Top Universities In France: Benefits, Eligibility Criteria, And Scholarships

Rahul Kumar 10 Dec 2024 France

In France there are more than 3500 public universities for International students and private institutes of higher education. Some of the oldest and the most valuable education institutions in the world are situated in France. The high quality education curriculum of French universities enables International students to study and work under the best mentors of the world.

The rich multicultural environment of best universities in France for International students further adds valuable ethics and workmanship into the students routine, making them work with people from different backgrounds, evolving them as a person as well as an academic professional.

According to The Student Helpline, the most trustworthy overseas education consultants, France could prove to be an ideal study abroad destination for students who wish to pursue higher education. The expert team of consultants here, not only recommends France for higher studies but is also willing to help you get admissions in the top universities in France.

Benefits Of Studying In Top Universities In France

Are you also interested in studying in France? Over the years, the world of education has evolved and this has become a habit. Within the blink of an eye, new ideas, innovative prototypes, new technologies and startup ideas have crossed the theoretical existence barrier and are now under implementation.

In a world that is fast evolving and fast changing, it is the right of every student that they get a more hands-on experience in what's latest and functional. Universities in France are well-regarded and offer a range of programs for both domestic and international students. Some of the best colleges in France lets students work on real-life projects and provide internships in million-dollar MNCs, making sure that the students are up-to-date on what's latest.

  • French universities are known for high academic standards and a strong emphasis on research based education.
  • It is important to know that the cost of tuition in French public universities for international students is relatively lower compared to other countries, making higher education more accessible.
  • It is possible to learn or enhance the French language, which is an important language in the international market, when studying in France.
  • Many courses in top universities in France are offered in English and French, and there are a number of fields of study.
  • There are modern research facilities and research opportunities available to students in university of France.
  • There are many scholarships for Indian students who aspire to study in French universities, making it easier to finance their studies.
  • France is a very welcoming country, the people here are very helpful, polite and respect other unfamiliar cultures and traditions.
  • Public universities in France has good connections with industries as well as international organizations, which help in increasing employment opportunities.
  • French universities attract students from all over the world, fostering a multicultural environment and opportunities for global networking.

Eligibility Criteria To Study Abroad In French Universities For UG Course

Students applying to study abroad in French universities are required to meet certain requirements to study in France. The points simplified below have been analyzed by The Student Helpline, showcasing the detailed criteria for undergraduate programs. Before applying, it is important to check admission requirements for study in France.

Eligibility Criteria For UG Course In Colleges In France

  • Students must have attained a level of education for undergraduate study in France public universities for Indian students.
  • Some France universities for international students may require the student to pass entrance exams or interviews.
  • Good academic performance and the previous year's academic transcripts are required to support the performance

Listed below is a table depicting the best courses, Top universities that offer the said courses and estimated tuition fee/year in France universities for International students after 12th, compiled by The Student Helpline:

Best Courses

Top Universities in France

Estimated Tuition Fee (per year)

Engineering

CentraleSupélec, École Polytechnique, INSA Lyon

€4000- €10,000

Business and Management

HEC Paris, ESSEC Business School, EDHEC

€8,000- €20,000

Computer Science

Université Paris-Saclay, École Polytechnique, CentraleSupélec

€2000- €10,000

Social Sciences and Political studies

Sciences Po, Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne

€2,500- €15,000

Arts and Design

École des Beaux-Arts, Strate School of Design

€3000- €15,000

Health Sciences

Université Paris Descartes, Université de Bordeaux

€1,000- €5,000

Hospitality and Culinary Sciences

Le Cordon Bleu, Glion Institute of Higher Education

€10,000- €30,000

Eligibility Criteria To Study Abroad Universities In France For Masters

International students applying to study abroad in public universities in France are required to meet a certain requirements to get admitted into the French universities. The Student Helpline have listed below the detailed criteria for postgraduate programs and a table depicting the best courses, top universities that offer the said courses and estimated tuition fee/year in France best university for postgraduate programs. Before applying, it is important to check admission requirements for study in France.

Eligibility Criteria For PG Course In France Top Universities

  • A recognized bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field of study in order to get admitted to French universities.
  • GRE/GMAT scores may be requested for the best courses to study in France top universities particularly for business courses.
  • Academic performance with the official documents and in some cases, minimum grade point average.

Best Courses

Top French Universities

Estimated Tuition Fee (per year)

Masters In Engineering

CentraleSupélec, École des Ponts ParisTech

€2,000- €30,000

MBA (Masters in Business Administration)

INSEAD, HEC Paris, ESCP Business School

€15,000- €50,000

Masters in Computer Science

Université Paris-Saclay, École Polytechnique

€1,000- €35,000

Masters in International Relations

Sciences Po, Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne

€10,000- €20,000

Masters in Data Science

Université Paris-Saclay, Télécom Paris

€3000- €35,000

Masters in Public Health

Université Paris Descartes, Université de Bordeaux

€1,000- €35,000

Masters in Fine Arts

École des Beaux-Arts, Paris College of Art

€1,000- €35,000

Eligibility Criteria To Study Abroad In French Universities For Research Programs

The Student Helpline have listed below the detailed eligibility criteria for research programs and a table depicting the best courses, top universities that offer the said courses and estimated tuition fee/year in France universities for International students. Before applying, it is important to check admission requirements for study in France

Eligibility Criteria For Research Courses In France Best University

  • A recognized master's degree or an appropriate equivalent in a related discipline.
  • A research proposal that provides a comprehensive description of the research project to be carried out.
  • Good academic record is required to apply for public universities in France for International students.
  • A faculty member's approval.

Best Courses

France Top Universities

Estimated Tuition Fee (per year)

PhD in Science and Technology

Université Paris-Saclay, École Polytechnique

€1,000- €6,000

PhD in Social Sciences

Sciences Po, Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne

€1,000- €6,000

PhD in Engineering

CentraleSupélec, INSA Lyon

€1,000- €6,000

PhD in Business and Management

HEC Paris, ESSEC Business School

€10,000- €20,000

PhD in Arts and Humanities

Université Paris 8, École des Hautes Études en Sciences Sociales

€1,000- €6,000

PhD in Environmental Sciences

AgroParisTech, Université de Montpellier

€1,000- €6,000

PhD in Health Sciences

Université Paris Descartes, Université de Bordeaux

€1,000- €6,000

List Of Top France Universities For International Students

Top 10 France Universities For International Students

Wondering why opt for French universities? Well, the answer lies in this section. Students interested to apply to study in France top universities are required to research thoroughly about the public universities in France for international students. The Student Helpline has formulated a table presenting the information regarding the France universities for international students.

Name of Top Universities in France

QS Ranking Score

Minimum IELTS Score

Name of Best Courses To Study In France Top Universities

Sorbonne University

78

6.5

Humanities, Natural Sciences

École Normale Supérieure (ENS)

23

7.0

Humanities, Social Sciences

Paris Sciences & Letters University (PSL)

53

7.0

Physics, Mathematics, Humanities

Polytechnic School (École Polytechnique)

63

6.5

Engineering, Mathematics

Sciences Po

350

6.0

Political Science, International Relations

Paris-Saclay University

73

5.5

Engineering, Life Sciences

University of Grenoble Alpes

371

6.5

Engineering, Business

University of Strasbourg

331

6.0

Law, Chemistry

Aix-Marseille University

441-450

5.5

Medicine, Law

University of Paris

60

6.5

Neuroscience, Wine Studies

CentraleSupélec

70

6.5

Engineering and Technology

Paris-Sud University

262

6.5

Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry

List Of Scholarships Offered By Top French Universities?

Students who wish to pursue education overseas must always think about capitalizing on the availability of scholarships. Universities in France provide scholarships opportunities for International students. Applying for the right scholarship is just as important as filling out the application form for French universities. And so, there is no shame I asking for some help or advise from someone who knows more than you regarding the scholarship program.

The Student Helpline, is one of the most trusted agency who provides all-round overseas education assistance. From filing applications forms, to shortlisting the best suitable courses matching your profile? They can do everything, including providing a hand-on knowledge o which scholarship program best suits your career goals.

Listed below are some of the top scholarship programs offered by top French universities:

Scholarship Name

What they cover?

Who are eligible?

Eiffel Excellence scholarship

Monthly allowance, tuition fee

International students applying for Masters or PhD

French Government Scholarships

Tuition fee, living expenses

International students from partner countries

Campus France scholarships

Varies by program but mostly covers tuition fee

Various programs; typically for International students

Université Paris-Saclay International Master's Scholarships

10,000 Euros annually for living expenses

International students applying for masters program

ENS International selection scholarship

Monthly stipend, tuition fee

International students applying for ENS programs

Sciences Po scholarships

Varies by program (tuition allowance ad living expenses)

International students applying to Sciences Po

Aix-Marseille University scholarship

Tuition reduction, monthly stipend

International students applying for specific masters program

Lille university scholarships

Tuition allowance and living expenses

International students in selected programs

How To Apply To The Best Universities In France?

Looking to study in the top French universities? It can prove to be quite a challenging task due to the various processes involved. With The Student Helpline by your side, you can get professional help and support to make the application process as successful as possible. If you're a nervous lad aspiring to study in top universities in France? Feel relaxed, The Student Helpline will help you achieve your dream with a step-by-step systematic assistance regarding how to apply for French universities. Their expert consultants will counsel you and literally help you along the way till the very moment you land in France.

Do Your Part:

  • Shortlist area of interest/the discipline you want to pursue in France universities for international students based on your budget and profile.
  • Look for the specific admission and the language requirement of the best courses to study in France top universities of your choice and prepare your documents accordingly.
  • Fill in the application form to get into university in France. You can also use platforms like Campus France, they provide all the information and guidance regarding the application queries.
  • If necessary? The French universities you're aiming to get into will conduct an interview session.
  • Apply for France scholarships for international students in order to reduce your financial burden.
  • Once you get your acceptance letter, apply for France study visa.
  • Make sure you make all the necessary bookings in advance, the flight, the hotels and everything. It is advisable to look for accommodation services beforehand.

What Level Of French Is Needed To Study In The Best Universities In France?

For most undergraduate programs conducted only in French, a minimum of B1 or B2 level of French is required. However, for more complex involvement in masters and doctoral programs, a C1 level of French is required. Students who want to study in universities in France, must know that most French universities for international students teach in English, but knowing basic French makes daily life easier.

Some colleges in France for international students may offer an exemption from IELTS, since every institution has its own specific requirements that might differ from others. The Student Helpline will help you crack these standardized exams. They have the right resources and study materials, ensuring that students can fulfil language requirements successfully.

Who Is The Best Study Abroad Consultants Regarding French Universities?

Dreaming of studying in France? Need a step-by-step assistance regarding admission in France universities? The Student Helpline, one of the best study abroad consultants, is here to help you. They will take care of the entire application process on your behalf. Right from the start to the finish, they will help you in choosing a university in France, obtaining a student visa, finding the best courses and scholarship programs, eligibility requirements and more. The highly qualified consultant experts of The Student Helpline will make sure that your study abroad dream is not wasted, instead they'll make sure that it comes to life. Get in touch with the best overseas consultants today and get all the help at your disposal, at the earliest.

Frequently Asked Questions Related To Universities In France

What Are the Admissions Requirements to Study in France Top Universities?

The admissions requirements to study in France top universities for Indian students usually consist of academic records, standardized language proficiency tests score for English speaking programs, statement of purpose and letter of recommendations in some cases. The Student Helpline will help you prepare the above mentioned documents ensuring that they meet university standards.

Do I Need to Learn French to Study in France?

Although most courses in French universities for International students are in English, it is still advisable and helpful to learn French for everyday activities and for acclimatizing into the French culture and society. The Student Helpline can assist you with where to learn French and other cultural support services to make your overseas education experience successful.

Which Is the Largest University in France?

Aix-Marseille University is the largest public university in France. It is home to 4000+ administrative and academic staff and invites 80,000 students every term. For more top French universities-related queries and information, ask The Student Helpline.

Why Come to France for Study?

France is known for the excellence of its education system. Every year France dedicates 20% of its budget to education. This share represents 10,000 Euros per student per year. The French universities are the best in the world of education. For more overseas education related questions and queries reach out The Student Helpline.

What Is the Cost of Living in France?

To live in France you have to have a monthly budget of 600 to 800 euros to cover food, transport and housing expenses. Although this amount varies depending on the location or the type of accommodation student requires. In case you need any assistance regarding student accommodation services, feel free to reach out The Student Helpline.

Where Can I Apply for a Scholarship?

Scholarships are generally granted to high level students (PhD or Master's). Scholarship applications accepted by the French government are filed at the cultural service of the French embassy of your country of residence. All the applications are processed in the month of March. For more scholarship related help, reach out to The Student Helpline.

Can I Still Do a PhD in France Even if I Don't Speak French?

Yes, depending on the subjects. In sciences, it is possible to do your PhD in English, your supervisor and colleagues will mentor you in English. For other subjects check with your thesis supervisor or your PhD school, or let The Student Helpline provide you the right assistance.

Is France Good for International Students?

Yes, France is a popular study destination for international students. Known for its world-class education, cultural diversity, and various programs and best courses to study, France top universities offer an experience of a lifetime. International students are often attracted to the environmental-friendly ecosystem of France.

What Is the University Degree Called in France?

License (L1, L2, and L3) is an undergraduate degree granted for 3 years, where "L1" stands for "Year 1," whereas Masters' (M1 and M2) is a graduate degree granted after completing 2 years of study.

What Is the Education Policy in France?

The French education is based on the principles of the 1789 revolution. The dedication of the French government regarding the education in French universities is inspiring. They take it upon themselves that all the classes get similar education facilities irrespective of the cultural and regional differences. For more information about colleges in France, contact The Student Helpline.


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Rahul Kumar

Rahul Kumar is a dynamic and seasoned writer, currently serving as a Study Abroad Expert at The Student Helpline. Specializing in crafting comprehensive study materials for international standardized exams like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, PTE, and SAT, he brings over five years of experience to his role. Rahul’s passion lies in guiding students through the complexities of exam preparation and the study abroad journey. His insightful articles provide students with valuable information on exam processes, college admissions, top universities, course selection, and more—empowering them to succeed in their academic goals abroad.

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