France is not only known for its art, cuisine, and culture but it is also one of the most popular study destinations in Europe. With globally recognized universities, high quality education, and affordable tuition fees, France attracts thousands of international students each year. But before planning your academic journey, it is crucial to understand the cost of studying in France, along with tuition fees, accommodation, daily expenses, and visa costs. This blog will break down everything that you need to know about the cost of studying in France for international students, specifically for Indian students and offers insights into scholarships, city-wise expenses, and budgeting tips.
Cost of education in France
The cost of education in France varies depending on the type of institution: public universities, private universities, or Grandes Écoles.
Public Universities in France
Public institutions are largely subsidized by the French government which makes them affordable as compared to other study-abroad destinations across the globe. The public university tuition France structure is standardized across the country for most courses.
As per 2025, the France university fees for international students at public universities are approximately:
- €2,770 per year for Bachelor’s programs
- €3,770 per year for Master’s programs
- €380–€450 per year for PhD programs
This makes the France public universities fees some of the lowest in Europe, especially considering the high standard of education.
Private Universities and Grandes Écoles
Private institutions charge higher fees compared to public universities. The private university tuition France ranges between €5,000 to €20,000 per year. Also, it depends on the course of education and institution.
Grandes Écoles are France’s elite higher education institutions which have a selective admission process and it offers specialized programs in fields such as Engineering, Business, and Political Science. The Grandes Écoles fees France or what are the tuition fees at French Grandes Écoles for foreign students usually range from €10,000 to €30,000 per annum, depending on the school and program.
Average University Costs
The average cost of university in France for international students lies between €3,000 to €12,000 per year. There are several universities in France with low tuition fees, making them ideal for students on a budget. Some even qualify as the cheapest university in France for international students.
Tuition fees of Masters for Non-EU students
The France masters fees are usually around €3,770 per year at public universities for the students who are pursuing postgraduate studies. However, private institutions and Grandes Écoles can charge higher rates depending on specialization. Also, Non-EU students should note that non-EU student tuition France is higher than what it is for EU students.
For example, tuition fees in France for international students from non-EU countries are standardized at the above-mentioned rates but may differ slightly depending on the course and university policies.
For Indian students specifically, the cost of studying in France for Indian students remains significantly more affordable compared to studying in countries like the US or the UK.
Living Costs in France for International Students
While tuition fees is relatively affordable, the living cost in France for international students varies as it depends on location, lifestyle, and accommodation choices.
The key expenses that make up the student budget breakdown France city by city:
Accommodation costs
The France student accommodation costs can differ. In smaller cities like Lyon, Toulouse, or Lille, students can find rooms for around €400–€600 per month, however in Paris, the cost of rent France student can go up to €900 or even more.
University residences are usually the most affordable, while private apartments and shared flats are more expensive but offer greater independence.
Food and Groceries
The food costs France student typically ranges from €200–€400 per month, depending on how often you cook at home and eat out. The food and grocery cost for students in France 2025 is slightly higher due to inflation, but many universities offer discounted meals at student cafeterias.
Transportation
The transportation costs France student vary by city. Most cities offer student discounts on public transport passes usually costing between €30 to €75 per month. Bicycles and car-sharing options can further reduce costs.
Health Insurance
All students must have medical insurance. The health insurance for students in France costs about €20 to €50 per month. EU students can use their European Health Insurance Card, whereas non-EU students need to register for French student social security.
France Student Visa Costs
To study in France, you need to have a long-stay visa (VLS-TS). The France student visa costs typically amount to €99. For non-EU nationals, including Indian students, the student visa cost France 2025 non-EU remains similar, though processing or administrative fees can slightly differ depending on exchange rates and updates by French consulates.
Scholarships for International students in France
France offers numerous scholarships for international students in France, helping to reduce overall expenses. These are available from universities, the French government, and external organizations.
Some popular scholarship programmes in France for non-EU students include:
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme (for Master’s & PhD)
- École Normale Supérieure International Selection
- Charpak Scholarship Programme (specifically for Indian students)
- Campus France Scholarships
Scholarships can significantly lower the cost of studying in France, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Manage finances:
Planning ahead is key to managing the student living expenses France. Here are a few budgeting tips:
- Choose cities with universities in France with low tuition fees.
- Opt for shared housing to reduce France student accommodation costs.
- Cook meals at home to save on food costs France student.
- Use student discounts for travel, events, and museum visits.
- Apply early for scholarships and housing assistance.
FAQs: Cost of Studying in France
What is the average cost of studying in France for international students?
The average cost of studying in France for international students ranges from €3,000–€12,000 per year for tuition, plus €900–€1,400 monthly for living expenses.
How much is the France university fees for international students?
The France university fees for international students at public universities are about €2,770 for Bachelor’s and €3,770 for Master’s programs per year.
What is the cost of studying in France for Indian students?
The cost of studying in France for Indian students is comparatively affordable, with public universities offering low tuition and multiple scholarship options.
Which are the cheapest universities in France for international students?
There are many universities in France with low tuition fees including University of Paris, University of Lille, and University of Strasbourg. Some even qualify as the cheapest university in France.
How much are France Masters fees at public universities?
The France masters fees at public universities are around €3,770 per year, while private and Grandes Écoles fees France can range from €10,000–€30,000.
What are the average student living expenses in France?
The student living expenses France depends on city and lifestyle, expect €900–€1,400 per month covering France student accommodation costs, food, transport, and insurance.
Are there scholarships for international students in France?
Yes, there are several scholarships for international students in France and scholarship programmes in France for non-EU students like the Eiffel and Charpak schemes which help reduce total expenses.
For further assistance or queries students can contact us, Edwise International, and avail our wide range of services for students on destinations like Study in France, study in Ireland, study in UK, study in USA, study in Canada, study in Australia, study in New-Zealand, study in Singapore, study in Germany and many other countries.
