Tourism and Hospitality Programs in France for International Students

Advantages of studying tourism and hospitality programs in France

France is one of the world's leading countries in the field of tourism and hospitality. With an annual tourist flow of over 90 million people and developed hospitality infrastructure, the country offers unique conditions for obtaining education in this field. Studying in France gives students access to internationally recognized programs, modern service standards, as well as internship opportunities in renowned companies.

Main advantages include:

• International recognition of French diplomas
• Access to best practices in tourism and hotel industry
• Wide selection of programs in English and French
• High level of professional training and internships
• Rich cultural environment and opportunity to learn French

Formats and levels of tourism and hospitality programs in France

French educational institutions offer various formats and levels of training for international students:

• Bachelor's degree (3 years) - basic higher education providing theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
• Master's degree (1-2 years) - in-depth study of the industry, specializations and research work.
• MBA and Executive MBA - programs for professionals with work experience, focused on management in the industry.
• Short-term courses and certificates - programs lasting from several weeks to several months, suitable for professional development.
• Summer schools - intensive programs combining study and cultural exchange.

Top universities and schools for tourism and hospitality in France

*Rankings are based on international and European academic assessments in "tourism and hospitality".

How to apply for tourism and hospitality programs in France

You can apply to programs either by direct application to the university, or through Campus France or Parcoursup platforms.

Main application stages:

1. Program and university selection.
2. Document collection.
3. Online application submission.
4. Interview (if required).
5. Receiving invitation and visa processing.

Documents for applying to tourism and hospitality programs in France

International students will need:

• School certificate or diploma of previous education with supplement
• Language exam certificates: DELF/DALF/TCF - for French programs or TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo - for English programs.
• Motivation letter or essay
• Recommendation letters (1-2 letters)
• Passport with sufficient validity period
• Resume (CV)
• Portfolio (for some programs)
• Current digital photo

Tuition fees for tourism and hospitality programs in France

Cost depends on program level and institution:

• Bachelor's: from 2,770 to 15,000 euros per year
• Master's: from 3,770 to 20,000 euros per year
• MBA and Executive MBA: from 15,000 to 35,000 euros per year
• Certificate programs: from 2,000 to 7,000 euros

Estimated living expenses:

• Housing: from 400 to 1,200 euros per month (depending on region)
• Food: about 300 euros per month
• Transport: student pass about 30-70 euros per month
• Health insurance: about 200-400 euros per year

Scholarships and grants for tourism and hospitality programs in France

Academic scholarships

• Scholarships for academic excellence from universities
• Incentive programs for top students with excellent results

Financial aid

• Scholarships based on family financial situation
• Partial or full coverage of tuition and living costs

Special scholarships

• Scholarships for students from CIS countries, including Russia, from certain universities
• Grants for cultural exchange and professional internships

University grants

• Vatel Scholarship: up to 50% tuition coverage
• Institut Paul Bocuse Excellence Grant: up to 30% of cost
• Ferrandi Financial Aid Program: individual assistance packages

Selection criteria include:

• Academic performance
• Motivation and study goals
• Proficiency in French or English
• Socio-economic status

Application deadlines:

• Usually 6-9 months before program start
• Specific dates depend on program and institution

Career prospects after studying tourism and hospitality in France

French programs are known for strong practical components and industry connections. After graduation, alumni are in demand in France and abroad.

In-demand specialties:

• Hotel and resort management
• Tour operator activities
• Event organization (MICE)
• Culinary and restaurant management
• Tourism economics and tourism project development

Employer companies:

• Accor Hotels
• Club Med
• Louvre Hotels Group
• Disneyland Paris
• Air France (in hospitality sector)
• Relais & Châteaux

Internships and practical training are included in most programs and allow gaining experience during studies.

Is it worth studying tourism and hospitality programs in France?

Studying tourism and hospitality in France is an investment in international career and quality education in one of the world's most attractive countries. France offers competitive education at prices lower than many European countries and the US. Among the advantages:

• Accessibility of international programs
• High quality training
• Real internships in renowned companies
• Opportunity to combine studies with learning French culture

Comparison with other countries:

• Cost is higher in UK, Switzerland and US
• Fewer international career opportunities in Spain and Italy
• France - optimal choice for price/quality/prospects ratio

Frequently asked questions

1. Is it possible to enroll in tourism and hospitality programs in France without French language knowledge?
Yes, many programs are available in English, especially master's and MBA.

2. What language exams are required for admission to tourism and hospitality programs in France?
For French programs - DELF, DALF or TCF, for English programs - TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo.

3. How much does it cost to study tourism and hospitality programs in France?
From 2,770 to 35,000 euros depending on level and institution.

4. Are there scholarships for international students from Russia and CIS for tourism and hospitality programs in France?
Yes, there are academic, financial and special scholarships provided by universities.

5. How long are bachelor's and master's programs in tourism and hospitality in France?
Bachelor's - 3 years, master's - 1-2 years.

6. What are employment prospects after completing tourism and hospitality programs in France?
Graduates are in demand in major international hotel and tourism companies.

7. Can students work part-time while studying in France?
Yes, international students are allowed part-time work up to 964 hours per year (20 hours per week).