Janice Lozano
France is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, prestigious universities, and relatively low cost of living and tuition fees compared to other developed countries. The French government subsidizes higher education, resulting in affordable tuition fees at public universities, which range from 170 to 620 EUR per year for international students, depending on the study level and institution. Private universities, on the other hand, can be significantly more expensive. The cost of living varies across France, with Paris being the most expensive city, followed by other large cities like Lyon and Marseille. International students can expect to spend around 1000 to 15000 USD per semester, including tuition and living expenses, with additional costs for airfare, travel insurance, and accommodation.
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What You'll Learn
Tuition fees
France is a popular destination for international students, thanks in part to its affordable tuition fees. The French government subsidizes the cost of higher education, meaning that tuition fees at public universities are low. This is in contrast to private universities, which can be very expensive.
Public universities in France are popular with international students as they offer courses in both English and French, and the chance to experience French culture and lifestyle. The cost of tuition at these institutions is variable, depending on the level of study. For instance, Bachelor's programmes have an average tuition fee of around 170 EUR per year, while engineering degrees are more expensive at around 620 EUR per year. The average fee for a Master's degree is 250-260 EUR per year, and for a PhD, it is 391-396 EUR per year. Certain specialized degrees may have higher fees.
For the 2024/2025 academic year, international students from non-EU countries will be charged higher fees. However, there are some exceptions for non-EU students based on their status or degree type. For example, international students with refugee status or those who have been residents in France for over two years may pay the same fees as French and EU students.
While tuition fees in France are generally affordable, the cost of living can vary. Paris, for example, is more expensive than other parts of the country. International students can expect to spend around 10,000-13,000 EUR per year, including tuition fees and living expenses. However, this is still much cheaper than studying in countries like the US or UK.
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Cost of living
The cost of living in France for international students varies depending on their lifestyle and the location of their university. Paris, for example, is more expensive than other parts of the country. A general estimation for a year of study in France is €10,000 to €13,000 for international students. In Paris, students will need approximately €1,100 per month to live comfortably, but this can vary depending on their lifestyle and where they live.
The cost of accommodation in France varies depending on the location and type of accommodation. Student halls of residence are an affordable option, with average prices of €200 per month, except in Paris, where the average is €400 per month. Renting or sharing an apartment is more expensive, with prices ranging from €400 to €700 per month outside of Paris and €800 per month within the capital. In smaller French cities, students can find apartments for as little as €300 per month. Utility bills, including electricity, water, and internet, can add another €200 to the monthly expenses.
Food expenses can vary depending on the student's eating habits and location. In Paris, a single person can expect to spend around €250 to €300 per month on groceries, while the cost of groceries in other provinces may be lower. Eating out can be more expensive, with the average price of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant ranging from €10 to €15.
Other expenses to consider include social security and additional healthcare coverage, which can cost around €200 and €6 to €50 per month, respectively. International students may also want to budget for travel insurance, which can cover expenses like airfare and protect against risks like flight delays or cancellations.
There are several ways for international students to save money while studying in France. Cooking at home instead of eating out can reduce costs. Taking advantage of student discounts at museums, theatres, and popular sites can also help stretch their budget. Additionally, opting for modest accommodation and using an international card to minimise foreign transaction fees can further lower expenses.
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Accommodation
The cost of living in France can be high, but there are ways to save money on accommodation. The first step is to decide on the type of accommodation that best suits your needs and budget.
University Residence Halls
Student residences, or dorms, are a popular option for international students. These are publicly owned and managed by France's regional centres for student services, known as CROUS. The monthly rent is affordable, ranging from €200 in smaller cities to €400 in Paris. Rooms in Paris are typically around €400, while other cities average €200-€350. However, demand often exceeds supply, making these residences competitive to secure.
Private Student Residences
Private student residences are an alternative if you cannot secure a place in a CROUS building. These residences are more expensive but offer additional facilities like furnished rooms, internet, gyms, and laundry. Monthly rents in Paris can be around €900, while in other parts of France, they average €490.
Renting an Apartment
Renting an apartment is another option, and many students choose to share apartments to reduce costs. In Paris, a one-bedroom apartment can cost €800-€1000, while in smaller cities, a small apartment can be rented for about €300-€400. Sharing an apartment in Paris typically costs €800, while in other cities, it averages €400-€700.
Homestays
Homestays can be a unique way to immerse yourself in French culture and improve your language skills. They usually include meals and utilities, so there are no additional overhead costs. Homestays typically cost around €60 per day. Websites like CoHomly or France Stay (for Paris) can help you find host families.
Other Options
Other options include hostels, which are often run by nonprofits and cater to young people aged 18-25, or renting a room in a shared house. The cost of renting a room varies but can be as low as €200-€400 for a single person.
It is recommended to start your search for accommodation early and utilise resources like the international office at your university, which can provide recommendations and assistance.
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Scholarships
France has become one of the most popular study destinations for international students. However, the cost of studying and living in France can be high. Tuition fees at public universities are relatively low, ranging from €200 to €600 per year. In contrast, private universities can charge up to €10,000 annually. Additionally, the cost of living in France is estimated at around €10,000 per year. To help international students finance their studies, various scholarships are available from different sources, including the French government, universities, and private organizations.
Government Scholarships
The French government, through Campus France, offers a range of scholarships for international students. The Erasmus+ program, for example, provides mobility scholarships that cover removal and accommodation costs for students enrolled in joint Master's programs in multiple countries. The French Foreign Ministry also awards scholarships, with 25% of them directly financed through the Eiffel program for Master's or Doctoral studies and Major programs for the best foreign students who graduated from French high schools abroad.
University Scholarships
Many French universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. For example, the University of Paris-Saclay, located near Paris, provides fully-funded Master's scholarships. The University of Paris, also known as "Université de Paris," offers affordable tuition fees for EU students and scholarships for non-EU students. Similarly, the University of Montpellier, one of the oldest universities in the world, offers competitive tuition fees for EU students and scholarships for international students. Other universities known for their affordable tuition fees and scholarships for international students include the University of Bordeaux, Grenoble INP, and UPEC – University Paris-Est Créteil.
Private Scholarships
In addition to government and university scholarships, there are numerous private scholarships available for international students in France. For example, the Emile Boutmy Scholarship is a fully-funded opportunity offered by Science Po for undergraduate, Master's, and PhD studies, providing up to €19,000 per year. The Chalhoub Scholarship is another fully-funded option for undergraduate and Master's studies, amounting to €12,300 per year. The Ampère Scholarships of Excellence are fully-funded Master's scholarships for international students who want to pursue eligible programs at ENS de Lyon, offering €1,000 per month. For students interested in doctoral research studies, the IIE-SRF Fellowship provides a grant of up to $25,000 along with individual health insurance for a visiting academic appointment of up to one year.
Additionally, there are scholarships specifically for students from certain regions or with specific backgrounds. For example, the Fulbright France program offers scholarships for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students from the United States to pursue studies in French institutions. The Gilman-France Scholarship, a partnership between the French Embassy and the Gilman Scholarship Program, is a highly selective award for American students studying or interning in France. The AATF Walter Jenson Scholarship for Future Teachers of French is a $2,000 scholarship for students from Michigan Universities who plan to become French teachers.
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Health insurance
If you are under 28 years old, enrolled on a degree program for at least 4 months, and from a country outside the European Union or Switzerland, you are eligible for France's national health insurance plan, also known as the French Social Security. This plan covers about 70% of your healthcare expenses, including visits to the doctor, medical check-ups, and medicine. To register, you must provide certain documents, including your passport/ID card, student visa, school certificate, and bank details.
If you do not meet the eligibility criteria for the French Social Security, you must purchase private health insurance. This is required for students over 28 years of age who plan on staying in France for more than 90 days. There are several private insurance providers in France dedicated to students, such as MGEN, LMDE, SMERRA, and SMENO. It is recommended to arrive in France with valid temporary insurance to cover emergencies while you complete the necessary administrative procedures.
Regardless of your insurance provider, it is advisable to take out complementary health insurance, also known as "mutuelle," to increase the amount of your healthcare expenses that are reimbursed. This additional coverage ensures that you are protected in both your private and student life.
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Frequently asked questions
The tuition fees for international students in France vary depending on the type of university and the programme. Public universities are subsidised by the French government, making them more affordable. For instance, at Sorbonne University, a top public institution, tuition fees rarely exceed 600 euros (US$683) per academic year. For a Bachelor's programme, the average tuition fees are around 170 EUR per year, while for a Master's degree, the average fees are around 260 EUR/year.
However, since 2019, international students have been paying higher tuition fees, with rates varying based on their nationality and status. For instance, students from Africa or Asia will have to pay higher tuition fees than French students.
The cost of living in France depends on the location. Paris, for example, is more expensive than other parts of the country. A general estimation for a year of study in France is 10,000€ to 13,000€ for international students. To live comfortably in Paris without any help, you will need approximately 1,100€ per month, excluding accommodation.
Here are some tips to save money while studying in France:
- Opt for modest accommodation.
- Cook at home instead of eating out.
- Utilise student discounts at museums, theatres, and popular sites.
- Use an international card to minimise foreign transaction fees.
- Look for affordable grocery options, with an average monthly grocery bill ranging from 250 to 300 EUR in Paris and less in other provinces.
- Use affordable transportation options, such as bicycle rentals.
International students should consider the following additional expenses:
- Airfare to France, which can be costly unless you live in a nearby European country.
- Travel insurance, which is recommended even if health insurance is included in your study programme.
- Social Security registration, which costs around 200€ and provides coverage for illness and hospitalisation.
- Additional healthcare cover, such as a student mutual fund, which can cost between 6€ and 50€ per month.
