How to Study Economics in France

If you want to study economics in France, you can usually choose between a bachelor's degree, a master's degree, or a specialised business school path. The exact entry rules, language level, and fees depend on the university and programme, so always check the university admissions page and the official Campus France website.

Study levels in economics

In France, economics is usually offered at two main levels:

Bachelor's degree - often called a licence. This usually takes 3 years.
Master's degree - usually 2 years after a bachelor's degree.

Some universities offer economics as a pure economics degree. Others combine it with management, data, finance, or public policy. If you want a later career in banking, policy, research, consulting, or international organisations, the exact course content matters, so read the module list carefully.

Typical admission requirements

For a bachelor's degree, you usually need a secondary school diploma that gives access to higher education in your country. For a master's degree, you usually need a relevant bachelor's degree, often in economics, business, mathematics, statistics, or a related field.

Academic transcripts from your previous studies
Proof of language level if the programme is in French or English
CV and motivation letter for many master's programmes
Passport copy and sometimes a portfolio or extra documents

Some programmes ask for maths preparation. This is common in economics, because statistics and quantitative methods are part of the degree. If your background is not strong in maths, check whether the programme has foundation courses or minimum subject requirements.

French-taught and English-taught options

You can study economics in French at many public universities. You can also find English-taught bachelor's and master's programmes, especially at universities with international tracks and at some grandes écoles or business schools.

French-taught programmes usually ask for French proof such as DELF, DALF, TCF, or another accepted test.
English-taught programmes usually ask for IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, or another recognised test.

Entry language levels vary by programme. A bachelor's may ask for a lower level than a master's, but do not guess. Check the programme page for the exact score and accepted tests. If you are close to the required level, some schools may offer conditional admission or a preparatory year, but this is not guaranteed.

Tuition and living costs

Tuition in France depends a lot on the type of institution and your status. Public universities often have lower tuition than private schools, but international students can face different fee rules from EU and non-EU students. The official amount can change, so use the university website and Campus France as your main sources.

Public universities: usually lower fees than private schools
Private schools and business schools: often much higher fees
EU students: often pay the standard public fee structure, but always confirm the exact rule
Non-EU students: may pay higher tuition at some public universities, depending on the institution and programme

For living costs, budget for rent, food, transport, insurance, books, and daily needs. Costs are much higher in Paris than in many other cities. A realistic monthly budget often starts from a modest student level in smaller cities and rises in bigger cities, especially if you need private housing. Check the university, local student housing office, and official French sources for current estimates.

Application timeline and documents

The timeline depends on whether you apply for a bachelor's or master's, and on your nationality and residence. Many students start preparing 9 to 12 months before the programme begins.

6 to 12 months before: shortlist programmes and check entry rules
Several months before: prepare language test, transcripts, and motivation letter
Typical application period: often late winter to spring for many autumn starts, but this varies
After admission: if you need a visa, start that process early through the official French visa and immigration channels

Use the university admissions page for deadlines. If you need a student visa, check the French consulate or official immigration authority in your country, because visa steps and documents are official and can change.

How universities search for candidates

Universities do not only wait for application forms. Many admissions teams also search student databases, international registers, school links, and platform profiles to find candidates who match their programmes.

They usually look for clear information such as:

your field of interest, like economics, finance, or data analysis
your current or latest education level
your language level in English, French, or both
your location, nationality, and documents already available

If your profile is complete and easy to read, it is easier for a university to decide whether to contact you. That first contact does not mean admission. It just means the programme may fit your background.

Common questions

Can I study economics in France in English?

Yes, some universities and business schools offer English-taught economics programmes, especially at master's level. Always check the official programme page, because not every year or campus offers the same track.

Do I need French to study economics in France?

Not always. Some programmes are in English. But French is very useful for daily life, internships, and part-time work. If your programme is in French, you will usually need proof of French language ability.

Is economics expensive in France?

It can be affordable at public universities, but the total cost depends on your tuition status, city, housing, and school type. Private schools are usually much more expensive. Check the university's fee page and budget for living costs separately.

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.