Study in France

Study in France with Focus Career

1 . World-Class Education, Global Recognition, and the Best of European Living

France is more than just the Eiffel Tower, croissants, and art — it’s also one of the top destinations in the world for international students, offering high-quality, affordable education and a vibrant multicultural experience.

Home to some of the world’s top-ranked universities, elite business schools, and cutting-edge research institutions, France is a place where you can earn a globally recognized degree, gain valuable work experience, and enjoy an unbeatable lifestyle — all in the heart of Europe.

At Focus Career, we make your path to studying in France smooth and stress-free. From choosing the right course to applying for scholarships and securing a visa, we guide you every step of the way.

2. Why Study in France?

Globally Respected Degrees
France offers more than 1,600 English-taught programs in engineering, business, science, arts, fashion, and more. French universities and Grandes Écoles are internationally recognized for their academic excellence.

Affordable Education
Public universities in France charge very low tuition fees — around €2,770/year for bachelor’s and €3,770/year for master’s programs, even for non-EU students.

Scholarships & Funding Opportunities
The French government and institutions offer generous scholarships for international students, such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship and Campus France grants.

Multicultural & International Environment
France is home to over 400,000 international students, making it one of the most welcoming countries in Europe. You’ll meet people from across the world and expand your global network.

Post-Study Work Opportunities
France allows international graduates to stay and work for up to 1 years after completing their studies. It’s also a gateway to the wider European job market.

Exceptional Quality of Life
From historic cities like Paris and Lyon to coastal towns like Nice and Nantes, France offers a high standard of living, rich culture, world-class cuisine, and excellent public transport.

3 . Choosing the Right Institution in France

Find the Best University or School That Matches Your Goals

France’s higher education system is one of the most respected in the world, with a wide variety of institutions offering English and French-taught programs in almost every academic field. Whether you’re interested in business, engineering, fashion, hospitality, arts, or sciences, France offers a strong mix of public universities, Grandes Écoles, and specialized schools.

At Focus Career, we help you choose the best-fit institution based on your academic background, career goals, budget, and language preference — ensuring you make the smartest decision for your future.

Types of Institutions in France

1. Public Universities

Offer affordable, high-quality education with a wide range of programs
Degrees are fully recognized across the EU and globally
Tuition fees are low, typically around €2,770/year for bachelor’s and €3,770/year for master’s
May require some French proficiency, though many programs are available in English

Examples:

Université Paris Cité – Strong in sciences, medicine, and social sciences
Université de Lyon – Renowned for business, arts, and engineering
Université de Strasbourg – Diverse programs with international partnerships

2. Grandes Écoles

Elite, highly selective institutions known for excellence in business, engineering, and public administration
Smaller class sizes, personalized learning, strong industry connections
Often require higher academic performance or specific entrance exams
Tuition fees: €6,000 to €20,000/year, depending on program and school

Top Grandes Écoles:

HEC Paris – World-class business school
ESCP Business School – Multicampus European business education
École Polytechnique – One of Europe’s top engineering institutions
Sciences Po – Known for political science, law, and international relations

3. Specialized Schools

Focus on specific industries like fashion, culinary arts, hospitality, design, or aviation
Offer practical, career-focused education
Widely known for combining theory + hands-on experience

Popular Examples:

Le Cordon Bleu Paris – Culinary arts and hospitality management
Paris College of Art – Fine arts, fashion, design
Vatel International Business School – Hotel and tourism management
IÉSEG School of Management – Business and international marketing

4 . Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a French Institution

At Focus Career, we help you evaluate what matters most:

Program Language – Prefer English-taught or bilingual programs? We help you find the right fit.
Budget – We match you with institutions that align with your financial plan, including public vs. private options.
Location – Want to study in a global hub like Paris, a tech center like Lyon, or a coastal city like Nice?
Field of Study – Some universities and schools are better known in specific fields (e.g., engineering, business, art).
Scholarships & Financial Aid – We guide you to schools that offer grants and tuition discounts.

Career Outcomes – We prioritize institutions with strong post-graduation job placement rates and internship opportunities.4. Application Process

5 . Admission Requirements to Study in France

Everything You Need to Apply — Made Simple with Focus Career

Studying in France gives you access to world-class education, global opportunities, and a rich cultural experience. But before you begin your journey, you need to understand the admission requirements — which vary depending on your level of study, institution type, and program language (English or French).

At Focus Career, we help you every step of the way — from checking eligibility to preparing documents, applying for scholarships, and securing your student visa.

For Bachelor’s (Undergraduate) Programs

Eligibility Criteria:

Completion of 12 years of formal education (high school or equivalent)
A valid secondary school leaving certificate or diploma that qualifies you for university in your home country
Depending on the university, you may need to go through Campus France or Parcoursup (the national application platform)

Required Documents:

Passport (valid)
High school diploma and transcripts (translated into French or English)
Proof of language proficiency (see below)
Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Letter(s) of Recommendation (sometimes required)
Some institutions may request an interview, entrance test, or portfolio (for creative courses)

For Master’s (Postgraduate) Programs

Eligibility Criteria:

A recognized bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 or 4 years depending on your home country)
Degree should be in a related field to the master’s program you are applying for
Some competitive institutions (like Grandes Écoles) may have stricter entry criteria, including GPA requirements or entrance exams

Required Documents:

Passport (valid)
Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts (official and translated)
CV / Resume
Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter
2 Letters of Recommendation
Language proficiency test results
Portfolio (for art, design, architecture, or fashion courses)
Work experience (may be required for MBA or specialized master’s programs)

Language Requirements

France offers programs in both English and French. You must prove your proficiency in the language of instruction.

For English-Taught Programs:

IELTS: Minimum 6.0 – 6.5
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80 – 90
PTE Academic: Minimum 55 – 65
Some universities accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter if you studied in English previously

For French-Taught Programs:

DELF/DALF: B2 or higher
TCF/TEF: Equivalent to B2
Some universities offer a foundation year or preparatory French course if you need to improve your language skills

Entrance Exams or Interviews

Most French universities do not require entrance exams for general admission, but:

Top business schools (e.g., HEC, ESSEC) may ask for GMAT or GRE scores
Some Grandes Écoles may require competitive tests or interviews
Design, fashion, and arts programs may require a portfolio or audition

Application Deadlines

Public universities: Applications usually open in 1st Oct to 31st Dec for September intake
Private universities and Grandes Écoles: Applications are rolling, but it’s best to apply 6–9 months in advance
You’ll also need time for visa processing, so early application is highly recommended

Tuition & Scholarships

Public universities:
- ~€2,770/year (Bachelor’s)
- ~€3,770/year (Master’s)
Private institutions and Grandes Écoles:
- Between €6,000 – €20,000+/year

Scholarships Available:

Eiffel Excellence Scholarships
Campus France Scholarships
Institutional and regional scholarships
Focus Career helps you apply early and write winning statements for scholarship success.

Student Visa Requirements (Non-EU Students)

After receiving your acceptance letter, you’ll need to apply for a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS). Required documents usually include:

University admission letter
Proof of financial means (approx. €7,000–€10,000 per year)
Valid passport
Visa application form & photos
Proof of accommodation in France
Health insurance
Flight reservation & travel details

6. Accommodation and Living

Types of Student Accommodation:

University Residences: Often the most affordable option, located on or near campus.
Private Rentals: Apartments or shared flats available through local real estate or specialized student housing websites.
Homestays: Living with a French family, ideal for immersion in language and culture.

Cost of Living:

Living expenses in France vary by city. Paris is the most expensive, with monthly costs ranging from €1,200 to €1,800, while smaller cities may range from €800 to €1,200.
Budgeting for food, transportation, and personal expenses is crucial. Students often benefit from discounts on public transport and cultural activities.

Navigating accommodation options and managing living expenses are vital aspects of planning for education in France. Understanding the cost dynamics and available housing options can significantly enhance the student experience, making it both enriching and affordable.

7 . Healthcare and Insurance

Health Insurance Requirements:

All students in France must have health insurance. International students under 28 are typically covered by the French student social security system, while those over 28 need to seek private insurance.

Accessing Healthcare Services in France:

Upon arrival, students should register with a local doctor (médecin traitant) to access the French healthcare system.
Health insurance provides coverage for most medical expenses, including visits to doctors, hospital stays, and prescriptions.

Understanding the healthcare system and ensuring adequate insurance coverage are crucial for maintaining good health while studying abroad. This security allows students to focus on their studies and enjoy their time in France without undue stress about health-related expenses.

8. Working While Studying

Rules for Part-Time Work for Students:

International students in France can work up to 964 hours annually, which equates to about 20 hours per week during the academic year, with the possibility of full-time employment during vacation periods.

Tips for Finding Part-Time Jobs:

Universities often have job boards and career services that can help students find part-time work.
Online platforms and local newspapers are also good resources for job listings.
Networking with fellow students and professors can lead to job opportunities.

Working while studying not only helps students manage their finances but also provides valuable work experience and a chance to integrate more fully into French society. This experience can be instrumental in building a professional network and enhancing one’s resume in the international job market.

9. Cultural Integration

Understanding Cultural Differences:

Familiarize yourself with French customs, social behaviors, and norms to ease your integration.
Participate in cultural orientations or workshops offered by educational institutions.

Community Groups and Student Organizations:

Join student clubs and international groups, which are prolific in French universities, and help connect students from similar backgrounds.
Engage in local community services or events, which can provide deeper insights into French culture and strengthen language skills.

Cultural integration is essential for a fulfilling study abroad experience. Engaging actively with both the university community and the wider local community can make your transition smoother and enrich your time in France, providing both personal growth and professional opportunities.

Get Admitted with Confidence — Focus Career Makes It Easy

From choosing the right program to meeting application deadlines and submitting your documents properly, Focus Career ensures that your application stands out.

Personalized admissions strategy
Full document checklist & translations
SOP and CV writing support
Scholarship application assistance
Visa & travel guidance

Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward studying in France — one of Europe’s most exciting, affordable, and globally respected destinations.