If you want to study artificial intelligence in France, you can start at bachelor’s level and continue to a master’s degree in AI, computer science or data science. France has many public universities and engineering schools, and some programmes are taught in English. The exact entry rules, tuition and dates depend on the university, so always check the programme page and the official admissions route.
What you can study in AI
In France, AI is often taught as part of computer science, mathematics, data science, robotics or engineering. You may see programme titles like artificial intelligence, data science, machine learning, computer science with AI, or computer engineering.
- Bachelor’s level: usually 3 years. Good for a first degree or for building a base in programming, maths and statistics.
- Master’s level: usually 2 years. This is the most common path for deeper AI study and specialisation.
- Engineering schools: some offer AI tracks inside a broader engineering degree.
At bachelor’s level, many programmes are in French. At master’s level, you will find more English-taught options, especially in large universities and schools with international cohorts.
Typical entry requirements
Admission is competitive, but the exact profile changes by institution. Most programmes want a strong match between your previous studies and the degree you choose.
- For bachelor’s: a secondary school diploma or equivalent, with good grades in maths, science, or computer science if possible.
- For master’s: a relevant bachelor’s degree, often in computer science, maths, engineering, physics, data science, or a related field.
- English level: for English-taught programmes, schools often ask for proof such as IELTS or TOEFL, or another accepted test. Check the programme page for the exact score.
- French level: for French-taught programmes, many schools ask for proof of French, often through DELF, DALF, TCF, or another accepted exam.
- Documents: transcripts, diploma, CV, motivation letter, passport, and sometimes recommendation letters, portfolio, or proof of programming projects.
For AI, your maths background matters a lot. Some schools also look for coding experience in Python, statistics, algorithms, or project work.
English-taught options and language
You do not always need French to study AI in France, but it helps with daily life, internships, and part-time work. Many master’s programmes in France are partly or fully in English, especially in Paris and other major student cities.
- Check if the programme is fully English-taught or only some modules are in English.
- Look for a language requirement on the admissions page before you apply.
- If you plan to stay for an internship or job after graduation, basic French can be very useful.
If you are choosing between two programmes, compare the teaching language, internship links, and whether the degree is linked to a university or an engineering school.
Cost: tuition and living expenses
Tuition in France can vary a lot. Public universities usually cost less than private schools, but the final amount depends on your nationality, the type of institution, and the programme.
- Public universities: tuition is often lower for EU/EEA students than for many non-EU students. For non-EU students, some universities apply higher tuition, while others use exemptions or special rates. Check the university’s fee page.
- Engineering schools and private institutions: fees are usually higher and can range widely by school and degree.
- Scholarships: may help with tuition or living costs, but they are competitive and separate from admission. Check the scholarship’s own site for conditions and deadlines.
Living costs depend on the city. Paris is usually the most expensive. Smaller cities are often cheaper. As a practical range, many students budget for rent, food, transport, phone, and study materials. Always check current housing and campus cost pages, because rent changes fast.
Useful places to check:
- the university’s admissions or international office page for tuition
- the school’s housing page or local student services for rent guidance
- the scholarship provider’s site for exact funding rules
Timeline and application route
Start early. For many students, the best time to begin is 9 to 12 months before the course starts. Some programmes open applications in autumn or winter for the following academic year.
- 9 to 12 months before: shortlist programmes, check language tests, and prepare transcripts and CV.
- 6 to 9 months before: take the required language test and write your motivation letter.
- 3 to 6 months before: submit applications, interviews, and additional documents if asked.
- After admission: confirm your place, look at visa steps if needed, and arrange housing.
The application route depends on where you are from and which level you apply for. Some applicants use a national platform or a university portal, while others apply directly to the school. Always follow the route shown on the programme page and the official admissions site.
How universities find candidates
Universities and admissions offices do not only wait for applications. They also search student profiles to find people who match a programme, especially for master’s degrees and international recruitment.
- They look for your field, level of study, grades or background, and language level.
- They may search for students interested in AI, computer science, data science, or engineering.
- They often contact candidates who already match the entry profile before asking for a full application.
This is useful if you want to be found early. Keep your profile clear and complete, with your study interests, degree level, language level, and documents ready.
Common questions
Do I need strong maths for AI?
Usually yes. AI degrees often use maths, statistics, programming, and logic. The exact level depends on the programme, but a solid base helps a lot.
Can I study AI in France in English?
Yes, many master’s programmes are available in English. Bachelor’s options in English exist too, but they are less common. Check each programme page carefully.
Will the tuition be the same for every student?
No. Tuition can differ by institution, nationality, and programme type. Public and private schools also have very different fee levels, so always check the official fee page.
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 you get noticed by programmes that fit your AI background and goals.
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.