Undergraduate studies in France are highly sought-after, offering professionally-oriented programs that blend theory and practice. With a diverse range of courses available at top universities and colleges, a bachelor’s degree in France serves as a strong foundation for a successful career. French industrial giants like Airbus, Total, Orange, Sanofi, LVMH, L’Oréal, and Danone enjoy global recognition, making France an attractive destination for international students seeking early career opportunities. In this article, we discuss the top universities in France for bachelor’s degrees, along with requirements, costs, scholarships, and a brief overview of the process for acquiring a France student visa.
Why Study Bachelors in France?
Let’s explore some reasons why pursuing a bachelor’s degree in France is a good idea:
- Firstly, French universities consistently rank high internationally across reputable platforms such as Times Higher Education, Financial Times, QS, Shanghai, and the European Union’s U-Multirank.
- Secondly, France provides top-quality education across various fields, with generous annual investments from public authorities in education and research, amounting to over 20% of the budget.
- Moreover, Paris serves as a global showcase for high fashion, offering popular courses like fashion designing, photography, and videography at both bachelor’s and master’s levels. These programs attract students worldwide due to the city’s prominence in the fashion industry.
Popular Courses for Bachelors in France
Undergraduate courses in France may be limited in number, but they play a vital role in laying the groundwork for knowledge in various fields. Let’s explore some well-liked bachelor’s programs available in France:
Creative Writing & Literature
Creative writing and literature form a crucial aspect of undergraduate education in France. This course focuses on the technical elements of nonfiction writing and fosters the creative process. The curriculum delves into the intersection of creative writing and cross-cultural experiences, enhancing the learning journey. Overall, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in writing and literature at French universities entails a combination of history, language, and communication skills.
This bachelor’s program is available at the following universities in France:
- University of Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne
- Universite PSL
Law
Bachelor’s programs in law at French universities prepare students for various careers in the legal field, including lawyer, magistrate, corporate lawyer, public service, notary, insurance or bank counsel, among others. These programs provide insights into legal reasoning, fundamental public and private law knowledge, and different legal documentation tools. Upon completion, students may pursue a master’s degree or opt for employment opportunities.
Universities offering this bachelor’s degree in France
- University of Paris
- Sciences Po
- University of Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne
Fashion Designing
For those interested in fashion and glamor, fashion designing courses in France offer excellent opportunities. With Paris as the fashion hub, students gain first hand exposure to kickstart their fashion career. Fashion designing colleges in Paris conduct workshops under the guidance of top designers worldwide. Pursuing a bachelor’s in fashion design in Paris provides a unique chance to learn in the fashion capital.
Universities offering this bachelor’s degree in France
- International Fashion Academy (IFA)
- ESMOD
- Paris College of Art
Film Studies
Film studies is a popular bachelor’s degree among domestic and international students in France. The country’s focus on filmmaking and the glamor industry creates ample opportunities for career advancement. The curriculum specializes in topics such as cinematography, videography, and scriptwriting.
Universities offering this bachelor’s degree in France
- 3is
- ESRA
- University of Paris
Life Sciences
Bachelor’s programs in life sciences in France cater to students passionate about general sciences. The interdisciplinary curriculum covers various related subjects and topics, allowing students to acquire practical exposure through different projects. Some universities in France also require a 4 to 8-week compulsory internship.
Universities offering this bachelor’s degree in France
- University of Paris
- Aix Marseille University
- Grenoble Alpes University
Eligibility Criteria for Bachelors in France
To enroll in bachelor’s programs in France, you must meet specific requirements, which vary depending on the programs and universities. However, the fundamental criteria remain consistent. Here’s a brief overview:
Undergraduate Programs
A 10+2 certificate from a recognized board is the primary requirement for undergraduate programs in France. Be sure to check the required score for your chosen course and university.
English Language Requirements
For international students, proficiency in English is mandatory for admission to bachelor’s degrees taught in English. Since most undergraduate courses are conducted in French, a minimum proficiency level of B2 or C1 in French is required for those programs.
Minimum scores for English Proficiency Tests
- IELTS: 6.5 – 7.5
- TOEFL: 97 – 100
- PTE: 55 – 60
Passport and Visa
International students must have a valid passport and student visa to study at any public university in France. It is advisable to apply for the visa at least 3 months before your expected travel date.
Documents Required for Bachelors in France
Admission to bachelor’s programs in France for international students necessitates a specific set of documents. Common requirements include transcripts of all educational qualifications, CV or resume, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and scorecards of English proficiency tests.
Application Process for Bachelors in France
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for bachelor’s programs in France:
- Choose the undergraduate course you wish to pursue and identify the best university offering it.
- Visit the official university website to gather information on eligibility and the admission process.
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents (transcripts, CV, English proficiency test scorecards, etc.).
- Fill out the application form and pay the fee.
- Participate in an interview with university directors to showcase your skills and presence of mind.
- Upon receiving the conditional offer letter post-interview, reserve your seat at the university by paying a non-refundable deposit.
Cost of Studying Bachelors in France
The overall cost of pursuing a bachelor’s degree in France for international students comprises tuition fees and living expenses.
Tuition Fees
Bachelor’s degree tuition fees range from 500 EUR to 15,000 EUR per year. In some cases, the state covers two-thirds of tuition fees, resulting in lower charges.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in France varies based on lifestyle, with average expenses, including accommodation, food, stationery, entertainment, and miscellaneous items, amounting to around 12,000 EUR per year.
Student Visa to Study in France
There are various study visas available for international students in France, depending on the duration of their courses:
- Short stay Schengen visa
- Entrance exam visa
- Long-stay visa with a residence permit
Visas in France are solely granted by the French Consular Authorities and applicants must fulfill specific requirements. The list of requirements for a France student visa includes:
- Valid passport
- Confirmed flight tickets
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of payment of the visa fee
- Travel medical insurance covering 30,000 Euros
- Educational documents (long term)
- Financial documents demonstrating sufficient funds, such as:
- Certificate of Registration or Pre-registration at a French institute stating the course duration
- Language Proficiency Test Scorecard
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can apply for a France study visa either at a French consulate in your country or through Campus France. We trust this information will assist you in pursuing your bachelor’s degree in France at your preferred universities. If you’re interested in higher education opportunities in France after completing your undergraduate studies, there are various avenues to explore. For further guidance, feel free to consult with our experts at Yocket!
