Are you planning to study in France? Learn about the features and benefits of studying in 2025: admission requirements, costs, deadlines, scholarships and opportunities for international students. How to get a student visa, adapt to a new country and use the help of migration lawyers for a safe and successful move

Higher education in France has deep historical roots, dating back to medieval universities, among which the Sorbonne in Paris holds a special place. Over the centuries, French universities have maintained a reputation for combining academic freedom, high standards of education and cultural diversity.

One of the long-standing traditions is the reception of foreign students. Today, France is one of the leading countries in the world in terms of attractiveness for studying. According to the Ministry of Higher Education, in the 2023-24 academic year, about 430,466 foreign students studied in France (14% of all students), and the government plans to reach 500,000 by 2027.

In the world ranking of attractiveness for foreign students, France ranks 6th. The country is also a popular destination for students from Moldova, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Gambia and Ukraine.

We will tell you about the features of obtaining higher education in France in this article.

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Advantages of studying in France

- Quality of education - diplomas from French universities are recognized in most countries of the world.

- Affordable cost - studying in public universities is much cheaper than in Western European and North American countries.

- Cultural environment - France is a center of art, fashion, gastronomy and science.

- Career opportunities - graduates have a chance to stay and work in France or find work in international companies.

Higher education system in France

France adheres to the Bologna system (LMD - Licence, Master, Doctorat):

- Bachelor's degree (Licence) - 3 years of study.

- Master's degree (Master) - 2 years.

- Doctorate (Doctorat) - about 3 years.

- MBA and special programs - an average of 1.5 years.

A separate role is played by Grandes Écoles - elite educational institutions with their own selection system and high level of requirements. Admission to them often involves several stages of competitions and interviews.

Language of instruction in France

Most bachelor's programs are taught in French.

For master's and postgraduate studies, the number of English-language programs is growing every year, especially in the fields of business, engineering, and international relations.

The level of language proficiency is confirmed by international certificates: B2 (DELF) or C1 (DALF) for French, IELTS/TOEFL for English.

Conditions for admission to universities in France

For foreign students, including Ukrainians, the main requirements are as follows:

- Certificate or diploma with a high average score;

- Confirmation of language level;

- Minimum age - 18 years (in case of a younger age - individual consideration by the university).

In most cases, there are no entrance exams for university admission, but for prestigious schools and specialties, competitive selection is mandatory.

Deadlines for submitting documents to universities in France

The deadlines depend on the program:

- Through the Études en France system - usually from November to mid-January;

- Some programs have spring deadlines;

- Private universities and Grandes Écoles can accept applications until April-May.

Procedure for admission to universities in France

Step 1 - Preparation of a language certificate (valid for 2 years).

Step 2 - Collection of a package of documents: translated and apostilled diplomas, language confirmation, medical certificate, photo, copy of passport.

Step 3 - Submission through Études en France or directly to the university.

Step 4 - Receiving confirmation of enrollment.

Step 5 – Visa D: proof of financial capacity (in 2025 – from €10,000 per year), insurance policy, exit permit for minors.

Cost of studying in France in 2025

Students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland:

- €175 / year (bachelor), €250 (master), €391 (doctorate).

Students from outside the EU:

- €2,850 / year (bachelor), €3,879 (master).

Private institutions and business schools – from €8,000 to €20,000 per year.

Cost of Living in France

The average cost of accommodation, food and transport is €800-€1,200 per month depending on the city. Paris is more expensive than regional centres. Students benefit from benefits: discounts on transport, museums, theatres.

Scholarships and grants in France

France offers a wide range of scholarship programmes, including:

- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship;

- Campus France programmes;

- Regional council and municipal scholarships.

Most grants do not require compulsory work for the state, but the conditions should be checked in each specific case.

Post-study employment

Students from non-EU countries can obtain a temporary residence permit after their studies to search for work (APS). Many graduates find work in France or in international companies thanks to the prestige of a French diploma.

France in 2025 remains attractive for those who seek to get a quality education at an affordable price, discover a new culture and gain career prospects. The main thing is to carefully plan your admission, prepare documents in advance and be ready to adapt to a new environment.

The combination of academic traditions and modern educational programs makes French universities one of the most interesting in the world for international students.

The process of entering French universities and obtaining a student visa can be complicated: different requirements for EU and non-EU citizens, deadlines, apostille of documents, confirmation of finances and insurance.

To avoid visa refusal or delays in enrollment, it is worth contacting migration lawyers.

Getting an education in France is possible. Take the first step with professional legal support, and your move will be stress-free and risk-free!

Reminder! The updated French Tech Visa program in 2025 remains one of the most convenient ways for talented specialists and entrepreneurs who want to live and work in France. We have already talked about the current rules of the French Tech Visa in 2025: conditions for obtaining it, salary thresholds, categories of participants, application procedure and benefits for foreigners.

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