France has many master's programmes taught partly or fully in English, especially in bigger universities and schools with international students. You will still need to check each programme page carefully, because language rules, tuition, and entry steps can vary a lot by subject and institution.
How common English-taught master's programmes are
English-taught master's study is not the same across all of France. You will find the most choices in large cities, research universities, and business or engineering schools. In some subjects, English is common. In others, French is still the main language.
- More common: business, management, engineering, computer science, data, international relations, economics, and some sciences.
- Less common: law, education, health-related subjects, social work, and many humanities programmes.
- Some programmes are fully in English. Others are bilingual or have a mix of English and French.
The best official places to check are the university's admissions page, the programme page, and the Campus France programme search. Those sources show the current teaching language and entry details.
What the tuition typically looks like
Tuition in France depends more on the type of institution than on the language of the programme. Public universities usually have lower tuition than private schools, but there are many exceptions and special cases. Always check the programme page for the current fee.
- Public universities may charge a standard annual tuition set by the state, but some programmes charge more under special rules.
- Private universities and business schools often charge much higher tuition.
- Some programmes offer scholarship places or reduced fees for top applicants, but this is never guaranteed.
For official fee information, check the university's own admissions page or the programme page. If you are from outside the EU, also check whether the programme applies different tuition rules to non-EU students.
EU and non-EU students: what can be different
In France, the main difference is often the fee policy and the visa process, not always the admission criteria. Some universities use the same tuition for all students. Others have different rates for EU and non-EU applicants, especially at the master's level.
- EU, EEA, and Swiss students often have simpler residence procedures.
- Non-EU students usually need a student visa and later a residence permit, depending on their situation.
- Admission requirements can be the same for both groups, but some programmes ask for extra documents from non-EU applicants.
For visa and residence rules, check the French immigration authority and the French consulate or embassy in your country. Do not rely on old forum posts, because rules and document lists can change.
Language requirements and test scores
Even if the programme is taught in English, universities often want proof that you can study in English. The exact test and score depend on the programme. Some schools accept several tests. Some also accept a letter from your previous school if your degree was taught in English.
- Common tests include IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English, and sometimes other approved exams.
- Some programmes ask for a minimum score in each section, not just an overall score.
- If the programme includes French-taught modules or internships, you may also need some French.
Check the programme page for the accepted tests, minimum scores, and whether the university accepts an English-medium education letter. If the page is unclear, write to admissions and ask before you apply.
How to find the right programme and contact universities
Start with official programme search tools and the university's own website. Search by field, level, and language. Then open each programme page and check the details one by one. This saves time and avoids mistakes.
- Look for the teaching language, not just the title of the programme.
- Check the required degree subject, GPA range if listed, and document list.
- Look for the application route: direct to the university, through a national portal, or through a school-specific system.
- Check whether the programme wants a motivation letter, CV, references, transcript, portfolio, or interview.
When you contact a university, keep your message short. Say who you are, which programme interests you, what your current degree is, and what document or rule you want to confirm. If possible, write in clear English and include the programme name in the subject line.
What to prepare before you apply
Most master's applications ask for a similar set of documents. You may not need all of them, but it helps to prepare early.
- Passport or ID
- Degree certificate or proof of current study
- Transcript of records
- English test result, if required
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letters, if asked
- Portfolio or work samples for some fields
Keep scanned copies in a simple format and check file size rules before uploading. If your documents are not in French or English, some universities may ask for certified translations. The programme page should say what it accepts.
Common questions
Can I study a master's in France in English only?
Sometimes yes, but not always. Many programmes are fully in English, while others use both English and French. Always check the official programme page, because the title alone does not tell you the full language setup.
Is tuition free at public universities in France?
Not usually. Public universities are often cheaper than private schools, but there is still tuition and sometimes extra costs. Check the university's admissions page for the current fee for your programme and student group.
Do I need French for an English-taught master's?
Not always for admission, but it helps for daily life, part-time work, internships, and some housing or residence steps. Some programmes also expect basic French, especially if placement or teamwork happens in French.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first. You stay in control and can compare messages from universities without sending the same application everywhere.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.