France is known for its world-class universities and educational system, attracting students from all over the world. Many students wonder if the universities in France are free for international students. The answer is not a simple yes or no. While tuition fees are relatively low in France, international students still have to pay tuition fees at public universities.
Public Universities in France
Public universities in France are funded by the government and offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Tuition fees at public universities in France are relatively low compared to universities in other countries. In 2021, the tuition fee for a Bachelor’s degree program at a public university in France is €170 per year. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree program is €243 per year.
However, while these fees are low, international students from outside of the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland are not eligible for the same tuition fees as French students. International students have to pay higher tuition fees than French students. For the academic year 2021-2022, the tuition fee for international students at public universities in France is around €2,770 per year for Bachelor’s degree programs and €3,770 per year for Master’s degree programs.
Scholarships for International Students
Despite the higher tuition fees for international students, there are still ways to study in France for free or at a reduced cost. There are a number of scholarships available to international students, including those offered by the French government, universities, and private organizations.
The French government offers a number of scholarships to international students, including the Eiffel Scholarship program, which provides funding for Master’s and Ph.D. programs in France. The program covers tuition fees, living expenses, and health insurance. Another scholarship program is the Charpak Scholarship, which is awarded to Indian students who want to study in France.
In addition to government scholarships, many universities in France offer their own scholarships to international students. For example, the University of Paris offers scholarships for international students who want to study in France.
Private organizations also offer scholarships to international students who want to study in France. The Erasmus Mundus program is one such program, which provides scholarships for Master’s degree programs in various disciplines.
In conclusion, while tuition fees at public universities in France are relatively low, international students still have to pay higher tuition fees than French students. However, there are many scholarships available to international students, which can help to offset the cost of tuition fees and living expenses. By researching scholarship opportunities and applying early, international students can study in France at a reduced cost or even for free.
