Universities in France

France has more than 3,500 public and private higher education institutions, including: 72 public universities, 25 clusters of universities and higher education institutions, 271 doctoral schools. 227 accredited engineering schools authorized to issue engineering degrees, 220 business and management schools, 45 public schools of art, 22 national schools of architecture and more than 3,000 private institutions and institutes. 

Over 1,300 programs are taught in English. You can find more information in the Programs Taught in English catalogue. Short-term programs combining language learning and cultural exchange are also widely available for international students. Details can be found under Programmes courts (short programs) and via the Immersion France application.

1. Public Universities (Universités)

Public universities in France welcome 75% of all international students in the country. These public institutions are funded by the government. Spread across France, they award nationally recognized degrees with equal value (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate).

All students who have completed high school or hold an equivalent qualification may apply for admission to the first year of university. Universities teach and conduct research across a wide range of fields, including: science, literature, languages, arts, humanities and social sciences, healthcare, and even sports.

2. Grandes Écoles

Around 20% of international students study at the Grandes Écoles, which include: Écoles Normales Supérieures (ENS), Institutes of Political Studies (Instituts d’études politiques – IEP), Engineering schools, Business and management schools, Veterinary schools and other highly selective institutions.

Grandes Écoles may be public or private, but all are recognized by the State. They award high-level degrees at Bac + 5 (equivalent to five years of higher education), including some Master’s degrees. Many programs are offered in English.

Admission is highly competitive. Students typically enter after completing two years of preparatory classes (CPGE) or through direct admission after high school into integrated preparatory pathways. Tuition fees and application costs are generally higher than those at public universities.

3. Specialized Schools and Institutes

There are nearly 3,000 specialized public and private institutions, offering programs in diverse fields such as: Healthcare, Audiovisual arts, Media and journalism, Fashion and design, Agricultural sciences, Political science and many others.

Degrees and certificates from these institutions may or may not be State-recognized. Admission is based on entrance exams or application review. Programs typically last 2 to 5 years.

4. Schools of Art and Applied Arts

France has nearly 50 public schools of art and design under the Ministry of Culture. Programs in fine arts, design, and communication are structured into two cycles, each lasting 3 to 5 years, leading to State-recognized degrees. Some schools also offer third-cycle programs.

Four prestigious public schools under the Ministry of Higher Education include: Boulle, Olivier de Serres, Duperré, and Estienne, awarding State diplomas in: Graphic design, Spatial design, Fashion, Craftsmanship.

Many private schools or institutions run by Chambers of Commerce and Industry award their own diplomas. Some of these are registered in the National Directory of Professional Certifications (RNCP). These art institutions often have highly selective admission processes, requiring portfolio evaluations or entrance exams. Applicants may apply online via Campus Art.

5. National Schools of Architecture (ENSA)

France’s network includes 20 public National Schools of Architecture, jointly overseen by the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation. Two additional institutions-École spéciale d’architecture and the National Institute of Applied Sciences of Strasbourg (INSA Strasbourg) – are part of this network and award equivalent qualifications.

Architecture schools offer programs across all three academic levels (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate), with degrees fully recognized by the State. Applicants can also submit online applications through Campus Art.

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