French Higher Education Explained: How French Universities Work, Who Can Attend, Costs, and Famous Institutions
Introduction
Imagine a student from the United States or the UK stepping into a bustling French university campus for the first time. Instead of the sprawling, self-contained campuses of American institutions, they find themselves in historic buildings spread throughout the city. Instead of paying tens of thousands of euros per year, they discover tuition fees that seem shockingly affordable. And instead of dormitories filled with student life, they see a more independent student culture, where many commute and juggle work alongside their studies.
France has one of the most prestigious and well-structured higher education systems in the world. From the centuries-old Sorbonne to the ultra-competitive École Normale Supérieure, French universities are known for academic rigor, specialized studies, and a mix of public and private institutions. But how exactly does French higher education work? Who can attend these universities? How much does it cost? And what are the most famous French universities that attract students from all over the world?
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about French higher education, from its structure and accessibility to costs and its world-renowned institutions.
1. The Structure of French Higher Education
The French higher education system is divided into three main types of institutions:
A. Public Universities
These institutions are the backbone of French higher education, offering affordable and diverse programs across a wide range of disciplines. French universities operate under a three-degree cycle system, following the Bologna Process, which aligns with most European countries:
Licence (Bachelor’s Degree) – 3 years
Master’s Degree – 2 years
Doctorate (Ph.D.) – 3+ years
B. Grandes Écoles
Considered France’s most prestigious institutions, Grandes Écoles are highly selective and offer specialized education in fields such as engineering, business, and public administration. Examples include:
École Normale Supérieure (ENS) – Humanities and sciences
École Polytechnique – Engineering and science
HEC Paris – Business and management
Most Grandes Écoles require students to complete preparatory classes (Classes Préparatoires or “prépas”) and pass competitive entrance exams. They typically offer smaller class sizes, rigorous coursework, and strong industry connections.
C. Specialized Schools (Écoles Spécialisées)
France also has specialized institutions dedicated to art, architecture, fashion, and culinary studies. Examples include:
Institut d'Études Politiques (Sciences Po) – Political science
École des Beaux-Arts – Fine arts
Le Cordon Bleu Paris – Culinary arts
These institutions often have unique admission criteria and are recognized internationally for their expertise in their respective fields.
2. Who Can Attend French Universities?
A. French and EU Students
For French citizens and students from the European Union, admission to public universities is relatively straightforward. After completing the Baccalauréat (le Bac)—the equivalent of high school graduation exams—students can apply directly to public universities through the national platform Parcoursup.
Admission to Grandes Écoles, however, is far more competitive, requiring two years of intensive preparatory classes and passing entrance exams.
B. International Students
France is one of the most popular study destinations for international students. The requirements vary depending on the applicant’s nationality:
EU/EEA students – Generally follow the same procedures as French students and can apply directly.
Non-EU students – May need to apply through Campus France, the official platform for international student applications.
Exchange students – Many universities have Erasmus+ agreements, allowing students to study in France for a semester or a full academic year.
Language requirements also vary:
For French-taught programs, a B2 level in French (DELF/DALF) is typically required.
Many business and engineering schools offer English-taught programs, especially at the master’s level.
3. How Much Do French Universities Cost?
A. Public University Tuition Fees
One of the biggest advantages of studying in France is its low tuition fees, thanks to state subsidies. Public university fees are standardized and incredibly affordable compared to other countries:
Licence (Bachelor’s degree): ~€170 per year
Master’s degree: ~€243 per year
Doctorate (Ph.D.): ~€380 per year
B. Tuition Fees for International Students
Since 2019, non-EU international students pay slightly higher tuition fees at public universities:
Licence: ~€2,770 per year
Master’s: ~€3,770 per year
Doctorate: Same as EU students (~€380 per year)
However, many scholarships and tuition waivers are available, making France an attractive option for students worldwide.
C. Grandes Écoles and Private Institutions
The Grandes Écoles and private institutions have significantly higher tuition fees, which can range from €5,000 to over €20,000 per year depending on the program and institution. Business schools, in particular, tend to be among the most expensive.
4. The Most Famous French Universities
France is home to some of the most renowned universities and higher education institutions in the world. Here are some of the most prestigious ones:
A. Université PSL (Paris Sciences et Lettres)
A relatively new institution that brings together elite schools like ENS, Mines ParisTech, and Dauphine. It consistently ranks among the top universities in Europe.
B. Sorbonne University
One of the most famous universities in the world, Sorbonne is known for its excellence in humanities, law, and sciences. Located in the heart of Paris, it has been a center of learning for centuries.
C. HEC Paris
Regularly ranked as Europe’s best business school, HEC Paris is a top choice for those pursuing an MBA, master’s in management, or executive education.
D. Sciences Po Paris
A leading institution for political science, international relations, and public affairs, Sciences Po produces many of France’s top politicians and diplomats.
E. École Polytechnique
One of France’s most prestigious engineering schools, École Polytechnique is known for cutting-edge research, rigorous training, and producing top scientists and engineers.
Conclusion
France’s higher education system offers a unique blend of affordability, academic excellence, and cultural richness. Whether you’re looking for a low-cost, high-quality education at a public university, an elite experience at a Grande École, or a specialized program in arts, business, or science, France has something to offer. With its historic institutions, world-class faculty, and vibrant student life, studying in France is an opportunity to experience both top-tier education and the country’s incredible culture.