France is one of the most popular study destinations in Europe, known for its strong academic tradition, globally recognized degrees, and affordable public education. Each year, hundreds of thousands of international students choose France for higher education thanks to its diverse institutions, high teaching standards, and strong connections between universities and industry.
Understanding the French higher education system is essential for students planning to study in France. In this guide, we explain how the system works, introduce the main types of institutions and degrees, and help international students make confident, informed decisions before starting their academic journey.
How universities work in France
Universities in France operate under a public, state-regulated system that focuses on accessibility, academic quality, and research-based learning. Most public universities are funded by the government, which keeps tuition fees relatively low and makes higher education accessible to both local and international students.
Here’s how the French university system works in practice:
- Publicly funded system: Most universities are public institutions supported by the French government, offering affordable tuition fees and standardized academic quality across the country.
- Open admission policy: Many undergraduate programs (Licence level) are open-access, meaning students with a recognized high school diploma can apply without competitive entrance exams.
- Bologna system structure: French universities follow the LMD structure: Licence (Bachelor’s), Master’s, and Doctorate, ensuring international recognition of degrees.
- Strong focus on theory and research: Teaching is often lecture-based, especially at the undergraduate level, with increasing emphasis on research, projects, and specialization at Master’s and PhD levels.
- Autonomous but regulated: Universities have academic independence but operate under national regulations set by the Ministry of Higher Education, ensuring consistency in degrees and standards.
- Wide range of disciplines: Universities offer programs in sciences, humanities, law, economics, medicine, engineering, and social sciences, with growing numbers of English-taught degrees.
- Student-centered support: International offices, academic advisors, and student services help students with enrollment, housing, visas, and academic integration.
Public vs Private Universities in France
When exploring the French higher education system, one of the most common questions international students ask is whether to choose a public or a private university. Both options are part of France’s academic landscape, but they differ significantly in cost, admission process, and learning environment.
Public Universities in France
Public universities form the backbone of higher education in France and are funded by the French government.
- Very affordable tuition fees, even for non-EU students
- Wide range of disciplines, including sciences, humanities, law, medicine, and engineering
- Open or selective admission, depending on the program and level
- Strong academic reputation, especially in research and theoretical education
- Large student populations, offering diverse and international campuses
Public universities are an excellent choice for students looking for quality education at a lower cost while experiencing the traditional French academic system.
Private Universities in France
Private institutions operate independently and often focus on specialized or professionally oriented programs.
- Higher tuition fees compared to public universities
- Smaller class sizes, allowing more interaction with professors
- Career-focused programs in business, management, marketing, IT, and design
- Easier or more flexible admission processes in many cases
- Strong industry connections and practical training opportunities
Private universities are often preferred by students seeking hands-on learning, international teaching styles, and faster integration into the job market.
| To better understand which option aligns with your academic goals and budget, learning more about how to Study in France can help you make an informed decision. |
Difference between university and grandes écoles
One of the most distinctive features of the French higher education system is the clear difference between traditional universities and Grandes Écoles. While both offer high-quality education, they serve different academic goals, learning styles, and career paths.
Universities in France
French public universities are open-access institutions, meaning that most students with a recognized high school diploma (or equivalent) can enroll.
- Open to a large number of students
- Focus on theoretical knowledge and academic research
- Wide range of disciplines: humanities, sciences, law, medicine, engineering, and more
- Generally more affordable, especially at public universities
- Degrees follow the national LMD system (Licence, Master, Doctorate)
Universities are ideal for students who value academic freedom, research-oriented learning, and flexibility in choosing courses.
Grandes Écoles
Grandes Écoles are elite institutions that operate separately from the standard university system and are known for their high selectivity and strong links to industry.
- Highly competitive admission (entrance exams or selective applications)
- Smaller class sizes and personalized teaching
- Strong focus on professional skills, leadership, and networking
- Specialized fields such as engineering, business, political science, and public administration
- Excellent employment outcomes and strong international reputation
Graduates from Grandes Écoles are often recruited directly into top positions in companies, government, and international organizations.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice depends on your academic profile and career goals:
- Choose universities if you prefer academic depth, research, and a broader range of study fields
- Choose Grandes Écoles if you aim for elite training, strong industry connections, and competitive career paths
| To explore your academic options in France, read our complete guide on France study programs.p you make the right decision. |
Academic structure in France
The academic structure in France is standardized nationwide, which means universities across the country follow the same framework. France follows the Bologna Process, a European framework designed to ensure compatibility between higher education systems across Europe. As a result, degrees earned in France are widely recognized internationally.
Key features of the academic structure in France include:
- Three main study cycles: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate
- Credit-based system (ECTS): Each academic year equals 60 ECTS credits
- Clear progression rules: Students move step-by-step through levels
- Strong balance between theory and practice, especially at Master’s level
- National academic calendar, typically running from September to June
Teaching methods combine lectures (cours magistraux), tutorials (TD), and practical sessions (TP). Students are expected to work independently, manage their schedules responsibly, and actively participate in exams, projects, and group work.
Degrees in the French education system
The French higher education system follows the European LMD structure (Licence–Master–Doctorate), which is standardized across most EU countries. This makes French degrees internationally recognized and easy to compare or continue abroad.
Licence (Bachelor’s Degree)
A Licence typically takes 3 years to complete (180 ECTS credits). It provides foundational academic knowledge and prepares students either for employment or for further study at the Master’s level.
Master’s Degree
The Master’s program lasts 2 years (120 ECTS credits) and is more specialized. It is often divided into Master 1 (M1) and Master 2 (M2), with strong links to research or industry, depending on the field.
Doctorate (PhD)
A Doctorate usually takes 3 to 4 years and focuses on original research under academic supervision. PhD graduates can pursue careers in academia, research institutions, or high-level industry roles.
In addition to these degrees, France also offers professional diplomas and engineering degrees, many of which are highly valued in Europe and beyond.
| For those considering future residency or career opportunities after graduation, exploring pathways to Immigrate with EGEDU can help align education with long-term goals. |
Conclusion
Understanding the French higher education system is an essential step for international students planning to study and build a future in France. With a clear academic structure, affordable public universities, and prestigious Grandes Écoles, France offers high-quality, globally recognized education for diverse academic and career goals.
If you’re ready to move forward, EuroGlobe Education is here to support you—from choosing the right program and university to admissions, visas, and long-term settlement pathways. Start your journey with expert guidance and make studying in France a confident and successful experience.
