, no obligation.

- [Consultation](https://www.studyu.org/en/apply)

## Universities in France we help you get into

Each comes with a full guide - faculties, prices and requirements. The list will keep growing.

### SKEMA Business School

### Istituto Marangoni Paris

### Le Cordon Bleu Paris

## Get a free consultation

Talk to a real consultant - we'll explain admission in France and match a program to you.

- Program selection and admission preparation
- Help with scholarships and university discounts
- Documents, translations and student visa
- A personal consultant from the first message to enrollment

Write to us

Leave a request - and we'll get in touch.

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