France is best known for its high quality of life. On average, working hours here are around 35 hours per week, making it one of the most intriguing destinations. France is also one of the founding countries of the European Union and an active and strong member of the Schengen Agreement. However, bear in mind that most of the courses here are in French; France adores the language, and they strive to focus on the same enthusiasm. But with the increase in international students coming here each year, they have tried to include more English-based courses. This well-liked educational location for students from different countries and Europe had around 250000 international students in 2009. This is approximately 12% of the student body in France.
You have the option to choose from a variety of types and courses in France. Be it food, culinary arts, or something as broad as doing your master’s in sociology or studying international law. There is something here for everyone. Courses include standard bachelor’s (“licensure”), master’s, or Ph.D. (“doctorate”) degrees. There is also the option of enrolling in a summer study abroad program. Overall, the French educational system is designed to offer students a diverse selection of study options. For those who want a classic and theoretical education option, universities in France may be the most suitable type of institution for you. But there are a lot of opportunities for a vocational approach like Grads Ecoles or the University Institute of Technology.
With international students flocking to the country, you can enjoy a cosmopolitan culture here. However, it is best to acquire some basic knowledge of the French language before arriving here. The same has been suggested as a part of the population here is conversant in French. Knowing the basics of the language will make it easier for you to communicate. Especially with abundant public transport available here, it makes sense to use subways and trams instead of spending on expensive taxis.
Documents Required For The Admission Application Process
If you are applying to any university in France, you must meet certain requirements. You need to submit some of the vital documents while applying. These documents prove your skills, abilities, nationality, and identity. Universities ask for documents depending on the student’s study level and course. However, to study in France, you will need the following documents:
Application form: The form is the entry form you need to fill out accurately to get admission to your chosen university. You may fill out the application forms online or offline, depending on their availability.
A valid passport – Copy of your International passport(mandatory first and last page).
Updated Resume/CV. – You need to send your resume with personal details, including your educational background and skill sets, Skype id, Email id, and Contact No.
Academic documents and Certificates: You must send the academic certificates supporting your educational qualifications. If you are applying for undergraduate studies, you must send the SSC and higher secondary certificates to the university. And, if you have completed a bachelor’s degree, you must share your degree certificate and the mark sheets. The Academic Certificates include
- 12th Grade Transcripts & Certificate.
- Bachelor’s Transcripts & Degree (for Masters/PG Programs Only). Master’s Transcripts &
- Degree (if available).
- Diploma Transcripts & Certificate (if available).
- Other Diplomas/Certificates (if available.
Language Proficiency Test Scores: To get admitted to any university in France, you must first pass the English or French language tests. According to the instructions, you should take your language proficiency test and present scores to the universities.
Two letters of recommendation: A Recommendation letter is requested to be written about us by someone. University wants to know what others think about you to assess the qualities, characteristics, and capabilities to perform a particular task the universities ask for in the Letter of Recommendation form.
Statement of Purpose: A Statement of Purpose reflects your personality before the admission committee for enrolling in universities abroad. It is your chance to impress the admissions counselor by providing a strong profile through an essay that reveals your personality attributes that are not shown in academic records. It should also include your goals, the career path you have taken, and your academic progress.
Passport size Photograph: You need to concentrate on these photos. You need to arrange the correct sized and latest photographs to apply. You need to attach the correct-sized photographs to ensure your application is accepted.
Experience letters (If any) – If you are applying for any Business Program, you must have experience in the relevant field to get admission to any Business School in France. If you are applying for an undergraduate course, you don’t need any experience. The main documents you can present to prove of work experience include
- Latest Salary Slip.
- Employment Certificates from all Previous Employers.
Tuition Fees in France
One of the main advantages of studying in France is that you will incur comparatively less tuition at public universities/colleges. Agreed, France’s total cost of living is extremely expensive, especially in the major cities. However, the education and tuition fees come down if you are lucky enough to get a seat for most of the courses at most of the public universities in France. The approximate one-year cost for a bachelor’s degree is EU€189 (about US$210). Some courses may be more expensive than others. The average tuition fee here is around US$1,000 annually for native and international students.
Living Costs
Unlike tuition rates, France’s living expenditures are greater than those in its neighboring countries. Fortunately, students are frequently eligible for discounted pricing at restaurants and on public transit. There is also specialized student housing accessible for international students studying in France. Living expenses are lower in smaller areas, so take this in mind while picking where to study.
International students in France will have various options for housing. You might live in university housing for roughly €120 per month. However, these are in high demand. Exchange and scholarship students are chosen based on social characteristics. Renting a single studio apartment will cost between €457 and €542. Homestay is another option for overseas students. Depending on location, this will cost between €200 and €800 a month. Homestay also includes at least one dinner every day.
Students can apply for a grant through their local Caisse d’Allocation Familiale (CAF). It is free to apply, and if you are eligible, you can receive up to 35% of your monthly rent back.
Other living costs may include:
- Electricity, gas, and internet – €60 per month
- Study materials – €50 per month
- Travel card or transportation pass – €70 per month
- Return train ticket – €25 (paid in advance)
- Monthly grocery budget: €250
- Dining out costs an average of €12.
- Gym membership Fee – €38 monthly
Many museums and galleries are free for persons under the age of 26. France is one of the greatest countries for student discounts, so always inquire when you go out.
Application and Student Visa
The application procedure and visa requirements for studying in France differ depending on which country you visit. For example, your requirements are different if you come from an EU country. Countries like Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein have visa requirements similar to EU students.
Applicants from the European Union
You will not need a student visa. But for those starting the first year of a program or holding a French Baccalaureate, you should use the online application system open to French students (APB – Admission Post-Baccalaureate). For higher education, you can apply directly to the institute where you want to study.
Students with different high-school qualifications due to studying in countries outside the EU should contact the institutions they wish to apply to. In such cases, you may be asked to apply directly to them rather than through a centralized system.
Grand Ecoles and Grand’s institutions have their application procedures. It is preferable to contact the company directly to see what is required. Additionally, some introductory classes may be required.
If your course is in French, you will need to prove your fluency in French.
There are alternatives to exams such as the TCF DAP (Test de connoisseur du française, demand d’ordition précisable), the DALF (Diplométique d’approfondie de langue française) or the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). Similarly, you need to prove that you can speak English if it is the language of tuition. It is for general tests like TOEFL or similar work. But the best way is to check which language test scores your university accepts or prefers.
Applicants from outside the EU
The application process for students from other countries outside the European Union depends on whether you are from one of the 31 countries, including the US, where Campus France runs the CEF process. If you are from one of these countries, you are required to utilize the CEF online application.
If you are from somewhere other than one of the countries listed in the CEF, you must apply to your local French Embassy before applying to one or more French institutions. You should ideally contact your French consulate or check with your local embassy for information. Visas can be obtained through agencies or directly from the government.
Once a French institution has accepted you, you must apply for a visa, including a residence permit, known as a VLS-TS. The same remains valid for one year in a year. You will need to provide a completely completed application form, passport photos, your passport, proof of your previous qualifications, a police certificate in the absence of a serious criminal record, proof that you can speak French at an appropriate level, Or even English (depends on your course).
Once you arrive in France, you must get in touch with the French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFFI), which may request that you undergo a medical examination
