STUDY IN FRANCE

Basic facts

Pros & cons:

• + Large number of highly reputable universities
• + Many government grants for international students
• + Many bi-lingual French/English-based masters
• - Most undergraduate courses in French only
• - Post-study visa situation for employment

Why France?

More than 245 000 international students choose to study in France each year, and with the opportunities this country provides, it’s easy to see why. In France you can live, breathe and taste the culture. If you want a study abroad experience that will tempt, challenge, educate and fulfill you, then France is the country. Whether it’s cuisine or culture that interests you, France will satisfy your curiosity, and 14 of French universities are ranked in the top 400 in the world.

Education system

There are more than 3 000 institutions of higher education in France, including 87 public universities. The French higher education system is based on a common architecture of tertiary qualifications, LMD: license (bachelors degree), masters and PhD. Foreign students currently in higher education in their home country can apply for admission to a comparable French institution, as long as they meet the entry requirements. There are two main types of tertiary education institutions: “universités” and “les grandes écoles”, which are uniquely French. They are extremely selective and offer education at a very high level. French business schools are also internationally renowned. Six of top ten Masters in Management programs come from French business schools.

Costs

International students pay the same fees as domestic students at most universities and on most academic programs. The state pays a very large part of each student’s study expenses (about 10 000 € a year), keeping admission fees relatively low. The French government funds over 20 000 international students every year trough scholarships.

Student accommodation in France, especially in Paris, can be pricey and although it is good in overall, the quality can vary. University housing is in very short supply, even for French students. Student group health plans are available for international students to cover their medical bills.

Student life

Student services on campus are available to all students. The French campuses are very well equipped to support all kinds of sports activities. There is also no shortage of French cultural activities, from cinema and dance clubs to music and theatre.