Studying finance in France gives you access to strong business schools and global financial hubs. You can choose from bachelor and master programmes taught in French or English. This guide covers degrees, costs, timelines, and how to start.
Choose your finance degree level
Finance education in France follows the European license-master-doctorate structure. You have two main entry points for undergraduate and graduate studies.
- Bachelor or Licence: A three-year undergraduate degree teaching business and finance basics.
- Master or Grande Ecole Programme: A two-year graduate degree offering specialisations like corporate finance, asset management, or fintech.
Understand the tuition costs
Tuition fees in France depend on the type of school and your nationality. Public universities and private business schools charge very different rates.
- Public universities: Fees are typically lower, often ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand euros per year, with non-EU students sometimes paying higher tiered rates. Check the university admissions page for exact figures.
- Private business schools: Grande Ecoles and private institutions charge higher fees, typically ranging from 8,000 to over 20,000 euros per year. Check the programme page for current costs.
Explore English-taught options
You do not need fluent French to study finance in France. Many business schools and select public universities offer full degrees in English.
- Language tests: You usually need to prove your English level with tests like IELTS or TOEFL if English is not your native language.
- French courses: Even in English-taught tracks, taking basic French classes helps with daily life and local internships.
Prepare your admission requirements
Application steps depend on your previous education and whether you apply through national portals or direct university admissions.
- Transcripts: Provide your high school or university transcripts with certified translations if needed.
- CV and motivation letter: Explain your background in mathematics or economics and your career goals in finance.
- Interviews: Many business schools require an online or in-person interview as part of the selection process.
Plan your budget and timeline
Living in France requires careful financial planning. Rent, food, and transport add up alongside your tuition fees.
- Living costs: Budget typically between 700 and 1,200 euros per month depending on whether you live in Paris or a smaller student city.
- Timeline: Applications often open up to a year before the intake. Check the national immigration authority for visa processing times and start early.
Common questions
Can I work while studying finance in France?
Yes, international students in France can work part-time up to 64 percent of the annual working hours, which helps cover living expenses.
Do I need GMAT or GRE for finance masters?
Some top business schools require GMAT, GRE, or Tage Mage scores, while others rely on your academic transcripts and interviews. Check the programme page.
How do I apply for a student visa?
Once accepted by a recognised institution, you must complete the procedure via the official French campus platform and book an appointment with the French consulate or embassy in your home country.
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.