15 Cheapest Universities in France for International Students

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In France, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in France without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in France, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 224 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in France, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in France for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in France ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Caen Normandy 170 Euros 98%
Le Mans University 170 Euros 98%
Paris Cité University 175 Euros 98%
University of Angers 175 Euros 98%
Sorbonne University 175 Euros 98%
University of Bordeaux 178 Euros - 2,895 Euros 98%
Paris-Saclay University 178 Euros 98%
Paris Nanterre University 178 Euros 98%
University of Clermont Auvergne 178 Euros 98%
University of Franche-Comté 178 Euros 98%
Grenoble Alpes University 270 Euros - 5,000 Euros 97%
University of Rennes 650 Euros 91%
Jean Moulin University Lyon 3 2,770 Euros 62%
INSA Rouen Normandie 2,850 Euros 61%
Polytechnic University of Hauts-de-France 2,895 Euros 60%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 7,135 Euros for universities in France.

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1. University of Caen Normandy

Founded more than five centuries ago, the University of Caen Normandy offers over 120 bachelor’s and master’s degrees. It is known for its breathtaking campus that was completely destroyed during WII, which is why it has multiple historic monuments and mixes modern architecture with older buildings. The university also highlights the importance of research, which is done in its 45 research units and unique facilities. These include a network of 27 libraries, a marine station, and multiple art galleries.

2. Le Mans University

With its long history of providing quality education, Le Mans University is home to 12,000 local and international students. They have various academic programs taught in French. Additionally, their international students’ community is growing as they provide a holistic study experience for every student on the campus.

3. Paris Cité University

Paris Cité University is an educational organization that is in pursuit of academic excellence. It aims to maintain its reputation of being a catalyst of change through its ambitious and comprehensive educational offerings. The university has various research sites and advanced educational tools to aid the students as they strive to become experts someday.

4. University of Angers

The University of Angers maintains innovative teaching methods in order to prepare students for immediate careers after graduating. The university’s high employment rate among its graduates is a testament to its effective curriculum and comprehensive training programs. At present, it continues to have close relationships with businesses and companies, allowing its work-based learning programs to prosper.

5. Sorbonne University

Located in Paris, Sorbonne University is a top-performing research institution in France. They have been globally recognized for their engineering and science programs as they produce excellent graduates in the field. More than that, they have a huge contribution to academic research in France and Europe.

6. University of Bordeaux

The University of Bordeaux is among the prestigious public universities in France. Founded in 1444, the university has built several campuses in six cities. With more than 56,000 students, it’s also one of the largest in the country by total enrollment.

7. Paris-Saclay University

The Paris-Saclay University is one of the highest-ranking academic institutions in the world. It offers excellent degree programs at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. levels. The university also has a strong reputation for research excellence and houses 275 of the best laboratories in the country.

8. Paris Nanterre University

Paris Nanterre University is the only university in the region to offer degree programs in all human and social sciences. It provides its students with an innovative educational approach in order to master their skills and knowledge in the said field. Although known for its human and social sciences programs, the university also has business and economics courses, signifying its flexible and comprehensive academic offerings.

9. University of Clermont Auvergne

The University of Clermont Auvergne was recently created after merging two former higher education institutions to meet the educational needs of the region and train students that would be prepared to face the challenges of the future. It has six campuses throughout Auvergne, as well as multiple academic and research buildings that include six institutes, three research federations, and 38 laboratories. Non-academic activities are an important part of life in this university since its Cultural Service organizes different events like film festivals and artistic competitions.

10. University of Franche-Comté

The University of Franche-Comté is a well-known university that is located at the heart of the city. The university is best for students that are looking for comprehensive educational training since its curriculum highlights practical experience. The University of Franche-Comté aims to continue its legacy and welcome more international students by upholding its student-friendly principles.

11. Grenoble Alpes University

Founded more than six centuries ago, Grenoble Alpes University has been traditionally known for its programs in the scientific field, but programs in humanities have recently been positioned among the best ones in France. The university has multiple campuses all over Grenoble, with a unique architecture that mixes modern and historical buildings, along with state-of-the-art academic facilities that include a tramway, a university hospital, and an observatory. One of the main objectives of the university is to address social needs through breakthroughs made in its research institutes and laboratories, as well as training professionals that are ready to solve the future problems of our world.

12. University of Rennes

University of Rennes is a high-ranking university that offers a variety of courses in various disciplines. It is known for its research and development, which is why it has an excellent reputation among international applications. The university is at the forefront of providing lifelong learning and aims to strengthen its scientific and professional programs in the coming years.

13. Jean Moulin University Lyon 3

Jean Moulin University Lyon 3 offers career-oriented programs that will lead to the intellectual and personal development of the students. The university has numerous partnerships around the world, allowing students to participate in various scientific collaboration projects. It aims to provide a diverse and distinct learning environment where all community members get equal chances to prosper in life.

14. INSA Rouen Normandie

The INSA Rouen Normandie is committed to educating professionals who will play a part in the growth of the economy while innovating and sharing scientific knowledge. Although it specializes in the areas of science and engineering, the university has a multidisciplinary approach. This means that students will take a number of subjects related to the humanities and social sciences. The curricula also combine traditional classes with mandatory projects and internships, as well as research studies developed in 8 different laboratories.

15. Polytechnic University of Hauts-de-France

The Polytechnic University of Hauts-de-France is dedicated to creating a wholesome community for students to find their utmost potential. It offers a lot of opportunities to students by exposing them early on to actual industry work and real-life situational problems. The university is also at the forefront of providing innovative ideas to a community with its research and development centers.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in France for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in France ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
École Normale Supérieure 0 Euros 100%
University of Caen Normandy 242 Euros - 243 Euros 97%
Grenoble Alpes University 243 Euros - 9,000 Euros 97%
AgroParisTech 243 Euros 97%
ENS Lyon 243 Euros 97%
Le Mans University 243 Euros 97%
Paris Cité University 250 Euros 97%
Sorbonne University 250 Euros 97%
University of Angers 250 Euros 97%
University of Lille 254 Euros 97%
University of Bordeaux 254 Euros - 3,941 Euros 97%
Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology 254 Euros - 628 Euros 97%
University of Franche-Comté 254 Euros 97%
University of Clermont Auvergne 254 Euros 97%
Paris-Saclay University 254 Euros 97%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 8,067 Euros for universities in France.

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1. École Normale Supérieure

École Normale Supérieure in Paris is at the forefront of providing breakthrough innovations that will help the community to prosper in the coming years. The institution has strong relations with numerous enterprises and industry leaders, allowing it to invest significantly in research and development. It seeks to train intelligent students with a passion for science and technology.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, École Normale Supérieure should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 0 Euros annually for their master's degree.

2. University of Caen Normandy

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is University of Caen Normandy. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at University of Caen Normandy is 242 Euros to 243 Euros.

Founded more than five centuries ago, the University of Caen Normandy offers over 120 bachelor’s and master’s degrees. It is known for its breathtaking campus that was completely destroyed during WII, which is why it has multiple historic monuments and mixes modern architecture with older buildings. The university also highlights the importance of research, which is done in its 45 research units and unique facilities. These include a network of 27 libraries, a marine station, and multiple art galleries.

3. Grenoble Alpes University

Founded more than six centuries ago, Grenoble Alpes University has been traditionally known for its programs in the scientific field, but programs in humanities have recently been positioned among the best ones in France. The university has multiple campuses all over Grenoble, with a unique architecture that mixes modern and historical buildings, along with state-of-the-art academic facilities that include a tramway, a university hospital, and an observatory. One of the main objectives of the university is to address social needs through breakthroughs made in its research institutes and laboratories, as well as training professionals that are ready to solve the future problems of our world.

The tuition fee at Grenoble Alpes University for incoming international master’s students is 243 Euros to 9,000 Euros. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. AgroParisTech

Another affordable university to consider in France is AgroParisTech.

The Paris Institute of Technology for Life, Food and Environmental Sciences, or simply AgroParisTech is one of the public universities in France. Founded in 2007, the university offers degree programs in Agronomy, Life Sciences, and Engineering. It is home to around 2,300 students, with 16% international enrollment.

The tuition fee in AgroParisTech for master’s program for foreign students starts from 243 Euros.

5. ENS Lyon

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, ENS Lyon has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 243 Euros yearly.

ENS Lyon is a small public university in the city of Lyon, France, which ranks among the top academic institutions in the country. The university believes in the importance of research in providing high-quality education. ENS Lyon also has a vast international network of universities, companies, and research institutions to encourage student and faculty mobility and participate in collaborative research projects. 

6. Le Mans University

With its long history of providing quality education, Le Mans University is home to 12,000 local and international students. They have various academic programs taught in French. Additionally, their international students’ community is growing as they provide a holistic study experience for every student on the campus.

7. Paris Cité University

Paris Cité University is an educational organization that is in pursuit of academic excellence. It aims to maintain its reputation of being a catalyst of change through its ambitious and comprehensive educational offerings. The university has various research sites and advanced educational tools to aid the students as they strive to become experts someday.

8. Sorbonne University

Located in Paris, Sorbonne University is a top-performing research institution in France. They have been globally recognized for their engineering and science programs as they produce excellent graduates in the field. More than that, they have a huge contribution to academic research in France and Europe.

9. University of Angers

The University of Angers maintains innovative teaching methods in order to prepare students for immediate careers after graduating. The university’s high employment rate among its graduates is a testament to its effective curriculum and comprehensive training programs. At present, it continues to have close relationships with businesses and companies, allowing its work-based learning programs to prosper.

10. University of Lille

The University of Lille, or Université de Lille in French, is one of the top public universities in France. The university was established in 1896, though its origins can be traced back to 1559 through the former University of Douai. At present, the university has more than 72,000 total enrollment, hosting over 9,500 international students.

11. University of Bordeaux

The University of Bordeaux is among the prestigious public universities in France. Founded in 1444, the university has built several campuses in six cities. With more than 56,000 students, it’s also one of the largest in the country by total enrollment.

12. Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology

Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology is an internationally renowned institution that specializes in engineering and technology and is committed to training excellent professionals that will make important breakthroughs in the future. It has 8 campuses throughout France, 15 research laboratories, and 2 institutes that conduct studies related to the environment and virtual reality. This university focuses on giving students enough work experience in order to prepare them for the challenges of their careers. That’s why all programs have two mandatory internships, and different work fairs are regularly held with business partners. It also has an incubator where professionals support and help develop the student’s entrepreneurial projects.

13. University of Franche-Comté

The University of Franche-Comté is a well-known university that is located at the heart of the city. The university is best for students that are looking for comprehensive educational training since its curriculum highlights practical experience. The University of Franche-Comté aims to continue its legacy and welcome more international students by upholding its student-friendly principles.

14. University of Clermont Auvergne

The University of Clermont Auvergne was recently created after merging two former higher education institutions to meet the educational needs of the region and train students that would be prepared to face the challenges of the future. It has six campuses throughout Auvergne, as well as multiple academic and research buildings that include six institutes, three research federations, and 38 laboratories. Non-academic activities are an important part of life in this university since its Cultural Service organizes different events like film festivals and artistic competitions.

15. Paris-Saclay University

The Paris-Saclay University is one of the highest-ranking academic institutions in the world. It offers excellent degree programs at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. levels. The university also has a strong reputation for research excellence and houses 275 of the best laboratories in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in France?

Applying to cheap universities in France requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in France for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in France?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in France. For example, one of the best affordable schools in France is the Grenoble Alpes University, which offers Managerial Economics for International Markets, International Business and Management, and Management to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the AgroParisTech offers Agronomy , Chemistry , and Sustainable Development .

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in France, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in France as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in France for international students was helpful!