Computer Science and Technology Programs in France for International Students

Advantages of studying computer science and technology programs in France

France holds leading positions among European countries in the level of training specialists in the field of information technology. Computer science and technology programs in France offer high-quality education recognized worldwide.

Key advantages:

• High quality of education and innovative teaching methods.
• A large number of English-language programs for international students.
• Strong connections between universities and leading IT companies.
• Opportunities for internships and practical training during studies.
• Diversity of programs: from bachelor's to master's and postgraduate studies.
• Cultural diversity and comfortable student environment.

Formats and levels of computer science and technology programs in France

The French higher education system offers different levels of training:

• Licence (Bachelor's degree) – 3 years of study, basic knowledge and skills.
• Master (Master's degree) – 2 years after bachelor's, in-depth study of IT fields.
• Doctorat (Doctorate) – 3 years of research for those wishing to pursue an academic career.
• Grandes Écoles – elite schools with their own programs in computer science and technology.
• Short programs and professional courses, including diplomas at BTS or DUT level.

Studies are available in both French and English, opening doors for students without knowledge of French.

Top universities and schools for computer science and technology in France

How to apply for computer science and technology programs in France

The application process depends on the program level:

1. Choosing universities and programs.
2. Submitting documents through the Campus France / Parcoursup platforms or directly to universities.
3. Taking exams: for English-language programs, IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo is required; for French-language programs – DELF, DALF, or TCF.
4. Motivation letter and recommendations.
5. Interview (in some cases).
6. Receiving responses from universities.

Additional entrance exams may be required for admission to higher schools.

Documents for applying to computer science and technology programs in France

Standard set of documents:

• Passport with sufficient validity period.
• High school diploma or bachelor's degree.
• Transcript of grades.
• Language proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo).
• Recommendation letters.
• Motivation letter.
• CV/resume.
• Portfolio (if required).

Some universities may request additional documents or GRE, GMAT results.

Tuition fees for computer science and technology programs in France

Tuition fees and other associated costs vary depending on the type of institution:

• Public universities: from 2,770 to 4,500 euros per year.
• Higher and private schools: from 8,000 to 20,000 euros per year.

Additional expenses:

• Housing: from 400 to 900 euros per month.
• Food: about 200-300 euros per month.
• Transport: about 40–70 euros per month (student tariff).
• Insurance and administrative fees: about 300 euros per year.

Scholarships and grants for computer science and technology programs in France

Academic scholarships:

• For students with high academic achievements.
• High GPA and teacher recommendations are required.
• Examples:
  • Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme – prestigious government scholarship for master's and doctoral students, including Computer Science.
  • École Polytechnique Foundation Scholarships – scholarships for talented students in engineering and IT programs.

Financial aid:

• Provided to students from low-income families.
• Proof of financial status is required.
• Examples:
  • CROUS Bursaries – government social scholarships for students, including technology programs.
  • Additional scholarships from regional authorities to cover living and food expenses.

Special scholarships:

• For achievements in scientific projects, IT competitions, olympiads.
• For specific fields, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics.
• Examples:
  • Artificial Intelligence Scholarships – special funding programs for students studying AI in French universities.
  • INRIA Doctoral and Postdoctoral Fellowships – grants for research in computer science and digital technologies.

University grants:

• Each university has its own support programs for international students and top applicants.
• Applications must be submitted 6–12 months before the start of studies.
• It is important to monitor official deadlines on university websites.
• Examples:
  • Université Paris-Saclay International Master's Scholarships – support for master's students, including computer science programs.
  • Grenoble INP Foundation Scholarships – funding for students in engineering and IT programs.

Career prospects after studying computer science and technology in France

France offers excellent career opportunities:

• Opportunities for internships in international companies.
• In-demand specialties: software developer, data specialist, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, software engineer.
• Examples of companies: Capgemini, Dassault Systèmes, Thales, Atos, Orange, Ubisoft, Airbus, Renault.
• Average salary of IT program graduates: from 35,000 to 50,000 euros per year.
• After master's or doctoral studies, chances of obtaining a residence permit increase.

Is it worth studying computer science and technology programs in France?

Studying in France is:

• Affordable cost compared to the USA and UK.
• A European diploma recognized by international employers.
• High level of teaching and scientific research.
• Opportunity to learn French language and culture.
• Favorable conditions for internships and employment.

France stands out favorably among European countries for the quality of programs and developed IT infrastructure.

Frequently asked questions

1. Do I need to know French to apply for computer science and technology programs in France?
No, many programs are available in English, especially at the master's level.

2. What exams are required to apply for computer science and technology programs in France?
For English-language programs: IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo. For some programs, GRE or GMAT may also be required.

3. How much does it cost to study computer science and technology programs at universities in France?
At public universities – from 2,770 euros per year, at private schools and Grandes Écoles – from 8,000 euros.

4. Can I get a scholarship to study IT in France?
Yes, academic and social scholarships are available, as well as university grants.

5. What are the employment prospects after completing a computer science and technology program in France?
High demand for IT specialists, many internships and vacancies in international companies.

6. When to apply for computer science and technology programs in France?
Applications for most programs must be submitted 6–12 months before the start of studies.

7. Which specialties are most in demand after completing a computer science and technology program in France?
The most in-demand specialties are programming, cybersecurity, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and software engineering.