France Study Abroad 2026: Costs, Tips & Student Life Unveiled

Living and studying in France as an international student can be a fantastic opportunity in 2026. Not only can students gain access to excellent education but they can also immerse themselves in cultures of France, which undoubtedly adds to their personal growth. As mentioned, the tuition fees for international students vary between €170 to €20,000 per annum and the living costs in Paris can go as high as €1,200 per month. Generally, to gain admission to a university in France for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, students will need to prove that they have completed secondary education (which is achieved by obtaining a Baccalaureate) and are required to have a certain level of French language proficiency. However, despite the exorbitant living costs, France has managed to attract international students owing to relatively low public university fees and excellent student services.

• Public university tuition fees are as low as €170/year.
• Living expenses in Paris are around €800-€1,200/month.
• French language proficiency (B2 level) is typically required.
• A student visa requires proof of €615/month in financial resources.
• Scholarships like the Eiffel Excellence are available for international students.

France is relatively cheap to study in, especially when you consider the great culture on offer. However, costs of living are high in urban areas such as Paris and Lyon.

Cost of Living in France for International Students

France as a destination for students studying abroad presents a unique cost of living that varies from city to city. Typically, the cost of living is significantly higher in the capital city of Paris when compared to smaller cities in France. Students can anticipate that rent in Paris will range between €800-€1,200. Students studying in smaller cities like Lyon or Toulouse will find that rent is lower, in the range of €400-€700. Food, transportation costs are estimated to be in the range of €200-€300 and €30-€75 respectively.

You must also provide for additional expenses: the health insurance is obligatory and its annual cost is approximately €215. We will update the information as soon as possible to provide it for the academic year 2026.

Rent prices are ridiculously high, so students should consider living in the university's residences or share an apartment with other students in order to keep rent affordable.

Admissions Requirements for International Students

It’s important to understand the key steps in the process of applying to study at a French university if you're an international student. Generally you'll need to present some proof of having completed secondary education (such as your High School Diploma). Although the language of instruction at French universities is French, it’s generally expected that you have reached B2 level in French to guarantee your understanding of the course content.

Applicants will need to submit their motivation letter and CV. The ad sometimes also requires the submission of test scores. Always check the requirements for each program you're applying for, far enough in advance to take any necessary tests.

Start preparing the documents you'll need to apply to the program a year before the competition deadline. This will give you time to obtain any required documents, improve your French and draft your application.

Navigating the Visa Process for France

If you're an international student planning to study in France, you'll need to apply for a long-stay student visa, also referred to as a “Visa de long séjour pour études”. To apply, you'll be required to obtain a acceptance letter from a higher education establishment in France, recognized by the state. it's also mandatory to prove that you have sufficient financial means. you'll need to show that you can live in France for the duration of your studies and are able to support yourself financially. The minimum annual budget allocated for living in France is €7,350, which works out at €615 per month.

All the information needed to apply to the French “artist visa” can be found here:Application for the long-stay visa must be submitted to the French consulate in your home country.Applications need to be made well in advance as this can take up to 2 months depending on the nationality.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many international students across the globe aren't well-prepared in terms of the many aspects of studying abroad in France. Typically, one of the major concerns they struggle with is estimating and financially preparing for the cost of living while studying in France, especially in Paris which is notoriously one of the most expensive cities in the world. Another significant aspect to be taken into account when preparing for international studies is the level of proficiency in French achieved by the students. While a little knowledge of French language can be sufficient for a short-term studies, students are usually required to reach level B2 of French proficiency for most of the long-term studies in France.

Students often over look the time it will take for the Visa to be approved which can cause a lot of stress in the last minute. Students are advise to start the process for Visa as early as possible.

Essential Tips for International Students in France

Living French culture and way of life is one of the many aspects you should consider as an international student. - As long as you're in a professional or formal situation, using “vous” is considered to be polite whereas “tu” is more informal. So you should use “vous” in shops, with delivery people, at the post office, with bus or train drivers and in front of an older person for instance. - Being on time for appointments, job interviews or even for simply meeting up with friends and classmates is also very important. - Opening a bank account in France is definitely one of the most important points to consider when you move to France as an international student.

Student discounts are available for travel and cultural activities in France. here's some information to get you started in enjoying France on a budget!

2026 Updates: What’s New in French Education?

En 2026 ça change dans l’éducation – Actualité En France, le changement évolue petit à petit au niveau des universités avec l’intégration d’un volet renforce de l’éducation à l’environnement et au développement durable dans les nouvelles formations et écoles. Il procède d’une logique mondiale – Le changement éducatif n’est jamais le fruit du hasard . on observe aujourd’hui une évolution au niveau universitaire. C’est encore balistique, mais du mouvement il y en a !

As well as the above, we have improved our digital learning platforms to enable students to study in a greater number of ways. This is particularly beneficial for our international students who have a variety of commitments they must undertake as part of their studies.

Comparisons with Other Study Destinations

France remains one of the most popular countries to study abroad, ahead of the US and the UK, for example. University tuition fees in France for public institutions are much lower than in other countries. Besides, France is renowned for its high standard of living and cultural diversity, which are highly appreciated by foreign students.

France has a wide range of public transport choices available, which is a very important factor to consider when choosing a country to study in. France's rail network is one of the most developed and efficient networks in the world. It enables easy access between major cities, allowing students to travel inexpensively throughout France.

Frequently Asked Questions About France

What is the cost of living for students in France?

A student budget in Paris: €800 - €1,200 per month (or more, or less, depending on your circumstances) elsewhere in France: €600 - €800 per month

Do I need to speak French to study in France?

Yes, almost all programs require a B2 level of French, but some are in English.

How can I apply for a student visa in France?

Through the French consulate of your home country, with proof of acceptance and proof of sufficient financial resources.

What are the accommodation options for students in France?

Options include university dormitories, private rentals, and shared apartments.

Are there scholarships available for international students in France?

Oui, il y a plusieurs bourses accordées par le gouvernement français ainsi que par les universités : La Bourse d’excellence Eiffel par exemple.

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