France attracts students from all over the world with its quality education and scholarships. Find out about tuition fees in 2025/26, available grants, student visa requirements and living costs

France has been one of the most attractive countries for higher education for many years. Thousands of students from all over the world choose it due to the high quality of education, cultural diversity and the opportunity to live in one of the most developed countries in Europe.

However, starting in 2019, foreign students have faced new rules: tuition fees at French universities have increased. If earlier it was possible to get by with only a few hundred euros per year, now the rates for those who are not citizens of the EEA or Switzerland have become significantly higher. At the same time, the French government has made sure that students are not left without support - the number of state scholarships has been significantly increased.

In this article, we have collected for you the most important things about the cost of studying in France in 2025, admission requirements and life in the country.

Planning to get higher education in France? In this article, read about the features and advantages of studying in France in 2025: admission requirements, costs, deadlines, scholarships and opportunities for international students.

Is it realistic to study in France for free?

There is no completely free education in France, even for locals, but for students from the European Economic Area and Switzerland, the cost remains symbolic. It is a matter of several hundred euros per year, which can actually be called “almost free education”.

But for students from countries outside the EEA (for example, Moldova, Turkmenistan or Afghanistan), the fee will be higher. Especially when it comes to private universities - there the cost can reach tens of thousands of euros.

Who pays the increased fees?

The main rule is simple: if you are not a citizen of the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, you will have to pay more for your studies.

Exceptions do exist. For example, some students from countries that have special agreements with France can count on preferential conditions.

How much does it cost to study in France in 2025/26?

Prices at public universities are set by the government, so they are the same throughout the country.

For students from the EEA and Switzerland:

- Bachelor's degree - €178 per year;

- Master's degree - €254 per year;

- Engineering programs - €628 per year;

- PhD - €397 per year.

For students from other countries:

- Bachelor's degree - €2,895 per year;

- Master's degree - €3,941 per year;

- PhD - €397 per year (the same amount as for Europeans).

In private educational institutions, the figures are completely different: from €5,000 to €20,000 per year.

Scholarships for foreigners

To support students who now pay higher fees, France has significantly expanded its scholarship programs. This is a real chance to significantly reduce costs. The following types of scholarships are currently available in France for international students:

1. French Government Scholarships (Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program)

A program for master's and postgraduate students.

Covers a monthly stipend (from €1,181), airfare, insurance and sometimes part of the cost of living.

Very prestigious and competitive.

2. French Ministry of Higher Education Scholarships

Offered through Campus France.

Can cover either part or all of the tuition and living expenses.

Available to students from countries that have agreements with France.

3. Erasmus+ Scholarships

For those coming on exchange or joining joint programs.

Covers travel, living and sometimes tuition expenses.

4. Regional scholarships

Some regions of France (e.g. Ile-de-France, Rhône-Alpes) have their own programs for foreigners.

They are often aimed at supporting undergraduate and postgraduate students.

5. University scholarships

Each institution may offer its own grants. For example:

- Sciences Po has its own funding programs for international students.

- École Normale Supérieure (ENS) offers scholarships for master's programs.

6. Scholarships from private foundations and organizations

For example, the Cartier Foundation, the Total Foundation, various cultural or professional associations.

They are often targeted at students from specific regions (Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe).

When is the tuition fee in France?

In most cases, universities require the annual fee to be paid at the beginning of the academic year in September. So it is worth preparing a budget in advance before moving.

How much does a student visa to France cost?

For foreign students from outside the EU, a VLS-TS (“étudiant”) visa is mandatory.

Processing fee: €99.

Upon arrival in France, another €50 for confirmation.

An additional bonus: the right to work up to 20 hours a week and travel freely within the Schengen area.

How to get a French student visa in 2025, what documents and financial requirements are required, a step-by-step application process, the features of living and studying in France and much more important information can be found at the link.

Cost of living in France

Living in France can vary greatly in price:

- in cities like Toulouse, Lyon or Bordeaux, you can live from €850–1000 per month;

- Paris is the most expensive option, with costs starting at €1,250–1,400 per month.

A student dormitory can significantly reduce costs, but places are quickly filled.

Read more about the cost of living in France in this article.

Which universities in France are the most popular?

French universities are valued for the quality of education all over the world. Among the most famous are École Polytechnique, Sciences Po and Sorbonne. They regularly appear in international rankings of top European institutions.

How to apply to study in France?

The procedure depends on your country of residence, nationality and chosen university. Most often, documents are submitted directly to the institution or through the Études en France platform.

Where else in Europe can you study cheaply?

If you are from the EU or EEA countries, the doors of Germany, Austria, Sweden or Finland are open to you. For students from other countries, the most affordable option is Germany, where most universities offer free tuition even for foreigners.

Germany remains one of the most popular destinations for international students. Read here how to get a DAAD scholarship in Germany, what programs are available for students, postgraduates and scholars, who can apply, how to properly complete the documents and increase your chances of success.

Studying in France in 2025 remains an attractive option, even despite higher fees for foreigners. State subsidies, scholarships and the prestige of universities make the country one of the best destinations for quality education in Europe.

Need help with studying in France?

Getting a scholarship, preparing university documents or applying for a student visa sometimes seems too complicated. Mistakes in applications or late deadlines can cost you a year of study.

Our education law lawyers will help you:

- choose a university and program according to your goals;

- prepare and properly complete documents;

- increase your chances of receiving a scholarship;

- accompany the process of obtaining a student visa to France.

By contacting a specialist, you will save time and avoid unnecessary risks.

Write to us today, and we will help make your path to studying in France as simple and successful as possible!

Reminder! The DSU scholarship in Italy is a state program of financial support for students from all over the world. It covers tuition, accommodation, meals and provides a cash grant of up to 7,910 USD per year. Read here who can apply, what documents are required and how to increase your chances of receiving assistance.

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