15 Free and Cheap Universities in France for International Students

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 230 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in France, make sure to read more!

How do I get admission to affordable universities in France?

France is home to 183,800 international students, and a lot of them enjoy quality education without paying high costs!

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!

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 Jean Moulin University Lyon 3, which offers Management and Global Business to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology offers General Engineering, Specialised Engineering, and Bioimaging.

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*
Sorbonne University 0 EUR 100%
Paris Nanterre University 170 EUR 98%
National Institute of Oriental Languages ​​and Civilizations 170 EUR 98%
Jean Moulin University Lyon 3 170 EUR 98%
Le Mans University 170 EUR 98%
University of Clermont Auvergne 170 EUR 98%
University of Orléans 170 EUR 98%
University of Franche-Comté 170 EUR 98%
Paris Cité University 170 EUR 98%
University of Burgundy 170 EUR 98%
Paul Valéry University Montpellier 3 170 EUR 98%
University of Angers 170 EUR - 601 EUR 98%
University of Caen Normandy 170 EUR 98%
Paris-Saclay University 170 EUR 98%
University of Perpignan – Domitian 172 EUR 98%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 6,163 EUR for universities in france.

1. 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.

Sorbonne University is the most affordable educational institution in France for undergraduate studies. Incoming international bachelor’s students are required to pay as low as 0 EUR.

2. Paris Nanterre University

The next university on our list of cheap universities in France is 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.

International students planning to study for a bachelor's degree at Paris Nanterre University must prepare a tuition fee of 170 EUR.

3. National Institute of Oriental Languages ​​and Civilizations

The National Institute of Oriental Languages and Civilizations (INALCO) is a public university in Paris, France that specializes in teaching languages and cultures from around the world. It was founded in 1669 by French statesman Jean-Baptiste Colbert. Undergraduate and graduate programs in language, civilization studies, and other related professional specializations are available at the institute.

This public university has a tuition fee range of 170 EUR for international students studying a bachelor’s program.

4. Jean Moulin University Lyon 3

Another cheap university to consider in France is the 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.

As a first-year international student here, you will be required to pay a tuition fee of 170 EUR. This is really affordable compared to other schools in France.

5. Le Mans University

Joining the cheapest universities in France is 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.

With its affordable rates, you can have world-class education without breaking your wallet. To give you an idea, international undergraduate students pay 170 EUR for bachelor's studies at Le Mans University.

6. 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.

7. University of Orléans

Founded in 1306, the University of Orléans is one of the oldest universities in Europe. It is a renowned multidisciplinary university with excellent research output. The university also houses some of the best school facilities in the region, making them one of the most valued institutes in the area.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. University of Burgundy

The University of Burgundy seeks to strengthen its scientific contribution to the academe. It has over 300 worldwide partners that aid students’ learning experiences with its teaching and research missions. The university primarily focuses on programs related to science and technology, which is why it houses numerous advanced equipment and resources for students to enjoy.

11. Paul Valéry University Montpellier 3

Paul Valéry University Montpellier 3 is committed to providing equal opportunities to all students and working closely with the community. This public university specializes in the areas of social sciences and arts, which is reflected in both academic and non-academic activities. For example, it has a renowned theatre and a symphony orchestra with presentations open to the public, as well as a historic museum. It is also constantly innovating and expanding its campus.

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. University of Perpignan – Domitian

The University of Perpignan – Domitian was established over 670 years ago to educate young individuals in different fields of law, philosophy, theology, and medicine. Programs at the university are focused on understanding how one adapts to changes in one’s environment. The university also actively participates in international mobility programs by offering its students opportunities to study abroad and inviting foreign students from other universities around the world.

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 EUR 100%
Sorbonne University 0 EUR 100%
Toulouse Institute of Technology 159 EUR - 601 EUR 98%
University of Caen Normandy 242 EUR - 243 EUR 97%
Paris-Saclay University 243 EUR 97%
ENS Lyon 243 EUR 97%
University of Clermont Auvergne 243 EUR 97%
Le Mans University 243 EUR 97%
University of Burgundy 243 EUR - 4,243 EUR 97%
University of Orléans 243 EUR 97%
Paris Nanterre University 243 EUR 97%
University of Lille 243 EUR 97%
University of Angers 243 EUR - 601 EUR 97%
Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology 243 EUR - 600 EUR 97%
L’Institut Agro Dijon 243 EUR - 3,770 EUR 97%

* Average Master’s International Tuition is 6,929 EUR for universities in france.

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 EUR annually for their master's degree.

2. Sorbonne University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Sorbonne University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Sorbonne University is 0 EUR.

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.

3. Toulouse Institute of Technology

Toulouse Institute of Technology (INPT) is a French university that is part of the University of Toulouse system. It was established in 1969. The institute has seven engineering and veterinary medicine schools that offer Master’s and Doctorate degrees. International students can also apply for a variety of scholarship programs and grants to help cover study and living expenses.

The tuition fee at Toulouse Institute of Technology for incoming international master’s students is 159 EUR to 601 EUR. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. University of Caen Normandy

Another affordable university to consider in France is 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.

The tuition fee in University of Caen Normandy for master’s program for foreign students starts from 242 EUR.

5. Paris-Saclay University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Paris-Saclay University 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 EUR yearly.

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.

6. ENS Lyon

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. 

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. University of Burgundy

The University of Burgundy seeks to strengthen its scientific contribution to the academe. It has over 300 worldwide partners that aid students’ learning experiences with its teaching and research missions. The university primarily focuses on programs related to science and technology, which is why it houses numerous advanced equipment and resources for students to enjoy.

10. University of Orléans

Founded in 1306, the University of Orléans is one of the oldest universities in Europe. It is a renowned multidisciplinary university with excellent research output. The university also houses some of the best school facilities in the region, making them one of the most valued institutes in the area.

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. L’Institut Agro Dijon

L’Institut Agro Dijon is a recently founded institution that focuses on developing its students’ scientific abilities and sympathetic values so they’ll specialize in food sciences and agriculture. It offers 5 English-taught master’s programs as well as multiple French-taught degrees. L’Institut Agro Dijon considers hands-on learning fundamental, which is why students can participate in studies at its 6 research units, will combine traditional classes with lab hours and will have to complete two mandatory internships before graduating.


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 free and affordable institutions in France for international students was helpful!