Public Universities in France: Fees, Admission & Scholarships
Updated on 02 July, 2025
Pragya Sharma
Sr. Content Editor
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France is becoming a popular study destination for Indian students, thanks to its high-quality public universities and affordable tuition. As of the 2025/2026 academic year, Non-EU students pay just €2,850/year for a Bachelor's and €3,879/year for a Master's at French public universities—far lower than in many other parts of Europe.
Backed by the government, these universities are a key part of the education system in France, offering globally recognised degrees in fields like engineering, business, arts, and science. Many also offer courses in English, making it easier for international students to study in France.
With access to part-time work, scholarships, and a lively student life in France, these institutions make it possible to study in Europe affordably, without compromising on quality. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from fees and admissions to scholarships and top public universities—so you can plan your education journey with confidence.
Want to know why France is such a popular choice for Indian students? This guide breaks it down beautifully.
Table of Contents
Overview: Public Universities in France
| Key Factor | Details |
| Duration | 2 years for most master’s programs; 3 years for bachelor’s |
| Top Universities | Sorbonne University, University of Paris-Saclay, Grenoble Alpes, Strasbourg, Montpellier |
| Tuition Fees | €2,770–€3,770 per year (₹2.5L–₹3.3L approx.) for non-EU students |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree (for master’s); Class 12 (for UG); language proficiency based on program language |
| Language Tests | IELTS/TOEFL for English programs; DELF/DALF for French-taught programs |
| Scholarships | Eiffel Excellence, Charpak, university-specific grants |
| Career Prospects | Data Analyst, Engineer, Business Consultant, Researcher; EU job market access after graduation |
| Post-Study Work Visa | 1 year for master’s graduates (renewable); options to apply for residence permit |
| Cost of Living | €600–€1,000/month (₹54K–₹90K approx.), lower in smaller cities |
| Part-Time Work | Up to 964 hours/year (~20 hours/week); minimum wage applies |
Interested in business programs? This list of business schools in France might help you compare options more clearly.
Top Public Universities in France for International Students
Indian students can apply to public universities in France without needing French citizenship or EU residency. Most universities now offer a mix of programs in both English and French—especially at the master’s level.
Top Public Universities in France (With Programs and Fees)
Here’s a list of top public universities in France for international students, along with their offerings:
| University Name | Programs in English | Approximate Tuition Fee (Non-EU, per year) |
| Sorbonne University | Yes | €2,770–€3,770 (₹2.5L–₹3.3L) |
| University of Paris-Saclay | Yes | €2,770–€3,770 (₹2.5L–₹3.3L) |
| Aix-Marseille University | Yes | €2,770–€3,770 (₹2.5L–₹3.3L) |
| University of Strasbourg | Yes | €2,770–€3,770 (₹2.5L–₹3.3L) |
| University of Montpellier | Yes | €2,770–€3,770 (₹2.5L–₹3.3L) |
| University of Grenoble Alpes | Yes | €2,770–€3,770 (₹2.5L–₹3.3L) |
These are standard public tuition fees for most bachelor's and master's programs in France. Doctoral programs usually cost less (around €380/year or ₹33,000), and a few specialized courses may cost more.
All of these public universities in France offer degrees that are globally recognized and accept students from India for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs.
Still deciding between public or private? Explore the top universities in France to see which ones match your course and budget.
Tuition Fees in Public Universities in France
Here is a look at the tuition fees in public universities in France for international students, including Indian students. These are the standard annual fees charged by the French government for public education.
| Program Level | Non-EU Students (incl. Indian) | INR Approx. (Non-EU) |
| Bachelor’s | €2,770/year to €3,000/year | ₹2.5 lakh to ₹2.7 lakh |
| Master’s | €3,770/year to €4,000/year | ₹3.3 lakh to ₹3.6 lakh |
| Doctorate (PhD) | Around €380/year | ₹33,000 |
Note: Some specialized or professional programs—like medicine, engineering, or MBA—may have higher fees depending on the university.
Planning your finances? Check out the cost of living in France to estimate rent, food, and other monthly expenses.
What Does the Tuition Fee Cover?
For Indian students, it’s important to understand what’s included in these amounts. Public university tuition in France generally covers:
- Course registration and academic access
- Library and lab usage
- Student support services
- Access to university campus facilities
- Exam registration and assessments
These tuition fees do not include costs like accommodation, meals, student insurance, or transport. You’ll need to budget separately for living expenses, which we’ve already covered in the cost table above.
If you're applying to highly specialized programs (like an MBA or design school), always check the exact fee on the university’s website. Fees can go up to €10,000 or more in those cases.
Common Programs Offered in Public Universities in France
Indian students can choose from a wide range of subjects. Many public universities in France for international students offer English-taught programs, especially at the master’s level.
| Field of Study | Available in English | Available in French |
| Computer Science/IT | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Engineering (various branches) | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Business and Management | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Law and International Relations | (limited) | ✔️ |
| Arts and Humanities | (limited options) | ✔️ |
| Medicine and Health Sciences | (mostly in French) | ✔️ |
Considering medicine? MBBS in France is possible, but many programs need strong French skills.
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
To apply to public universities in France, Indian students must meet basic academic and language requirements.
| Criteria | Bachelor’s (UG) | Master’s (PG) |
| Academic Qualification | Class 12 (CBSE/ISC or State Board) | Bachelor's Degree (min. 3 years) |
| English Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) | Required if course is in English | Required |
| French Language (DELF/DALF) | Required for French-taught courses | Required for French-taught |
| Documents Needed | Transcripts, SOP, LORs, Passport | Transcripts, SOP, LORs, Resume |
SOP = Statement of Purpose; LORs = Letters of Recommendation
Applying for a master’s? Here’s a detailed guide on how to study for a master in France—what to expect, and how to prepare.
Living Expenses and Other Costs in France
Even though public universities in France have low tuition, students should still plan for additional costs like housing, food, transport, and health insurance.
| Expense Type | Monthly Cost (in €) | INR Approx. |
| Student Housing/Rent | €300–€600 | ₹27,000–₹54,000 |
| Food and Groceries | €150–€250 | ₹13,000–₹22,000 |
| Public Transport | €20–€40 | ₹1,800–₹3,600 |
| Health Insurance (annual) | €90/year | ₹8,000 |
| Campus Admin Fees | €100–€500/year | ₹9,000–₹45,000 |
Admission Process for Public Universities in France
Planning to apply to a public university in France? You’ll need to meet basic academic and language requirements and follow the right application channel based on your program level and language of instruction.
Who Can Apply to Public Universities in France?
Indian students can apply for bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD programs depending on their current qualifications.
| Program Level | Minimum Academic Requirement for Indian Students |
| Bachelor’s | Class 12 certificate (CBSE, ICSE, or state board) |
| Master’s | 3-year or 4-year bachelor’s degree from a recognized university |
| PhD | Master’s degree in a relevant field |
Most programs do not require entrance exams. But some technical or design-related courses may ask for portfolios or interviews.
Once you're admitted, your next big step is getting the visa. This guide on France study visa walks you through it with clarity.
French vs. English-Taught Programs: What’s the Difference?
You’ll find public universities in France offering programs in both French and English. The requirements for each are different, so choose carefully.
| Program Language | Language Proficiency Required | Notes for Indian Students |
| English-taught | IELTS (6.0–6.5) or TOEFL (80–90 iBT) | Many master's programs in business, tech, science |
| French-taught | DELF B2 / DALF C1 | French-taught programs are common at UG level |
French proficiency is a must if you choose a French-taught course. If you plan to study in English, make sure the university confirms that no French skills are needed for coursework.
Where and How to Apply?
The application platform depends on your course level and nationality. Indian students generally apply through Campus France or the university’s own admission portal.
| Platform | Use For | Website |
| Parcoursup | UG programs (mostly for French-taught) | www.parcoursup.fr |
| Campus France | Bachelor’s and master’s for Indian students | www.india.campusfrance.org |
| University Portal | Direct applications for many PG courses | Varies by university |
Tip: Use Campus France if you're applying to multiple public universities. It simplifies the process and ensures your documents meet French standards.
Documents Required for Admission
Get your documents ready before applying. Public universities in France are strict about deadlines and document format.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Academic transcripts and certificates (Class 10, 12, Bachelor’s, etc.)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Explains your study goals and why France
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs) – Usually 1–2 from professors or employers
- CV/Resume – Especially for PG and PhD programs
- Language test scores – IELTS/TOEFL or DELF/DALF
- Passport copy
- Portfolio – Only for art, design, or architecture programs
Some universities may also ask for a motivation letter or a short video introduction.
Scholarships for International Students in France
Indian students applying to public universities in France can access various scholarships. These are offered by the French government, Campus France, and individual universities. Scholarships reduce tuition and help with monthly expenses, especially if you're applying to a full-time degree.
If you're targeting top public universities in France for international students, it's worth looking into funding options early.
Government and University-Specific Scholarships
Here’s a quick breakdown of the types of scholarships you’ll find:
| Scholarship Type | Offered By | Covers |
| Government Scholarships | Campus France, French Ministry | Tuition, living costs, insurance |
| University Scholarships | Public universities in France | Tuition waivers, monthly grants |
Top Scholarships for Indian Students
Indian students applying to top public universities in France have several strong options. Some scholarships are automatic; others need separate applications.
| Scholarship Name | Open To | What It Covers |
| Eiffel Excellence Scholarship | Master’s & PhD students | Monthly grant, travel, insurance |
| Charpak Scholarship | UG & PG students (Campus France) | Tuition waiver, living support |
| Université Paris-Saclay Scholarship | Master’s applicants | €10,000/year (₹9 lakh), travel |
| Grenoble Alpes Scholarship | Master’s students | Tuition + monthly allowance |
| Emile Boutmy (Sciences Po) | Sciences Po only | Up to 100% tuition coverage |
These scholarships apply across various fields—especially in engineering, science, and business—popular programs at most top public universities in France.
If funding is a concern, explore France scholarships for Indian students—there are many with great benefits.
When and How to Apply for Scholarships?
You should apply for scholarships at the same time as your university application. Some scholarships are built into the admission process. Others need a separate application through Campus France or the university’s financial aid portal.
Here’s what you’ll usually need:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- SOP or motivation letter tailored to the scholarship
- IELTS/TOEFL or DELF scores (based on program language)
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of income (for need-based support)
Don’t wait. Many scholarships close 2–3 months before regular admission deadlines.
Do Scholarships Cover Only Tuition?
No. Some do more. Several public universities in France for international students offer scholarships that cover:
- Tuition fees (fully or partially)
- Monthly living allowance (€700 to €1,200 or ₹63,000 to ₹1.08 lakh)
- Health insurance
- Travel expenses in some cases
That’s why students applying to public universities in France should always check both tuition and living cost support. A tuition waiver helps, but a monthly grant makes the real difference when you're living on your own in Europe.
Best Cities in France for International Students
Indian students applying to public universities in France can choose from several cities that offer quality education, affordable living, and a great student lifestyle. Some cities are known for science and tech, while others shine in arts, business, or healthcare. So the city you pick can shape your entire study experience.
Where Are the Top Public Universities in France Located?
Here’s a quick look at the best cities in France for international students, with the universities they’re known for and their academic strengths:
| City | Public Universities in France for International Students | Known For |
| Paris | Sorbonne University, Paris-Saclay University | Arts, humanities, science, law, economics |
| Lyon | University of Lyon, Jean Moulin University Lyon 3 | Political science, law, literature, management |
| Toulouse | University of Toulouse, INSA Toulouse | Aerospace, mechanical engineering, mathematics |
| Bordeaux | University of Bordeaux | Life sciences, medicine, wine science, data science |
| Grenoble | University of Grenoble Alpes | AI, robotics, physics, sustainability |
| Strasbourg | University of Strasbourg | Biology, chemistry, international relations |
| Montpellier | University of Montpellier | Pharmacy, environmental science, public health |
| Nice | Côte d’Azur University | Tourism, languages, information technology |
Each of these cities hosts some of the top public universities in France, and they all admit international students.
Still choosing your ideal study destination? Compare options with these guides:
Which City Is Right for You?
It depends on what you're looking for. Some cities offer more English-taught programs. Others are more affordable. Here's a comparison to help you decide:
| City | Average Living Cost/Month | Language Support | Student-Friendly |
| Paris | €1,000–€1,400 (₹90K–₹1.2L) | Moderate | High (but costly) |
| Lyon | €800–€1,000 (₹72K–₹90K) | Good | Very High |
| Toulouse | €700–€900 (₹63K–₹81K) | Good | Very High |
| Grenoble | €650–€850 (₹58K–₹77K) | Excellent | High |
| Bordeaux | €750–€1,000 (₹67K–₹90K) | Moderate | High |
| Strasbourg | €700–€900 (₹63K–₹81K) | Good | High |
Costs vary by lifestyle, housing choices, and part-time work options.
Why Do Indian Students Prefer These Cities?
Here’s what stands out about these cities:
- Paris has top-ranked universities but the highest living costs.
- Lyon and Toulouse offer strong academics and lower expenses.
- Grenoble and Strasbourg are safe, student-oriented, and tech-driven.
- Bordeaux and Montpellier combine research with a relaxed lifestyle.
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Study in France
Want to study at public universities in France but not sure how to go about it? We’ll help you get there—start to finish.
Here’s what you get with upGrad Abroad:
- 1:1 counseling to shortlist the right universities for your course and profile
- Expert help with SOPs and LORs that grab attention
- Application support for Campus France and direct university portals
- Guidance on scholarships—government, university, and need-based options
- IELTS/TOEFL prep so you meet all language requirements
- Visa and document support to keep everything on track
Speak to our counselors. Start your journey to France with clarity and confidence.
FAQs on Public Universities in France for International Students
Are public universities in France free for international students?
Public universities in France are not entirely free for non-EU international students, but they are heavily subsidised. As of 2025, Bachelor's tuition is around €2,850/year and Master’s €3,879/year, making them much more affordable compared to countries like the US, UK, or Canada.
Do public universities in France teach in English?
Yes, many French public universities offer full degree programs in English, especially at the postgraduate level. Fields like business, engineering, and international relations commonly have English-taught options, making them ideal for students who don’t speak French fluently.
How do public universities in France rank globally?
Several French public universities rank well globally. Institutions like Sorbonne University, Université Paris-Saclay, and Aix-Marseille University consistently appear in QS and THE rankings, especially for science, engineering, and humanities programs. Rankings vary by program and research output.
What documents are needed to apply to public universities in France?
Common documents include academic transcripts, passport, language proficiency proof (IELTS/DELF), SOP/motivation letter, resume, and letters of recommendation. Requirements can vary by course and university, so checking each university’s official site or Campus France portal is recommended.
Are public universities in France better than private ones?
Public universities in France are generally more affordable and widely respected for research and academic quality. Private institutions may offer smaller classes or specific programs, but public universities remain the top choice for most international students due to government support and recognition.
Can I study part-time at public universities in France?
Most degree programs at public universities are full-time, but part-time study options exist for certain Master’s or adult education programs. You must check with the specific university and ensure your visa status permits part-time academic enrollment.
Do public universities in France provide accommodation?
Yes, many public universities offer on-campus housing through CROUS (student housing agency). These are affordable, but spots are limited. International students are advised to apply early or explore private student housing near the university.
Is Campus France mandatory for applying to French public universities?
Yes, for Indian and several non-EU students, using Campus France is required for the application and visa process. It helps with pre-application checks, document verification, and interview scheduling before final university admission and visa filing.
Are public universities in France suitable for MBA programs?
While many top MBAs are offered by grandes écoles or private institutions, some public universities do offer affordable MBA and management programs. Look for options at universities like IAE Paris-Sorbonne or Toulouse 1 Capitole University.
How early should I apply to public universities in France?
It’s best to start the process at least 8–10 months before your intended intake. Most public universities accept applications from November to March for the September intake. Early applications improve your chances for admission, housing, and scholarships.
What is the difference between a grand école and a public university in France?
Grands écoles are elite, selective institutions with competitive entrance exams and smaller class sizes, often focused on engineering or business. Public universities are more accessible and affordable, offering a wider range of programs and welcoming large numbers of international students.
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