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Study in France as an International Student: Everything You Need to Know
France is THE dream destination for many. Every year the country attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. In addition to tourism, France is also renowned for its rich history, culture, and academic excellence. With so many prestigious universities and an unending range of programs, France offers the ideal symposium for high-quality education and academics for international students. If you also want to study in France, you have come to the right place. Here, we have compiled a special guide on everything you need to know before flying off to France to get your dream degree!
Studying in France as an International Student
As an international student, studying in France will take you beyond the academics. With the rich history and captivating culture, getting your degree in France will surely provide you with a remarkable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Some of the greatest intellectuals in world history hailed from France, making the country an undeniable hub for philosophy, culture, and art. International students who want to study in France can choose between public universities, specialised schools, and the Grandes Ecoles to pursue a degree in their dream discipline. The Grandes Ecoles reign at the top of the country’s institutional hierarchy and are comparable to the American Ivy League universities. They are the ultimate ticket to success as a student in France.
There are three types of degrees offered by the universities in France to their students. These are - Licence (Undergraduate/Bachelor’s), Master’s (Postgraduate), and Doctorate (Ph.D). Many French universities also offer Diploma courses in professional disciplines. International students can enrol in any of these programs as per their academic and professional goals.
Why Study in France?
If the beauty and charm of France aren’t enough to convince you of its merit as a spectacular student destination, the following points definitely will.
1. World-Class Academia
France is home to some of the most renowned universities in the world. Not only are these universities internationally recognised for their world-class education, but they are also known to hold immense influence in the global academic world. France is also a full-time member of the Bologna Process since 1999, which puts the degrees awarded by French universities at par with European as well as international standards.
2. Affordable Programs
The cost of studying in France is comparatively lower than the cost of studying in the UK or the USA. The quality of education provided by French universities - especially the Grandes Ecoles - is at par with the topmost universities of the UK and the USA, while being more affordable for non-EU students. Licence (Bachelor’s) program in public French universities usually costs around 2,850 EUR per year.
3. Rich Culture and History
The historical richness of the country coupled with its culturally diverse social fabric offers a unique experience to international students studying in France. From museums to art galleries, France has a lot to offer to students. Moreover, the country is renowned for its high fashion and confectionary delights, thereby immersing international students in an unforgettable experience.
4. Exciting Opportunities
France is home to some of the biggest and most popular brands. This, along with its culinary culture, offers exciting opportunities to students beyond the world of academia.
5. Financial Aids & Scholarships
Several French universities and institutes offer scholarships to international students. These merit/need-based scholarships and financial aid can be obtained if you have a strong academic record and extracurricular achievements, apart from other things. The French government also provide scholarships to non-EU students.
Study in France - Licence (Bachelor’s) Degree
Bachelor’s Degrees offered by French universities are usually referred to as Licence, which is to be followed by a Master’s and a Doctorate. The programs typically take three years and are divided into three stages corresponding to three years. These are -
● L1 or First Year. This is the first stage of the Licence program and usually involves an introductory year to the chosen discipline/field of study.
● L2 or Second Year. This stage involves more specialised studies.
● L3 or Third Year. This is the final stage of the Licence Program where the students are expected to carry out advanced coursework and a dissertation.
The disciplines most commonly pursued by international students studying in France in the Licence (Bachelor’s) Programs are -
● Humanities & Social Science
● Science & Mathematics
● Engineering & Technology
● Medicine & Health Sciences
● Art & Design
● Culinary Sciences
● Business & Management
Study in France - Master’s Degree
Master’s Degrees offered by French universities usually take two years and provide advanced study in specialised fields. International students who want to study Master’s in France must possess an undergraduate degree that is equivalent to the Licence Degree awarded by French colleges and universities. The MAster’s program typically follows two successive levels corresponding to two years. These are -
● M1 or the first year of the MAster’s Program involves advanced coursework in the chosen field.
● M2 or the second & final year of the MAster’s Program involves working on a research project, dissertation, or internship.
The most popular disciplines that international students pursue at the MAster’s level in France are -
● Specialised History
● International Relations
● Fine Arts & ARt History
● Literature
● Philosophy
● Law
● Economics & Finance
● Culinary Sciences
● Business Administration
● Engineering & Computer Sciences
Study in France - Get a Diploma
International students who want to study in France can also pursue diploma programs. Many universities and specialised schools offer Diploma degrees in specific fields, such as art, design, culinary sciences, technical fields, etc. These courses usually range from shorter courses to longer programs depending on the field and institute.
Some popular specialisations for diploma programs include -
● Fashion Designing & MErchandising
● Culinary Arts & Sciences
● Film & Media Studies
● Hotel & Hospitality Management
Top Universities in France
International students who want to study in France are usually spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a French university. Good universities providing world-class education are abundant in the country. Here are some of the best universities in France:
1. Paris Sciences et Lettres – PSL Research University Paris
2. Université Paris-Saclay
3. Institut Polytechnique de Paris
4. Sorbonne University
5. Université Paris Cité
6. École Normale Supérieure de Lyon
7. IMT Atlantique
8. Institute Agro
9. Montpellier University
10. Université Grenoble Alpes
Admission Requirements for International Students to Study in France
The admission requirements for enrolling in French universities as an international student may vary depending on the university, program, and discipline. However, academic institutions usually follow a general guideline when admitting international students.
1. Licence (Bachelor’s) Degree Admission: To get admitted into Licence Programs, you must have completed +12 or equivalent high school education with good grades (minimum 70%).
2. Master’s Degree Admission: To get into a Master’s program, you will need to have completed a relevant Bachelor’s Degree. Many universities will also require you to present your GMAT/GRE scores and work experience (if applicable).
3. Diploma Program Admission: Students who have scored around 60% in their +12 or equivalent exam can enrol in Diploma Programs, provided they fulfil other requirements as demanded by the specific institution or university.
4. French Language Proficiency: The language of instruction in most French universities is French. As such, French language proficiency is mandatorily required for admission to all degree programs. International students produce scores to standardised French language proficiency tests like the DELF.
5. English Language Proficiency: English language proficiency is also mandatorily required of international students to study in France. You must have your IELTS/TOEFL scores ready while applying to French universities.
How to Apply
Each university in France has its own application system. Once you select the university you wish to attend, you can follow their specified application process and submit the required documents. You will typically need to submit the following -
● A scanned copy of your diploma (high school or Bachelor's degree or equivalent, depending on your chosen degree program).
● A transcript or record of your previous coursework.
● State of Purpose (SOP).
● Score reports of GRE/GMAT (if applicable).
● A scanned copy of your passport and/or birth certificate.
● Your CV.
● Test scores for French language proficiency tests like DELF.
● Test scores for English language proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE Academic (if and when asked).
● Proof of scholarship or funding (if applicable).
● 2-3 academic reference letters or letters of recommendation, whichever applicable.
● Portfolio and/or writing samples (if requested).
Cost of Studying in France as an International Student
The cost is a huge factor when it comes to studying abroad. For international students who want to study in France, it is adisable that they take active care in thoroughly understanding the overall cost of living and studying in the country before taking the big plunge. Having a proper idea about the costs will help you plan your stay in France more effectively, without necessarily overburdening yourself with student loans. Take a look at the average tuition costs and living costs as an international student in France.
● Tuition Costs: International/non-EU students who study in France have to pay anywhere between 3,000 EUR and 25,000 EUR, depending on the university, degree, and discipline. For instance, you will need to pay only around 2,850 EUR per year for a Bachelor’s program and 3,879 EUR for a Master’s at a public university. To study in a private institution, such as a private business school, you will need to invest around 6,000 EUR to 18,000 EUR per year.
● Living Costs: Living costs in France vary depending on a multitude of factors, such as the city, location, access to amenities, type of housing, and so on. For instance, the type of housing you choose can make a huge impact on your overall expenses. You can either choose university-provided accommodation which will be considerably cheaper, or you can choose to rent private apartments. The latter will cost you somewhere between 300 EUR and 1,000 EUR per month depending on the city, amenities, and location. Other than rent, your living costs will also include food, transportation, leisure activities, etc.
● Health Insurance: The French government offers health insurance, and enrolling in the Securite Sociale is mandatory for all international students. Students can enroll in the program usually free of cost. However, you may also be required to have additional private health insurance.
Scholarships and Financial Aids for International Students Studying in France
There are a plethora of scholarship programs for international students who want to study in France. The French Foreign Ministry, for instance, awards various scholarships to international students. Scholarship programs like the France Excellence Europa and the Framce Excellence Eiffel are merit-based. Scholarships and financial aid are also offered to international students by public organisations, universities, and regional authorities. In addition to these, the French Embassy in India partners up with French companies and institutions to award scholarships to more than 500 meritorious Indian students who want to study in France.
Work Opportunities for International Students
One of the best things about studying in France as an international student is that you can work part-time during your studies. Even though there are strict work hour limits for students, you can easily work nearly 20 hours per week and earn around 1,000 EUR per month. Even the part-time work scene in France is interesting, to say the least. You can find work in cafes, restaurants, and retail, representing luxury brands and interacting with interesting people at famous tourist spots.
Student Life in France for International Students
France offers a unique experience to its international students - an experience that is no less than enchanting. The truly picturesque cities of the country coupled with their vibrant cultural environments create a truly welcoming atmosphere for students who come to study in France from foreign countries. The high-quality education joins hands with the historical and artistic heritage of France, while the exquisite cuisine and luxurious high fashion lend an air of sophistication. French universities play a significant part in encouraging collaborative and multicultural avenues of networking and bonding. In addition, there are hundreds of attractive hang-out spots like cafes, eateries, restaurants, nightclubs, and boutiques that make sure that the students never run out of an opportunity to enjoy days and nights of social camaraderie.
Study in France with Bethel Educational Consultancy as Your End-to-End Guide
If your dream is to study in France, we at Bethel Educational Consultancy will make it come true! As a leading educational consultant based in India, we help students obtain their academic goals with world-class degrees from their dream overseas universities. Bethel Consultancy offers a broad range of educational and immigration consultancy services designed to fulfil your study abroad ambitions with simplified processes. From helping you choose the best university as per your academic profile and application to visa assistance and scholarship guidance, we will ensure you a personalised approach and end-to-end
support. We will transform your dream into a reality while making the journey as seamless as possible!