Studying education in France gives you access to a strong academic tradition and globally respected teaching programmes. You can join programmes at the undergraduate or graduate level, with options taught in French or English depending on your background. This guide walks you through degrees, costs, timelines, and how to start your journey.
Degree levels and structure
Higher education in France follows the European system, known as LMD, which stands for Licence, Master, and Doctorate. This structure makes your qualifications easy to understand across Europe and globally.
- Licence: A bachelor degree lasting three years, usually taught in French.
- Master: A graduate degree lasting two years, with more options taught in English.
- Doctorate: A research degree for advanced students aiming for academic careers.
Entry requirements and language
To enter a bachelor programme, you need a completed secondary school diploma that qualifies you for university in your home country. Master programmes require a relevant bachelor degree and sometimes professional experience.
For French-taught courses, universities typically require a B2 or C1 level in French, proven by tests like DELF or DALF. For English-taught programmes, you will need to submit scores from tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Check the university admissions page for exact score requirements.
Tuition fees and living costs
Public universities in France are heavily subsidised by the government, but fees vary depending on your citizenship.
- EU students: Typically pay lower national fees, often a few hundred euros per year.
- Non-EU students: May pay differentiated fees at public universities, or standard private rates at specialised schools.
- Living costs: Budget between 700 and 1200 euros per month for rent, food, transport, and insurance, depending on the city.
Application timeline and procedures
Planning ahead is essential because the application process in France has strict deadlines that start months before classes begin. Most applications run through national portals like Parcoursup for first-year undergraduates or Campus France and Mon Master for graduate applicants.
Start gathering your transcripts, language certificates, and motivation letters up to a year in advance. Always check the official national immigration authority and university websites for precise dates and visa requirements.
Common questions
Can I work while studying education in France?
Yes, international students with a valid residence permit can work up to 964 hours per year, which equals roughly 60 percent of a full-time schedule.
Do I need to speak fluent French to study education?
Not always, as some master degrees and international tracks are taught in English. However, learning French helps with daily life and local internships.
How do I apply for a student visa?
You apply through the French embassy or Campus France in your home country after receiving an official acceptance letter from a recognised institution.
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.