France is one of the most popular study destinations in Europe, with world-class universities, strong research and a lively student life. If you want to study in France as an international student, the process is very doable. But the rules changed for 2026-27, especially for tuition fees.
This guide covers the current costs, the types of institutions, the application and visa steps, scholarships, and practical tips. You’ll also see what the new fee rules mean for you, so you can plan your budget with real numbers.
Let’s start with what studying in France actually involves.
Understanding Higher Education in France
French higher education includes public universities, specialised schools and private institutions. Public universities award national degrees: the licence (bachelor’s), master and doctorat. Many programmes are taught in English, though knowing French opens far more options and helps in daily life.
France also has a clear ambition. The government wants to reach 500,000 international students by 2027 under its “Choose France for Higher Education” strategy.
Common misconception: “Universities in France are free for everyone.” They aren’t. EU students pay low national fees, while most non-EU students now pay higher rates (details below).
Key Takeaway: France is affordable compared with the UK, US or Australia, but your citizenship decides your tuition rate.
Types of Institutions and Programmes
Public Universities
These offer national bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. They are the most affordable route and are what most students choose.
Grandes Écoles
Specialised schools in engineering, business and political science. Admission is competitive, and fees are set by each school.
Private Schools and Business Schools
These set their own fees, often higher, and are not subject to the national fee scale. Always check accreditation before you apply.
Doctoral Programmes
Doctoral students are not subject to the differentiated international fees, although standard doctoral fees still apply. Doctoral study is often funded through research contracts.
Tuition Fees for International Students
For 2026-27, the national rates are very different for EU and non-EU students.
| Level | EU / EEA student | Non-EU student |
|---|---|---|
| Licence (bachelor’s) | €178 per year | €2,902 per year |
| Master’s | €255 per year | €3,950 per year |
| Doctorate | €398 per year | Same as EU rate |
These figures come from national tuition rates published by French universities for 2026-27. Students also pay a CVEC student and campus contribution of €105, which supports student services.
What Changed in 2026?
France now applies the higher fees almost universally. The higher education minister said that differentiated fees are now the rule and exemption is the exception. Under a decree of 19 May 2026, universities can exempt up to 30% of international students in 2026-27, falling to 25% and then 20% in later years.
Students who already held an exemption keep it until they finish their current programme. Those who were granted an exemption for 2026-27 before 21 May 2026 also keep it.
Important: Don’t assume you’ll receive a fee exemption. Treat the full non-EU rate as your budget, and treat any waiver as a bonus.
Exceptions: Some groups pay national rates, including scholarship holders, holders of international protection and some students in distance-learning or international programmes, depending on the institution. Check your university’s page.
How to Apply to Study in France
The exact steps depend on your country of residence.
- Choose your programme and language. Check whether it’s taught in English or French and which language test you need.
- Check whether your country uses Campus France. In countries with the procedure, you must create an account on the Études en France portal first. In other countries, you apply directly to the university.
- Submit your file. Upload transcripts, diplomas, a CV and a motivation letter. A language test result is often required.
- Attend the Campus France interview (where applicable). It checks that your study plan is coherent.
- Receive your admission from the French institution.
- Apply for the long-stay student visa (VLS-TS) on the France-Visas portal.
- Validate your visa with OFII after arrival and enrol in French health insurance.
Pro Tip: Start early. The Campus France process and the visa can take two to three months together. Beginning in June for a September start is a common mistake that causes delays.
Requirements and Eligibility
Most applicants need:
- A passport valid for the whole stay
- Previous diplomas and transcripts with certified translations where required
- Language proof (French or English, depending on the programme)
- A motivation letter and CV
- Proof of accommodation and health insurance
- A Campus France validation, if your country is covered
Money Requirements for the Visa
You must show at least €615 per month in financial resources for the whole stay. Acceptable proof may include bank statements, a scholarship letter or a sponsor’s guarantee. This amount excludes tuition.
Important: The €615 is a minimum for the visa, not a realistic budget. One French university estimates that a realistic monthly budget in Lyon is around €950 without tuition fees.
Working While You Study
A student visa lets you work up to 964 hours per year, about 60% of the standard working time, with no separate work permit. Treat it as extra income, not your main funding.
Benefits of Studying in France
- Affordable compared with many Western countries, even at non-EU rates
- Recognised degrees and strong rankings in engineering, business, arts and sciences
- Work rights during your studies
- Post-study options, including residence permits that let graduates stay to look for work (check current conditions)
- Language and culture: you can learn French while studying, which is valuable for careers in Europe
- Travel: France is central to Europe, and Schengen travel becomes easier
Tips for Success
- Budget for the whole year. Include tuition, CVEC, rent, health insurance, transport and visa costs.
- Apply to several programmes and keep one or two affordable backups.
- Look for scholarships early. Funding changes your fee rate and your total cost.
- Prepare your study plan for the interview. Explain clearly why you chose the programme and why France.
- Learn basic French before you arrive, even if your course is in English.
- Check every deadline on the institution’s own page, since French universities set their own dates.
Pro Tip: Contact the international office and ask about fee exemptions and scholarships. The 2026 rule change means each university now has a limited quota, so early applicants often have a better chance.
Common mistakes: Applying too late, uploading unclear documents, relying on part-time work as your main income, and ignoring the visa financial proof.
Where to Apply and Useful Resources
- Campus France: campusfrance.org, the official agency for French higher education abroad and the Études en France platform
- France-Visas: france-visas.gouv.fr, the official visa application portal
- Individual university websites, for programme details, deadlines and fee exemptions
- Scholarship programmes: the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, Erasmus+ and regional or institutional awards (check current criteria on Campus France)
FAQs
How much does it cost to study in France for international students?
For 2026-27, non-EU students at public universities pay €2,902 per year for a licence and €3,950 for a master’s, plus the €105 CVEC. Living costs come on top and are often around €900 to €1,000 per month, depending on the city.
Can international students study in France for free?
Rarely. EU students pay low national fees, and some non-EU students receive exemptions or scholarships. Because universities may now exempt only a limited share of students, you should plan to pay unless you have confirmed funding.
Do I need to speak French to study in France?
Not always. Many master’s programmes are taught in English. For French-taught degrees you usually need a recognised French test result, and French helps in daily life.
What is Campus France?
Campus France is the national agency that promotes French higher education and runs the Études en France application procedure in many countries. You usually must complete it before applying for the visa.
Can I work while studying in France?
Yes. A student visa allows up to 964 hours per year without a separate work permit. This income should only supplement your funding.
How much money do I need to show for a French student visa?
At least €615 per month for the length of your stay. Authorities may also ask for proof of accommodation and insurance.
When should I start applying?
Begin at least six to nine months before your programme starts. This leaves time for tests, documents, the Campus France interview and the visa.
Final Words
Studying in France is realistic and rewarding if you plan carefully and understand the 2026 changes.
- Non-EU students now generally pay €2,902 (licence) or €3,950 (master’s) per year at public universities.
- Fee exemptions still exist but are capped at a share of students.
- The visa requires proof of at least €615 per month, and the Campus France step comes first in many countries.
- A student visa lets you work up to 964 hours a year.
- Early applications and scholarships improve your chances.
Pick two or three programmes this week, check their English or French requirements, and see whether your country uses the Campus France procedure. Small steps now make a big difference by spring.
Which French city or programme are you considering? Share it in the comments!