France Cost & living Questions

For non-EU students at first-time entry to selected French public institutions, the 2026-27 differentiated annual tuition is around EUR 2,902 for a bachelor's and EUR 3,950 for a master's, though exemptions may apply. Doctoral programmes cost far less, while private institutions and Grandes Écoles typically charge much more.

An international student in France typically needs roughly EUR 1,100 to 1,600 per month, depending on housing and lifestyle. Shared housing costs far less than a family apartment. Choosing a CROUS residence, sharing an apartment and cooking at home can help keep the monthly amount lower.

The average student cost of living in France ranges from about EUR 600 to EUR 800 per month, with Paris closer to EUR 1,000. Regional cities such as Toulouse cost less, while Paris sits at the highest end. Your actual spend depends on your city, accommodation and lifestyle.

Standard fees at public universities in France are around EUR 2,850 to 2,900 per year for bachelors programmes and EUR 3,950 per year for masters programmes. Completely tuition-free study generally requires a scholarship, an exchange programme or an institutional fee waiver.

International students in France can work part-time while studying, subject to French regulations. The present legal cap is 964 hours per year, so part-time jobs should top up your main financial resources instead of replacing them. Check the latest rules for your permit before you start working.

A single person in France typically spends around EUR 1,040 per month excluding rent. This covers groceries, transportation, utilities, healthcare, entertainment and other everyday costs. Your own figure can differ considerably with your city, habits and lifestyle, and Paris usually costs more.

The CVEC fee for international students in France for 2026-27 is EUR 105, though some students are exempt. Budget for it as an upfront cost, along with the visa fee, VLS-TS validation tax, a security deposit, home insurance, your flight and basic setup expenses when you arrive.

A 1-bedroom apartment in central Paris typically rents for around EUR 1,100 to 1,800 per month, while one outside the centre is around EUR 750 to 1,300. Paris is the most expensive French city for renters, so shared or student housing can cut costs sharply.