Levels of education in France. Education in France for children, schoolchildren, students

Higher education in France combines a number of qualities that attract students from all over the world: a high level of teaching, the opportunity to receive education for free at public universities and apply for government grants.

Types of educational institutions in France

The French higher education system is represented by three main types of higher education institutions: universities, Écoles Supérieures and Specialized Schools.

Classical universities

There are 85 public universities in France. A specialty can be obtained at regular faculties, and some specialties can be obtained at specialized institutes at universities.

To enter French universities, you do not need to pass entrance exams, although this may be required to enter a specialty at a specialized institute at the university.

As a 3rd year student, you can continue your studies at a French university at the Lisans 3 (L3) level and receive a bachelor's degree. Having a diploma of higher education, you can enroll in a master's program in the first year of Master 1 (M1) or the second year of Master 2 (M2), as well as in doctoral studies.

When entering the second year of a master's degree, you may have to undergo an interview with the university admissions committee.

Higher schools

Some specialties in France can only be obtained in small specialized universities, called “Higher Schools” (Grandes Ecoles).

They are focused on practical training of students in a specific industry, so they have well-established close ties with enterprises and line ministries. They produce engineers, managers for business and government agencies, teachers, and specialists in the field of information technology.

Studying at higher schools is considered more prestigious. Every year they accept a small number of candidates and the requirements for them are very high.

Unlike universities, you can enter them only after passing the entrance exams. Our students can enter here after the 4th year. Higher schools are public or private, and education here is only paid.

Specialized schools

Specialized schools do not provide a broad education like universities or high schools. Their strong point is narrow-profile education.

Architects, artists, designers, actors, film directors, journalists, culinary specialists, specialists in tourism and hotel business, as well as social workers are trained within their walls.

Admission to Specialized Schools is based on the results of entrance exams or a portfolio competition. Specialized schools are also public and private.

Requirements for admission to universities in France

All candidates from abroad must speak the language of instruction at a level of at least B2. To enroll in programs where instruction is conducted in French, you must pass the TCF or DELF/DALF test.You can find out about the location of French language tests in Russia on the website francomania.ru.

To enroll in France to study in English, you must pass TOEFL or IELTS. Candidates entering commerce schools are required to obtain a TAGE-MAGE or GMAT certificate.

There is no system for determining the equivalence of educational documents in France - each university itself determines the requirements for candidates and makes a decision on their preparedness to study at a given university.

Therefore, specific requirements must be found on the website of the selected university.

Cost of studying in France

Thanks to government subsidies, the cost of studying at public universities in France comes down to just paying the registration fee - on average 250 euros per year. But for that kind of money, it will most likely be possible to get an education in French.

Additionally, an annual contribution to the social insurance fund is paid - about 200 euros.

Tuition fees in Higher Schools range from 500 to 20,000 euros per year, and in Specialized Schools - from 250 to 13,000 euros per year.

Submission of documents

The application process should begin by choosing a study program and university in France in online catalog on the website of CampusFrance, a government information center on higher education in France.

This website describes in detail how to choose a French university, so we won’t dwell on this.French universities may have their own application deadlines.

Usually, the introductory campaignstarts in December-January (or March) And ends at the end of April-May. To clarify the deadlines and procedure for submitting documents, you should visit the website of the university of interest.

There are two ways to submit documents: using the online Pastel system at campusfrance.org or through the cultural department of the French Embassy in your country (for countries that are not connected to the Pastel system).

Filing documents using Pastel

Submitting documents to French universities through the online system is available to citizens of a number of countries, the list of which includes Russia. For citizens of other countries of the former Soviet Union, this opportunity is not yet available.

The Pastel system at each stage of document submission suggests what needs to be done next and accompanies the entire process, from registering for a language test to enrolling in a French university and obtaining a student visa.

Admissions committees of French universities receive candidate dossiers through this system, can request additional documents through local CampusFrance offices, and send candidates notifications of preliminary admission.

The application process begins with registration and filling out an online application.

An autobiography (CV), educational documents with a notarized translation into French, a motivation letter, a certificate of proficiency in the language of instruction, a copy of a foreign passport, a copy of a work book or a certificate from the place of work with a notarized translation into French (for working).

The online application is considered completed after paying the registration fee and completing an interview with a CampusFrance representative. The interview takes place in Russian if a certificate of passing the language exam is presented.

At the interview, they ask about your previous studies and work, and why you decided to study in France.

Submitting documents directly to the university

If it is not possible to submit documents from your country through the Pastel system or the university you have chosen is not connected to it, then the documents are sent directly to the French university.

The procedure in this case is as follows: you need to go to the website of the French university and find a form for pre-registrationDossier de candidature or Dossier de validation des acquis .

If it is not on the website, then you should request it and they will send you a paper application form by mail, which you must fill out and send to the university with the necessary package of documents before the specified date.

The university may also have its own online application system. Then you simply register, fill out an online form and upload electronic copies of accompanying documents.

After receiving a notification from the university about preliminary enrollment, you must still register in the Pastel system and undergo an interview with a representativeCampus France. Only after this will it be possible to apply for a student visa.

Finding funding

To obtain a student visa, you must show that you have sufficient funds to cover the costs of studying and living in France.

If you don't have a few thousand euros a year to cover the costs, one important step is to obtain grant funding.

A grant can be obtained from the French university itself. To do this, go to the appropriate section of the website of the selected university and find out about existing opportunities.

In addition, you should register on the website http://www.bgfrussie.ru, through which you can apply for scholarships from the French government for foreign students.

You can also get an education in France through the Erasmus program. To stay up to date with all funding opportunities, we recommend that you visit the online grant directory frequently. CampusBourse.

Student visa to France

Student admission decisions are announced approximatelyJune-August and until September. After a positive review of your documents by the admissions committee, you will be sent a notification of preliminary admission.

Based on this document, you can apply for a long-term student visa at the French Embassy. The procedure for obtaining a visa can be found on the website of the French Embassy in your country or on the websiteFrench Visa Application Centre.

Student housing in France

Student dormitories

French public universities do not have their own dormitories. The resettlement of students is handled by national and regional support centers CNOUS/CROUS.

The cost of living in CROUS dormitories is120-350 euros per month. The number of places here is limited and they are primarily provided to scholarship holders of the French government.

It is recommended to submit an application for housing on the website 6-7 months before the start of the academic year,from January 15 to April 30, i.e. before entering university. This is especially true for those who are planning to study in Paris.

Private universities and higher schools often have their own dormitories, but space in them is also limited, so they are usually reserved for incoming foreign students.

Cost of living from250-350 euros per month. Information about living in a dormitory should be read on the website of educational institutions.

Private dormitories

Private dormitories are more expensive than CROUS dormitories, but they are also more comfortable. The cost of living here will be400-700 euros per month, depending on the region of France.

You can find all the information about private hostels on the website www.adele.org.

Additionally, you can use the information on the websites www.lamyresidences.com, www.estudines.fr and www.leclubetudiant.com.

Private housing

Searching for housing in the private sector while outside of France is quite difficult, since there is no opportunity to see the apartment in person and, moreover, the owners require guarantees.

Offers in the private sector can be found on the CROUS website, as well as on www.alouer.com, www.monadresse.fr, www.sejoursfrancefamille.fr, www.immostreet.com.

Average rental cost400-700 euros per month. To save money, many students prefer to rent a large apartment or private house together.

There are special websites to find neighbors, for example: www.appartager.com, www.easycoloc.fr, www.colocation.fr.

Housing subsidies

Students are eligible to apply for government rental subsidies even in the private sector. Thanks to government assistance, you can save 40-60%.

To do this, you need to submit documents to a special institution “Family Assistance Fund” - C.A.F.

Oncampus expert. Graduate of the master's program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (USA) and the graduate program at Oxford University (England). Fellow of the international academic programs Edmund Muskie Graduate Fellowship and Chevening Scholarship.

France is among the top 10 countries that offer the highest quality and, best of all, quite affordable education. More than 80 universities offer various educational programs not only in the most popular academic areas, but also in highly specialized ones.

Education system in France

The French educational system is different from the Russian one. At the age of 3, children go to kindergarten, where preparation for school immediately begins: kids are taught etiquette, reading, writing and other key skills. Primary school (from 6 to 11 years old) includes a preparatory course, two primary and two secondary courses. Next, children enter college, where they have to go through several cycles: adaptation (grades 6 and 5), orientation (grades 4 and 3) and a professional cycle (grades 2 and 1). At the end of the third year of college, students must decide which diploma they will receive at the lyceum: bachelor (3 years) or professional (2 years). The first is valued more, as it provides the opportunity to enter university immediately after graduation. If you have a professional diploma, you will need to study for another year at the lyceum in order to pass the bachelor's exam.

Higher education in France involves long (5-8 years) and short (2 years) periods of study. The advantage of the second is quick employment and saving time on study, and the first is the opportunity to get a higher-paid and more prestigious position. Anyone who chooses the long cycle is required to obtain a general education diploma within 2 years, then take a license (1 year) and mastery (1 year) course to decide on a specialty. Next, students study in detail the chosen direction and undergo practical training, and after exams they receive a diploma of higher specialized education (French MBA) or a diploma of in-depth study and research, which is given after defending a scientific work. Then, as in Russia, you can go to graduate school for 3-4 years.

In addition to universities, there are higher schools - Grandes Écoles. It is very prestigious to study there, because it is their graduates who occupy senior positions in large companies.

Schools in France

Secondary education in France is compulsory and free for all citizens and is divided into three periods:

• adaptation period (6th and 5th grade): graduates of kindergartens enter there without any tests, choose a foreign language that they will learn, unite in classes and systematize previously acquired knowledge.
• central period (5th and 4th grade): emphasis on foreign languages, physics and chemistry, schoolchildren begin to decide on their future profession and choose a lyceum.
• vocational guidance (3rd grade): students purposefully prepare for admission and take an exam based on the results.

In France, all schools are divided into public and private, and there are also boarding schools. Public schools are free for everyone, including non-citizens. However, foreigners are accepted there extremely reluctantly and mainly in high schools, since in this case the administration must take on the functions of the student’s formal guardian. To enroll, you will need to pass a French language test (to the highest possible score), write a motivation letter and undergo an interview. It is possible that they will also be required to pass exams in key subjects. In private schools, everything is simpler: if you have basic knowledge of French, everyone is accepted into any class. Tuition there costs from 15,000 EUR per year, while in the state one you will only need to pay for textbooks. Prices on the page are as of August 2018.

France for students

Higher education in France

To enter a French university, you do not need to pass exams. Upon completion of school, graduates receive a Baccalaureat Francais (BAC) diploma of secondary education, which gives them the right to enroll in a university. The university only provides an interview. Foreign applicants can be enrolled immediately after school and with a certificate, but they will face a more serious test (interview, language test, letters of recommendation) than the French. Admission is subject to availability of places, and at prestigious universities like the Sorbonne there are not so many of them compared to those interested. But often Russian universities cooperate with universities in other countries, which facilitates the procedure for transferring students to study abroad.

Higher schools in France are very strong and are valued on the world market, while the most popular faculties are medical, legal, pedagogical and journalism faculties.

The best schools in France are considered to be “New Sorbonne” and “Pantheon Sorbonne”, as well as “Paris-1”, “Paris-2”, “Paris-5”, “Paris-6”, “Paris-9”. These are proven universities that have been producing excellent specialists for several decades.

Universities, like secondary schools, are public and private. State universities provide approximately 30% of budget-funded places to applicants; the rest of the education is paid. Studying at a state university will cost approximately 150-500 EUR per year, this is the registration fee, all other expenses are paid by the state, students are also entitled to a scholarship (approximately 100 EUR per month). In private universities, tuition costs from 10,000 to 20,000 EUR per year, depending on the chosen specialty, per year of study.

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Required documents

• a certificate translated into French and notarized or a certificate from the university
• certificate confirming proficiency in French DELF/DALF and TCF
• autobiography
• motivation letter

University of Nantes

The University of Nantes, where about 45 thousand students study, is one of the honorable five largest and most respected universities in France. Despite its relatively short history - the modern university was founded in 1961 - the university can boast of an excellent quality of education.



University of Toulouse

A worthy rival of the Sorbonne in terms of quality of education and the owner of a long and proud history of studies, the University of Toulouse annually opens its doors to more than 70 thousand students from all over the world. In fact, these are seven separate higher educational institutions, united under the glorious name of the University of Toulouse.

Language schools in France

You can come to France to learn a language for any period from 7 days, but as a rule, the course lasts 2-4 weeks. Language schools offer both basic conversational French and intensive French, specialized courses for doctors and nurses, tourism workers and teachers, as well as training combined with cooking courses, horse riding and other entertainment. A one-week French course costs from 300 EUR. Courses lasting 2-4 weeks will cost 1000-4000 EUR, depending on the duration and intensity of the program.

The standard program includes approximately 20 lessons of 45 minutes per week, the intensive program - up to 30 lessons. Based on the results of entrance testing, groups of 6-8 people are formed at school (according to age and level of knowledge).

In the center of Paris, Rueil Malmaison is considered one of the best schools, and on the Cote d'Azur, AzurLingua and CentreInternationalD'Antibes are the most popular schools.

Education systems in different countries

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Language courses, exchange programs, preschool, secondary and higher education on equal terms with the local population - this is the range of opportunities for foreigners who want to study in France.

As a member of the European Union and having signed the Bologna Agreement, France has adapted its education system to European requirements. The low price of training here is effectively combined with truly high quality.

The education system in the country consists of the following elements:

1. preschool education in France;
2. primary school;
3. average;
4. higher education.

Preschool education in France, by the way, is very successful and successful. Kindergartens actively develop children and are tailored to the needs of parents. School education lasts from 6 to 18 years. Children receive primary and secondary education free of charge.

Citizens of the CIS countries are primarily interested in higher education in France. Obviously, this is simply explained by the fact that by the time a person enters a university, he has gained enough life experience and is able to independently take responsibility for his actions. Plus, we should not forget that students are one of the most dynamic and mobile social groups.

Benefits of studying in France

Higher education in France has long roots and an established tradition. Attracting students from different countries is part of a tradition that modern French authorities are trying to support as much as possible.

About ten percent of migrant students study at French universities (about 125,000 foreigners). The country ranks third in the world ranking of countries in terms of the number of foreign students.

Besides:

• French universities offer such a wide range of areas, specialties and specializations that there is hardly one that cannot be found here;
• higher education in France is characterized by significant flexibility and mobility, which cannot be said about Russian universities or in other CIS countries;
• studying at the university is divided into three cycles, each of which ends with a diploma;
  very low cost of education, comparable to the most inexpensive universities in Russia and CIS member countries;
  availability of discounts and benefits for students;
• studying in France is not limited to its borders - there is an opportunity to participate in international programs and undergo internships in European companies;
• high standard of living and social security in the country;
• Its excellent geographical location in the center of Europe allows French students to easily visit many EU countries.

Structure of higher education in France

Studying in France is based on two cycles:

1. short;
2. long.

The first diploma is provided in a short cycle after 2 years of study at a general or technical university. According to the long cycle, students receive their first diploma - Lisans (which is already an analogue of a bachelor's degree) in three years.

The second stage of higher education in the country also provides the opportunity to obtain various diplomas:

• Master 1 – year of study (analogous to a specialist diploma);
• Master 2 – two years of study (analogous to a master’s degree) – gives the right to scientific activity.

The last educational step is obtaining a doctorate. This can be accomplished in 3-6 years.

In addition to the three classical levels of European education, France provides a number of additional levels that correspond to various qualifications in various professions and areas of study.

Training takes place in the following educational institutions:

1. Higher schools;
2. Specialized schools;
3. Universities.

French educational institutions, trying to provide equal conditions for foreigners as citizens, offer many English-language programs. You can learn French in special courses or simply in a language environment. Knowledge of the official language is no longer a barrier for many foreigners wishing to become French students.

Tuition fees

Higher education is provided primarily by state educational institutions. Studying there is very cheap by the standards of both Europeans and the views of Russians and other citizens of post-Soviet countries.

The cost of studying at the university starts from $600 per year. Private universities and higher schools may charge significantly higher tuition fees.

Tuition fees, however, do not limit the cost of studying in France. Don’t forget that you will need funds for living expenses, operating expenses, and transportation. To live in France for the period of study, a student can choose one of the following options:

• Dormitories;
• Private dormitories;
• Rent of rooms and apartments.

Special public organizations are involved in the resettlement of students in France. Most universities do not have their own dormitories at all. Spaces are naturally limited. Scholarship holders from the government of the country have priority for accommodation. Even before admission, you need to consider housing options and apply for a dormitory early (6-7 months before the start of the academic year). Private hostels are slightly more expensive. The price of living in them reaches 400-700 euros per month. At the same time, as a rule, the conditions in them are a level higher. You can find housing in the private sector (room/apartment) on the Internet, but the problem is that it is impossible to see it in person. Renting such housing will cost even more, however, there is an opportunity to cooperate with other students during their studies.

The state makes it possible to save on living costs through subsidies for students. The government reimburses up to 60 percent of rental costs (even in the private sector).

The amount of funds needed varies greatly by location and region. Spending on accommodation and food in Paris, for example, amounts to about 10 thousand euros annually. In other settlements, the amounts for similar needs may be two or more times less.

Insurance must be taken into account as a mandatory expense item. If insurance is inappropriate or does not exist at all, all significant costs for medications, hospitalization and treatment will fall on the student’s shoulders.

To partially or fully cover expenses on their own, students are given the opportunity to work in parallel with their studies. Students can obtain a work permit starting from the second year of study. You are allowed to work part-time - up to 20 hours per week. It is worth considering that it is very difficult for non-EU citizens to obtain the right to work.

Prospects

A big advantage that opens up wide opportunities for students is the close connection between education and practice. Mandatory internships allow you to study the profession in depth and learn to use the acquired knowledge in real production or other activities. In view of this, it is quite easy for students to find a job after receiving the appropriate diploma. For example, after graduating from universities with an agricultural focus, graduates get jobs in a very short time.

A significant proportion of graduates find work and get a job even before graduating from university and receiving a diploma. France has developed assistance for graduates in finding employment. It is provided by both government agencies and public organizations. In addition, a European-style diploma allows you to find employment not only in enterprises of the country.

Thus, France is very welcoming to international students. Here you can get a very inexpensive (almost free by European standards) and high-quality vocational education. When choosing a university, you should consider its location. After all, future expenses for accommodation, food and other expenses of the student will depend on this. Free housing is not provided, however, you can get a subsidy that covers a significant part of the costs.

The multi-level education system allows you to reach the required level and after that find yourself in practical activities.

Attention! Due to recent changes in legislation, the legal information in this article may be out of date!

Our lawyer can advise you free of charge - write your question in the form below:

French higher education is recognized as one of the best not only in Europe, but throughout the world. This country is home to a huge number of universities. But in order to enter a university and become a student, you need to know some nuances.

How the higher education system works in France

This system is presented in the form of technological institutes, higher schools and universities. In France there are more than 80 public universities, and there are private ones. A higher education course can be divided into several courses. The latter is analogous to graduate school. The training stages are as follows:

• Basic - training lasts 2 years.
• Additional. Based on its results, the student receives a bachelor's degree. Requires 3-4 years.
• Master's degree. Lasts one year.
• Postgraduate studies. Lasts up to four years.

First cycle

It is called a “short” cycle of higher education, which is attended by high school graduates. It lasts two years and prepares students to obtain a DEUG (diploma of general university education indicating the relevant field of knowledge), after which real and quick employment is possible.

Training can be completed in departments of higher technical education in lyceums in France (diploma of higher technical education - BTS (brevet de technicien superieur); in technological institutes (university technological diploma DUT (diplome universitaire de technologie); in universities that train engineers (diploma of natural science and technical university education - Diplome d "Etudes Universitaires Scientifiques et Techniques, DEUST); in specialized schools in the fields of health and social services.

Second cycle

Designed to expand and deepen the knowledge acquired during the first two years of study at a French university and prepares for obtaining a license within one year after DEUG and maitrise (year after licence).

After 1 year - a licentiate diploma is issued, after 2 years - a master's diploma. An engineering diploma usually requires five years of training, which can be carried out according to two schemes: continuous five-year training based on secondary school or three-year (final) training based on the first cycle.

Third cycle

It involves an in-depth study of the chosen specialty and is accompanied by independent scientific work, the topic of which applicants with a maitrise degree are required to formulate before entering the program. Those who successfully complete this stage are issued a Diploma of Specialized Higher Education (DESS), which is a professional diploma, or a Diploma of Advanced Education (DEA), which allows them to continue scientific research in doctoral studies and obtain a doctorate degree (Doctorat de Nouveau Regime) (corresponding to the Russian Candidate of Sciences).

It is important to note that obtaining medical education is not divided into cycles. After six years of study in hospital medical centers, students undergo a competition for a specialized internship, which allows them to become a medical specialist, or receive a diploma in “general medicine” through a competition after two years of study.

The student chooses the bar for himself. Some complete their studies after receiving a basic diploma, while others choose to enroll in graduate school. Higher education in France is represented by public and private institutions. State schools provide free training not only to French citizens, but also to foreigners. However, a state fee must be paid every year: it varies from 100 to 800 euros depending on the university. If it belongs to the private category, training can be paid, and can reach several thousand euros per year.

How to enter a university in France

The applicant must decide in what language the training will take place. Programs are available in English and French. It is necessary to confirm knowledge of the language. If you choose French, you must pass the DELF/DALF exam. Which one is required is specified according to the chosen direction. Knowledge of the language must be at least level B1. To confirm English proficiency, take an exam or. You need to score 6.0-7.0 points in IELTS or 78-95 points in TOEFL. To live in this country you need to know French.

In addition to the above certificates, a certificate or diploma is submitted to the admissions committee. The certificate is required for a bachelor's degree. The diploma is attached to the general documents upon admission to the master's program. They are translated into a foreign language and certified by a notary.

The French do not take entrance exams, but people from Russia will have to pass entrance tests. They are published on the university website. Additionally, you need to go through an interview, during which research assistants try to find out the applicant’s plans for the future and his goals in his professional activity.

Some universities require applicants to write a letter of motivation, letters of recommendation, which also briefly outline the goals of admission and the reasons for choosing a particular specialty. Submitted documents are reviewed until a certain date, then applicants are sent a response whether the university accepts it or not. It is also better to choose French to write a motivation letter.

Universities in France

Studying at French universities is considered prestigious throughout the world. The most famous establishments in the country are:

• Paris Sorbonne University(University de Paris). Founded in 1253. It offers many areas of study, ranging from tourism and social specialties to economics and finance. Education is free, you need to pay a fee, which differs depending on the faculty. On average it is 300-500 euros per year.


• Paris-Dauphine University(Université Paris-Dauphine). This is an economic university founded in 1968. Almost 10 thousand students study here. This is a non-state university, for a year of study you need to pay 10 thousand euros. It is one of the most prestigious.


• University of Montpellier(University of Montpellier). It is state-owned; for a year of study you need to pay a fee, which is 100-300 euros. Medicine, natural sciences, and humanities are taught here.


• University of Strasbourg(Université de Strasbourg). To study, it is enough to pay only a fee of 200-400 euros. Founded in 1538. Here you can study chemistry, biology, geology, astronomy, sociology and law.


• University of Picardy(University of Picardie). Founded in 1970. Refers to state universities, tuition is free. The fee varies depending on the chosen destination and is 300-400 euros per year.


• University of Lyon(Université de Lyon). Is one of the largest. There are about 127 thousand students. Medicine, natural sciences, and philology are taught here. law and economics. A huge number of specialties are represented. It was founded in 1809 and is a government agency. The amount of the fee needs to be clarified, it all depends on the chosen specialty. Usually does not exceed 500-600 euros per year.


• University of Nantes(Université de Nantes). Located in the city of the same name, founded back in 1460. Three main areas are represented: humanities, natural sciences, and law. Programs are presented for training bachelors, masters, and graduate students. This is a state university, which means paying only a fee of 100-500 euros.

Higher education in France for Russians

The admission procedure for Russians does not differ from the admission conditions for the French. Documents required:

• Photocopy of pages 3 and 4 of the passport.
• Application for admission. (The application form is available on the university website).
• Certificate of language proficiency. (TCF, TEF, DELF, TOEFL, IELTS).
• Birth certificate. Translated into English or French upon request. (Certificat de naissance).
• Certificate or diploma with grades. It is advisable to translate it into French. (Diplôme de fin d'études secondaires complètes, Diplôme de Bakalavre).

Documents in French:

• Resume - CV.
• Motivation letter - Lettre de motivation.
• Letters of recommendation - Lettres de recommandation.
• French language exams: TCF, TEF, DELF, DALF.

The main difference is confirmation of language knowledge. Otherwise, the procedure is similar: documents are submitted, then the applicant undergoes an interview. If the faculty provides entrance examinations, he prepares for them and passes them. Based on the results of the interview and the documents provided, the university decides whether to enroll the applicant or not. Usually, after 2-3 months, a response comes from the institution, which states whether the citizen has entered or not.

Tuition prices vary. If a private educational institute is chosen, on average a person will spend 10-15 thousand euros per year. If you choose a state university, there is no tuition fee. Only a fee of 200-800 euros per year is paid. It is different for each institution. The more prestigious the establishment, the higher the fee.

In addition to tuition fees, the student will have to pay for housing. Many establishments provide dormitories. They pay 200-300 euros a month. Some students rent housing, but this is more expensive, costing 500-700 euros per month. On average, 300-500 euros per month will be spent on food, but it all depends on the person’s preferences and the amount of food consumed. Some students actively move around the city during their studies. you will need a travel pass. Its cost is 50-100 euros per month. In large cities it is more expensive.

Second higher education

Russian citizens can study in France as part of a second higher education. They are enrolled in the 2-3rd year and submit identical documents as applicants for their first higher education. The conditions are identical, the only difference is that you need to provide a full transcript of your diploma with all grades and number of hours.

This level is available to those who have a bachelor's degree. Education remains free; additional grants are provided to talented applicants. If he wins the grant, then he will be paid a monthly stipend that will cover housing costs.

How to get higher education for free

A free option for obtaining higher education in France is possible if a person has entered a state university or won a grant from a particular university. Grants are published annually on university websites with all requirements and deadlines for submitting documents. The most talented applicants receive grants. In addition to free education, they receive a scholarship that covers all expenses.

Pros and cons

There are many advantages of getting an education in this country.:

• Higher education in France is provided free of charge to foreigners.
• Payment for hostel and food is relatively low compared to other European countries.
• A French diploma is valued all over the world. Getting an education in this country is prestigious.
• The package of documents is small.
• You can study in English, not only in French. This is a nice feature of education if a person does not know French.

Despite the advantages, there are also disadvantages. These include the need to pass language exams, translation of documents into French in accordance with GOST and certain standards, and payment of state fees. No further disadvantages have been identified.

1. French educational institutions have a very high expulsion rate. It reaches 70% in some universities. This means that students are expected to take their studies seriously.


2. There are very few student dormitories. It is believed that only selected, most talented students live in dormitories. Foreigners should prepare themselves in advance to search for housing.


3. Universities do not have a 5-point grading system, but a 20-point one. Passing score 10, corresponds to a three; 12-15 points - four; 16-18 points is a five. It is very rare to score above 18 points; this is an A plus. 1% of students receive it.


4. France offers a huge discount on travel passes for students. You can buy it for a month for 10 cents for all types of transport.


5. Exams at universities are only written, there are no oral ones.


6. During classes, students do not respond verbally, but only listen and write down information.


7. Higher school (Grandes Écoles), unlike the university, is more strict towards applicants. Only the most talented can enter it.


8. France is an attractive country for foreigners. It allows you to get education for free, with a minimum package of documents.

Education in France begins at the age of 2-3, when children attend kindergartens. The basic cycle begins at age 6. Primary school as a compulsory stage of the education system in France lasts 5 years (grades 1-5), after which students move to college - secondary school involves completing a four-year academic program.

A distinctive feature of the stage is the countdown of classes, that is, grades 6-3. The course includes 3 cycles: adaptation (6th grade) allows the child to adapt to subjects, new teaching methods, requirements; in grades 5-4, the central cycle is devoted to the study of the main school curriculum; in grade 3, the student is assigned a specialization (general direction: technical, humanitarian) . allows the child to make his first professional choice at the age of 14.

At 15-16 years old, teenagers move to lycee. According to the French educational system, schoolchildren study, but those wishing to obtain an international certificate prefer the program in English. A step on the way to universities are technical and general education lyceums, where students spend 3 years preparing to enter universities.

Foreigners have the opportunity to study at the secondary level in private institutions, and at the highest level in public and private institutions. Boarding schools annually accept hundreds of students from all over the world, many also come to enroll in top universities. For such applicants, specialized academic training programs are provided: Foundation, Pre-Masters, combining language courses and the study of specialized subjects - studying in France thus becomes available to any category of students, regardless of nationality and level of initial training.

Advantages of studying in France for Russians and foreigners

• Status. The quality of French education is recognized throughout the world, and its accessibility opens the door to everyone who wants to learn and improve themselves. The variety of programs allows you to start training from a very early age and up to 77 years old!
• Availability. Tuition prices in France are relatively low, which makes the country even more attractive for short- and long-term study compared to other European countries.
• Practice-oriented. Education has a pronounced practical orientation, in particular in agricultural, technical and natural science specialties. Graduates of specialized institutions and top universities are most likely to find employment after graduation. An important role in this is played by organized internships in the specialty during the training process.
• Future career prospects. Graduates of other institutions and areas also have excellent chances of getting a job in France. Government departments and some non-profit organizations provide employment assistance (the best known is AFIJ).
• A diploma from a French educational institution gives you the right to apply for a job not only in France, but in the entire European labor market. , France, Germany or Austria - a long-term investment in a successful future

Language programs for children and adults in France

It's no secret that the French love their language very much, and good command of French will make your everyday life much easier and allow you to gain respect in the eyes of the locals. The best prestigious schools in France provide a huge selection of language courses in various areas for children, schoolchildren, and students. For adults, studying and vacationing abroad is a great way to make new acquaintances, practice speaking fluently, and get acquainted with the culinary delights and history of French wines. In addition to year-round French language courses, language schools in France can offer:

• academic programs in French and English;
• gastronomic programs with French language learning (baking, cooking, winemaking)
• professional courses with the study of English and French for businessmen, medical workers, managers, lawyers, diplomats, secretaries, specialists in the field of tourism and hotel business, fashion and design;
• sports programs including academic foreign language classes and golf, tennis, aquatics or fitness classes.

Prices for linguistic programs in France start from 110 € per week without accommodation. The full list of schools in France, ratings, prices for studies and conditions can be viewed on our website and checked with specialists.

Language tests: types, academic preparation programs

One of the required documents for Russians and foreigners when entering a university in France is a certificate of language proficiency. To pass the exam successfully the first time, you need to be prepared for the specific requirements in each part of the exam and the limited time. Therefore, the best linguistic centers and language schools prepare applicants for special courses, practicing standard tasks and honing the oral part. Academic classes are conducted with native speakers and are available to schoolchildren and students over 16 years of age with a French proficiency level of A1. The cost of such courses varies depending on the duration of the classes, which you determine yourself.

All exams, in addition to structural features, have differences shown in the table below.

Summer camps for children with zero knowledge of the language and other children's programs in France

Camps in France for children and schoolchildren are open almost all year round; some organizations work with children even from 3 years old. In contrast to the rather strict academic atmosphere in schools, holiday programs provide a flexible approach to each child. The organizers understand the desire of parents to constantly develop their children in the best schools abroad, but also take into account the needs of children for active recreation. Therefore, parents are faced with a wide choice:

• adventure vacation programs for summer and winter with English learning
• equestrian camp with horse riding and French lessons
• tennis, football camps
• summer and winter children's camps with French learning
• language camps with dance classes and piano lessons.