 | Masters study abroad can broaden your horizons and help your CV stand out to employers. So why not consider Masters study in France? | Why consider France? Did you know that the world's most popular tourist destination is also one of the most popular locations for postgraduate study abroad? In fact, international students make up nearly 15% of enrolments at French universities. With a temperate climate, a rich cultural heritage, a globally renowned higher education system and affordable tuition fees, France ticks all the boxes for international study. |  |
| What's it like to study in France? France is home to a large number of university institutions. Many are quite small, but collaborative groupings are becoming increasingly popular. These Pôles de Recherche et d’Enseignement Supérieur (PRES) allow universities to maintain their particular research focus and expertise, whilst benefiting from shared resources and facilities. France is also home to a group of prestigious Grandes Écoles. Admission to these is highly competitive, but the qualifications they award are internationally renowned. A French Masters degree lasts for two years, with a pair of nine month sessions divided by a summer break. This greater duration lets programmes cover more material and adds to the value of a French qualification. The relatively long holiday period also provides opportunities for valuable extra-curricular experience. | Featured French Universities NEOMA Business School Situated in Rouen, Reims and Paris, NEOMA BS is a top 10, triple accredited (EQUIS, AACSB and AMBA) French business school ranked as one of the best business schools in Europe by the Financial Times. NEOMA BS offers a range of Bachelors and Masters degrees taught in English or French. Horizons University Horizons University specialises in offering flexible business programmes that fit around the work and life commitments of their students. The university offers a range of accredited Masters and MBA programmes, including the only accredited MBA in Martial Arts in the world, both online and at the university’s campus in Paris. Université du Maine With a strong focus on professional development,the Université du Maine offers a wide range of accredited undergraduate and postgraduate programs across two campuses in Le Mans and Laval. A member of the European University Association, five of the university’s dual-degree programs have obtained the European label from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. | Will my Masters qualification be recognised? Yes - the French University system is internationally recognised and renowned, having provided an archetype for the Bologna Process (the European standard for higher education equivalence). |  | What are the visa requirements? Most students from within the European Union and the European Economic Area will not require a visa in order to study for a Masters degree in France. Students from other countries may need to apply for a VLS-TS, which usually combines an extended travel visa with a residency permit. Applications can be made through international offices of Campus France (the French higher education agency) or at French consulates and embassies. See our article on living in France as a postgraduate student for more information. |
| Are there any additional entry requirements? International students may be required to take a French language test in order to enrol on a Masters programme. Most universities will offer language courses to foreign students and you should consider taking advantage of these even if they aren't required by your programme. After all, developing additional language skills is one of the benefits (and pleasures) of international study. | How much will it cost to live there? The French government requires students to demonstrate that they have around €615 per month available to cover living and accommodation expenses. This is a good benchmark figure for living costs, though the actual amount required may vary in different regions (cities like Paris are likely to be more expensive). University accommodation and catering facilities will usually be the most affordable options when available. You can find more information in our guide. | ![]() |
| What about fees and funding? Fees at public universities are controlled centrally by the French government and are usually the same for domestic and international students. This means that the basic cost of a French Masters programme can be as little as €250 per year. Scholarships and bursaries are available to international students in France. See our guide for more information. You can also search for small grants to support study in France at PostgraduateFunding.com. |  |
| How would I apply? Applications to Masters programmes may be made directly to universities and candidates will usually be expected to hold (or be studying for) a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent). The closing date at public institutions is usually January 31st. Criteria at private universities and Grandes Écoles may vary - the latter will typically conduct additional interview and testing procedures. | I'm interested, where can I find out more? | Image credit to Hakan Dahlstrom, wlappe and Moyan Brenn, with thanks. |
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