If you want to study pharmacy in France, start by checking which level fits your goal and whether you need French or can apply to an English-taught track. The usual route is a long pharmacy programme that leads to a professional degree, then a specialisation at master's or post-master level. Entry, cost, and language rules depend on the university, so always check the programme page and the official admissions rules.
How pharmacy studies are organised in France
Pharmacy in France is usually part of a long university track, not a simple 3-year bachelor's. In many cases, you start with a first-year health or science pathway, then move into pharmacy studies if you meet the selection rules. After that, you continue through several years of professional training.
- Many programmes lead to a long professional degree rather than a standard bachelor's only.
- Some universities also offer master's degrees in related fields such as pharmaceutical sciences, drug development, biotechnology, or regulatory affairs.
- If you want to work as a pharmacist in France, check the exact licence route and professional recognition rules on the university and national health or education sites.
Be careful with the word "bachelor's". In France, people often use it loosely, but pharmacy is usually a long regulated course. A master's in a related subject can be easier to find in English than the full pharmacy qualification.
Typical entry requirements
For a first entry into a pharmacy-related programme, universities usually ask for a strong secondary school record and proof that your previous studies match French science preparation. If you apply after high school, they may look closely at biology, chemistry, maths, and sometimes physics.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Good grades in science subjects.
- Proof of language level - French for most pharmacy tracks, or English for some master's programmes.
- Sometimes an application form, motivation letter, CV, and transcripts.
For master's-level study, universities usually ask for a relevant bachelor's degree, such as pharmacy, chemistry, life sciences, biomedical sciences, or a similar field. Some programmes accept students from other backgrounds if the courses match the subject.
Always check whether the university uses a national platform, a direct application, or a special route for international students. For regulated health fields, there can be extra screening, interviews, or document checks.
English-taught options and language rules
Most full pharmacy training in France is taught in French. That is important if you plan to become a pharmacist in the French system. Many universities, however, offer master's programmes in English in subjects linked to pharmacy and drug sciences.
- French-taught full degrees are common for professional pharmacy training.
- English-taught master's options are more common in research and industry topics.
- You may need French even if part of the programme is in English, especially for placements or daily life.
If the programme is in French, universities often ask for a French certificate or a level that shows you can study and communicate in a clinical or scientific setting. For English-taught programmes, they may ask for IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test. Check the programme page for the exact test and minimum level.
Tuition and living costs
Tuition in France depends on your status, your level, and the institution. Public universities often have lower tuition than private schools, but regulated health programmes can still have different fees from one university to another. Do not assume one number for all programmes. Check the official tuition page of each university.
- EU and EEA students often pay lower public-university fees than many non-EU students.
- Non-EU fees can be higher, but some universities offer reduced rates, exemptions, or scholarships.
- Private schools usually cost much more than public universities.
Living costs also vary by city. Paris is usually more expensive than smaller university cities. You should budget for rent, food, transport, study materials, phone, and health cover. For a practical estimate, many students look at the university's own cost page and the official student life site in France, then add a margin for housing and daily expenses.
Remember that visa proof of funds, if you need a student visa, is set by the immigration authorities, not by the university. Check the official French immigration or consular site for the current rule.
Application timeline and documents
Start early. For many students, the best time to prepare is 9 to 12 months before the start date, especially if you need language tests, document translation, or a visa.
- Research programmes and entry rules.
- Prepare transcripts, diploma, passport, and language proof.
- Write a short motivation letter for each programme.
- Check whether you need certified translations.
- Apply through the official route listed by the university.
If you need a visa, leave time for the appointment, financial proof, and any housing documents. If your documents are from outside France, some universities may ask for an equivalence check or extra verification. The exact process changes by programme, so follow the admissions page and the national student application rules for your country and level.
Where universities find candidates
Universities do not only wait for applicants to find them. Admissions teams and programme coordinators also search student databases, international fairs, and partner platforms to find suitable candidates. They often look for a clear profile, strong grades, and a match with the programme language and subject.
This matters because a good profile can make you easier to notice. If you list your field of interest, your education, your English or French level, and your documents, admissions offices can see whether you fit their programme before you apply. This is especially useful for international students who are still comparing countries and study routes.
- Keep your profile clear and complete.
- Add the exact subject you want, such as pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, or drug development.
- Upload current documents when possible.
- Use a phone-friendly email you check often.
Common questions
Can I study pharmacy in France in English?
Sometimes, but the full professional pharmacy route is usually in French. English-taught options are more common at master's level in related fields. Check each programme page carefully.
How much does pharmacy cost in France?
It depends on the university and your status. Public universities are usually cheaper than private schools, and EU and non-EU fees can differ. Always check the official tuition page.
When should I apply?
Begin 9 to 12 months before the start date if you need tests, translations, or a visa. Exact deadlines vary, so follow the university admissions page and any national application portal.
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.
That gives you a simple way to get noticed while you compare pharmacy options in France and decide which programme fits you best.
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.