Study Abroad
Learn more about study expenses and financial aid, living costs for international students and French scholarships for study abroad students in this article.

Study Expenses & Financial Aid In France

France is reputed in offering a vast curriculum in terms of higher studies. This is one the reason why it attracts numerous international students, every year. other factors such as culture, cuisine, fashion and student friendly environment also play a part in determining the inflow of students. But financial concerns and study expenses, weigh down heavily upon the minds of aspiring candidates. The tuition fee in France is much more affordable as compared to other countries such as the US, UK and even some European countries. The French Government until 2007 did not allow foreign students to work part-time. Today, there is more flexibility in terms of earning some quick money to finance expensive courses and programs. Grants and scholarships are also available to assist in the funding process. Given below, are a few details regarding expenses and financial aid in France.

Living Costs In France For International Students
  • The tuition fee is different for all universities and colleges in France. An approximate of €100 to €14,000 can be kept aside, depending on the course and institution. Professional courses and Grand Ecoles are much more expensive.
  • Accommodation costs can vary from €300 to €600 per month. Residences on campus/university-provided housing facilities are much lower in cost, around €200-€250 monthly.
  • Food expenses are €200 to €300 per month, transportation and other expenses could add up to €75 to €100 per month.
  • There is a compulsory medical insurance that you are expected to take which could cost anything between €130 and €700 per annum.
Financial Aid
The French Government provides many grants and scholarships to citizens. There are a limited number of funds, trusts and grants available for international students. They may be: French Government grants, grants by the Government of a native country or aid from international and non-Governmental organizations. These financial aids can be given either on the basis of need or merit. After the graduation, students are permitted to work for six months under the student visa and residency permit in France.

Part Time Jobs
After 2007, foreign students were allowed to work in France with a residency permit; but not for more than 20 hours a week. The minimum wage that can be earned is €7 an hour.

French Scholarships For Study Abroad Students
There are internal and external scholarships that are available in academic institutions in France. These can either be either partial or full. Here is a list of a few scholarships that students abroad can avail:
  • The Michaela Farnum Memorial Scholarship by International Studies Abroad Inc. (ISA)
  • Dr. Carlos E. Memorial Scholarship by International Studies Abroad Inc.
  • ISA Diversity Scholarship by International Studies Abroad Inc.
  • IES Abroad Excellence in a Foreign Language Scholarship by Institute for the International Education of Students.
  • GSE Summer Scholarship by Global Student Experience.
  • GSE Language Development Scholarship by Global Student Experience.
  • GSE Academic Scholarship by Global Student Experience.
  • Chateaubriand Fellowship by University of Illinois.
  • Boren Scholarships and fellowships by Boren Awards For International Study.
  • Arcadia University Gilman Scholarships.
  • Annette Kade Scholarships by International Student Exchange Program.
Hence, with all these provisions it is not very difficult to find a place in the universities, Grand Ecoles or other institutions in France. Study expenses, here, are affordable as compared to several other countries. So, if you really interested in pursuing higher education there then nothing can stop you!