Discover how to study in France for international students

If you’re not sure how to study in France as an international student, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the French education system and the requirements for foreign students. You’ll also learn the steps to reach your goal, from getting a student visa and choosing a top university to exploring funding options, planning your move, and more.

Finally, we’ll break down how to get your qualifications recognized so you can be admitted to a French institution, and give you an idea of how much it costs to study in the country. By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll have a much clearer picture of how to turn your study plans in France into reality. Es-tu prêt?

How does the educational system work in France?

France has a well-structured higher education system made up of public universities, grandes écoles, and specialized schools—each with its own level of prestige and admission requirements. Most programs are taught in French, although you’ll also find courses in English, especially at the postgraduate level and in fields like business, engineering, or social sciences. In fact, France is actively expanding its multilingual course offerings to attract more international students.

In terms of study levels, university programs follow the LMD model (licence, master, doctorat) and these are its main characteristics:

The French education system also features technology institutes and schools focused on technical or vocational training in specific fields. This gives students the flexibility to choose between a more academic path or one that’s tailored to current job market demands.

Requirements to study in France for international students

If you’re wondering how to study in France as an international student and what you’ll need to apply, here’s a breakdown of the general documents required by most institutions. Depending on the program, schools may also ask for additional materials like academic transcripts, essays, or recommendation letters. Here are the key requirements to keep in mind:

• Valid passport: Essential document for any legal procedure or international mobility.
• Student visa: Required for most international students. You must apply for it at the French consulate in your home country.
• Letter of acceptance: Issued by the university or educational institution to which you have been admitted.
• Proof of financial resources: You must prove that you have sufficient financial means to cover your expenses during your stay.
• Health insurance: Compulsory health insurance is required for non-European Economic Area students, although many benefit from the French social security system.
• Language certification: You must prove your level of French (DELF, DALF, TCF) or English (TOEFL, IELTS), depending on the language in which you are studying.
• Pre-payment: Some institutions require payment of tuition fees or a part of it before final enrollment.

Steps to study in France as an international student

Before you can figure out how to study in France as an international student, there are a few important steps to take. You’ll need to start by researching schools and programs, learning about the different types of student visas available, exploring housing options, and understanding what’s involved in moving to France. Here’s a detailed breakdown to guide you through the process.

1. Evaluate universities and courses in France

The first step is choosing the university or school that best matches your goals and background as an international student. In France, you can study at public universities, prestigious grandes écoles, or specialized institutions. If you’re more interested in short-term options, many schools also offer intensive courses in fields like fashion, culinary arts, or design. Here are the key factors to keep in mind when making your decision:

• Price: Public universities tend to have more affordable fees, while grandes écoles are more expensive.
• Language of instruction: Check whether programs are available in French, English or another language.
• Prestige: Some institutions are recognized for specific areas, such as economics, art or engineering.
• Duration: Bachelor’s degrees usually last three years, while Master’s degrees last two years.

We also suggest checking out EF’s French language courses in France. They offer programs that can help you prepare for university admission, boost your French skills, combine internships with language learning, or even enhance your career prospects.

2. Review financing options for studies in France

One way to make studying in France as an international student more accessible is by applying for a scholarship. Both the French government and private universities offer a range of funding programs designed to attract international talent—such as the Eiffel scholarships or those provided through Campus France. These scholarships may cover tuition fees (either fully or partially), and some also include a monthly stipend, transportation support, and living expenses. You can find more details in our blog: Scholarships to Study in France: Requirements and How to Apply.

In addition to scholarships, you can also explore student loan options offered by certain financial institutions, often with very low interest rates. Another alternative is sponsorship programs, which can help cover part of your tuition fees or housing expenses.

3. Apply to a study program in France

Once you’ve decided on the university or school where you’d like to study, the next step is to reach out and start the application process. Most French universities use a centralized system called Études en France, but some of the more prestigious grandes écoles may require you to apply directly through their own websites. Here are the main documents you’ll typically need to submit:

• Application form.
• Copy of passport.
• Academic transcripts translated into French or English.
• Cover letter.
• Proof of language proficiency (DELF, DALF, TOEFL or IELTS).

4. Application for a visa to study in France

One of the most crucial steps in figuring out how to study in France as an international student is applying for a visa. The process involves filling out an online form and submitting the required documents at the French consulate in your home country. Key documents include your university acceptance letter, proof of financial means, and valid health insurance. There are two main types:

• Short-term visa: For courses of up to 90 days, such as the short-stay Schengen visa.
• Long-term visa: For programs exceeding three months, such as the long-stay VLS-TS visa.

We recommend checking out our article where we break down the details of each type of student visa and walk you through the application process: Student Visas for France: Requirements and How to Apply.

5. Moving to France

Let’s talk about how to plan your move as an international student and what you should keep in mind—like the best places to look for housing, which neighborhoods are safe and affordable, and other practical tips to help make your transition smoother.

It’s a good idea to check with your university—some offer student housing or can connect you with others looking for roommates. You can also look for accommodation on websites like Studapart and Appartager. Keep in mind that rent in Paris is generally higher, with rooms ranging from 600 euros to 1,200 euros per month ($630 to $1,258). In cities like Lyon or Marseille, you might find something between 400 euros and 800 euros ($420 to $839). If you’re open to living in a smaller town, you could pay as little as 300 euros ($315) a month for a room.

When it comes to getting around, major cities in France have excellent public transportation—metros, trams, and buses run frequently and reliably. However, in more rural areas, service tends to be less frequent. That’s why choosing a place to live near your school can make a big difference.

Lastly, keep in mind that meal times in France can be quite different from what you’re used to—especially if you’re coming from countries like Spain. Lunch is typically served between 12:00 and 2:00 PM, while dinner usually starts around 7:00 PM. Also, in smaller towns, it’s common for shops to close during midday hours, so plan accordingly.

6. Connectivity in France

When figuring out how to study in France as an international student, having a reliable internet connection is essential. It’ll help you receive important emails from your university, navigate the city with ease, stay in touch with your new host or landlord, and keep connected with friends and family back home.

One of the best ways to stay connected while studying in France is by using Holafly Plans. With their eSIM, you can easily activate your data plan through the app and be online as soon as you arrive. It offers fast, reliable 5G coverage without interruptions, and it works in over 170 countries. With Holafly Plans, you won’t have to worry about weak signals or unexpected dropouts.

Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍

When and how to validate diplomas and courses in France?

Getting your academic qualifications officially recognized is a key step if you’re planning to study in France as an international student. Many institutions—and even certain job sectors—require your previous degrees or diplomas to be formally validated before you can continue your studies or start working in the country.

For instance, if you’re planning to enroll in a French university for undergraduate or postgraduate studies, or if you’re aiming to work in regulated professions like medicine, law, or architecture, official recognition of your qualifications is essential. The same applies if you want to pursue advanced technical programs or specialized training. Here are a few more details:

• Organization: ENIC-NARIC France, is the entity in charge of validating foreign degrees. Its website provides detailed information on requirements and forms.
• Documentation: Copy of the degree, transcripts, official translation into French, cover letter and passport.
• Cost: The average price is around 75 euros ($78).
• Resolution time: Homologation can take between two and six months.

How much does it cost to study in France as an international student?

If you’re wondering how to study in France as an international student and whether it’s financially feasible, it’s important to understand the average costs of studying and living in the country. While France offers relatively affordable tuition fees compared to other popular study destinations, planning ahead is key. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect to pay for different types of academic programs:

• Undergraduate tuition: Between 170 and 380 euros per year in public universities ($178 and $398).
• Master’s degree tuition: Around 245 euros per year ($256), at a public university.
• Doctoral tuition: Around 380 euros per year ($398), in public universities.
• Private university: Tuition fees range from 3,000 to 10,000 euros ($3,145-10,487) per year, depending on the institution and program.

Keep in mind that France also offers various scholarships and funding options to help ease the financial burden. That said, here’s a summary table of the main monthly expenses you should be prepared for while living and studying in France:

Studying online in France as an international student

With the rise of digital platforms and the growing number of virtual programs, studying online at French institutions has become an increasingly popular option for international students. Whether you’re interested in earning a degree, pursuing a master’s, or taking a short course remotely, online learning offers flexibility that can fit various needs and lifestyles—without the need to move to France. Wondering if this path is right for you? Here are some of its main pros and cons:

In general, the paperwork required to study online in France as an international student is quite similar to what you’d need for on-campus programs. The main difference is that everything is handled remotely, making the process faster and more convenient. Plus, you won’t need a student visa, which means less hassle and shorter wait times. Curious about where you can enroll in online programs from abroad? Let’s take a look.

• Universities and grandes écoles: Université Paris-Saclay or Sorbonne Université offer online master’s degrees and specialized courses in areas such as business, social sciences and technology.
• Educational platforms: FUN MOOC, offer free online courses and certificates from recognized universities.
• Private schools: Some private schools, such as INSEAD, offer online MBA and executive programs.

Frequently asked questions about studying in France as an international student

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