If you want to study law in France, you need to know two things first: the level you want and the language of teaching. Most law programmes are taught in French, but some universities offer English-taught courses at master’s level. Admission, costs, and deadlines depend on the university, so always check the official programme page.
What law degrees exist in France?
In France, law studies usually start with a bachelor level and continue to master level. The names can vary a little by university, but the structure is usually similar.
- Bachelor level - often a 3-year law degree, usually called Licence de droit.
- Master level - usually 2 more years after the bachelor, for a deeper specialisation.
- Doctorate - for research, after a master.
If you want to become a lawyer, judge, or legal professional in France, you should check the official professional path too, because extra exams or training may be needed after university. For regulated professions, the French government or the relevant professional body is the best source.
Typical entry requirements
For a bachelor, universities usually expect a secondary school diploma that gives access to higher education in your home country. They may also look at your grades, especially in language and humanities subjects, and ask for proof of French or English depending on the programme.
For a master, you normally need a relevant bachelor degree in law or a related field. Some programmes also ask for a motivation letter, CV, transcripts, references, and proof of language level.
- For French-taught programmes - many universities ask for French at around B2 level, sometimes higher.
- For English-taught programmes - universities may ask for IELTS, TOEFL, or another proof of English.
- For some masters - you may need a strong academic record and a clear study plan.
Check the university admissions page for the exact documents. Requirements can change by programme and by country of origin.
Are there English-taught law options?
Yes, but they are much less common than French-taught law programmes. You will find more English-taught choices at master’s level, often in areas like international law, European law, business law, human rights, or arbitration.
If you want to study in English, read the programme page carefully. A university may say that the degree is in English, but some courses, internships, or administrative steps may still involve French.
- Look for the exact teaching language of each course.
- Check whether the whole degree is in English or only some modules.
- Ask if French is needed for exams, placements, or life outside class.
If you do not yet speak French well, an English-taught master can be a good way to start. But learning French helps a lot with daily life and with many legal careers in France.
How much does it cost?
Tuition in France can differ a lot depending on whether you study at a public university, a private school, or a special programme. Public universities usually have lower tuition than private institutions, but the exact amount can change and some international students may face different fee rules.
For EU students, public university fees are often relatively low compared with many other countries. For non-EU students, tuition can still be affordable at some public universities, but fee levels and exemptions vary. Private schools and some specialised programmes can cost much more.
- Public universities - usually the lowest tuition range.
- Private institutions - often significantly higher tuition.
- Scholarships - may help, but check the scholarship's own site for the rules and deadlines.
Because tuition rules can change, do not rely on old figures from blogs. Check the university fee page and the French public sources for the latest rules that apply to your status.
Living costs and student budget
France can be expensive in big cities, especially Paris. Your monthly budget depends on your city, housing type, and lifestyle. Rent is usually the biggest cost.
A realistic student budget often includes:
- Housing
- Food
- Transport
- Health insurance or social charges, depending on your status
- Books, printing, and study materials
- Phone and personal expenses
If you want a clearer estimate, compare university housing pages, local rental sites, and city cost guides. The best official places to check are the university's student services page and the local government or city website if available.
Timeline: when should you start?
Start early, because documents, language tests, and applications can take time. A simple plan is to begin 9 to 12 months before the course starts.
- 9 to 12 months before - choose programmes and check admission rules.
- 6 to 9 months before - prepare transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and language proof.
- 4 to 6 months before - submit your application and follow the university process.
- After acceptance - if you need a visa, check the national immigration authority and the French consulate or embassy site.
Some applicants also need to use a national application platform, depending on the country where they studied before and the level they want. Always follow the route named on the university or official national admissions page.
How universities find candidates
Many universities now search for students who fit a programme before the student applies. They look for people with the right field, level, language ability, and documents.
This is useful if you want to be contacted first. To increase your chances, keep your profile clear and complete.
- State your field of interest: law, international law, European law, or a related area.
- Add your current education level and grades if you can.
- Include your English level and French level honestly.
- Upload documents that show your background, like transcripts and diploma copies.
Admissions teams usually want a quick way to see whether you fit their programme. A complete profile makes that easier.
Common questions
Can I study law in France without speaking French?
Yes, for some English-taught master’s programmes. But many law degrees are in French, and everyday life in France is easier if you know French.
Is a French law degree useful outside France?
Yes, but it depends on your country and career goal. If you want to work in another legal system, check with the relevant professional body or employer.
Where should I check the latest rules?
Use the university admissions page for entry and fees, the scholarship's own site for funding, and the national immigration authority for visa rules.
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. You decide which universities can see your profile and which contacts you want to answer.
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.