France ranks third amongst the destinations most sought after by students, behind the United States and Great Britain, and in a tie with Germany.

Inexpensive High-Quality Education

Some 245 000 international students complete part of their higher education in France, accounting for more than one out of every ten students. At the post-graduate level, one out of every four students comes from abroad. Furthermore, the percentage of international students in scientific degree programmes is particularly high (12% at the graduate level and 26.4% at the post-graduate level). The reason behind this success is the quality of the teaching itself and the often very low cost of education.
Over half of the international students enrolled in universities in 2003-2004 were originally from French-speaking African countries, specifically Morocco and Algeria (one out of four). One-fourth of the international students were European, but there are also many Vietnamese, South Koreans, Japanese, Lebanese, Syrian, Turkish or American students.

Start Gathering Information At Least One Year in Advance

Before making the leap, it is vital to request information from the specialised organisations . In addition, while your education will cost you but a small fee , it is essential that you set out your budget for living in France in advance. Housing can become an obstacle to the success of your stay, as it will probably make up the bulk of your expenses, especially if you intend to live in Paris. If you plan to apply for a scholarship , you should know that it is essential to do so several months in advance. At the same time, coming to France also means speaking French . If there is one aspect not to overlook, it is the language, especially as admission to most educational programmes requires passing French language exams. You will also have to give thought to one fundamental question: which educational programme you want to take (in a university ), in an engineering school , or on your own, or through an exchange programme . All in all, plan on at least one year to prepare!

Once in France

Upon arriving, you will of course have to go through a number of administrative procedures , plus adapt to your new environment and to the French educational system. A number of guidance structures are there to help you. Housing will, once again, be one of your main concerns, as well immersion in the French language . And you will test the budget you planned, on the filed. You might find you need to get a student job to supplement your income.