How to Study Computer Science in France

If you want to study computer science in France, you can usually choose between a bachelor's path and a master's path. The main things to check are your past grades, language level, tuition, and the application platform used by the university or programme.

France has many public universities and some private schools. Some programmes are taught in French, some in English, and many ask for a mix of grades, motivation, and proof that you can follow the classes.

Study levels in computer science

Computer science in France is usually offered at two main levels:

Bachelor's level - often called a licence or a bachelor. It usually takes 3 years full time.
Master's level - usually 2 years after a bachelor's degree, often with more specialisation.

You may also find engineering schools, but they are not the same as a standard university degree. Some schools offer computer science from the first year, while others accept students later, after a foundation year or a prior degree.

At bachelor's level, you often start with maths, programming, algorithms, data structures, and basic computer systems. At master's level, you may choose topics like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, data science, or networks.

Typical entry requirements

Exact requirements depend on the university and the programme page, but these are common:

For a bachelor's degree: completion of upper secondary school, with strong results in maths and science if possible.
For a master's degree: a relevant bachelor's degree, often in computer science, maths, engineering, or a related field.
For English-taught study: proof of English level, often through IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test.
For French-taught study: proof of French level, often DELF, DALF, TCF, or an equivalent accepted by the school.

Universities may also ask for:

transcripts and diploma copies
a CV
a motivation letter
reference letters
a portfolio, GitHub link, or coding projects for some programmes

Admissions teams usually look at your full profile, not only one grade. If you have a weaker subject, good project work or a clear interest in tech can still help, depending on the programme.

English-taught options and language

France has more English-taught computer science options than many students expect, especially at master's level. Some bachelor's programmes are in English too, but French is still common, especially in public universities.

Even if your programme is in English, daily life may be easier if you know some French. It helps with housing, transport, internships, part-time work, and administration.

Check these points on the official programme page:

Is the whole programme in English, or only some modules?
What language test is accepted, and what level is needed?
Do they offer French classes for international students?
Is the internship offered in English, French, or both?

If you want to study in France long term, learning French is a smart move. It can also make more scholarship, internship, and job options available later.

Tuition fees and living costs

Tuition in France depends a lot on whether you study at a public university or a private school, and whether you are from the EU or not. Do not rely on old numbers from blogs. Always check the university fees page and the official rules for the year you apply.

In general, public universities are usually much cheaper than private schools. For some non-EU students, public university tuition may be higher than the standard fee, but exemptions or different rules can apply, so always confirm on the official admissions page.

Typical cost areas to plan for:

Tuition: often lower at public universities, higher at private schools and some specialised institutes.
Housing: usually the biggest monthly cost, especially in Paris and other large cities.
Food and transport: student discounts can help, but you still need a realistic monthly budget.
Health insurance and admin costs: these depend on your status and country of origin.

Living costs are much higher in Paris than in many other French cities. If budget matters, compare cities carefully. The university's international office or student services page often gives a realistic cost guide.

How to apply and when to start

The application route depends on your nationality, level, and the institution.

For many bachelor's applicants: you may apply through a national platform or directly to the university, depending on your background and the route used by that school.
For many master's applicants: you usually apply directly to the university or through a national master's platform if the programme uses it.
For some schools: there may be extra steps such as interviews, entrance tests, or coding assessments.

A practical timeline is to start 8 to 12 months before your desired start date. Earlier is better if you need a visa, a scholarship, or student housing.

Common steps are:

Shortlist programmes that match your maths, coding, and language level.
Check entry requirements on the official programme page.
Prepare transcripts, diploma, passport, CV, motivation letter, and language test results.
Submit your application before the programme deadline.
If accepted, follow the university steps for enrolment, housing, and visa documents.

If you need a visa, check the French consulate or the official immigration and visa source for your country. Visa rules can change, and the university cannot replace the official authority.

How universities find candidates

French universities and schools do not only wait for one application. Many admissions offices also search candidate databases, fairs, and partner platforms to find students who fit their programmes.

They usually look for clear signs such as:

your field of interest, like computer science, data, or software engineering
your current or completed education level
your English or French level
your grades, projects, and documents

This matters because a strong profile can bring you contact from a university before you apply. It does not guarantee an offer, but it can help you get noticed by programmes that match your background.

Common questions

Can I study computer science in France without French?

Yes, some programmes are taught fully in English, especially at master's level. Still, many programmes and most daily tasks in France use French, so learning some French is useful. Check the official programme page for the language of instruction and the accepted test.

Is France cheap for international students?

It can be more affordable than many countries, especially at public universities, but living costs still matter. Housing, city choice, and whether you study at a public or private institution make a big difference. Always check the official fee page and plan a monthly budget.

When should I apply?

Start at least 8 to 12 months before classes begin. This gives you time for documents, language tests, applications, housing, and a visa if you need one. Check the university calendar because deadlines can vary by programme.

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.