If you’re considering studying in France, you may have heard that the cost of living can be quite high, especially in popular cities like Paris. And on top of that, there are tuition fees to worry about. But here’s some good news: several universities in France offer free tuition or have affordable options for international students. Yes, you read that right!
10 Free Universities in FinlandIn this article, we’ll look at the top free universities in France that provide quality education and help ease the financial burden. So, if you want to pursue higher education in France without breaking the bank, keep reading to discover some fantastic options.
Top Free Universities in France
To ensure that our selection of the best free universities in France is comprehensive, we have filtered our review based on several factors. These include the courses’ popularity, high rankings in terms of employment reputation, and recognition by QS rankings.
Additionally, we have provided crucial information about each institution, including admission requirements and details about their free tuition policies. Here is our list of top recommended universities
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Sorbonne University
For example, Sorbonne University, with over 9,000 international students, is a top choice for those seeking a tuition-free education. This prestigious public institution extends its tuition-free policy to domestic and international students. Enrollees are only required to pay a registration fee, which can be as low as 243 EUR for a Master’s degree. Doctorate students are exempt from tuition fees but must pay a 380 EUR registration fee, while Bachelor’s students are expected to pay 170 EUR for registration.
University of Burgundy
Similarly, the University of Burgundy offers free education to international and domestic students despite quoting a tuition fee of 170 EUR for Bachelor’s programs. The university provides various funding programs that can waive the tuition fee. With over 300 international partners, the University of Burgundy emphasizes teaching and research missions, particularly in science and technology. The university’s commitment to providing comprehensive educational training is evident in its advanced equipment and resources for student utilization.
Paul Valéry University Montpellier 3
If you’re interested in social sciences and arts, Paul Valéry University Montpellier 3 is an excellent choice. While the university charges 170 EUR for international and domestic Bachelor’s tuition, it offers provisions for free education through scholarships. This public university boasts a renowned theatre, symphony orchestra, historical museum, and thriving campus. It provides equal opportunities to students and fosters close collaboration with the community.
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Le Mans University
Le Mans University, a small public university in Western France, offers tuition-free education to international students, who are typically required to pay an admission fee of 170 euros per year. Despite its modest size, Le Mans University is known for its quality of teaching and educational value. Most of its academic programs are taught in French, from undergraduate to doctoral and professional levels.
University of Orléans
The University of Orléans, located about two hours from Paris, is another tuition-free institution in France. It comprises various departments, including an engineering school, the University Institutes of Technology, the National Institute of Higher Education, and more. With over 1,165 teachers and 19,026 students, the University of Orléans offers diverse educational opportunities.
University of Franche-Comté
The University of Franche-Comté charges 170 EUR in tuition fees for domestic and international Bachelor’s students. However, the university provides fully sponsored scholarship programs, making it an attractive option for students. Located in the heart of Paris, this institution is renowned for its comprehensive educational training and attracts many international students.
University of Clermont Auvergne
The University of Clermont Auvergne stands out due to its international focus. It develops educational programs with a global orientation, making it an ideal choice for international students studying in France. The university has numerous international agreements with partner institutions, and its free tuition policy also extends to non-EU students. Regardless of nationality, students must pay only 170 euros per year, with higher fees applicable for master’s, medical, and engineering programs.
National Institute of Oriental Languages and Civilisations
For those seeking an institution in France dedicated to teaching languages and cultures worldwide, the National Institute of Oriental Languages and Civilisations is an excellent choice. Like Oriental and African Studies in London, this public university offers humanities-based programs, including social studies at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The standard tuition rate starts from 170 EUR per year, making it one of France’s most affordable options for international students.
Jean Monnet University
With over 20,000 students, Jean Monnet University is a public institution focusing on research-based education. The university offers multidisciplinary programs and provides a supportive environment through numerous student associations. As part of the University of Lyon offers exceptional academic opportunities.
Here is a table outlining the cost and tuition fees for each of the recommended universities in France:
| University | Tuition Fees (EUR) | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sorbonne University | Varies | Various funding programs are available to waive tuition fees |
| University of Burgundy | Varies | Fully sponsored scholarship programs are available |
| Paul Valéry University Montpellier 3 | Varies | Scholarships available for free education |
| Le Mans University | Admission Fee: 170 | Tuition-free education for international students |
| University of Orléans | Admission Fee: 170 | Tuition-free education for domestic and international students |
| University of Franche-Comté | Varies | Fully sponsored scholarship programs available |
| University of Clermont Auvergne | Admission Fee: 170 | Fully sponsored scholarship programs are available |
| National Institute of Oriental Languages | Admission Fee: 170 | Humanities-based programs with affordable tuition fees |
| and Civilisations | ||
| Jean Monnet University | Admission Fee: 170 | Research-focused education with a supportive environment |
It’s important to note that most free universities in France offer programs taught in French. Therefore, proficiency in the French language is crucial. Additionally, undergraduate applicants must provide qualifications, such as an O’level result, to be eligible for higher education. A good BSc result and transcript in a related field are typically required for international students pursuing graduate studies. Proficiency in English is necessary for programs conducted in English, and English proficiency test reports, such as TOEFL, may be requested.
