Marseille's University Student Population: A Comprehensive Overview

how many university students in marseille

Marseille is home to one of the largest universities in the French-speaking world, Aix-Marseille University, which enrols about 80,000 students, including more than 10,000 international students from 128 different countries. The university was founded in 1409 when Louis II of Anjou, Count of Provence, petitioned the Pope to establish the University of Provence. It is ranked #481 in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

Characteristics Values
Number of universities in Marseille 9
Largest university in Marseille Aix-Marseille University
Number of students at Aix-Marseille University 80,000
Number of international students at Aix-Marseille University 10,000+
Number of countries represented by international students at Aix-Marseille University 128
Number of degree courses offered at Aix-Marseille University 600
Minimum TOEFL score required at Aix-Marseille University 80
Tuition fees for international students in Marseille Minimum of 214 USD per year
Living expenses for students in Marseille Starting from 615 EUR per month

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Aix-Marseille University is the largest in Marseille, with 80,000 students

Aix-Marseille University is the largest university in Marseille, with 80,000 students enrolled, including 10,000 international students from 128 countries. The university was founded in 1409, making it one of the oldest university-level institutions in the Francophone world. It offers a wide range of courses, including 600 degree programmes in fields such as the arts, social sciences, health, sports, economics, law, and exact sciences.

The university is spread across five main campuses in Aix-en-Provence and Marseille, with additional facilities in Arles, Aubagne, Avignon, Digne-les-Bains, Gap, La Ciotat, Lambesc, and Salon-de-Provence. It is one of the top public universities in Marseille, ranked #=481 in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

Aix-Marseille University has a rich history, having survived two world wars and an economic depression. During this time, the university saw an increase in female and foreign students, with a majority of students majoring in science, medicine, and law. Reforms in French education in 1968 led to the University of Aix-Marseille being divided into two institutions, with each university specialising in different areas of study.

Today, Aix-Marseille University is known for its academic excellence and research capabilities, particularly in the social and natural sciences, with 132 recognised research units and 21 faculties. It has produced numerous notable alumni and is well-regarded for its international student community and vibrant campus life.

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There are 9 universities in Marseille

Marseille, France, is home to nine universities. One of the most notable universities in the city is Aix-Marseille University, which is also one of the largest in the country. It was established by decree on August 24, 2011, and officially opened on January 1, 2012, replacing the University of Provence, the University of the Mediterranean, and Paul Cézanne University.

Aix-Marseille University is one of the top public universities in Marseille and is ranked #481 in the QS World University Rankings 2025. The university is one of the youngest in France and offers a wide range of general and vocational courses, including almost 600 degree courses. It has a large student body, with about 80,000 students, including more than 10,000 international students from 128 different countries. The university has five main campuses situated in Aix-en-Provence and Marseille, as well as facilities in Arles, Aubagne, Avignon, Digne-les-Bains, Gap, La Ciotat, Lambesc, and Salon-de-Provence.

The university has a strong focus on research and has produced notable results in teaching and research, making it a top-class higher education and research institution. It has over 130 recognized research units and 21 faculties, making it a centre of international excellence in social and natural sciences. The OAMP (a research institute consisting of the Laboratory of Astrophysics of Marseille and the Haute-Provence Observatory) is one of the most important research institutes in the region, with over 50 researchers, 160 engineers, and 20 graduate students and post-docs.

Another notable university in Marseille is Polytech Marseille, which was created in 2001 by the merger of three engineering schools: the Charles-Fabry Institute, the Marseille Institute of Engineering Sciences, and the Institute of In. The Central School of Marseille, also known as Centrale Marseille, is one of 210 French engineering schools authorized to award engineering degrees. Marseille's universities offer a range of programs for international students, affordable tuition fees, and vibrant student life.

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International students pay a minimum of $214 per year for tuition

Marseille is France's second-largest city and is an ideal location for international students. The city boasts a rich maritime heritage, a diverse cultural heritage influenced by Mediterranean, African, and European traditions, and a well-connected transportation network. It is home to world-class universities, including the prestigious Aix-Marseille University, which is the largest university in France in terms of student population, staff size, and budget.

International students are drawn to Marseille for several reasons. Firstly, the tuition fees in France, including Marseille, are relatively affordable compared to other countries. While the true cost of education is around €10,000 per year, the French government subsidizes higher education, resulting in lower tuition fees for students. International students in Marseille can benefit from these subsidized fees, paying a minimum of $214 per year for tuition. This makes pursuing a degree in Marseille a cost-effective option for international students.

The cost of living in Marseille is also relatively affordable for students. According to estimates, the average monthly rental expense for international students is around €1080, and living expenses can start as low as €615 per month. Marseille offers a vibrant food scene with affordable options, allowing students to savour authentic French cuisine without breaking the bank. The city's well-connected transportation network makes it easy for students to explore other European destinations during breaks without incurring high travel costs.

It's important to note that tuition fees in Marseille can vary based on the chosen study level. For example, a Bachelor's degree at a public university in Marseille typically costs around €170 per year, while an Engineering degree can be significantly higher at €620 per year. Additionally, some universities in Marseille, such as the Ecole Centrale, have different tuition charges. For instance, starting from September 2018, the annual tuition for the Ecole Centrale in Marseille is €2,572.

International students should also be aware of potential additional costs and requirements. For instance, language exam requirements may apply if you plan to attend an English-taught university in Marseille. Additionally, there may be examination fees or differentiated registration fees for specific degree programmes or engineering courses. It is always advisable to check the specific requirements and cost structure of the university and degree programme you are interested in before applying.

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The university is spread across 5 campuses

Aix-Marseille University, one of the top public universities in Marseille, France, is spread across five main campuses. It is one of the largest universities in the French-speaking world in terms of its student body, faculty, and staff. The university enrols about 80,000 students, including more than 10,000 international students from 128 different countries.

The university's five main campuses are situated in Aix-en-Provence and Marseille. In addition to these five campuses, the university owns and operates facilities in several other locations, including Arles, Aubagne, Avignon, and Digne-les-Bains. The university is headquartered in the 7th arrondissement of Marseille.

Aix-Marseille University has a long history dating back to 1409 when Louis II of Anjou, Count of Provence, petitioned to establish the University of Provence. Over the centuries, the university evolved and expanded, surviving two world wars and an economic depression. In 1968, following riots among university students, a reform of French education occurred, which led to the University of Aix-Marseille being divided into two institutions.

The university, as it stands today, was established by decree in 2011 and officially opened on January 1, 2012, through the reunification of the University of Provence, the University of the Mediterranean, and Paul Cézanne University. This reunification created the largest university in the French-speaking world, with a budget of €750 million.

Aix-Marseille University offers a wide range of general and vocational courses, including 600-degree courses in diverse fields such as the arts, social sciences, health, sports, economics, law, and applied economics. With its numerous campuses and facilities, the university provides a vibrant and diverse educational environment for its large student population.

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The university is divided into two institutions: University of Aix-Marseille I and University of Aix-Marseille II

The Aix-Marseille University is one of the top public universities in Marseille, France. It is one of the largest universities in the country in terms of its student body, staff, and budget. Aix-Marseille University enrolls about 80,000 students, including more than 10,000 international students from 128 different countries. The university offers a wide range of courses, including 600 degree courses in fields such as the arts, social sciences, health, sports, economics, law, and political sciences.

The university has a long history dating back to 1409 when it was established as the University of Provence by Louis II of Anjou, Count of Provence. In 2011, a decree was passed to reunify the University of Provence, the University of the Mediterranean, and Paul Cézanne University, which officially came into effect on January 1, 2012. This reunification created the modern-day Aix-Marseille University, which is now the largest university in the French-speaking world.

Prior to the reunification, the University of Aix-Marseille had already been divided into two institutions: University of Aix-Marseille I and University of Aix-Marseille II. This division occurred following riots among university students in May 1968, which led to a reform of the French education system. The Orientation Act of 1968 restructured universities to have smaller subject departments and strengthened administrations. As a result, the faculties of the University of Aix-Marseille were divided as follows: University of Aix-Marseille I focused on law and political science, while University of Aix-Marseille II concentrated on other areas.

Today, Aix-Marseille University continues to be a leading higher education and research institution, known for its international excellence in social and natural sciences. With its numerous international agreements, the university actively participates in the development of European education and research.

Frequently asked questions

Aix-Marseille University enrolls about 80,000 students, including more than 10,000 international students from 128 different countries.

Aix-Marseille University is ranked #481 in QS World University Rankings 2025, making it one of the top public universities in Marseille, France. It is also the largest university in the French-speaking world in terms of its student body, faculty, staff, and budget.

The university offers a wide range of general and vocational courses, including nearly 600 degree courses. Fields of study include the arts, social sciences, health, sport, economics, law and political sciences, applied economics and management, and exact sciences such as mathematics, astrophysical sciences, chemistry, and biology.

Yes, compared to other countries, France has a more accessible admission process for foreigners as they can apply under the same conditions as nationals. There are no entrance exams, and the admission rate is high.

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