Study in France has been gaining popularity among international students, thanks to its reputation for offering quality education at a reasonable cost. Let’s delve into the details of the cost of studying in France, making it an attractive destination for learners worldwide.
The Affordability of Education in France
France is home to approximately 3,500 public and private institutions that provide outstanding programs and education. One of the key advantages of studying in France is its affordability, especially when compared to countries like the US and UK. International students can pursue their educational dreams in France without breaking the bank, thanks to reasonable tuition fees and available funding opportunities.
Tuition Fees in France for International Students
With 83 universities supported by the national government, France offers excellent education at affordable rates to students from around the globe. The cost of studying in France can vary depending on the specific program you choose.
Public Universities in France for International Students
Historically, before 2019, the average tuition fees for undergraduate programs in France were remarkably low. For instance, it was approximately 190 EUR per year for most undergraduate programs. For medical studies, the fees were around 450 EUR per year, and for engineering degrees, it amounted to 620 EUR per year. Master’s and PhD programs were equally affordable, with fees of 260 EUR per year and 396 EUR per year, respectively. It’s worth noting that most education in public universities in France is conducted in French.
However, starting from 2019, private universities in France introduced tuition fees of 2,770 Euros per year for Bachelor’s programs and 3,770 Euros per year for Master’s programs. This change made private institutions more accessible to international students, with a broader range of programs offered in English.
Cost of Studying in France for Indian Students
Indian students who aspire to study in France will find that the costs are similar to those for international students from outside the EU territories. Moreover, France offers various scholarships for Indian students to further encourage their academic journey in the country. These initiatives, along with the recent increase in fees, aim to attract a diverse pool of international students, including those from India.
If you’re an Indian student considering pursuing your education in France, you can find comprehensive information here: Study in France for Indian students.
When considering the cost of studying in France, it’s important to note that tuition fees can vary significantly depending on the type of institution you choose. Generally, private institutes tend to have higher tuition fees compared to public colleges. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of studying in France at various types of institutes:
Private Universities in France
If you opt for a private institute in France, you can expect to pay higher tuition fees. Tuition fees at private universities typically range from 1500 EUR/year to 2000 EUR/year. This is notably different from public colleges, which offer more affordable education.
MBA Fees in France
MBA programs in France for international students are primarily offered by private universities. Consequently, the fees for MBA programs can be higher, typically ranging from 5000 EUR/year to 7000 EUR/year. These private university programs provide specialized business education tailored to the needs of future leaders.
Affordable Universities in France for International Students
Many students aspire to study in France without incurring massive student debt. Fortunately, there are affordable universities in France that offer quality education. Here are some cost-effective options as well as top-ranked universities for international students:
Cheap Universities in France
- École Polytechnique
- Average Tuition Fees: 12,000 EUR/year
- Pierre and Marie Curie University
- Average Tuition Fees: 350 EUR/year
- École Supérieure d’Electricité (SUPELEC)
- Average Tuition Fees: 2,000 EUR/year
- Paris Descartes University
- Average Tuition Fees: 250 EUR/year
For more detailed information about affordable universities in France, international students should refer to: Cheapest Universities in France for International students.
Cost of Studying in France in English
France has become an attractive destination for international students seeking courses taught in English. This broad offering includes everything from MBBS to MBA programs. The tuition fees mentioned above pertain to English-taught courses. France has introduced English-taught courses to attract a diverse international student population and make its educational offerings more globally relevant. This also means that fluency in French is not always a prerequisite for studying in France.
Scholarships in France
France has emerged as one of the top study destinations for international students. However, covering the costs of education and living expenses can be challenging, especially for private universities with tuition fees that can reach €10,000 per year. Scholarships are a lifeline for many international students. The French government offers various scholarships for both local and international students.
To study in France for free (or at a reduced cost), applying for scholarships is highly recommended. Scholarships can alleviate the financial burden and make your academic journey in France more accessible and affordable.
Scholarships for International Students in France
If you’re considering studying in France, you’ll be pleased to know that the French government offers a variety of scholarships to make your academic journey more accessible. Here are some notable scholarships available for international students:
1. Eiffel Excellence Scholarships
The prestigious Eiffel Excellence Scholarships provide financial support to outstanding international students pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D. program in France. This scholarship program covers tuition fees, monthly allowances, and more, making it a highly sought-after opportunity.
2. Ile-de-France Masters Scholarships
The Ile-de-France Masters Scholarships aim to attract talented international students to the Paris region. These scholarships are designed for Master’s degree seekers and offer financial assistance to help cover tuition and living expenses while studying in one of the world’s most iconic cities.
3. École Normale Supérieure International Selection
École Normale Supérieure (ENS) offers the International Selection scholarship program, which targets exceptional students interested in pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D. in fields like science, arts, and humanities. This scholarship includes tuition coverage and a monthly stipend.
4. Ampere Scholarships of Excellence at ENS de Lyon
The Ampere Scholarships of Excellence are designed for international students who wish to study at ENS de Lyon. These scholarships provide significant financial support, including tuition coverage and a monthly stipend.
5. Université de Lyon Masters Scholarships
The Université de Lyon offers a range of scholarships for international Master’s degree students. These scholarships aim to encourage diversity and excellence in education by providing financial assistance to deserving candidates.
6. Grenoble Institute of Technology Foundation Scholarships
For students interested in technology and engineering, the Grenoble Institute of Technology Foundation Scholarships can be a valuable opportunity. These scholarships are designed to help cover tuition fees and living costs for international students pursuing Master’s degrees.
7. Emily Boutmy Scholarships at Sciences Po University
Sciences Po University offers the Emily Boutmy Scholarships, which target outstanding international students enrolling in Bachelor’s or Master’s programs. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of tuition fees.
8. INSEAD MBA Scholarships
INSEAD, a renowned business school in France, provides various MBA scholarships for international students. These scholarships are highly competitive and can significantly offset the cost of pursuing an MBA degree in France.
While it may be challenging to find tuition-free universities in France for international students, these scholarships present an excellent opportunity to access affordable education in a country known for its academic excellence. By exploring these scholarship options, you can make your study abroad dream in France a reality.