Studying in France: FAQs

Thinking of studying in France? Deciding to study a postgraduate course abroad comes with its fair share of questions and doubts. What will I need to apply? Are there any scholarships available to help me cover costs? Will I need a visa to be able to study

We’ve answered some frequently asked questions about studying in France as an international student in this guide.

Q1: What is the cost of PhD study in France for international students?

A: Tuition fees for PhD study at public higher education institutions in France are fixed by the government. International students pay €391 per year for a PhD which is the same as French students. However, private universities are free to set their own tuition fee and can charge between €3,000-€10,000 per year.

Read more about the cost of a PhD in France.

Q2: Do French universities offer postgraduate courses in English?

A: Yes! In an effort to welcome more international students, French universities now offer more and more degrees in English. You won’t need proficiency in French to study one of these courses.

You may still want to know at least a basic level of French to be able to immerse yourself in the culture and make the most of your time there. Most universities offer French language courses for international students.

Q3. Will I need to take a language test to study in France?

Even though there are English-taught postgraduate courses available, you may still wish to study in French.

If you opt for a course taught in French, you’ll need to prove you’re proficient in the language. The most commonly used French proficiency tests are the DILF/DELF/DALF tests offered by the Ministry of Education in France.

Find more information on French language tests.

Q4. Which are the best universities for a PhD in France?

A. France is home to almost 3,500 institutes of higher education providing world-class postgraduate education. The ‘best’ university always depends on your personal preferences and goals.

We’ve put together a list of the top 20 universities in France using three international rankings tables for 2025 as a place for you to start. It’s worth noting that these rankings are not postgraduate specific and that each ranking system uses a different methodology.

You can read more about how to use postgraduate rankings.

Q5: How long is a PhD in France?

A: A PhD in France lasts for 3-4 years ending in a thesis submission. Each academic year begins in September or October, ends in May or June and is divided into two semesters. While the university does not operate courses over the summer, PhD students will still be expected to work on their research.

Read more about how a PhD course is structured in France.

Q6. What are the entry requirements for a PhD in France?

A: Since France follows the Bologna system, you need to have a Masters to be able to apply for a PhD. You may be asked to provide academic transcripts of your previous degrees.

If you’re applying for an advertised project, you’ll need to submit transcripts and academic references. If you’re proposing your own project, you’ll also need to write a research proposal.

You must also show you are proficient in the language you course is taught in and international students must meet the visa and immigration requirements

Read more about PhD applications in France.

Q7. How can you apply for a Masters or PhD in France?

A. Application processes for a Masters or PhD in France differ depending on your nationality. If you’re an EU/EEA national, you can apply directly with your university. Students belonging to the Études en France cohort of countries can apply on the Campus France online portal. Other students must get in touch with their university, and they’ll let you know about the application procedure. .

Q8: Do I need a visa to study in France?

A: Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality. If you’re an EU/EEA national, you do not need a visa. If you are a non-EU/EEA national, you need to apply for the VLS-TS long stay student visa and obtain a residence permit on your arrival in France.

You can find more information in our guide to student visas in France.

Q9: What PhD funding is available for international students in France?

A: There are a number of government funding options available for international students like the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship programme and CROUS Scholarships

Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for some regional government scholarships as well.

French universities also support international students by offering their own scholarships, grants or bursaries.

You can find detailed information on postgraduate funding options in France in our guide.

Q10: Where can I live during my postgraduate degree in France?

A: Students can choose to live in university halls or rent rooms and apartments through the private market. The types of student accommodation available in France include rooms in university halls, student hostels, homestays and private rentals. Costs depend on the type of accommodation and the location.

Read more about the types of student accommodations in France and their prices.

Q11: How much should I expect to spend as a student in France?

A: The French government estimates that international students should have access to around €615 per month to cover maintenance and living costs. However, this varies hugely depending on the city you live in and your lifestyle.

Q12: Can I work while studying my Masters/PhD?

A: Yes, students are permitted to work while studying. However, there are some restrictions that might apply depending on your nationality. EU/EEA nationals have no restrictions to the amount they can work. Students from outside the EU/EEA are allowed to work up to 964 hours per year, or the equivalent of 60% of a full-time job. Algerian nationals are restricted to working only up to 50% of the maximum full-time hours.

Read more about working in France as a postgraduate student.

Q13: Can I stay and work in France after my Masters/PhD?

A: France is keen on welcoming international talent and offers generous post-study work opportunities for international students.

EU and EEA nationals have the same rights as French graduates and can work without restrictions.

Other international students need to apply for a Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS - temporary resident permit) to be able to stay and look for work (if they have not already secured guaranteed employment before the end of their course). The APS visa is valid for 12 months and is non-renewable. Until a fixed or indefinite employment contract is signed, work is limited to approximately 20 hours a week.

Read more about working in France as a recent graduate.

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