If you want to study business administration in France, you can usually choose between a bachelor's level and a master's level. Many programmes are in French, but some schools also offer English-taught options, especially at master's level. Start by checking the university or business school admissions page, because entry rules and fees can change by programme.
What business administration means in France
In France, business administration is often grouped under management, business, finance, marketing, or international business. Some schools use the term management rather than business administration.
- Bachelor's level - usually 3 years after secondary school.
- Master's level - usually 2 years after a bachelor's degree.
- Grande école or business school tracks - some are long programmes that combine bachelor and master levels.
Public universities and private business schools can both offer these paths. Business schools often have more English-taught options, but fees can be higher. Public universities are often cheaper, especially for EU students.
Typical entry requirements
Entry depends on the level and the school. You usually need your diploma, transcripts, and proof of language level. Some programmes may also ask for a CV, motivation letter, recommendation letters, or an interview.
- For bachelor's study - a secondary school diploma or equivalent.
- For master's study - a relevant bachelor's degree.
- For English-taught programmes - proof of English, often IELTS, TOEFL, or an accepted school test. Check the programme page for the exact score they accept.
- For French-taught programmes - proof of French, often DELF, DALF, TCF, or an accepted school test.
If you studied outside France, the school may ask for a diploma evaluation or certified translations. Some institutions use the national application platform, while others manage applications directly on their own site.
English-taught options and language choice
You do not need French for every programme, but French helps a lot in daily life and for internships. English-taught business programmes are more common at master's level and in private schools, but some bachelor's programmes also exist.
Before you apply, check these points:
- Is the full programme in English, or only some courses?
- Do you need French for internships or group projects?
- Does the school give French classes for international students?
- Will your future job target the French market or an international one?
If you want to live and work in France after your studies, French language skills can make a big difference. Even if your programme is in English, daily life, housing, and part-time work are often easier with some French.
Tuition and living costs
Fees in France vary a lot by school type. Always check the programme page and the official admissions office, because the exact fee can change from one year to the next.
- Public universities - usually lower tuition. EU students often pay much less than in private schools. Non-EU students may pay higher state-set fees for some programmes, but exemptions can exist.
- Business schools - tuition is usually much higher, especially for international and English-taught programmes.
- Extra costs - student social security or insurance, application fees, books, transport, and administrative costs.
For living costs, many students should plan for housing, food, transport, phone, and personal spending. Costs are much higher in Paris than in many other cities. A smaller city is often cheaper for rent and day-to-day life. Use the school's student services page and local housing sites to estimate a realistic monthly budget.
For visa questions, always check the French national immigration authority and the French consulate or embassy in your country. They will tell you what proof of funds and documents you need.
How the timeline usually works
Plan early. For some schools, the process starts many months before classes begin.
- 6 to 12 months before start - choose schools, check language requirements, and prepare documents.
- 4 to 8 months before start - submit applications and take language tests if needed.
- 2 to 4 months before start - wait for results, accept an offer, and begin visa or housing steps if needed.
Deadlines vary by programme, intake, and whether you apply through a national platform or directly to the school. Do not rely on general advice alone. Check the admissions page for the exact deadline.
How universities and schools find candidates
Admissions offices often search their own applicant databases, programme enquiries, and student platforms to find people who match a course. They look for a clear study interest, your education history, language level, and documents.
To improve your chances of being found and contacted:
- Choose the right field name, such as business administration, management, or international business.
- Add your latest education and grades if you can.
- Show your English or French level honestly.
- Upload your diploma, transcript, and CV if you already have them.
- Write a short message about what you want to study and when.
Some schools contact strong candidates before the main deadline, especially for English-taught or international tracks. Others reply only after you apply. Either way, a complete profile helps.
Common questions
Can I study business administration in France in English?
Yes, some schools offer English-taught programmes, especially at master's level. Check the programme page to see whether the whole course is in English or only part of it.
Is France cheap for international students?
It can be affordable in public universities, but costs depend on the school and the city. Business schools and Paris are usually more expensive. Always check tuition, rent, and visa funds on official sources.
Do I need French before I apply?
Not always. Some programmes accept English only. But French is helpful for daily life, part-time work, internships, and longer stays in France.
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.
This saves time and helps schools contact you directly when your background fits their programme.
}��>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.