The education system in France

France has one of the world's most prestigious and affordable education systems. Around 300,000 international students choose to study here every year.

1. Secondary education

State schools in France are free and compulsory for children aged 3 to 16, whatever their nationality. At the end of secondary school, students sit a single school-leaving exam — the Baccalauréat — which is recognised by every European university with no further entrance tests. There are three types of Baccalauréat: general (academic), technological and vocational.

2. Higher education

The system comprises two main types of institution:

• State universities (73 in total) — require no entrance exams; all students holding the Baccalauréat are eligible for admission.

• The Grandes Écoles (around 220 institutions) — highly competitive, prestigious schools that train top engineers and managers.

At state universities, you pay only a registration fee:

• Bachelor's programmes: €170–€200 per year

• Master's programmes: €243–€260 per year

• Doctoral programmes: €380–€400 per year

You'll also pay a social insurance contribution of around €211 per year.

The Grandes Écoles charge tuition fees of between €3,000 and €20,000 per year.

3. Language requirements

To study in France, you'll usually need to show French proficiency of at least B2 (DELF, DALF, TCF or TEF certificates). International applicants who don't yet meet this level can enrol on university language courses, which provide student status and the right to work part-time.

Summary

Key benefits for international students:

• Low tuition fees — from just €170 to €400 per year at state universities;

• No university entrance exams (the Baccalauréat is sufficient);

• Internationally recognised degrees;

• A choice between large universities and elite Grandes Écoles;

• The right to work part-time during your studies;

• The chance to stay and look for work in France after graduation.