Average Tuition Fees for Masters in France 2025 Guide for International Students
- EduMox
- 5 days ago
- 8 min read
Honestly, the price of a new iPhone can be higher than a semester’s tuition at a public university in France. For most international students, the average tuition fee for a Master’s degree at public universities in France is around €243 to €4,000 per year way less than in a lot of other popular study abroad spots. The French government puts a lot into funding higher education, so you don’t have to worry about crushing debt.
But it’s not just about the low fees. International students get to soak up French culture, study on historic campuses, and benefit from recognition by organizations like Campus France and MESR (Ministry of Higher Education and Research). If you’re after a world-class education or just want to experience life in Europe for a bit, France’s universities offer real value, especially for postgrads.
How to Fund Your Master’s? Masters students can cut costs even more with scholarships, and part-time jobs. Many universities have their own aid, and there’s government support too. The Scholarships page is a good place to start hunting for options in your field. Part-time work is allowed for many international students, so you can cover some living expenses while you study.
Average Tuition Fees For Masters In France
The cost of a master's in France depends on the type of institution and your nationality. Public universities here are famous for low tuition fees because the government covers a big chunk of the bill.
For the 2024/25 academic year, EU/EEA and Swiss students pay about 243 euros per year at public universities for a master’s. French universities keep these fees pretty much the same across the country for most master’s degrees.
International students from outside the EU do pay more. The average annual tuition for non-EU students in public universities is 3,770 euros for master’s programs. This is a result of government policy that gives bigger subsidies to local and EU students.
Private universities and grandes écoles set their own fees, and they’re usually much higher. Master’s programs in private institutions can cost anywhere from 3,000 to 30,000 euros per year. Some specialized schools and top universities in France might charge even more, especially for in-demand fields like business or engineering.
Here’s a quick look at the annual tuition fees in France:
Institution Type | EU/EEA Students | Non-EU Students |
Public Universities | 243 EUR | 3,770 EUR |
Private Universities | 3,000–30,000 EUR | 3,000–30,000 EUR |
Grandes Écoles | Usually higher | Usually higher |
This setup makes public higher education in France affordable for many, especially compared to other countries.
Some programs, like the classe préparatoire aux grandes écoles and certain non-EU doctoral programs, may have different fees.
How to Fund Your Master’
French universities and the government offer several funding options:
Scholarships (see the Scholarships page)
Part-time work for master’s students
Plenty of students look for university-specific grants or take up jobs in France while studying to help cover living and tuition costs.
Latest 2024/25 Tuition Data (EUR + INR) For Top Schools
Tuition fees for Master’s programs in France can really vary by university and program. For 2024/25, business schools tend to be pricier than public institutions like the Institut Polytechnique de Paris or Sorbonne University.
HEC Paris
HEC Paris is a big name in business schools. The tuition for the Master in Management (MiM) program for 2024/25 is €52,000. That’s about ₹46–48 Lakh in Indian Rupees, give or take depending on exchange rates.
This doesn’t cover living costs, registration, books, or travel. Scholarships exist, but they’re competitive. HEC Paris attracts students worldwide, especially those interested in luxury brand management or entrepreneurship. The school’s network and career services do add value, but you’ll need to budget for more than just tuition.
EDHEC Business School
EDHEC is well-ranked, especially for finance and management. Tuition for the Master in Management is about €38,000 for two years, or roughly ₹33–35 Lakh. Specialized MScs might be a bit more.
Don’t forget about living costs in Lille or Nice. EDHEC is known for international opportunities and a strong finance alumni network. They offer merit and need-based scholarships, but check deadlines and eligibility closely.
ESCP Business School
For 2024/25, tuition for the Master in Management at ESCP is €25,000 per year, so €50,000 total. That’s around
₹44–46 Lakh in tuition.
ESCP’s program is split across campuses in Paris, Berlin, London, or Madrid. Tuition is just for academics housing, travel, and daily costs are extra. ESCP is known for its connections with European employers and a wide range of business and marketing courses.
SKEMA Business School
SKEMA charges about €33,000 total for its Master in Management (around ₹29–31 Lakh). Specialized master’s programs can be a little lower in cost.
SKEMA has campuses in Sophia Antipolis and internationally. Tuition covers most academic stuff, but not housing or daily expenses. SKEMA’s flexibility and global options make it a favorite for students who want hands-on experience and internships.
NEOMA Business School
NEOMA’s Master in Management tuition is usually €34,000 for the whole program, or about ₹30–32 Lakh. Specialized master’s degrees might be priced differently.
Programs are in Rouen, Reims, and Paris. NEOMA focuses on digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Career support is solid, but be sure to budget for relocation and transport. They offer some scholarships for international students, but what’s available can change each year.
Grenoble Ecole de Management
Master’s tuition at Grenoble Ecole de Management is €31,500 for the Master in Management (about ₹28–30 Lakh). Other master’s programs could be a bit higher or lower.
The school has strong links with the tech industry in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Academic fees don’t include campus housing, health insurance, or admin costs. There are a few scholarships, especially for students with good academic records or financial need.
KEDGE Business School
For 2024/25, KEDGE Business School charges about €33,000 for its Master in Management, or roughly ₹29–31 Lakh for Indian students.
KEDGE has campuses in Marseille, Bordeaux, Paris, and Toulon. Tuition covers academic costs only. You’ll need extra for housing, travel, and other fees. KEDGE is known for strong industry links, especially in supply chain and maritime business. Scholarships and fee waivers exist, but it’s smart to apply early.
Hidden Costs (Campus Fees, Insurance)
Besides tuition, students planning to study in France should keep an eye on extra charges. These hidden costs can sneak up and impact the total budget for a master’s degree, especially for international students.
Campus and Registration Fees:French universities often tack on campus service and registration fees. For EU students, these are usually between €243 and €377 per year, but non-EU students might pay more. Some programs engineering, for example, or private schools can be pricier.
Health Insurance:If you're under 28, you’ll probably need French Student Social Security. Sometimes it’s bundled in tuition, sometimes not. International students might have to buy private insurance to meet visa requirements. Coverage and price vary, but expect €200 to €500 per year. Not all healthcare, like prescriptions, is covered.
French Student Visa Costs: Getting a student visa isn’t free currently, it’s about €99. There’s also a Campus France fee (around €170), and sometimes a small service charge at the visa center.
Other expenses that can add up:
Accommodation (rent is often a big chunk)
Groceries and daily needs
Transportation
Many students search for scholarships for international students, like the Emile Boutmy Scholarship, or apply for grants to help with these costs.
ROI Section With Average Starting Salaries & Job-Growth Stats
When weighing up a master's in France, ROI is often top of mind. Tuition is pretty reasonable, but the real draw for some is the chance to boost earnings after graduation especially if you pick a strong program.
Average starting salaries for master’s grads in France run from €30,000 to €45,000 a year, depending on your field. If you’re in business, engineering, or IT, you’ll probably be at the higher end. High-demand sectors sometimes pay even more right out of the gate.
Job growth matters, too. In areas like computer science and engineering, opportunities are expected to rise. For instance, computer science roles could see up to 23% growth in some markets, and engineering jobs are looking at around 9% growth from 2023 to 2033. Humanities and social sciences? Usually lower pay and slower growth, to be honest.
Median ROI for a master’s degree across big datasets sits around $83,000. That’s a decent bump in lifetime earnings compared to just having a bachelor’s. For a deeper dive, check out the ROI analysis here.
Going for a doctoral level degree? France has a solid research scene, but salaries can be all over the map, especially in academia.
Field | Avg. Starting Salary (France) | Job Growth Outlook |
Computer Science | €40,000 - €50,000 | Up to 23% (2023-2033) |
Engineering | €35,000 - €45,000 | 9% (2023-2033) |
Business | €32,000 - €45,000 | Moderate |
Humanities | €28,000 - €35,000 | Slower |
Top programs often lead to better pay
IT and engineering have strong job growth
Technical and business master’s degrees usually offer the best ROI
Book A Free Fee-Planning Call
Worried about how to pay for your master’s in France or average tuition fees for masters in France? A free fee-planning call can clear up questions about tuition, living costs, and financial support.
During the call, an advisor will:
Break down tuition fees for public and private universities
Explain common costs like housing, insurance, and travel
Review scholarship and payment options
It helps to jot down your questions, like:
What extra fees should I expect each semester?
How do I handle payment deadlines?
Are there payment plans for international students?
The call usually takes less than half an hour. It’s useful for both students and parents.
Afterward, many universities send digital guides or booklets. These can help you build a realistic budget and avoid surprises.
Tip: Bring recent financial records and highlight any scholarships you’ve been offered before your call.
Frequently Asked Questions
International students paying for a Master’s in France will notice that tuition fees depend on university type, citizenship, and legal status. Living expenses, test requirements, and scholarships all play a part in planning your studies.
What is the typical tuition range for a Master's program in French public universities for international students?
Most international students pay about 3,770 euros per year for a Master’s at French public universities. These fees are set by the government and are pretty much the same everywhere. Students with refugee status or subsidiary protection may get reduced or waived fees.
Are there any differences in tuition fees for EU and non-EU international students pursuing Master's degrees in France?
Yes. EU/EEA students pay less usually around 243 euros per year. Non-EU students pay the standard international rate of 3,770 euros per year.
What are the most affordable universities in France for international students seeking a Master's degree?
Public universities are your best bet, with government-set fees. Schools like Université Paris-Saclay and Université d’Orléans charge about 243 euros per year for some programs. Specialized schools and Grandes Écoles are more expensive.
How do tuition fees at the University of Paris compare for French nationals and international students at the Master's level?
French nationals and EU students usually pay about 243 euros per year for a Master’s at the University of Paris. Non-EU international students pay higher fees currently 3,770 euros per year. Students with refugee status or some protections might get fee reductions.
Can international students from India expect different tuition fees for Master's programs in France?
If you're coming from India, you'll pay the international student rate of about 3,770 euros per year at public universities, since you're considered a non-EU citizen. Private universities and business schools, though, can charge quite a bit more sometimes a lot more, honestly.
What additional living costs should international students anticipate while studying for a Master's in France?
Living in France isn’t just about tuition. Think about rent, groceries, getting around, insurance, and all those textbooks and materials. In Paris, you might need anywhere from 800 to 1,200 euros each month, but other cities are usually a bit cheaper. Plus, you'll probably need to take an English test like IELTS or TOEFL, which comes with its own fee.
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