Higher education in France for foreigners

France leads non-English-speaking countries in terms of the number of international students. French universities are renowned for their high academic standards, and degrees are valued worldwide, opening up broad career prospects. Scholarships are available, and the combination of European-quality education and a rich cultural environment makes France particularly attractive to prospective students.
Culture
France is a center of world art with a rich history, architecture (from Gothic cathedrals to modern buildings), cinema, literature (Voltaire, Hugo, Proust) and fashion. France is considered a country with a high degree of religious and cultural tolerance.
Economy
One of the largest economies in the world. Strong sectors: tourism, industry (automotive, aircraft, pharmaceuticals), agriculture (wine, grain) and services (finance, insurance). France is an active member of the European Union.
Climate
The north has a maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers. The central and eastern parts have a more continental climate with colder winters and hot summers. The south (including the Côte d'Azur) has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters.
67.7 millionpopulation of the country
$3.16 trillionGDP (2024)
400 thousandforeign students
more than 99%education of the population
7.1%unemployment rate

Popular Universities

Peculiarities of education in France

There are 3 types of higher education institutions in France: high schools, specialized schools, and universities. Almost all universities are public, but there are also private ones. The education system is centralized and managed by the Ministry of National Education. This ensures uniformity of standards and programs throughout the country.

In addition to universities, France has prestigious Grandes Écoles, which specialize in specific fields such as engineering, business, and public administration. Admission to these schools is very competitive. Preparation for admission to Grandes Écoles often takes place in special preparatory classes (classes préparatoires).

Duration of training
Bachelor's degree, 3 years (L1, L2, L3)

This is the basic level of higher education, corresponding to a bachelor’s degree in other countries. Students study the basics of the specialty, and receive theoretical and practical knowledge.

Master's degree, 2 years (M1, M2)

A Master’s degree is designed for students who wish to deepen their knowledge in a chosen field and acquire more specialized skills. It may be research-oriented or practice-oriented.

Doctoral degree, 3-4 years

This is a research degree designed for students who wish to pursue research or teaching careers.

Prospects for International Students

Studying in France allows foreign students to obtain a higher education that is recognized worldwide and opens up enormous career opportunities.

Why study in France:

French education and experience of living in this country gives a good start for a future career. With a diploma from a French university, it will not be difficult to find a job both in your home country and in European and other countries.

Cost of education

The cost of education in France for foreign students depends on the type of educational institution, level of education and chosen program and ranges from €2,770 to €10,000 per year.

Approximate prices:
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The total cost of study, including all expenses, is approximately €10,000 – €20,000 per year for non-EU students. The exact amount depends on where you live and your lifestyle.

 

Scholarships in France

Education in France is becoming more accessible thanks to scholarships, which can be received not only by local but also by foreign students.

Types of scholarships for foreigners:
Scholarships from the French Government

Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program

Dedicated to international students wishing to study for a Master’s or PhD in France. The scholarship covers tuition fees and provides monthly financial assistance.

Emile Boutmy Scholarship

Awarded to non-EU students applying to Sciences Po. The scholarship may cover part or all of the tuition fees.

University scholarships

Many universities in France offer their own scholarships for international students based on academic achievement or financial need.

Scholarships from private foundations and organizations

There are private foundations and organizations that offer scholarships for international students. For example, Fondation de France and Fondation Charles de Gaulle or UNESCO programs.

Financial assistance from the EU

The Erasmus+ programme offers financial support for students participating in exchange programmes between universities in Europe.

95% of our students receive a scholarship from 50 to 100% thanks to a unique admission algorithm. The total amount of our students’ scholarships has already exceeded $25 million!

Do you want to study in France with funding? Then we are waiting for you for a consultation.

Accommodation and adaptation

To make the adaptation process smooth and painless, we recommend our students to communicate more with locals, attend university events, and make new acquaintances. It is also worth studying local customs and etiquette, as the French value politeness and formality.

1

Student dormitories

Convenient location near the university, socializing with other students. Cost from 200 to 500 euros per month.

2

Rented apartment

More freedom and space. Cost 400-1000 euros per month plus utilities.

3

Room in a private house or apartment

A more affordable option, but limited privacy. Cost from 250 to 500 euros per month.

4

Host family

Cultural exchange, French language practice, home atmosphere. Cost from 400 to 700 euros per month.

5
6

MentoringSupport from a mentor throughout the entire training process. When every step is carefully planned and the outcome is predictable.
Full supportApplying abroad with a scholarship is a complete solution: strategy, documents, universities, and visas – all in one service.
Personal brand in a yearApplying abroad is all about marketing yourself. A personal brand can help you get not only an offer but also a scholarship of up to 100%.
Selection of activities for Personal brandA personal brand is your secret weapon when applying to universities abroad. Get a list of activities and boost your personal brand!
Universal supportAccelerated preparation for admission: save time and money without compromising results.
Consultation with an expertOne conversation can save you months. Get a professional answer to any question you have.
Consultation with a career guidance specialistOne consultation will help you better understand your strengths and choose the right profession.
Getting a student visa from the USAStudent visa for studying abroad: we'll process your application without stress and refusals.
Selection of universities and scholarshipsUniversities and scholarships abroad: we'll find what's right for you.
Admission to Foundation Programme AbroadDon't waste a year. Enroll in the Foundation program and start your journey to an international degree now.
Preparation of documentationStrong documents make a strong candidate. We'll prepare your application documents based on the university's explicit and implicit requirements.

    I enrolled in graphic design programs in France, Italy, and Hungary, and received 100% funding at one of the universities.
    Camilla
    Admitted to a Master's program in Finance at Brandeis University and Washington University in St. Louis (USA). Funding: $80,000.
    Egor

    “Initially, I thought it was impossible, but SelfStartGlobal took care of all the difficulties. The work was done flawlessly.”

    Поступил в Siena Heights University (США) Theater and Music с полной стипендией $170 000.
    Leonid
    I applied to five US universities for Fashion PR programs. I chose a strong program with good career prospects.
    Anastasia
    Nutritionology
    Diera
    Поступила на PhD в Columbia University (Earth & Environmental Science). Получила полное финансирование и позицию ассистента.
    Zhanna
    She entered Siena Heights University (USA) for Theater and Music with a full scholarship for the entire period of study.
    Leila

    “An interesting insight: if you want it, there’s a place for you. You just can’t always see it yourself, but your mentor will.”

    Admitted to NYU Abu Dhabi (≈4% of admissions) with a $217,000 scholarship. Also admitted to Lynn University and Drexel University.
    Ruslan

    “I didn’t know anything, but Radmila and the team of curators explained everything quickly and clearly from the very beginning. Support was available 24/7.”

    Admission Stories

    АнастасияUSAAdmission to the USA with a 100% scholarship! One of the top universities, majoring in international relations.
    Anastasia's review
    КамиллаЕвропаEnrolled in one of the best applied arts schools in France - LISAA. Bachelor's degree, graphic design.
    Review by Camilla
    КсенияUSAI entered the USA with full funding, majoring in applied mathematics. The annual tuition will be only $81!
    Feedback from Ksenia
    РусланUAEAdmission to Business and Management at NYU ABU DHABI with a $217,000 scholarship!
    Review by Ruslan
    ЭлинаUSAAdmission to the USA with 100% scholarship after 2 unsuccessful independent attempts!
    Elina's review
    АнастасияUSAI entered the USA for international relations with a scholarship. The secret is in the Personal Brand!
    Review by Anastasia
    КсенияGermanyShe entered Macromedia University for a bachelor's degree in acting.
    Feedback from Ksenia
    ЛеонидUSAAdmission to the USA for a master's degree in theater and music with a scholarship of $170,000.
    Review by Leonid

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