Study Masters in France in 2026: Top Universities, Courses, Cost & More

When one thinks of France, the images of the Eiffel tower, sprawling vineyards, and mouthwatering cuisine may come to mind. However, the country is home to some of the world’s best educational facilities, research laboratories, and modern teaching methods. France is also home to 4 of the world’s best student cities as per QS Rankings 2025. With a long history of research-focused and industry-relevant courses, the experienced faculty of French Universities have produced 64 Nobel Laureates and 15 recipients of Field Medals in the past. This academic repute makes France a popular study destination for Master’s courses.

The country has over 3,500 higher educational institutions that students can choose from. As one of the largest economies in the world, it also offers plenty of opportunities for innovation, business, and entrepreneurship. Its culturally diverse population makes for a study experience unlike no other. Students are exposed to the French language, which is widely spoken across the world and an added benefit for employability. In this article, let us explore all the attractive aspects of studying in France in 2025.

Why Study in France for Masters?

As seen above, France is a popular study destination for its excellent education system and state-of-the-art research facilities. Let us explore some more reasons behind its demand among international students.

  • Affordable tuition fee and living expenses
  • Thousands of English-taught courses
  • IELTS/TOEFL not compulsory
  • Many attractive state-sponsored scholarships for international students
  • Interactive and modern classrooms
  • Subsidized accommodation for international studentsExposure to French culture & cuisine

France has some of the world’s most well-known Universities. Let us know more about them in the next section.

Top Universities to Study Masters in France

34 Universities in France are featured on the QS World University Rankings 2025, of which 13 are among the top 500 worldwide. Let us know some of the topmost ones below.

  • Université PSL
  • Institut Polytechnique de Paris
  • Sorbonne University
  • Université Paris-Saclay
  • École Normale Supérieure de Lyon
  • Université Grenoble Alpes
  • Neoma Business School
  • Université de Montpellier
  • Université de Strasbourg
  • Skema Business School
  • University of Bordeaux
  • Le Cordon Bleu
  • Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III
  • INSEEC Business School, Paris· 

All of these educational institutions offer tons of industry-forward, research-focused Master’s courses in English. Let us see more about them in the next section.

Popular Masters Programs to Study in France

A major benefit of studying in France is the variety of courses available across different fields. Some courses regularly chosen by international students are mentioned below.

  • Business & Management
  • IT & Engineering
  • Tourism & Hospitality
  • Finance & Accounting
  • Brand & Marketing Management
  • Law & Teaching
  • Sciences
  • Art & Design

Most of these courses also include internships alongside coursework, making for a holistic study experience. The French government has also made quality education affordable and accessible. Let us see the detailed cost of studying in France in the next section.

Cost to Study in France for Masters

Studying a Master’s program in France costs around €9,000 to €15,000 per year, depending on the student’s course and University of choice.

The cost of living in France varies from €1,200 to €2,200 per month depending on the student’s city of residence and standard of living.

Having understood the major expenses to study in France, students may be wondering about how to study in France this year. Let us understand the timing for applications in the next section.

Study in France: Major Intakes for Masters

French Universities accept applications in two major intakes, as noted below.

  • Summer Intake – Starts in January/February
  • Winter Intake – Starts in September/October

The deadline for Summer Intake applications is usually up to 15th November, while Winter Intake applications generally close on 15th July each year.

Now that we have understood this, let us see which parts of students’ profile are most important for France’s University selection committees.

Study in France: Eligibility Requirements for Masters

The basic entry requirements for a Master’s course in France are largely limited to academics and communications skills. Students need a minimum of 55% in their Bachelor’s degree. IELTS/ TOEFL scores are not necessary as long as the student can demonstrate good command over the English language.   

Although students are not required to have any French language proficiency certificates during the application process, they can always get an A1 certificate in French. Many Universities also offer French language courses to international students after they enter the course.

Knowing the basics of the language will help them acclimate to studying in France and help them get a part-time job. Let us learn more about working alongside studies in the next section.

Study in France: Part-Time Work Rights

International students can work part-time for up to 20 hours a week in France. On-campus or off-campus jobs in sectors such as retail, events, or services can help students manage their daily expenditure independently.  

Students usually earn between €10 and €12 per hour when working part-time. Other than this, sometimes they can also enter paid internships as part of their coursework to gain relevant industry experience.

The practical mindset of French Universities makes for employment-ready graduates. Let us learn more about career possibilities in France after completing studies.

Study in France: Post-Study Work Visa

One of the unique benefits of studying Masters in France is that students can avail a post-study work visa for up to 2 years. This is available for students enrolled in RNCP (Répertoire National des Certifications Professionnelles) programs, after which they can seek part-time or full-time employment in France.

As a founding member of the EU and the G7, France is an important economic power in the world. The top companies worldwide in fields such as Healthcare, Retail & Trade, Manufacturing, Automotive, Aerospace, etc. recruit regularly from French Universities.

As we have seen, France is an excellent destination that combines modern teaching methods with student-friendly policies and a rich cultural experience. It is also highly recommended by top study in Europe consultants across the world. For a smooth journey to the French University of their dreams, students can reach out to trusted overseas education consultants nearby.

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