Master's in France: Top Universities, Courses, Fees & More

As previously said, France is home to some of the world's top colleges. 32 French universities made the overall QS WUR 2024 list because of their cutting-edge educational approach, focus on hands-on learning, research, and accomplishments. The following is a list of the top 10 master's universities in France:

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French institutions and colleges are beginning to provide Master's and Bachelor's degree programs taught in English to students worldwide. With its extensive background in science, literature, art, and history, France offers many fascinating opportunities for students studying abroad. However, French education also values innovation, and you'll discover that many business, science, and technology degrees are taught in English.

Let's now examine some of the best master's programs and specialisations available in France, along with the top colleges that provide them:

French master's programs in computer science prepare graduates to work as tech specialists and computer engineers with global job mobility. French universities offer this program in both English and French. The following French universities provide the top master's degrees in computer science:

• Paris-Saclay University

• Polytechnique Institute of Paris

• Sorbonne University

The two-year French master's degree in psychology emphasises the human body's physiological and psychological elements. This curriculum provides the necessary exposure, research, and training opportunities for students to gain crucial insights into body and mind functions. The leading French universities that offer an MS in psychology are: 

• Universite de Paris

• University of Bordeaux

• Paris-Saclay University

Students from all educational backgrounds can enrol in the prestigious Masters in Management program provided by French universities. The main prerequisite for admission is an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university with the desired marks or equivalent. The top French universities offering master's degrees in management are:

• Sorbonne University

• Université Grenoble Alpes

• HEC Paris

A master's degree in finance in France combines academic and practical knowledge of banking, finance, and related topics. The demanding instruction across the two-year curriculum refines the students' analytical and quantitative skills. The following universities in France provide the top master's degree in finance:

• HEC Paris

• Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne

• Université de Paris

In France, a multidisciplinary master's program in public health is available in French and English. The show looks at wellness and health from a global perspective. These graduates are equipped to handle every difficulty in their sector. The top French universities offering master's degrees in public health are:

• Université de Paris

• University of Strasbourg

• Paris-Saclay University

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A bachelor's degree or equivalent in a suitable field is the initial prerequisite for studying for a master's degree in France. Most institutions require a minimum score of 50% for a bachelor's degree, while the requirements vary according to the course and university.

However, there are various other eligibility criteria that you must fulfil to study for an MS in France. Let's learn about them in detail.

1. Language Requirement

For Indian students applying to MS programs in France, passing the English proficiency test is a requirement for all international applicants. The tests' minimum scores are: 

• TOFEL - 88-100

• IELTS - 6.5-7.5

2. GMAT/GRE

The top master's programs in France require a GMAT or GRE score for admission to courses like Master of Management, MBA, MS Finance, etc. While a strong GMAT score is required for some courses, it is optional for others. For master's programs in France, a GMAT score of between 550 and 730 is ideal.

3. Work Experience

A minimum of 2-3 years of work experience is necessary to study for an MS in Finance. However, few courses do not require work experience as a compulsory requirement.

4. Visa and Passport

To enrol in any course at any university in France, international students must have a current passport and student visa. Remember to apply for your visa at least three months before the date you plan to visit.

Indian students' admission to master's programs in France involves a set of documents. Some of the standard document requirements are mentioned below:

• Transcripts of all educational qualifications

• CV or Resume

• LOR or Letter of Recommendation

• SOP or Statement of Purpose

• Scorecards of IELTS/ TOEFL/ GMAT

• Work experience certificate (if applicable)

Below is a step-by-step guidance for Indian and other international students looking to apply to several French colleges for a master's degree:

• Decide on the master's program you wish to take and research which university offers it.

• Access the official university website to get all the information about eligibility and the admissions process.

• Upload scanned copies of your resume, transcripts, scorecards for the GMAT and GRE, and IELTS and TOEFL.

• Complete the desired application and send in the required payment.

• Interview each of the corresponding university directors. This is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your presence of mind and soft skills.

• You may reserve your spot at the specific university as soon as you receive the conditional offer letter following a successful interview.

• You can pay your deposit by accepting the university's terms and conditions. This deposit is not refunded.

Tuition and living expenses comprise the total cost of pursuing a master's degree at various French universities.

Fees for tuition

The annual tuition for a master's degree in France is between INR 17,800 and INR 17,83,000. The state may pay for two-thirds of your tuition in certain circumstances, and the universities charge comparatively lower tuition.

Living Expenses

The cost of living in France for an international student depends on your lifestyle. The total annual cost, including lodging, meals, stationery, entertainment, and other expenses, is about INR 10,70,000.

Obtaining a scholarship makes studying in France even more convenient despite the low fees. Numerous well-financed scholarships from the French government and universities are available for domestic and international students. The majority of them are university-specific and based on merit.

International students can apply for several famous master's scholarships in France, such as:

Job Opportunity

In terms of employment prospects, France provides a worldwide perspective. French graduates are in great demand from globally recognised corporations. You can get the highest-paying jobs in France with exceptional skills and appropriate test results.

The following list includes some well-known jobs along with their typical salaries:

To remain in France and continue working, non-EU students who have finished their master's degree there can apply for a work permit. For students who are not from Europe, there are two primary kinds of work licenses in France:

ASP: With an APS (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour) temporary residency visa, graduates can remain in France for up to a year to find employment.

VLT-TS: Students can remain in France for two years to search for employment after graduation.

To qualify for any kind of work permit 

• The students must hold a professional Bachelor's or Master's degree from a French university. 

• Generally speaking, work permits demand a salary of 1.5 times the minimum wage. 

• Students who intend to work in volunteer or internship roles do not need a work permit. 

• Students do not need a work permit for a long-stay visa if they are married to French nationals or have French children.

To sum up, investing in your future with an MS in France might lead to numerous fulfilling professional prospects in any field you choose, including business, engineering, science, and the arts. You can acquire the knowledge, abilities, and international connections necessary for success in the degree of MS in France. With its world-class universities, state-of-the-art research, and creative teaching methods, France provides an outstanding education that will set you up for success in your chosen career.

If you are looking forward to studying Master's in France: Top Universities, Courses, Fees & more, we encourage you to speak with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). Our counsellors will provide you with guidance throughout your study abroad. Get help with the application process, SOPs, and filing for a visa. Visit us and get one-to-one counselling, or avail yourself of free video counselling via our website. We will be happy to help you, so please do not hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or 1800-1230-00011. 

1. How much does it cost to study MS in France?

Masters program tuition in France ranges from EUR 243 to EUR 26,600 per year, or 22,328 to 24.44 lakhs INR. In addition to tuition, students are charged administrative and student service fees. To lessen their financial burden, the French government provides scholarships for international students, such as the Emile Boutmy Scholarship and the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program.

2. How much IELTS and TOEFL scores are necessary for international students to get an MS in France?

A master's degree in France requires English proficiency. International students must have an IELTS score of 6–7 or a TOEFL score of 80–100.

3. Which MS courses are best in France?

Here are some of the names of the famous Masters programs in France:

• Masters in Computer Science

• Masters in Computational Mechanics

• Master of Data Science and Business Analytics

• Masters in Management

• Masters in Physics

• Master in Science & Technology

4. Is it worth studying for an MS in France?

France provides MS degrees in various areas at some of the top universities. An MS in France enhances expertise, knowledge and career goals in the long run.

5. How long is the MS duration in France?

Although, it entirely depends upon the course and university you choose. However, it takes over 1 to 2 years to pursue your MS degree.

6. Which are the top universities for MS in France?

In addition to the ones already listed, the following are some of the top master's programs in France:

• CY Cergy Paris University

• Aix Marseille University

• University of Strasbourg

• University of Bourdeaux

7. What are the eligibility criteria for masters programs in France?

The following are the requirements for French master's degrees:

• Candidates must have a stable academic record and a bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited university.

• A minimum of 3.0 GPA or above.

• For international students who are not citizens of English-speaking nations, fluency in the language is required.

8. What documents are required to pursue an MS in France?

A bachelor's degree or an equivalent certificate is a primary prerequisite for students pursuing master's degree programs in France. For international students to be admitted, French colleges demand results from standardised tests, such as the SAT, GMAT, and GRE.

9. Why choose master programs in France?

France is a great place to study global studies because of its vibrant campus life, varied culture, and architectural styles. France provides a highly regarded educational system, abundant professional opportunities, and an exceptional standard of living. The nation's tuition fees are also relatively reasonable.

10. Is it free to study for an MS in France?

No, an MS degree is not accessible in France. However, you have to pay the tuition fee, which the government of France sets. Also, private universities may charge a higher amount for MS courses. However, you can always apply for scholarships.