How the French education system works
Overview
France runs public universities, which are open-access and cheap, alongside grandes écoles, which are selective and fee-charging, plus specialised schools for art, design and hospitality.
Levels and how long they take
| Level | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Licence | 3 years | Bachelor's equivalent, 180 ECTS. |
| Master | 2 years | 120 ECTS, national diploma at public universities. |
| Grande école programme / MSc / MiM | 1 to 3 years | Selective schools; MSc programmes often 1 to 1.5 years. |
| Doctorat | 3 years | PhD equivalent. |
Grading
Scores out of 20; 10 is a pass, 14 to 16 is very good, above 16 is rare.
Intakes
| Intake | Notes |
|---|---|
| September | Main intake. Public university applications through Campus France open in October and close in January to March. |
| January | Some business schools and private programmes. |
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
Do I need to speak French to study in France?
Not for an English-taught programme. Daily life, internships and jobs are far easier with French, and many schools include French classes in the fee.
How long can I stay after my master's in France?
12 months on the APS for most nationals, 24 months for Indian nationals. Bachelor's graduates are not eligible.
Is a French public university degree recognised abroad?
Yes. Public universities award national diplomas recognised across the EU and beyond. For business, check that a school's programme is Visa-accredited or triple-crowned (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA).