Education System in France

France offers many higher education programs for international students, including options taught fully in English. There are about 2.5 million students in French higher education, and roughly 12% of them are international. Students study across all fields and levels, from foundation studies to doctoral research.

System Overview

• Schools (up to 15 years old): Compulsory education builds core academic foundations.
• Higher Education: Students choose vocational or non-vocational diplomas after secondary studies.
• Universities: Public institutions awarding academic, technical, and professional degrees to students with a baccalauréat (or foreign equivalent). Degrees follow the LMD framework—Licence (Bachelor), Master, Doctorat.
• Specialized Schools: Public or private institutions preparing students for sectors like art, architecture, social work, tourism—often awarding Licence/Master degrees.
• Grandes Écoles: Elite public and private schools offering rigorous, specialized programs (often three years) in areas like business, public administration, or engineering. Admission is competitive and typically follows a two-year preparatory course (classes préparatoires or prépas). Graduates usually earn a Master’s-level degree.

Some of France’s secondary schools host classes préparatoires (CPG)—intensive seminars to prepare students for Grandes Écoles entrance exams.

Why Study in France?

• Globally recognised degrees: French universities and business schools are well ranked and industry connected.
• Affordable tuition: Public universities receive state subsidies, keeping fees lower than many other countries.
• Rich culture: Art, history, fashion, and world-class cuisine enhance student life and learning.
• Career opportunities: Home to many multinationals with internship routes into full-time roles.

Admission Procedure

Scholarships

Cost

Post-Education Opportunities

After completing your degree, you may receive permission to stay and look for work for up to one year. During this period, you can accept temporary roles (typically up to about 60% of full-time hours) while you search for a job in your field. If you secure qualifying employment (e.g., at or above a defined salary threshold), your stay authorization may be extended.

France Study Visa Consultants

GIEC Global provides guidance as study in France consultants and France education consultants. If you are in Australia and seeking support, our team can help with university selection, applications, visa documentation, and pre-departure steps. France offers diverse student cities—Lille, Montpellier, Toulouse, Nice, Grenoble, Lyon, and of course Paris. Many programs (400+ across Bachelor’s and Master’s) are available in English, so French is not always required.

France Visa Consultants

Visa needs depend on your nationality and length of stay. Many students may visit France without a tourist visa for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area. For stays longer than 90 days, book an appointment with the French consulate and prepare the required documents. Our team at GIEC Global can guide you through the process and document checklist.

Typical Document Checklist (Student Visa)

• Two copies of the visa application form (download online).
• Passport with at least two blank pages; validity typically extending 90+ days beyond your planned return.
• Recent passport-size photographs.
• Flight and accommodation details (or initial arrangements).
• Valid travel/medical insurance for the Schengen area.
• Financial proof (bank statements/receipts) showing you can cover living costs.
• Proof of residence in France (host details, rental, or campus housing) and identity documentation.

A short-stay visa fee is currently around 97.10 AUD (indicative). Processing is usually ~15 days but may extend to 30–60 days in specific or busy periods.

Financial Requirements & Living

Living in France can be affordable, especially outside central Paris. You will find a mix of public transport, student discounts, and budget-friendly housing options. Students from India and Bangladesh also frequently apply; GIEC Global assists students from multiple countries with course and visa support.