France stands out as a leading choice for American students studying abroad, with Paris being the primary destination for university and faculty-led programs offered by CEA Global Education, according to its president, Marcie Schneider. Beyond short-term study, pursuing an entire degree in France offers substantial financial advantages, with undergraduate tuition potentially costing as little as 500 euros annually – equivalent to just over 700 US dollars at current exchange rates. Strategically positioned at the heart of Europe, France acts as a vibrant crossroads connecting countries like Spain, Italy, the UK, and Germany, fostering immense cultural and social richness alongside a dynamic environment. From a business standpoint, this location also unlocks a wealth of opportunities for international students.
French Language Learning is the first step in order to study in France, here you can find the best options, from the best french courses providers!
The most prominent and widely recognized for French as a Foreign Language (FLE) courses leading to their own specific certificates are:
- Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne (CCFS): Now part of the Fondation Robert de Sorbon, this institution has a long history and is very well-known for its French language and civilization courses. They issue their own Diplômes and Certificats de Langue et Civilisation Françaises.
- Sorbonne Université (Faculté des Lettres – SIAL/Service des Langues): This is one of the successor universities to the historical Sorbonne. They offer FLE courses, particularly intensive and semester courses, and issue university-specific certificates or attestations.
Other institutions like the Institut Catholique de Paris (ILCF) offer FLE courses and their own diplomas (like the DUEF). The Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de Paris (CCI Paris Île-de-France) offers professional French diplomas (DFP) and the TEF test, which are widely recognized but are not specifically “Sorbonne certificates.”
Here is a table of courses offers, primarily from Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne (CCFS) and Sorbonne Université, with language level, intensity, learning mode, and prices.
French Language Courses with Sorbonne Affiliation in Paris
I. Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne (CCFS)
- Certificates Awarded: Diplômes de Langue et Civilisation Françaises de la Sorbonne (various levels), Certificats de Langue et Civilisation Françaises.
| Level | Course Name / Focus | Intensity (Hours/Week) | Duration | Mode | Price (approx. €) | Details |
| A1-C1 | Semester Course – General French & Civilization (S20/S30) | ~20 hours | 12 weeks (240h) | Face-to-face | €3,400 – €3,600 | Comprehensive program covering grammar, vocabulary, oral/written expression, and French civilization. |
| A1-C1 | Semester Course – Intensive French (S40) | ~25 hours | 12 weeks (300h) | Face-to-face | €4,800 | More intensive general French for faster progression. |
| A1-C1 | Annual Course – General French & Civilization (AN40/AN50) | ~20 hours | 24 weeks (480h) | Face-to-face | €6,300 – €6,500 | Long-term immersive program in language and culture. |
| A1-C1 | Monthly Summer Course – General French (E010) | 18 hours (72h total) | 4 weeks | Face-to-face | €1,300 | Focus on general French language skills. |
| A1-C1 | Monthly Summer Course – Intensive French (E040) | 25 hours (100h total) | 4 weeks | Face-to-face | €2,400 | Fast-paced general French in a summer format. |
| A1-C1 | Phonetics | ~5 hours (30h total) | 6 weeks | Face-to-face | €900 | Dedicated course to improve pronunciation. |
| A0-C1 | Written & Oral Expression | ~4 hours (32h total) | 8 weeks | Online | €750 | Focus on specific language skills. |
| A1-C1 | Online One-on-one Tutoring (T45) | 0.75 hours (3h total) | 4 weeks | Online | €100 | Supplementary support for enrolled students. |
| B1-C1 | Business French & Civilization | ~20 hours | 12 weeks (240h) | Face-to-face | €4,800 | Specialized course for professional French communication. |
| B1-C1 | Business French | ~12.5 hours (150h total) | 12 weeks | Face-to-face | €3,400 | Focused on improving French for business contexts. |
II. Sorbonne Université (Faculté des Lettres – SIAL/Service des Langues)
- Certificates Awarded: Attestations de niveau, prepares for official tests like DELF/DALF and SELFEE. These are university certificates of completion or preparation, recognized within the university framework.
| Level | Course Name / Focus | Intensity (Hours/Week) | Duration | Mode | Price (approx. € for non-Sorbonne students) | Details |
| A1 | General French – Intensive | 10 hours (40h total) | 4 weeks | Face-to-face | €660 | Foundational French skills for beginners. |
| A2-C1 | General French – Intensive | 7.5 hours (30h total) | 4 weeks | Face-to-face | €480 | General French for various proficiency levels. |
| A1-C1 | General French – Intensive (Summer/June 2024) | 15 hours (30h for 2w) / 14.6 hours (44h for 3w) | 2-3 weeks | Face-to-face | €480 (2 weeks) / €704 (3 weeks) | Short, intensive summer programs. |
| A1-C1 | General French (Semester Course) | 2-4 hours | Semester | In-person / Hybrid / E-learning | €416 – €832 | Varies by intensity (e.g., 26h-52h total hours) and modality, covering core French skills. |
| B2-C1 | French for University Purposes (FOU) | 7.5 hours (30h total) | 4 weeks | Hybrid | €624 | Focus on academic French for higher education. |
| B2-C1 | Academic Writing | 2 hours (26h total) | Semester | In-person | €416 | Specific skills for university-level writing in French. |
| B2-C1 | Phonetics and Diction | 1 hour (13h total) | Semester | Hybrid | €416 | Improves pronunciation and clarity in spoken French. |
| B2/C1 | Preparation DELF B2 / DALF C1 | ~3 hours (39h total) | Specific sessions | In-person | €520 – €680 | Targeted preparation for official French language diplomas. |
| B2/C1 | Preparation SELFEE B2 / C2 | ~3 hours (39h total) | Specific sessions | In-person | €350 – €520 | Preparation for the Sorbonne-specific French language test for university admission. |
Notes:
- Levels (CEFR): A1 (Beginner), A2 (Elementary), B1 (Intermediate), B2 (Upper Intermediate), C1 (Advanced), C2 (Proficiency).
- Intensity: Refers to the number of classroom hours per week. Total hours are also often specified by the institutions.
- Prices: based on current (2024-2025) information for non-Sorbonne University students paying individually. Prices for Sorbonne University students, employees, or those with specific grants differ. An administrative fee (e.g., €75-€95) might be added upon initial registration.
- Mode: “Face-to-face” or “In-person” means classes are held on campus in Paris. “Online” means remote learning. “Hybrid” implies a mix of both.
- Registration: check the official websites for exact dates, updated prices, registration procedures, and any specific prerequisites.
What steps are essential for international students to successfully prepare for studying in France, according to CampusFrance USA?
Ioanna Kohler, Director of Operations and Communications at CampusFrance USA, emphasizes the critical steps for prospective students aiming to pursue higher education in France. In essence, she advises future students to hone their French language skills, cultivate self-reliance, and acknowledge the historical impact of the French Revolution on their educational journey.
It’s awesome that so many American students are going to France for their study abroad adventures! Paris, especially, is a huge hit for university and faculty-led programs, according to Marcie Schneider, president of CEA Global Education. While spending a semester or two in France is super popular, there are some seriously compelling reasons to go all-in and do your entire degree there—especially when it comes to your wallet! Imagine this: undergraduate tuition in France can be as low as 500 euros a year. That’s a mind-blowing $710 at today’s exchange rates!
So, how does a U.S. student get ready to apply to a French university? Well, first things first, you gotta separate the undergrads from the grad students. Most American undergrads—a whopping 75%—head to France through “study abroad” programs. These are usually short-term (think one semester) exchange gigs where you snag credits for your home university in the U.S. while learning at a French institution. These programs are booming, with over 500 currently running, and about 60 of the top ones are even listed by the APUAF (Association of American University Programs in France). It’s hard to keep up with them all!
Now, a big heads-up for undergrads: the French and American education systems are pretty different. In France, you dive into specialization early—like getting your Bachelor’s directly in Law, History, or Biology. Here in the U.S., our “Liberal Arts” approach gives you way more wiggle room to explore different subjects. This switch can be tough, even if you’ve got killer grades and your French is on point. That’s why those “study abroad” programs are a fantastic way to get your feet wet and experience the French higher education system before diving into a full degree.
Heading to Grad School in France? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re an American student eyeing a graduate degree in France, you’re often heading there independently. Interestingly, many are actually “study abroad” alums, meaning their initial dive into the French system was a big win.
At the graduate level, French universities boast an incredible array of programs and academic fields, covering everything from business to cellular biology, engineering, and social sciences. And here’s a cool perk: some of these programs, especially in business and engineering, are even taught entirely in English! Just keep in mind, even if the classes are in English, having a working knowledge of French is usually still a must for daily life and making the most of your experience.
For more details on these opportunities, check out CampusFrance USA’s website: http://www.usa.campusfrance.org/en
French doctoral programs are particularly attractive at the international level: 40% of all French doctorates are earned by candidates from outside France.
Studying abroad in general and applying to a French university in particular imply three capabilities: 1) linguistic skills, i.e. proficiency in French, if one chooses a “strictly French-speaking” program; 2) relevant academic credentials from an American institution; and 3) on a personal level, it is important to be able to “operate” in an autonomous mode in everyday life. American students are sometimes less familiar with administrative processes than other international students.
Considering French universities, it’s important for American high school graduates to understand that their diploma alone usually isn’t enough for direct entry into the first year, known as L1. To qualify, you’d typically need to have successfully completed two Advanced Placement (AP) courses – one in French and another in your chosen field of study – or, alternatively, have finished your first year of college in the U.S. While the International Baccalaureate (IB) is a rigorous program, it’s not universally recognized as a direct equivalent to the French baccalaureate by all institutions, so its acceptance can vary.
Beyond academic prerequisites, demonstrating your French language proficiency is crucial. Most international students will need to take the TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) exam, which can conveniently be done outside of France. It’s not about being perfectly bilingual, but rather ensuring your language skills are strong enough that they won’t hinder your ability to successfully complete a program taught in French.
Regarding living costs, it’s certainly true that life in Paris comes with a higher price tag compared to other university cities in France, much like how New York or San Francisco compare to other American cities. You should realistically budget around 1,000 euros per month if you’re living in Paris, whereas a budget of approximately 800 euros a month is generally sufficient outside the capital. This difference is largely driven by housing, which can be up to 40% more expensive in Paris. While university residence hall spots are limited and most students, both French and international, end up renting privately, France does offer a significant helping hand through its generous housing assistance program, called APL (aide personalisée au logement). This subsidy, provided by the Caisse d’Allocations Familiales, can actually cover up to 30% of your rent, making private rentals more manageable.
Moreover, the overall financial picture for students in France is much brighter than it might initially appear due to a wealth of student benefits. For starters, higher education tuition itself in France is remarkably affordable – almost free in many public institutions – which significantly reduces the financial burden, especially when compared to the potentially high room and board costs of American colleges. On top of that, an extensive system of discounts and special facilities allows students to stretch their budget far. You’ll find a network of student restaurants (RUs) offering inexpensive meals, along with discounts on public transportation, movies, museums, libraries, and sporting events. With many universities located right in the heart of cities, students enjoy easy access to France’s social and cultural life, truly enhancing their experience.
What are the ‘Grandes Écoles’ in France and what distinguishes them?
Beyond the academic scene of Paris, France boasts numerous cities offering outstanding educational opportunities. For instance, in the South, both the University of Aix-Marseille and the University of Toulouse are highly regarded for their diverse programs, spanning fields like oceanography, aeronautics, and economics. Furthermore, France is home to academic “niches” – specialized institutions known for particular strengths, such as the University of Brest’s renowned Maritime Law department. This means that, depending on a student’s desired specialization, high-quality institutions in science, social sciences, or humanities can be found in a variety of small to medium-sized cities across the country.
When considering “France’s most popular universities,” the answer isn’t straightforward as “popularity” can mean many things: widely recognized, heavily attended, or simply a joy to study at. France has a rich academic heritage, featuring centuries-old, well-established universities like the Sorbonne. Alongside these, more recent institutions have quickly gained strong international recognition, such as Sciences-Po and University Paris 6 Pierre and Marie Curie.
The French higher education system itself is remarkably diverse, much more so than a simple two-tiered model like Finland’s research universities and universities of applied sciences. Broadly speaking, French institutions fall into three main categories. First, there are the universities – 85 public institutions distributed nationwide, covering every academic discipline imaginable. These universities are deeply integrated with research, boasting 286 doctoral schools that train 4,000 PhD candidates in connection with over 1,200 research laboratories, and some even offer vocational programs.
Secondly, there are art, architecture, and specialized schools, which provide focused training in specific fields like fashion, tourism, or various art forms. These schools often undergo national certification and can confer their own certificates or professional titles.
Finally, and perhaps most uniquely French, are the “Grandes Écoles.” Established in the 19th century as a parallel to the university system, these institutions are exceptionally selective and offer education of an exceptionally high standard. While many specialize in Engineering and Business, others focus on public administration, defense, agronomy, or even university teaching and scholarly research. Illustrious examples include École Polytechnique, École normale supérieure, and HEC – institutions so highly regarded that in 2010, the Financial Times ranked five French schools among the top Master in Management programs globally. The prestige of these institutions is often reflected in their alumni; for example, École normale supérieure, despite its relatively small student body of about 2,000, has produced an incredible array of talent, including all eight French recipients of the Fields Medal (the equivalent of the Nobel Prize in Mathematics).
So, the french universities do not charge tuition for undergraduate students, even if they come from another country such as the U.S.?
Yes. In France, the distinction between “state” and “out-of-state” students is irrelevant. As you know (and this goes back to the French Revolution), France’s commitment to equality is key to its political system. Consistent with this commitment is the right for all nationals and non-nationals alike to have access to education. Actually, it should be emphasized that higher education is not “free” in France: the government heavily subsidizes it, which makes it very inexpensive compared to other countries, in particular the United States. If tuition fees range from 200 to 500 euros per/year on average in a French public institution, the “true” cost per student amounts to 10 -14,000 euros per year. These expenses are covered by French public authorities, thereby reducing the student’s tuition burden. In line with France’s commitment to equal opportunity, its universities and other educational institutions do not distinguish between international students and French students. Both groups face identical admission and tuition requirements; both receive the same degrees.
The field of higher education has become increasingly competitive, and France’s educational institutions are fully embracing the search for international talent. Offering the same tuition rates to national and international students also comes into play in France’s attractiveness. After the US and England, France is the country that attracts the largest number of international students, with 265,000 individuals. They comprise more than 15% of the student body in French universities, and account for about 20% of France’s grandes écoles. The internationalization of French higher education is impressive: from 1998 to 2007, student mobility to France has increased by 71%.
Why is a good Idea to study abroad in France? What are the reasons international students choose France for higher education?
France is renowned not only for its culinary and artistic flair but also for its profound connection to mathematics. This intellectual passion is evident in the nation’s exceptional performance on the global academic stage. France proudly holds the second-highest number of Fields Medals—often dubbed the Nobel Prize for Mathematics—with 13 recipients, trailing only the United States which has 15.
The country’s academic prowess extends beyond individual accolades, as demonstrated by recent global university rankings. This year, the University of Paris-Saclay achieved the top spot worldwide for mathematics in the prestigious Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities, with Sorbonne University securing an impressive third place, surpassing institutions like Stanford, Cambridge University, and MIT.
France’s excellence isn’t confined to mathematics. Over the past five years, the nation has garnered four Nobel Prizes across Chemistry, Economics, and Physics. Its business education also shines, with a record 21 French business schools earning spots among the world’s top 100 in the Financial Times Masters in Management ranking. As one of Europe’s leading economies, France is clearly forging ahead in both scientific innovation and business acumen. This dynamic extends to its thriving startup ecosystem, “La French Tech,” which attracts billions of euros in investment. This funding fuels fast-growing digital technology companies, driving advancements in vital sectors like medtech, biotech, and cleantech onto the international market, truly embodying the spirit of the entrepreneur – a word, fittingly, that France gave to the world.
Christopher Cripps, who previously served as the Director of International Development at Sorbonne University (and has since moved to Institut Polytechnique de Paris as Vice-President for Europe and International Affairs), feels that France’s significant contributions to global research and technological innovation often don’t receive the recognition they deserve. He highlights that France is an excellent environment for conducting research, with an increasing number of Master’s and Doctoral programs now offered in English. Furthermore, he points out that French higher education institutions maintain strong connections with various industries, meaning that internships can be invaluable for opening doors and gaining real-world professional experience.
Cripps firmly believes that France’s leading schools are doing an outstanding job preparing graduates for the professional world, providing a comprehensive education that fosters globally-minded individuals. He notes that if companies are impressed with a graduate during an internship, there’s a strong likelihood they’ll be hired after graduation, often with the opportunity to remain in France for a year or two.
France offers a rich tapestry of experiences beyond just academics, from savoring literature and philosophy with your morning coffee and croissant to exploring any of its 1,218 museums or a cutting-edge art gallery – there’s truly something to captivate every interest. This broad appeal likely contributes to France’s consistent ranking as a top global destination for international students, welcoming 358,000 foreign students in 2020 alone.
According to Léon Laulusa, the Academic Dean of ESCP Business School, which holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest business school (founded in 1819 with campuses now spanning six European cities including Paris), the primary draw for most international students to France is the stellar academic reputation of its higher education system. He emphasizes that with institutions like La Sorbonne, business schools such as ESCP, or engineering powerhouses like Polytechnique, international students gain access to a broad spectrum of state-recognized and globally esteemed degrees, effectively preparing them to become the leaders of tomorrow.
Moreover, France is taking a leading role in addressing one of our planet’s most significant challenges: climate change. The nation is at the forefront of the sustainable transition, actively developing business models centered on green growth, a circular economy, and ecological advancements. This dedication to tangible change has transformed Paris into a thriving hub for innovation and tech startups, making it a prime destination in Europe for shrewd entrepreneurs seeking crucial seed investment. Notably, President Emmanuel Macron recently announced an annual €5 billion public-private investment fund to further bolster this burgeoning sector.
Céline Davesne, Associate Dean for Programmes at NEOMA Business School, confirms France’s robust support for international students with entrepreneurial ambitions. She points to groundbreaking initiatives like La French Tech – a unique ecosystem uniting startups, investors, and decision-makers – which provides students with extensive avenues to cultivate their entrepreneurial skills. Station F, the world’s largest startup campus, is a prime example, assisting international students in launching and scaling their ventures to conquer global markets and build meaningful futures. Furthermore, French visas offer a significant advantage, permitting students to remain in France for 12 to 24 months after completing a Master’s degree, granting valuable extra time to establish their businesses.
Beyond entrepreneurship, France presents numerous opportunities for students aspiring to work in world-leading corporations. The country is home to industry giants like Orange, a leading global mobile service provider, and cosmetic powerhouse L’Oréal, which oversees over 30 luxury brands including Maybelline and Lancôme.
Yet, studying in France extends far beyond academic and professional development; it’s also about an unparalleled student life experience. From the majestic Alps to the glamorous French Riviera, and from gastronomic hubs like Lyon to the famed champagne region of Reims, France is a land that has cultivated some of the world’s most revered artists, writers, chefs, thinkers, and musicians. Olivier Cateura, Director of MSc Programs at emlyon business school, beautifully encapsulates this, explaining that “French people cultivate a passion for the art of living.” They cherish learning history, exploring monuments and museums, dining in restaurants, Browse shops, and journeying through diverse landscapes. France, he emphasizes, is a country of diversity, conviviality, and sharing – truly a place where students can enjoy their prime years.
Adding to its allure, higher education tuition fees in France are considerably lower than those in the United States and are often subsidized by local chambers of commerce. Importantly, these lower costs do not reflect any compromise on the high quality of teaching. Christopher Cripps of Sorbonne University concurs, highlighting that France provides a top-tier education at an affordable price. More profoundly, he passionately believes that an international study experience is a truly priceless opportunity that fundamentally changes lives. For many, it’s “the experience of a lifetime – a chance for an extraordinary cultural immersion to move beyond your daily routine and your comfort zone. Parents send their children abroad, and welcome back young men and young women on their return.”
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