Master's programs in France for international students

Formats and Levels of Master's Programs in France

The Master's system in France consists of two years of study and corresponds to the Master's degree under the Bologna system. Formally, it is divided into two levels:

• Master 1 (M1) – first year of study, foundation of theoretical knowledge.
• Master 2 (M2) – second year, with in-depth specialization and thesis work.

Main program formats:

• University Master's programs – academic programs with a focus on science and research.
• Grandes Écoles Master's programs – programs with enhanced practical training and career orientation.
• Business and engineering schools – focus on management, economics, technology, IT, and applied sciences.
• Dual degrees – joint programs with universities in other countries.

Top Universities for Master's Degrees in France

How to Apply for Master's Programs in France

Admission to Master's programs depends on the chosen institution and language of instruction. Main steps:

1. Choosing a program and university.
2. Submitting an application – through the university website or the MonMaster platform (for public universities).
3. Submitting a motivation letter and recommendation letters.
4. Providing a language certificate (depending on the program's language).
5. Completing an interview (if required).
6. Waiting for the decision and applying for a visa.

Application deadlines – usually from November to March. Some universities accept applications until May-June.

Documents for Master's Admission in France

Standard list of documents:

• Bachelor's diploma with supplement and translation into French/English.
• High school diploma.
• Passport.
• Resume (CV).
• Motivation letter.
• 1–2 recommendation letters.
• Language certificate (DELF/DALF, IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo).
• Additional documents upon request (portfolio, projects, publications).

Some programs require passing tests: GMAT or GRE (for business and economics programs).

Tuition Fees for Master's Programs in France

Prices vary depending on the type of institution:

• Public universities – from €3,770 per year for international students.
• Business schools and Grandes Écoles – from €10,000 to €25,000 per year.

Additional expenses:

• Accommodation: €400–€800 per month.
• Food: €200–€300 per month.
• Transportation: €20–€70 per month (student pass).
• Health insurance: about €200 per year.
• Study materials and fees: up to €500 per year.

Total budget for studies and living – from €900 to €1,500 per month.

Scholarships and Grants for Master's Programs in France

France offers various forms of financial support:

1. Academic scholarships – for excellent academic achievements, test results, publications, and active participation in academic life.
2. Financial aid – based on family income analysis, especially for students from developing countries and low-income families.
3. Motivation and personal qualities scholarships – considers volunteer work, leadership qualities, project participation.
4. University grants – internal competitions, terms and amounts depend on the university. Typically cover up to 100% of tuition or living expenses.

Scholarship application deadlines – from November to March. It is recommended to start preparing documents in advance.

Language of Instruction and Preparation for Master's Admission

• French language – requires DELF B2 / DALF C1 certificate.
• English language – IELTS from 6.0, TOEFL from 80, Duolingo from 100.

Preparation is possible both remotely and at university language centers. Popular preparatory courses (préparation aux études de master) include specialized vocabulary, academic writing, and adaptation to the French education system.

Career Prospects After Master's Studies in France

A French Master's degree is a step towards a successful career. Programs include mandatory internships, company projects, and career counseling.

Most in-demand fields:

• IT and engineering – specialists needed in international technology companies.
• Business and finance – banking sector, audit, consulting.
• International relations and law – work in NGOs, international organizations.
• Ecology and sustainable development – growing demand for specialists.

Many students receive job offers before completing their Master's. After graduation, a one-year residence permit can be obtained for job searching (APS).

Graduates of French Master's programs are welcomed by both national and international employers. Specialists who studied at leading universities and Grandes Écoles are particularly in demand. Depending on specialization, students are invited by:

• Airbus, Dassault Systèmes, Thales, Schneider Electric, Alstom – work in aerospace, mechanical and energy engineering.
• Michelin, TotalEnergies, Valeo, Safran, Saint-Gobain – positions in supply chain management, production projects, and process automation.
• Capgemini, Atos, Orange, Ubisoft, Dassault Systèmes, Sopra Steria, OVHcloud – positions in programming, cybersecurity, data analytics, project management.
• BNP Paribas, Société Générale, AXA, KPMG, EY, Mazars, Deloitte, L'Oréal Finance – positions in corporate finance, audit, analytics, risk management.
• LVMH, Chanel, Hermès, Kering (includes Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Balenciaga) – fields in marketing, brand management, sustainable development, digital transformation in fashion.
• EDF, Engie, Veolia, TotalEnergies, Suez – specialists needed in environmental management, sustainable development, and alternative energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I enroll in a Master's program in France without knowing French?
Yes, there are many programs in English, especially in business, engineering, and IT.

2. Do I need to take GMAT or GRE for Master's admission in France?
Only for certain programs, most often in management and economics.

3. Can I work while studying for a Master's in France?
Yes, students are allowed to work up to 964 hours per year (about 20 hours per week).

4. What scholarships are available for Master's studies in France?
There are academic, social, motivational scholarships, as well as university grants. Terms and amounts depend on the university.

5. Are French Master's diplomas recognized in other countries?
Yes, diplomas from French universities are recognized in all European countries and most countries worldwide.

6. Are there age restrictions for Master's admission in France?
There are no official restrictions, but most students are aged 22 to 30.

7. How long does a Master's program last in France?
Standard duration is 2 years, with accelerated formats sometimes available.