💼 Complete Guide to Master’s Studies in France: Requirements, Costs, Top Programs, and Application Process

  In recent years, France has become an increasingly popular study-abroad destination for Taiwanese students. In addition to its world-class education system and rich cultural environment, one of its biggest advantages is relatively affordable tuition compared to many other countries. There is also a growing number of programs taught in English, and international graduates have opportunities to stay and work in France after completing their studies. All of these factors make France a highly cost-effective option for studying in Europe.

This guide covers everything you need to know about studying in France—including its key advantages, higher education system, application requirements, costs, and pros and cons—so you can quickly get up to speed.

一、Why study in France? — 5 key advantages

二、Overview of the French higher education system

三、Master’s application requirements in France

四、Step-by-step application process

五、Cost breakdown for studying in France

六、Pros and cons of studying in France

一、Why study in France? — 5 key advantages

1.  Affordable Tuition with High Value for Money

Tuition fees at public universities in France are heavily subsidized by the government, making them significantly more affordable than studying in countries like the US, UK, or Australia. The cost of studying is relatively low:

Type of Institution	Annual Tuition
Public universities (Master’s)	Around €3,770 per year
Business schools / Grandes Écoles	Around €10,000–30,000 per year
Art and design schools	Around €5,000–15,000 per year

Even for business schools, the overall cost is still generally lower than top programs in the US or UK.

2.More English-Taught Programs — No French Required

France now offers over 1,600 English-taught Master’s programs across a wide range of popular fields, including:

• Business Administration

• Finance

• Engineering and Technology

• Data Science

• International Relations

This means that even students without a background in French can still apply for Master’s programs in France.

3. World-Class Universities and Highly Recognized Degrees 

France is home to many globally renowned institutions, such as:

• HEC Paris

• Sciences Po Paris

• École Polytechnique

• ESSEC Business School

These institutions are highly influential worldwide, particularly in the fields of business, engineering, and political science.

4. Post-Graduation Work Opportunities in France 

After completing a Master’s degree, international students can apply for a post-study work visa (APS), which allows them to stay in France to look for employment

• Valid for 12 months

• Extendable up to 24 months

• Allows you to work legally or transition to a full work visa

This is especially beneficial for students who are looking to build a career in Europe.

5. Rich Cultural Experience and European Lifestyle 

Located in the heart of Europe, France offers easy access to neighboring countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, and Spain. Students can travel freely on weekends while studying, broadening their international perspective and cultural exposure.

二、 Overview of the French Higher Education System

France’s higher education system is broadly divided into two main types of institutions:

Category	Public Universities (Université)	Grandes Écoles
Teaching Style	Research-oriented	Small classes, career-focused
Tuition Fees	Lower (government-subsidized)	Higher (but strong employment outcomes)
Best For Student	Students aiming for academic research or a PhD	Students seeking careers in industry or business
Common Fields	Humanities, Sciences, Social Sciences	Business, Engineering, Management, Finance
Bachelor’s Duration	3years	3–5 years (depending on the program)
Master’s Duration	2years	1–2 years
Doctoral Path	3+ years	May lead to a PhD or direct employment
Representative Schools	Sorbonne Université	HEC Paris
	Université de Lyon	Sciences Po Paris
	Université de Nantes	École Polytechnique

三、Master’s Application Requirements in France 

1.Academic Requirements   

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

2.Language Requirements 

For English-taught programs: IELTS 6.0–6.5 or TOEFL 80–100

For French-taught programs: DELF B2 or DALF C1

3.Required Documents 

Common application materials include:

• CV (Curriculum Vitae)

• Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter

• Academic transcripts

• Degree certificate or diploma

• Two letters of recommendation

• Proof of language proficiency

• Portfolio (for art and design programs)

四、Application Process for Studying in France 

Step 1：Choose Your Program and University 

It is recommended to start planning at least one year in advance. Consider factors such as the language of instruction, budget, preferred city, and field of study. 

Step 2：Prepare Application Materials 

Begin preparing your application 6–12 months in advance, including language test scores, your CV, and a statement of purpose. 

Step 3：Apply Through the Official Platform 

Most Taiwanese students apply via ：Études en France（Campus France）

The typical application process includes:

1.Creating an account

2.Uploading required documents

3.Attending an interview and completing the preliminary review

4.Receiving admission results

Step 4：Apply for a Student Visa 

After receiving your admission offer, apply for a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS).

Step 5：Prepare for Departure 

五、Cost of Studying in France 

 (All amounts are in euros. As of 2026, €1 ≈ TWD 40.)

Tuition Fees 

Type of Institution	Annual Tuition
Public universities	€3,000 – €4,000
Business schools	€10,000 – €30,000
Art schools	€5,000 – €15,000

Living Expenses 

City	Monthly Living Cost
Paris	€1,200 – €1,800
Lyon	€900 – €1,200
Nantes	€800 – €1,100
Lille	€750 – €1,000

Average monthly living cost ：€800–€1,500 / 月

Accommodation Costs 

• CROUS student housing ：€200 – €500

• Private student residences: €450 – €750

• Private apartments in Paris: €700 – €1,100

六、Pros and Cons of Studying in France 

Advantages

✔ Affordable tuition fees✔ Many world-renowned universities

✔ Opportunities to stay and work in Europe after graduation✔ Rich cultural experience

Disadvantages 

⚠ Administrative processes can be slow  ⚠ Daily life is easier with French language skills ⚠ Rent in Paris can be relatively high