How do you qualify for a Masters in France?

To qualify for a master's programme in France, you need a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. Most programmes require a minimum of three years of undergraduate study. Additionally, you should have a strong academic record and meet any specific prerequisites for your chosen field. Some programmes may require standardised test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT, though this is less common. Proficiency in French or English, depending on the language of instruction, is also essential. For detailed information on application requirements, visit the top universities in France and check their individual admission criteria.

What are the top universities in France?

France is home to several world-renowned universities that offer high-quality, affordable master's degrees. Among the top institutions are Université PSL, Paris-Saclay University, and Sorbonne University. These universities are not only known for their academic excellence but also for their budget-friendly tuition fees, often under €2,500 per year. They offer a wide range of programmes across various disciplines, making them attractive options for international students seeking cheap masters in France. For a comprehensive list and detailed rankings, explore the top universities in France.

Why are master's degrees so affordable in France?

Master's degrees in France are remarkably affordable due to significant government funding and subsidies. The French government heavily invests in higher education to make it accessible to all students, including international ones. This results in low-cost tuition fees, often under €2,500 per year for most programmes. Additionally, the economic structure in France supports these low fees, ensuring that quality education remains affordable. This makes France an attractive destination for students seeking economical master's degrees without compromising on quality.

What are the language requirements for cheap master's degrees in France?

Language requirements for affordable master's degrees in France vary depending on the programme and university. Most programmes offered in English require proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores. For programmes taught in French, you need to demonstrate French language skills, typically through DELF or DALF certifications. Some universities may offer preparatory language courses to help you meet these requirements. It's essential to check the specific language prerequisites for your chosen programme to ensure you meet the criteria for admission.

Can I study part-time while studying in France?

Yes, international students in France are allowed to work part-time while pursuing their studies. You can work up to 964 hours per academic year, which translates to approximately 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. This flexibility allows you to gain work experience and support your living expenses. However, it's important to balance work with your academic responsibilities to ensure you maintain good standing in your programme. Always check the specific regulations and limitations set by your university and the French authorities.

Are there hidden costs beyond tuition for affordable programmes in France?

While tuition fees for master's degrees in France are low, there are additional costs to consider. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and health insurance, can vary depending on the city you choose to study in. On average, students should budget between €600 to €1,000 per month for living costs. Additionally, there may be application fees, visa processing fees, and costs associated with obtaining necessary documentation. It's important to plan ahead and consider these hidden costs to ensure a smooth transition to studying in France.

FranceAffordable

210 Affordable Master's degrees in France

If you're considering higher education in France, you'll be pleased to know that the country offers a variety of affordable programmes tailored to international students. The tuition fees for these programmes vary, with the lower-end fees starting at €243. This means that even on a budget, you can find a suitable programme that fits your financial situation.

For those looking for a balance between cost and quality, the typical tuition fee for affordable programmes in France is around €254. This fee represents a common price point for many programmes, ensuring that you get value for your money without compromising on the quality of education.

On the higher end of the spectrum, some affordable programmes in France have tuition fees up to €498. While this might seem steep, it's important to remember that these fees are still considered affordable compared to other countries, making France an attractive option for international students.

Additionally, France has embraced online learning, with 1% of affordable programmes being offered online. This flexibility allows students to pursue their education from anywhere in the world, making it easier to manage both academic and personal responsibilities.

In conclusion, France presents a fantastic opportunity for international students seeking affordable and quality education. With a range of tuition fees and a growing number of online programmes, you're sure to find a programme that suits your needs and budget.

International Affairs (Dual Degree with LSE) Sciences Po

4,2(43)Paris, France Top 20% in Worldwide

International Affairs (Dual Degree with LSE) from Sciences Po offers outstanding students with (at least) an undergraduate degree, the choice of two high quality dual degree programme.

M.A. Full-time On-campus

2 yearsFree

Frontiers in Chemistry University Paris Cité

4,3(51)Paris, France Top 2% in Worldwide

The molecular Chemistry towards Life sciences developed at University Paris Cité answers to the physical chemistry issues oriented towards nanoscience, surfaces and energy. This Frontiers in Chemistry Master’s program at Université de Paris is supported by high-level research laboratories with international reputation and network.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$276/yr

Public Policy and Management (Dual Degree with Luigi Bocconi University in Milan) Sciences Po

4,2(43)Paris, France Top 20% in Worldwide

Public Policy and Management (Dual Degree with Luigi Bocconi University in Milan) from Sciences Po have created a dual master's degree in Politics & Public Policy.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 yearsFree

Dual degree with ISAE-Supaero Sciences Po

4,2(43)Paris, France Top 20% in Worldwide

Dual degree with ISAE-Supaero from Sciences Po aim is to give ISAE-SUPAERO engineering students and Sciences Po students the means to acquire dual expertise that will be recognised on the labour market.

Master Full-time On-campus

3 yearsFree

English Studies - Early Modern Studies University Paris Cité

4,3(51)Paris, France Top 2% in Worldwide

The Master in English Studies - Early Modern Studies from University Paris Cité is dedicated to French and international students interested in an innovative, diachronic approach of a central period for understanding Western modernity.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$276/yr

Design Paris-Saclay Superior Normal School

4,0(38)Gif-sur-Yvette, France

We offer a master degree in Design at Paris-Saclay Superior Normal School. Graduate programmes in applied arts and design include the DSAA (M1), the Master in Higher Education Teaching or research-based master's (M2), the ENSCI industrial design degree (M2), etc.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$281/yr

M1 General Physics Paris-Saclay University

4,1(30)Paris, France Top 1% in Worldwide

The M1 General Physics programme at Paris-Saclay University welcomes Bachelor's graduates who wish to deepen their knowledge of physics, and pursue a research career in a university, industrial or public research laboratory. It is open to physicists, and students from mathematics or engineering, provided they possess a sufficiently strong physics background in fundamental physics and mathematics.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

1 year$281/yr

Food Innovation and Product Design Paris-Saclay University

4,1(30)Paris, France Top 1% in Worldwide

Paris-Saclay University's Food Innovation and Product Design course is part of the elite Erasmus Mundus Programme and the Erasmus + Programme initiated by the European Commission to enhance and promote European Higher Education throughout the world.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$281/yr

M2 Multimedia Networking Paris-Saclay University

4,1(30)Paris, France Top 1% in Worldwide

This M2 Multimedia Networking research-oriented programme at Paris-Saclay University aims to give students research training in topics related to the compression of multimedia content, the transmission of this compressed data through a network, and the development of algorithms and network architectures for fast, reliable, and efficient access to this content.

M.A. Full-time On-campus

1 year$281/yr

M2 Chemistry - International Track Paris-Saclay University

4,1(30)Paris, France Top 1% in Worldwide

The M2 Chemistry - International Track program at Paris-Saclay University is taught in English and aims at training experts in the most advanced experimental and theoretical tools developed in chemistry, physical-chemistry and materials science, making them ready to develop innovative ideas and enterprises related to sustainable developments in Energy, Health and Environment.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

1 year$281/yr

Advanced Economics École Normale Supérieure de Lyon

3,6(10)Lyon, France Top 5% in Worldwide

The Master’s degree in Economics delivered by École Normale Supérieure de Lyon has a single track called Advanced Economics. This two-year program, entirely taught in English, establishes solid foundations in all areas of economics and emphasizes rigorous research under close faculty supervision.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$276/yr

M2 Artificial Intelligence Paris-Saclay University

4,1(30)Paris, France Top 1% in Worldwide

The M2 Artificial Intelligence (Hons) programme at Paris-Saclay University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed for students aiming to deepen their knowledge in AI. This master's degree typically spans one year and is conducted in English, providing a robust foundation in various AI concepts and applications.

Master Full-time On-campus

1 year$281/yr

M1 International Business Paris-Saclay University

4,1(30)Paris, France Top 1% in Worldwide

The M1 International Business program at Paris-Saclay University aims at providing students with general and disciplinary knowledge and expertise in the various domains of international business.

Master Full-time On-campus

1 year$281/yr

English Studies - Literature University Paris Cité

4,3(51)Paris, France Top 2% in Worldwide

The Master in English Studies - Literature from University Paris Cité, fully taught in English, aims to provide students with a thorough knowledge of literatures in English, in all their historical (from the 16th century to the present day), cultural and generic diversity.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$276/yr

M2 Advanced Wireless Communications Systems Paris-Saclay University

4,1(30)Paris, France Top 1% in Worldwide

The M2 Advanced Wireless Communications Systems at Paris-Saclay University is a research-oriented Master degree. It corresponds to the second year of the 2-year European Master degree curriculum and aims to convey solid fundamental knowledge in the field of wireless communications and networking as a means to prepare the students for their future research-oriented careers.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

2 years$281/yr

Lexicography University of Lorraine

4,0(36)Nancy, France Top 7% in Worldwide

Lexicography from University of Lorraine offers a highly valuable and worldwide unique education. You will be able to study at different European universities, to establish international academic contacts and to increase your professional opportunities tremendously.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$2,210/yr

Dual degree with AgroParisTech Sciences Po

4,2(43)Paris, France Top 20% in Worldwide

Dual degree with AgroParisTech from Sciences Po invites students to explore political, economic, social and cultural processes through a dialogue between the social sciences studied at Sciences Po (law, economics, history, political humanities, political science and sociology) and science at AgroParisTech.

Master Full-time On-campus

3 yearsFree

Neurosciences University Paris Cité

4,3(51)Paris, France Top 2% in Worldwide

The Neurosciences master’s program at University Paris Cité will provide students with a broad knowledge in the field of neuroscience ranging from molecular and cellular to integrative neuroscience.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$276/yr

Complex Systems Paris-Saclay University

4,1(30)Paris, France Top 1% in Worldwide

The goal is to provide a state-of-the-art research-oriented education in fundamental physics. M2 Complex Systems from Paris-Saclay University are thereby studied with the tools of statistical physics at or out-of equilibrium, field theory, stochastic processes, dynamical systems, non-linear physics, inference techniques and computational approaches.

Master Full-time On-campus

1 year$281/yr

Artificial Intelligence Paris-Saclay University

4,1(30)Paris, France Top 1% in Worldwide

The rapid growth of Artificial Intelligence (AI) research and applications offers unprecedented opportunities. This M1 Artificial Intelligence course at Paris-Saclay University is intended for students wishing to receive a good basic education covering a broad spectrum of concepts and applications of data-driven AI and learning from examples.

Master Full-time On-campus

1 year$281/yr

Frequently Asked Questions

To qualify for a master's programme in France, you need a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. Most programmes require a minimum of three years of undergraduate study. Additionally, you should have a strong academic record and meet any specific prerequisites for your chosen field. Some programmes may require standardised test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT, though this is less common. Proficiency in French or English, depending on the language of instruction, is also essential. For detailed information on application requirements, visit the top universities in France and check their individual admission criteria.
France is home to several world-renowned universities that offer high-quality, affordable master's degrees. Among the top institutions are Université PSL, Paris-Saclay University, and Sorbonne University. These universities are not only known for their academic excellence but also for their budget-friendly tuition fees, often under €2,500 per year. They offer a wide range of programmes across various disciplines, making them attractive options for international students seeking cheap masters in France. For a comprehensive list and detailed rankings, explore the top universities in France.
Master's degrees in France are remarkably affordable due to significant government funding and subsidies. The French government heavily invests in higher education to make it accessible to all students, including international ones. This results in low-cost tuition fees, often under €2,500 per year for most programmes. Additionally, the economic structure in France supports these low fees, ensuring that quality education remains affordable. This makes France an attractive destination for students seeking economical master's degrees without compromising on quality.
Language requirements for affordable master's degrees in France vary depending on the programme and university. Most programmes offered in English require proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores. For programmes taught in French, you need to demonstrate French language skills, typically through DELF or DALF certifications. Some universities may offer preparatory language courses to help you meet these requirements. It's essential to check the specific language prerequisites for your chosen programme to ensure you meet the criteria for admission.
Yes, international students in France are allowed to work part-time while pursuing their studies. You can work up to 964 hours per academic year, which translates to approximately 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. This flexibility allows you to gain work experience and support your living expenses. However, it's important to balance work with your academic responsibilities to ensure you maintain good standing in your programme. Always check the specific regulations and limitations set by your university and the French authorities.
While tuition fees for master's degrees in France are low, there are additional costs to consider. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and health insurance, can vary depending on the city you choose to study in. On average, students should budget between €600 to €1,000 per month for living costs. Additionally, there may be application fees, visa processing fees, and costs associated with obtaining necessary documentation. It's important to plan ahead and consider these hidden costs to ensure a smooth transition to studying in France.