If you want to study electrical engineering in France, you can usually enter at bachelor level or join a master's after a first degree. The exact route depends on your school, your grades, your language level, and whether the programme is taught in French or English.
France has many public universities and engineering schools. Most of them use a formal application process, and many also ask for a strong maths and physics background. Always check the programme page and the university admissions page for the exact rules.
Study levels in electrical engineering
In France, electrical engineering is often found under names like electrical engineering, electronics, automation, energy systems, or mechatronics. The structure is usually split into these levels:
- Bachelor level - usually a 3-year first degree, often called a licence or a bachelor-style programme.
- Master level - usually 2 years after a first degree, for deeper study and specialisation.
- Engineering school route - some schools offer a 5-year programme that leads to an engineering diploma.
Some students start at bachelor level and continue to a master. Others apply directly to a master's if they already have a relevant degree.
Typical entry requirements
Entry requirements vary by institution, but most programmes look for a solid background in maths, physics, and sometimes computer science. For master's study, universities usually expect a related bachelor's degree such as electrical engineering, electronics, mechanical engineering, physics, or applied science.
You will often need:
- academic transcripts and diploma or certificate
- a CV or resume
- a motivation letter
- passport or ID
- proof of language level
- sometimes recommendation letters
If you studied outside France, your documents may need certified translations. Some universities may ask for an entrance interview or additional tests. The admissions page will say what is needed for your case.
French or English as the study language
Many programmes in France are taught in French, especially at bachelor level. English-taught master's programmes are more common, especially in science and engineering fields.
For French-taught programmes, schools often ask for proof of French such as DELF, DALF, TCF, or another recognised test. For English-taught programmes, they may ask for IELTS, TOEFL, or similar proof. The exact score depends on the university and programme.
If your language level is not yet high enough, some students first take a language course or apply to a foundation or preparatory route. Check whether the school accepts conditional admission or requires the final certificate before application.
Tuition fees and living costs
Tuition in France can differ a lot between public universities, engineering schools, and private institutions. For public universities, fees are usually lower than in many other countries, but the exact amount depends on your nationality, programme type, and the current national rules. Always check the university's fee page because universities can update their charges.
As a rough guide, you may see:
- Public universities - often lower fees for degree programmes, with higher rates possible for some non-EU students or special tracks.
- Engineering schools - fees can be much higher, especially in private schools.
- Private institutions - usually the highest tuition range.
Living costs also vary by city. Paris is usually more expensive than smaller cities. Your budget should cover:
- rent or student housing
- food
- transport
- books and study materials
- health insurance or social contributions if needed
- visa and residence permit costs if you need them
As a general idea, students often need a monthly budget that is much higher in Paris than in smaller university towns. Check the university, campus housing office, and the French official student pages for current estimates.
Application timeline and visa steps
Start early. For many programmes, you should begin 9 to 12 months before classes start, especially if you need a visa or must collect translated documents.
A practical timeline is:
- Choose your level and programme.
- Check entry requirements, language rules, and tuition on the programme page.
- Prepare your documents and translations.
- Apply through the university portal or the national application route if the school uses one.
- Wait for an admission decision.
- If accepted, start your visa or residence permit process if needed.
For visa rules, use the official website of the French immigration or consular authority in your country. Visa documents, financial proof, and processing times can change, so do not rely on old advice.
How universities find candidates
Many universities and engineering schools in France search for students before they apply. They use official application systems, international recruitment platforms, and their own admissions databases.
This means a good profile can help you be noticed earlier. Admissions teams usually look for:
- your field of interest
- your current or finished education
- your grades and main subjects
- your language level
- your documents and study goals
If you want to increase your chances of being contacted, keep your profile clear and complete. Say exactly what you want to study, and list the documents you already have.
Common questions
Can I study electrical engineering in France in English?
Yes, some master's programmes are taught in English. Bachelor-level options in English are less common. Check each programme page because language rules differ by school.
Do I need French?
Not always, but French helps a lot in daily life and for many bachelor programmes. Even if your programme is in English, basic French can make housing, admin, and internships easier.
How do I know if I qualify?
Compare your subjects, grades, degree level, and language level with the programme requirements. If the page is unclear, contact admissions and ask if your background fits.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level, and documents so universities can find candidates with your background. 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.