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Go to France

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Study in France

Why go to France?

France is a global center for art, science, and innovation, hosting more than 3,500 public and private higher education institutions. Known for its prestigious Grandes Écoles and world-class research universities, France offers an academic experience that blends centuries of tradition with modern technical expertise. Whether you are pursuing a career in aerospace, luxury brand management, or international law, French organizations rely on trusted English‑language assessments to ensure that international students and professionals are ready for global collaboration.

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS

  • World-Class Institutions: Home to elite Grandes Écoles and top-ranked universities consistently featured in global rankings.
  • Affordable Quality: Even with updated 2026 tuition rates for non-EU students (approx. €2,895 for Bachelor’s and €3,941 for Master’s), France remains one of the most cost-effective destinations for high-quality education. 
  • English-Taught Expansion: Over 1,600 programs are now taught entirely in English, particularly in business, engineering, and the sciences.
  • Innovative Research: Significant government investment in priority sectors like Artificial Intelligence, biotechnology, and green energy.
  • The "Choose France" Strategy: A national initiative focused on welcoming 500,000 international students by 2027 through streamlined services.

PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

  • Strategic Career Hub: Headquarters for global giants in aerospace (Airbus), luxury (LVMH), and energy (TotalEnergies).
  • The Talent Passport: A simplified four-year residence permit for highly skilled workers, investors, and researchers.
  • Marketable Soft Skills: Professional environments in France value critical thinking, debate, and a refined "art de vivre" (art of living).
  • International Recognition: Degrees and certifications that carry significant weight across the European Union and beyond.
Students in France

Study in France

REGION
Europe
LANGUAGE
French
CURRENCY
EUR (€)
TIME ZONES
UTC+1
CLIMATE
Temperate and seasonal

Life in France: What to Expect

In France, international learners are immersed in an environment that prioritizes intellectual curiosity and cultural engagement. Academic life often involves "travaux dirigés" (small group tutorials) that encourage active participation. While English is the medium of instruction for many programs, daily life offers a unique opportunity to pick up French, often supported by subsidized language courses.

Outside the classroom, life in France is famously vibrant. From the café-lined streets of Paris to the tech hubs of Lyon and Toulouse, the "French way of life" emphasizes social connection. International students benefit from significant government subsidies, including APL (housing assistance) and discounts on transport, museums, and meals through the Crous university dining halls. 

Practical life is supported by an extensive high-speed rail network (TGV) and a robust healthcare system. 

france

Work & Practical Experience Opportunities

France offers a clear framework for gaining work experience during and after your studies. 

  • Student Employment: International students are entitled to work up to 964 hours per year (approx. 20 hours per week).
  • Mandatory Internships (Stages): Many programs require internships. If they last longer than two months, you are legally entitled to a minimum monthly stipend, which is exempt from the 964-hour work limit.
  • The APS/Job-Search Permit: Master’s graduates can apply for a 12-month post-study permit to search for a job or start a business.
  • French Tech Visa: A fast-track pathway for startup founders and employees within the thriving French technology ecosystem.
Peoples in a meeting

Understanding French Immigration & Entry Pathways

France has simplified its entry pathways to attract global talent, particularly in sectors facing skill shortages.

CAMPUS FRANCE

The primary gateway for international students to apply to universities and manage visa procedures

FRANCE-VISAS

The official government portal for all visa applications, including the VLS-TS (Long-stay visa).

WELCOME TO FRANCE (BUSNISS FRANCE)

A dedicated resource for international professionals and their families.

MINISTÈRE DE L'INTÉRIEUR

Official information on residency permits and the "Talent Passport."

English Proficiency Requirements

Proof of English‑language proficiency is essential for the 1,600+ international programs offered in France. The TOEFL iBT® test is recognized by France’s top business and engineering schools, as well as public universities. It serves as a trusted benchmark for your ability to contribute to high-level academic discussions and professional projects. 

How TOEFL® Supports You

The TOEFL iBT® test is a vital component of your application to French institutions. It demonstrates that you possess the advanced communication skills required for success in France’s increasingly internationalized higher education and business sectors. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

FAQ

Public Universities accept a large number of students and offer a broad range of subjects. Grandes Écoles are elite, highly selective institutions—often private or semi-public—that specialize in business, engineering, or political science.

No, you do not need French for admission to English-medium programs. However, the French government now requires a basic level (A2) of French for those looking to convert their post-study permit into a long-term residence permit.

For more information about living or studying in France, visit:

MONMASTER

Your Master application portal 

PARCOURSUP

Your Bachelor Application portal 

L'ÉTUDIANT

University rankings

ONISEP

Career paths and opportunities