If you want to study engineering in France, you usually choose between a bachelor's level route, a master's degree, or an engineering school programme. Entry rules, language needs and costs depend on the school and the level, so the safest first step is to check the programme page and the official admissions route for your situation.
What engineering study in France looks like
France has more than one path into engineering. Some students start after high school, while others enter after a first degree.
- Bachelor's level - usually 3 years. This can be a science, technology or applied engineering degree, depending on the university or school.
- Master's degree - usually 2 years after a bachelor's. This is common if you already have a relevant first degree.
- Engineering schools - many French engineering schools offer a 5-year path after secondary school, or admission after some university study. These schools often lead to the title of engineer.
Not every engineering school uses the same structure. Some are public, some are private, and some are highly selective. Always check the school's own admissions page.
Typical entry requirements
For bachelor's level study, you usually need a secondary school diploma that gives access to university in your country. For master's study, you usually need a relevant bachelor's degree.
Most programmes ask for:
- academic transcripts
- proof of your diploma or expected graduation
- language proof, if required
- a CV and motivation letter
- sometimes maths, physics or chemistry background
- sometimes entrance exams, interviews or a portfolio
If you are applying from outside France, the process can depend on your country, your previous school system and the type of institution. Some applicants use the national application platform, while others apply directly to the school.
For official rules, check the university admissions page, Campus France, and the school's admissions office. If you need a student visa later, check the French consulate or Campus France guidance for your country.
English-taught options and language
You do not always need French to study engineering in France. Many master's programmes and some bachelor's or foundation routes are taught in English.
Still, French is very useful. It can help you:
- find more programme choices
- live and work part-time more easily
- take internships in French companies
- join student life and daily tasks
Common language proof can include IELTS, TOEFL or another test accepted by the school for English-taught programmes. For French-taught programmes, schools may ask for DELF, DALF or another French test.
Do not guess the required level. Check the exact language requirement on the programme page, because one school may ask for B2 while another may ask for C1 or accept a different proof.
Tuition and living costs
Tuition in France can vary a lot. Public universities and public engineering schools often have lower fees than private schools, but the exact amount depends on the programme, your nationality and the institution.
As a broad guide, you may see:
- Public institutions - lower tuition, sometimes a few hundred euros per year for some students, but check the official fee page because rules can change.
- Private engineering schools - often several thousand euros per year, and sometimes much more.
- Special cases - some scholarships, exchange paths or specific statuses can change the fee you pay.
Living costs depend on the city. Paris is usually more expensive than smaller cities. A student budget often needs to cover:
- rent
- food
- transport
- books and study materials
- health insurance or related costs
- phone and personal spending
For a realistic budget, check the university's cost-of-living page, the local city student guide, and official housing information. It is better to plan a monthly budget range from those sources than to rely on a single online estimate.
How to apply and when to start
Start early. For many students, the best time to begin is 9 to 12 months before the programme starts. This gives you time for documents, language tests, translation, and visa steps if needed.
A simple timeline can look like this:
- 9 to 12 months before - choose programmes and check entry rules
- 6 to 9 months before - take language tests and collect transcripts
- 4 to 6 months before - send applications
- 2 to 4 months before - answer offers, pay deposits if required, and prepare housing
- before travel - check visa, insurance and arrival steps
Some programmes have fixed deadlines and others accept applications on a rolling basis. Do not rely on general advice alone. Check the programme page, the school's admissions calendar and the official national application route if you are an international applicant.
How universities and schools find candidates
French universities and engineering schools do not only wait for random applications. They also search student registers, international databases and recruitment platforms to find candidates who match a programme.
They usually look for:
- your field of interest
- your current or completed education
- your grades or academic background
- your language level
- your preferred country and degree level
This is why a clear profile matters. If your documents and study interests are visible in the right place, an admissions office can contact you first when they are looking for someone with your background.
Even then, contact does not mean admission. You still need to meet the school's rules and complete the official application process.
Common questions
Can I study engineering in France in English?
Yes, many master's programmes and some other routes are taught in English. Always check the exact teaching language on the programme page and confirm what proof of English the school accepts.
How much does engineering cost in France?
Costs vary a lot. Public institutions are usually cheaper, while private schools can cost much more. Check the official fee page for the exact programme and your student category.
Do I need French before I apply?
Not always. Some English-taught programmes do not require French at entry, but French helps with more options and daily life. Check each programme's language rule before you apply.
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.
That makes it easier to be noticed by schools looking for international engineering students in France and beyond.
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.