Study in France
From choosing a programme to planning your arrival. Explore the practical steps, costs, and documents for your next chapter.
Why France
French education for better lives
Build your future in a country shaped by scholarship, scientific discovery, and cultural exchange. France offers diverse routes into higher education, research, and professional life.
An international community
Join a diverse academic environment. Campus France reported 443,500 international students enrolled in France in 2024–25.
Campus France figuresStudy in English, learn French
Explore English-taught programmes while developing French language skills for daily life, academic exchange, and international careers.
Find English-taught programmesResearch and innovation
Find a programme that fits your ambitions, from university study and specialist training to doctoral research and collaboration with academic teams.
Explore student supportAdmissions
Plan your studies
Personalised, one-to-one guidance for bachelor's, master's, and PhD studies.
Discuss your study plansChoose the right programme
Compare entry requirements, teaching language, degree recognition, tuition, and location.
Check your application route
Procedures depend on your country of residence, qualification, and degree level. Check whether you apply through Études en France, another national platform, or directly to the institution.
Prepare your documents
Check the programme's list for transcripts, diplomas, language evidence, a CV, a motivation letter, and any references or translations.
Plan ahead for doctoral study
Identify a suitable doctoral school, research topic, potential supervisor, and funding arrangements.
Application calendars vary by programme and country.
Student visa
Prepare your student visa
For applicants who require a visa, admission is the starting point for a separate application.
Official student visa guidanceAdmission
Evidence of enrolment or pre-enrolment at a higher education institution.
Accommodation
A temporary address for your first three months in France, or your permanent address if already arranged.
Financial resources
At least €877.50 per month, equivalent to €10,530 for 12 months, under the requirement effective from 1 August 2026. Plan for tuition separately.
Supporting evidence
Personal bank evidence, documented sponsor support, or a scholarship letter, as applicable. Follow your personalised checklist for the required statement period and supporting documents.
The financial threshold is a visa requirement, not a guarantee that it will cover your living costs. Your document checklist depends on your circumstances and application location.
Tuition fees
Understand tuition fees
Public higher education is subsidised by the French state. What you pay depends on your status, programme, and institution.
| Degree | National rate | Non-EU differentiated rate |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's | €178 | €2,902 |
| Master's | €255 | €3,950 |
National rates generally apply to EU, EEA, and Swiss students and eligible exempt students. Doctoral programmes are outside the differentiated-fee system; confirm the current doctoral rate with your institution.
Private institutions and grandes écoles: fees vary widely, and some programmes cost substantially more. Public grandes écoles may have separate rates. Check the exact programme fee, scholarship options, and any exemption in writing.
Living budget
Build a realistic living budget
Your city and accommodation make a substantial difference. Paris and other large cities can require considerably more than a basic student budget.
- Private studio, outside Paris
- €350–€800 / month
- Private studio, Paris and Île-de-France
- €500–€1,100 / month
- Food, transport, and everyday costs
- Budget separately
- Deposit, travel, and arrival expenses
- Allow an upfront reserve
These housing estimates are indicative, not current rental offers. Student residences and shared housing may differ. Add groceries, utilities, insurance, a local transport pass, phone and internet, study materials, and personal expenses.
Individual guidance
Make your next step an informed one
Talk to our team about your academic background, your ambitions, and studying in France.
Discuss your study plans