Study in France offers students the opportunity to progress through various academic levels thanks to its diverse and well-structured educational system. The French higher education system guides students through different academic stages, each playing an important role in developing their knowledge and specialization. From entering a bachelor’s degree program to completing a doctorate, students experience a wide range of academic and professional opportunities across different fields.
Higher education in France is generally divided into three main levels: bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies. To create better compatibility among European academic qualifications and facilitate student mobility, the Bologna Process framework was established, which France officially recognizes.
International students can apply for admission to various academic levels in France. Each level has its own admission requirements, tuition fees, and required documents. Educational conditions and academic structures also differ depending on the level of study.
Homa Immigration Institute aims to examine study in France at different academic levels, including bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs at French universities.
Study in France at the Bachelor’s Level
Bachelor’s degree programs in France generally last between 3 and 4 years. Students are required to complete approximately 180 to 240 academic credits depending on their field of study. Most undergraduate programs are taught in French, and students are usually required to learn French and provide a language certificate at the B2 level. Applicants can apply for admission with a 12-year high school diploma.
The academic year usually starts in September and continues until June of the following year. Students intending to enroll in undergraduate programs should apply for admission at least two months before the semester begins. Scholarships are not commonly offered for bachelor’s programs in France, although students may receive support for transportation, accommodation, or insurance expenses.
Information About Bachelor’s Degree Studies in France
| Duration | 3 to 4 years |
|---|---|
| Minimum GPA Required | 15 |
| Language of Instruction | French or English |
| Required Language Level | French B2 or IELTS 6 |
| Tuition Fees | €2,000–€3,000 per year at public universities and €3,000–€8,000 at private universities |
| Semester Start | September |
| Student Dormitory Availability | Yes |
| Scholarship Availability | No |
| Part-Time Work Permission | 40 hours per month |
| Best Universities | PSL University, Sorbonne University, University of Paris, École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, University of Montpellier, Aix-Marseille University |
Study in France at the Master’s Level
After completing a bachelor’s degree, students can apply for a French student visa to pursue a master’s degree. Master’s programs in France generally last 2 years and are divided into Master 1 and Master 2. The first year mainly focuses on theoretical courses, while the second year emphasizes research projects, internships, and thesis work.
For study in France at the master’s level, students may need either an IELTS certificate or a French language certificate depending on the program type. However, many master’s programs are offered in English, and knowledge of French is not always mandatory. Students are also allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during their studies.
It is important to note that French universities recognize Iranian university degrees. If your academic documents are officially translated and evaluated, your bachelor’s degree will generally be accepted in France, even if you graduated from a non-governmental university. Therefore, you can apply for master’s degree programs in France.
Information About Master’s Degree Studies in France
| Duration | 2 years |
|---|---|
| Minimum GPA Required | 15 |
| Language of Instruction | French at public universities and English at private universities |
| Required Language Level | French B2 or IELTS 6.5 |
| Tuition Fees | €3,000–€4,000 per year at public universities and €3,000–€8,000 at private universities |
| Semester Start | September |
| Student Dormitory Availability | Yes |
| Scholarship Availability | Yes |
| Part-Time Work Permission | 80 hours per month |
| Best Universities | PSL University, Sorbonne University, University of Paris, École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, University of Montpellier, Aix-Marseille University |
PhD Studies in France
Around 12% of the world’s international student population studies in France, and approximately 25,000 of them are enrolled in PhD programs. If you are interested in educational immigration to France through doctoral studies, it is important to know that PhD programs usually last between 3 and 5 years and often include scholarship opportunities.
In addition, PhD students may receive a monthly salary from their university ranging between €1,200 and €2,500 while also paying taxes. Study in France at the doctoral level is primarily research-based and is commonly offered in English.
Applicants for PhD programs in France are expected to have a strong academic and research background, along with an IELTS score between 6.5 and 7.5. Having ISI publications and graduating from top public universities in Iran can significantly improve the chances of admission and receiving scholarships. At the end of the PhD program, students are required to submit and defend a dissertation.
Information About PhD Studies in France
| Duration | 3 to 5 years |
|---|---|
| Minimum GPA Required | 14 |
| Language of Instruction | French at public universities and English at private universities |
| Required Language Level | French C1 or IELTS 6.5–7.5 |
| Tuition Fees | €760 per year at public universities and €3,000–€8,000 at private universities |
| Semester Start | September |
| Student Dormitory Availability | Yes |
| Scholarship Availability | Yes |
| Part-Time Work Permission | 120 hours per month with a minimum salary of €800 |
| Best Universities | PSL University, Sorbonne University, University of Paris, École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, University of Montpellier, Aix-Marseille University |
With thousands of successful immigration cases, Homa Immigration Institute can help you receive your admission letter from French universities and obtain a student visa to continue your study in France journey.
For more information regarding educational immigration to France in different academic levels and study fields, you can contact the experienced consultants of Homa Immigration Institute to have your eligibility assessed and receive personalized guidance.
