- Public universities in France offer Master’s programs with annual tuition fees ranging from €250-€20,380 (₹26,181-₹21.3L) depending on the institution.
- Most popular courses at public universities in France include Master in Management, MS Finance, MS Computer Science, and MBA programs.
- MBA and Physics specialisation graduates earn the highest salaries from public universities in France at €50,000-€164,000 (₹52.2L-₹1.7Cr) annually.
Public universities in France operate on a unique model where traditional tuition fees do not exist. Instead, international students pay only registration fees (droits d’inscription). Students get quality professors, research opportunities, and international recognition at prices that make studying abroad actually possible.
In this blog, we’ll explore the complete picture of studying at public universities in France, covering top institutions, eligibility, salaries and cost of living.
Why Do International Students Study in France?
France is a premier destination for international students, offering world-class education, cultural richness, and exceptional value through its public university system.
- 35 French universities are ranked in QS World University Rankings 2026, with four in the global top 100.
- France hosted 443,500 international students in 2024-2025, a 3% increase from the previous year and 17% over five years.
- French degrees use the LMD system (Licence-Master-Doctorat) with ECTS credits, for global recognition and academic mobility across Europe.
- The French government subsidises nearly two-thirds of the actual cost of higher education, making tuition fees at public universities among the lowest in Europe.
- Students access €1 meals at CROUS restaurants (for scholarship and precarious students), subsidized housing, reduced transport passes, and healthcare coverage.
- France hosts global companies including Airbus, Safran, Sanofi, BNP Paribas, AXA, LVMH, Kering, and Dassault Systèmes, creating career pathways for graduates.
Top 10 Public Universities in France
The best public universities in France compete globally whilst maintaining affordable fees. These institutions combine centuries of academic heritage with modern research facilities, producing graduates who lead in science, engineering, business, and arts.
Many courses are taught in English, especially at the postgraduate level, making them accessible to international students
| University Name | QS World University Rank 2026 | Top Programs | Annual Tuition Fee (EUR/INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Université PSL | 28 | Masters in Computer Science Masters degree in Management - MeM Masters in Technology & Innovation Management | $250 (₹26,181) |
| Institut Polytechnique de Paris | 41 | Master Year 1 Physics Masters in BioMedical Engineering (BME) Master of Science & Technology | €7,148 (₹7.4L) |
| Université Paris-Saclay | 70 | M1 International Track in Electrical Engineering Master of Physics Masters in Mathematics & Applications | €254 (₹26,60) |
| Sorbonne Université | 72 | Masters - ‘From Fundamental Molecular Biosciences to Biotherapies’ Master of Computer Science: Digital International Program (DIGIT) Master's Degree in Waves and Devices for Advanced Wireless Communication Systems (WaveWiCom) | €3,770 (₹3.9L) |
| École Normale Supérieure de Lyon | 205 | Masters ‘The thoughts of Cinema program’ Masters Computer Science: Thoughts & Applications Master in Advanced Economics | €355 (₹37,178) |
| Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne | 257 | Sorbonne LLM Business Law for Foreign Lawyers QEM (Models and Methods of Quantitative Economics) Executive International MBA | €7,500 (₹7.8L) €9,000 (₹9.4L) €10,000 (₹10.4L) |
| Université Paris Cité | 300 | Master of Clinical psychology of health Master in biomedical engineering: molecular and cellular biotherapies (MCB) Master in Genetics | €355 (₹37,178) |
| Université Grenoble Alpes | 321 | M2 Chemistry for life science M1 Nanophysics - Quantum physics M2 Physiology, epigen | €3,770 (₹3.9L) |
| Université de Strasbourg | 420 | Master Optique, image, vision, multimédia Master in Computer Science Master of European Management Studie | €600 (₹62,820) |
| Université de Bordeaux | 494 | Master in International Business Management Master Of Neuroscience & Neuropsychopharmacology Master in Light Sciences and Technologies | €3,770 (₹3.9L) |
Best Master’s Programs to Study in France with Salary Insights
France offers exceptional career opportunities across various fields, with competitive salaries and strong industry connections. Here’s a comprehensive overview of top courses and their career prospects for Indian students.
| Top Programs | Top Job Roles | Annual Salary Range (EUR/INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Master in Management (MiM) | Management Consultant, Investment Banking Analyst | €50,000-€75,000 (₹52.2L-₹78.4L) |
| MS Finance | Financial Analyst, Risk Manager | €40,000-€60,000 (₹41.8L-₹62.7L) |
| MSc Marketing | Digital Marketing Manager, Brand Manager | €45,000-€65,000 (₹47L-₹67.9L) |
| MS Computer Science | Software Engineer, Data Scientist | €44,000-€71,000 (₹46L-₹74.2L) |
| MS Biomedical Engineering | Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Developer | €45,000-€70,000 (₹47L-₹73.2L) |
| MS Physics | Research Scientist, Nuclear Engineer | €49,000-€164,000 (₹51.2L-₹1.7Cr) |
| Applied Mathematics | Quantitative Analyst, Data Analyst | €45,000-€80,000 (₹47L-₹83.6L) |
| MBA | Senior Manager, Strategy Consultant | €80,000-€150,000 (₹83.6L-₹1.5Cr) |
Eligibility Requirements for Public Universities in France
Getting into the best universities in France requires meeting specific academic and language requirements that vary by program level. The French higher education system values both academic excellence and practical experience, making it essential for applicants to prepare comprehensively.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs
- Completion of 12 years of schooling (10+2)
- Minimum 60-70% marks in Class 12 (equivalent to 6.0-7.0/10 CGPA)
Master’s Degree Programs
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant field (minimum 3 years)
- Minimum CGPA of 6.5/10 or 65% marks (Indian equivalent: 6.5/10 CGPA or First Class)
Check if you qualify for your favourite university using our CGPA Calculator
PhD Programs
- Master’s degree in related discipline
- Minimum CGPA of 7.0/10 or 70% marks (Indian equivalent: 7.0/10 CGPA or First Class with Distinction)
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English Language Proficiency (Varies by university)
International students applying for English-taught programs in France are usually required to demonstrate English language proficiency through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
However, many universities also accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate if the applicant’s previous education was fully taught in English.
| Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) |
| TOEFL-iBT | 90+ |
| Pearson PTE | 58+ |
| Duolingo English Test | 100-120 |
| Cambridge English | 176+ |
Cost of Living in France for Indian Students
Understanding living expenses helps families plan financially for the transformative educational journey ahead. French cities offer varying cost structures, with students often gravitating toward areas with strong creative communities and industry presence.
| Category | Monthly Budget (EUR with INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €500 – €1,500+ (₹50,985 – ₹152,955+) |
| Food | €250 – €300 (₹25,493 – ₹30,591) |
| Transportation | €50 – €100 (₹5,097 – ₹10,197) |
| Utilities & Internet | €30 – €50 (₹3,059 – ₹5,097) |
| Entertainment & Personal | €150 – €200 (₹15,296 – ₹20,394) |
| Estimated Monthly Total | €980 – €2,100+ (₹99,930 – ₹214,137+) |
Use our Cost of Living Calculator to estimate your exact monthly cost of living in France.
Key Takeaways
Public universities in France deliver top-tier education at costs that make study abroad accessible for aspirational students. The French government subsidises two-thirds of the education cost. With 35 universities in QS World University Rankings and four in the global top 100, you’re accessing prestigious degrees at a fraction of US, UK, or Australian costs.
Beyond academics, students benefit from €1 CROUS meals for scholarship holders, subsidised housing with CAF assistance, and healthcare coverage. Master’s graduates from public universities in France earn lucrative annual salaries ranging from €40,000 to €164,000 (₹41.8L–₹1.7Cr) across industries such as technology, finance, and engineering.
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FAQs
Do public universities in France charge tuition fees?
No, public universities in France charge only registration fees annually instead of traditional tuition fees.
How many French universities rank in QS World Rankings 2026?
35 French universities feature in QS World Rankings 2026, with four in the global top 100.
What is the minimum CGPA required for Master's programmes in France?
A: A minimum CGPA of 6.5/10 or 65% marks from a recognised bachelor’s degree is typically required.
What salary can MBA graduates expect from French public universities?
MBA graduates earn between €80,000-€150,000 (₹83.6L-₹1.5Cr) annually working with top consulting and multinational firms.
Can Indian students work part-time whilst studying in France?
Yes, international students can work up to 964 hours annually, equivalent to 60% of the legal working time in France.
What is the Campus France procedure for Indian students?
Campus France Études en France procedure is mandatory for Indian students, involving online application submission, document verification, and an academic interview before visa filing.
Do French public universities require GRE or GMAT scores for admission?
Most public universities in France don’t mandate GRE or GMAT, though competitive MBA and business programmes may require GMAT scores.
Can students stay in France after completing their degree?
Yes, graduates in France receive a 12-month post-study work permit (APS) renewable once, providing up to 24 months total.
What is the LMD system in French higher education?
LMD (Licence-Master-Doctorat) standardises degrees using ECTS credits for global recognition and academic mobility across Europe.
Which intake periods do French universities offer for international students?
French universities primarily admit students in September (autumn intake), with limited January (spring intake) options for certain programmes.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
