Masters in France: Explore Top Universities, Course Fees, & More
Students from abroad have increasingly chosen France as a study-abroad destination in recent years. According to research, France welcomes around 2 million international students annually to pursue higher education. In addition to its outstanding academic reputation, France has a thriving and diverse cultural scene. Moreover, the cost of living is lower than in other European nations, making it an ideal place for international students. This blog is a comprehensive guide for those considering a master’s in France. It explores the key benefits of studying in France, highlights prestigious universities to consider, and outlines the most popular courses available. Read on to discover more about the exciting opportunities.
Top Reasons to Pursue Masters in France
Business, technology, fashion, and invention excellence make France popular. In addition, the country offers affordable high-quality education to everyone. Here are some compelling reasons why pursuing a master’s in France could be the perfect choice for you:
1. Quality Education
France is home to several internationally renowned universities known for their rigorous academic programs. More than 50 French universities, including the University of Paris and the Aix-Marseille University, are regularly ranked among the best in the world. Many programs are also taught in English, ensuring all students benefit from the curriculum.
2. Affordable Tuition
Compared to many institutions in Europe, France provides relatively low-cost education. In France, public universities are more affordable than private ones. Additionally, various grants and scholarships are available to help cover the cost of tuition.
3. International Exposure
International exposure is one of the best benefits of attending a foreign institution. France is a popular travel destination evolved into a cultural hotspot. You can expand your horizons and become fully immersed in the cultural environment.
4. Job Opportunities After Graduation
With France’s ongoing advancements in business, engineering, and technology, there is a need for qualified workers to enter the labor market. The country offers student-friendly visa policies that allow graduates to look for employment. You have 90 days before your visa expires to apply for a work permit after completing your master’s degree.
List of Top Universities in France for Masters
France is home to prestigious universities providing excellent networking opportunities and strong industry connections. According to the QS World Rankings, here are some of the top universities for a master’s in France:
| Top Universities | Popular Master’s Courses Offered | Average Annual Fees (in Euros) | Average Annual Fees (in INR) |
| Sorbonne University | Social Science, Medicine, Humanities | €10,000 | ₹8.79 lakh |
| University of Bordeaux | MS in Transfers-Fluids-Materials in Aeronautical and Space Applications | €3,879 | ₹3.41 lakh |
| Université Paris Cité | Law, Political Science, Economics, and Humanities | €343 | ₹30,171 |
| University of Paris-Saclay | Economics, Social Science, and Humanities | €245 | ₹21,550 |
| École Normale Supérieure De Lyon | Mathematics and Geosciences | €355 | ₹31,227 |
| Kedge Business School | International Business, Arts, and Creative Industry | €18,000 | ₹15.83 lakh |
| University of Lorraine | Masters in Green Networking, and Cloud Computing | €9,202 | ₹8.09 lakh |
| University of Nantes | Master in Multimedia, and Data Management, Thermal Science and Energy, and Operations Research | €7,667 | ₹6.74 lakh |
| Aix-Marseille University | Finance, Computer Science, Chemistry, Economics, Mechanical Engineering, and Journalism | €3,770 | ₹3.31 lakh |
Common Eligibility Criteria
A master’s degree in France requires international students to meet several standard eligibility requirements. While specific criteria may vary by university and program, here are the general prerequisites:
| Educational Qualification | Most programs require students to have earned at least 50% in their bachelor’s degree to be admitted to the master’s program. Additional criteria may apply for international students studying a master of science (MSc) program in France. |
| Language Proficiency | Applicant must be fluent in either French or English depending on the language in which the course is taught. An IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scorecard may be required. Certain programs, however, can have alternative requirements, like an interview or a statement outlining your English proficiency. Pro Tip: Consider enrolling in an English-speaking course to improve your skills. |
| Additional Documents | – Applicants are required to submit the following documents for verification: – Statement of Purpose – Copy of passport – Updated CV – Academic Transcripts – 2 Letters of Recommendation – Work Experience document – Other relevant certificates |
Pro Tip: If you want to pursue your education in France and expand your career prospects, check out Internshala’s study abroad program for assistance.
In-Demand Courses to Study in France
International students can choose from various master’s degrees offered in France that meet the changing needs of the global labor market. The following list includes popular employment roles, average salaries, and some of the most in-demand courses:
| Degree Name | Annual Program Fee for Non-EU Students (in Euro) | Program Fee for Non-EU Students (in INR) | Popular Job That You Can Apply For |
| MBA | €30,000 | ₹2.53 lakh | Sales Manager, Sales Executive, Business Developer, Assistant Marketing Strategist, Revenue Manager |
| Master in Computer and Data Science | €3,879 | ₹3.41 lakh | IT Professionals, IT Analyst, Software Developer, Application Developer |
| MS in Finance | €3,879 | ₹3.41 lakh | Financial Analysts, Financial Managers, Accountant |
| Masters in Engineering | €3,879 | ₹3.41 lakh | Pilot, Electrician, Electrical Engineer, Telecommunications Engineer, Mechanical Engineer |
| MS in Medicine | €3,879 | ₹3.41 lakh | Physicians, Allied Healthcare Professionals, Pharmacy Assistants |
| MSc in Law | €3,879 | ₹3.41 lakh | Lawyer |
| MBBS | €10,000 | ₹8.79 lakh | Dentists, Doctors, Surgeons, Physiotherapists, Healthcare Assistants |
| Masters in Management | €3,770 | ₹3.31 lakh | Office Manager, Human Resource Manager |
Renowned Scholarships to Fund Your Education in France
Pursuing a master’s in France might be expensive for some students. However, many scholarship programs are available for Indian students to ease the financial burden. Here’s a list of the best scholarships available to study in France:
1. Tiger Master’s Excellence Scholarships
Aix-Marseille University offers the ‘Tiger Master’s Excellence’ scholarship. It aims to attract outstanding international students to its master’s programs in diverse fields like sciences, energy, and humanities. The scholarship provides financial support of up to €10,000 per year and additionally, covers accommodation and settlement assistance for students.
2. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship supports talented international students in master’s and PhD programs across various disciplines. It is funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. The scholarship includes a monthly stipend of €1,181 along with travel and health insurance assistance.
3. Idex Master’s Scholarships
Université Grenoble Alpes provides the Idex Master’s Scholarships to encourage international students with strong academic performance to pursue master’s studies at the university. Recipients benefit from a grant of €8,000 annually for up to two years.
4. Erasmus+ Mobility Scholarships
The Erasmus+ Mobility Scholarship supports international students with relocation, accommodation, and living costs while studying in Europe. It encourages cross-border education and cultural exchange within the European Union.
5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships
This European Union initiative is designed for exceptional students pursuing master’s programs in science across at least two participating countries. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel, and living expenses, offering a multicultural academic experience.
Also Read: Indian Government Scholarships For Studying Abroad
Annual Cost of Living in France
Despite France’s relative affordability, well-known cities like Paris and Marseille can cost far more than other places. However, we have outlined the average cost of living in France you would need to account for if you decide to live off-campus while pursuing your master’s program in France:
| Expense Category | Annual Monthly Expenses (in Euros) | Average Monthly Expenses (in INR) |
| Accommodation | €550 | ₹37,603 |
| Food | €145 | ₹9.913 |
| Transportation | €48 | ₹3,281 |
| Utilities | €168 | ₹15,309 |
| Recreation | €100 | ₹6,837 |
Conclusion
Pursuing a master’s degree in France has the potential to be a life-changing experience. Due to extensive exposure to other countries in Europe, students can grow academically and personally. Moreover, France is the top option for international students wishing to pursue a master’s program without going over budget. This is because most universities are funded by the government and offer courses with lower tuition fees.
Check out our detailed guide on MBA in France if you want to pursue a career in management internationally.
FAQs
Answer: Yes, you can work in France after completing a master’s degree. In fact, France allows international students who have completed their master’s to stay and work in France, post completing the degree, for up to two years, under a post-study work visa.
Answer: No, taking the IELTS test is not required to apply for a student visa to France. When applying to universities, students should confirm the exam requirements of the college or university of their choice.
Answer: The majority of master’s programs in the French higher education system last two years. Master 1 (or M1) is the name given to the first year, and Master 2 (or M2) to the second.
