France is a major hub for the video game industry, offering creative programmes from bachelor to master level. You can study game art, game design, or programming at public universities and specialized schools. Admissions offices look for motivated students with strong portfolios and a clear sense of purpose.
Choose your degree level
Most students start with a bachelor degree, often called a Licence in France, which takes three years. A master degree takes an additional two years and focuses on specialization and leadership. Specialized game schools often offer direct professional training rather than traditional academic paths. Check the programme page on the school website for exact degree structures.
- Bachelor: builds foundational art, coding, and design skills.
- Master: deepens expertise in specific production roles.
- Professional titles: recognized by the French state for industry readiness.
Find English-taught options
While France uses French for many undergraduate courses, graduate programmes increasingly offer English tracks. You will need to prove your language skills with tests like IELTS or TOEFL if English is not your first language. For French-taught courses, expect to show a B2 or C1 level using the European framework. Check the national admissions platforms and individual school requirements.
- English tracks: common in private digital arts academies at master level.
- French tracks: require official language certificates like DELF or DALF.
- Language prep: consider a foundation year if your language skills need improvement.
Understand tuition and living costs
Public universities charge modest fees for EU students, while non-EU students may pay differentiated rates. Private game design schools typically charge higher yearly tuition, often ranging from several thousand to over ten thousand euros. Living costs in Paris are much higher than in other French cities like Lyon, Montpellier, or Lille. Check the university admissions page for exact fee breakdowns.
- Public universities: lower fees, highly competitive entry.
- Private schools: higher fees, strong industry connections.
- Living expenses: budget for rent, food, transport, and health insurance.
Prepare your application timeline
Applications usually open many months before the academic year starts in September. Use the official French admissions portal, such as Campus France or Parcoursup, depending on your origin and level. Prepare your transcripts, CV, motivational letter, and a digital portfolio of your creative work. Check the national immigration authority for visa deadlines well in advance.
- Autumn: research schools and prepare your portfolio.
- Winter: submit initial applications through official portals.
- Spring: attend interviews and wait for admission decisions.
Common questions
Do I need a portfolio for game design?
Yes, most game design programmes require a portfolio showing your drawings, coding projects, level design, or modding work.
Can I work while studying in France?
International students with a valid student visa can work part-time up to 964 hours per year, which is roughly sixty percent of a full-time job.
Do I need to speak fluent French to find a job?
While some game studios work entirely in English, knowing French helps greatly for daily life and local studio integration.
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.
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.