How Much Does it Cost to study Masters in France in 2026?
Priya Banerjee 
France continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations for postgraduate study, drawing students from across the globe to its universities and grandes écoles. Masters in France offers internationally recognized programs, strong government support for education, and a rich cultural experience, making it an attractive option for students.
However, for international students coming from outside the European Union, European Economic Area, or Switzerland, understanding the financial commitment is crucial. This article outlines the exact tuition fees, additional administrative charges, cost of living, and scholarship opportunities for international students planning Masters in France.
Tuition Fees for International Students in Public Universities
Public universities in France are subsidized by the French government, but international students who are not from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland are charged differentiated tuition fees.
- For the 2025–2026 academic year, tuition for international students pursuing a master’s degree in a public institution supervised by the Ministry of Higher Education is €3,941 per year.
- This figure is uniform across participating institutions and is officially set by the French Ministry of Higher Education and published by Campus France.
While these fees are higher than those for domestic and EU students, they remain relatively affordable compared to tuition in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, or Australia. Some public institutions also choose not to apply the differentiated fee policy, so students should verify the tuition policy on the official website of their chosen university.
Tuition Fees in Private Institutions and Grandes Écoles
For international students enrolling in top private universities in France, business schools, or grandes écoles, tuition costs are significantly higher than those in public universities.
- Tuition typically ranges between €5,000 and €15,000 per year depending on the institution and program.
- Specialized master’s programs in business, engineering, and international management can exceed this range, sometimes reaching €20,000 per year or more in top-ranked schools.
Since each private institution sets its own fee structure, students must consult the official institutional websites for precise and up-to-date information.
Compulsory Administrative Charges
In addition to tuition fees, international students must pay mandatory administrative charges:
- CVEC (Contribution to Student and Campus Life): This contribution is compulsory for all students enrolling in French higher education. It supports services such as student activities, cultural programs, and campus health. For 2025–2026, the CVEC is fixed at €105.
- University administrative fees: Some institutions charge additional small amounts for specific programs, student cards, or professional training components.
Payment or exemption proof of the CVEC is required before finalizing registration.
Living Costs for International Students in 2025
Living costs in France vary greatly depending on the city. For international students, this is the largest part of the overall budget.
Housing
Accommodation expenses depend on the city and type of housing chosen:
- CROUS student residences are the most affordable option.
- Shared private apartments are common among students.
- Renting an individual apartment in large cities like Paris is significantly more expensive.
Paris remains about 19% more costly than the national average, while smaller regional cities such as Lyon, Toulouse, and Lille are more budget friendly.
Food
Students benefit from university restaurants and canteens managed by CROUS, which provide subsidized meals at very low prices compared to restaurants or private dining. Grocery shopping is relatively affordable if students use local supermarkets and campus meal plans.
Transport
Monthly public transport passes are essential in larger cities. For instance, Paris requires a higher budget for metro and bus travel compared to smaller towns. Many universities also encourage the use of student-discounted passes.
Health Insurance
International students are required to register for French health insurance. Students from countries without a reciprocal agreement with France must also consider complementary insurance for wider coverage.
Other Expenses
Books, study materials, entertainment, and personal spending should be factored in. Many cultural venues in France offer reduced student rates, helping students manage leisure costs.
Estimated monthly living costs in 2025:
- Outside Paris: €800 – €1,000
- In Paris: €1,200 – €1,800
Exemptions and Scholarships for International Students
Although non-European students face higher tuition than domestic students, there are several pathways to reduce costs:
- Exemptions: Some international students may be exempt from differentiated fees, such as refugees, long-term residents in France, or those covered under specific bilateral agreements.
- Scholarships:
- The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program, managed by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, offers generous financial support for master’s students.
- French embassies and consulates abroad often administer additional funding opportunities.
- Universities themselves may grant partial or full fee waivers for outstanding international applicants.
Applicants should consult both the Campus France platform and the official websites of their chosen institutions for detailed scholarship opportunities and exemption eligibility.
