More than 3,500 private and public institutions in France offer an array of educational options for foreign students. It generally takes four years of study to earn a French bachelor’s degree, but there are shorter bachelor’s programs in the country. Conversely, a master’s degree takes one to two years in France. Here are some of the best subjects to study in France, especially for a bachelor’s or master’s degree:

• Business Management and Administration
• Fashion and Design
• Culinary Arts
• Engineering
• International Relations and Diplomacy,
• Computer Science and Information Technology.

French universities offer courses in more subjects that cater to global trends and demands. For Singaporean students, courses in fields like business management, fashion, and culinary arts are especially popular, given France's reputation in these domains. Engineering and IT continue to remain popular among the international student contingent in France, given the country's technological advancements.

Want to learn which the best subjects to study in France are for you? If so, fill out the following form to get in touch with a counsellor at AECC.

France offers an array of world-class universities which attract international students, including scholars from Singapore. The following table shows a list of universities in France as per QS and Times Higher Education rankings. These institutions are celebrated not just for their academic excellence but also for their specialised courses and diverse environments. There are more top schools in France, such as Le Cordon Bleu, Ecole Ducasse, and Ecole Nationale Superieure de Patisserie, to name a few.

Embarking on an academic journey in France demands an understanding of the specific requirements for various levels of education. Here is a breakdown of university-level admission requirements to study in France:

Graduate Diploma

• A recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Proficiency in the French language (for programs taught in French)
• A Statement of Purpose (SOP) detailing the reason for choosing the course and the institution
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
• Proof of sufficient funds to support living and education expenses

Bachelor's Degree

• A high school diploma or equivalent
• Proof of proficiency in French (for programs taught in French)
• A brief essay or SOP on why you chose the course
• Academic transcripts from high school
• Letters of recommendation, preferably from high school teachers
• Some courses might require an entrance examination or an interview

Master’s Degree

• A recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent in the relevant field
• A detailed SOP, explaining academic interests and the reason for choosing France
• Letters of recommendation, ideally from professors or employers
• Updated CV showcasing academic achievements, projects, and any professional experience
• Proof of proficiency in French (for courses taught in French)
• Some specialised courses might demand work experience or a portfolio

Doctorate

• A recognised master’s degree in the relevant domain
• A detailed research proposal showcasing the aim, methodology, and significance of the intended research
• An SOP elucidating the reason to pursue a doctorate in France and the choice of the institution
• Letters of recommendation, ideally from academic advisors or professionals in the field of study
• A comprehensive CV highlighting academic qualifications, research projects, publications, and any professional or teaching experience
• An interview might be mandatory with potential research advisors or a department panel

The requirements mentioned above are generic and might slightly vary based on specific institutions or courses. Always consult an AECC counsellor for detailed and up-to-date information.

Exams Required to Study at French Universities for Singaporean Students

For aspiring students from Singapore, understanding the necessary examinations to study in France can smooth out the admission process.

English Language Proficiency Tests (Undergraduate and Graduate)

• TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 for Undergraduate, 100 for Graduate
• IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5 for Undergraduate, 7.0 for Graduate

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

• SAT: Minimum score of 1200
• Advanced Placement Tests: Score of 3 or above in relevant subjects

Graduate Admission Requirements

• GRE: Minimum combined score of 300
• GMAT: Minimum score of 650 for business programs

Documents Required to Study in France for Singaporean Students

Getting your paperwork in order is essential for a seamless application process to study in France.

• Passport with valid expiry
• Academic transcripts and certificates from all attended institutions
• Two Letters of Recommendation from professors or professionals
• Statement of Purpose detailing your aspirations and reasons for choosing France
• CV or Resume showcasing your academic and professional journey
• Proof of funds showcasing ability to cover tuition and living expenses

Applying for a student visa to study in France from Singapore? Here's a primer:

• Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity
• Acceptance letter from a French institution
• Proof of sufficient funds showing ability to cover tuition and a minimum of €8,000 for yearly living expenses
• Proof of accommodation in France (dorm, rent agreement, or letter from host)
• Health insurance coverage valid for the duration of your stay in France
• Birth certificate (translated to French if in English)
• Two passport-sized photos complying with French visa photo guidelines
• Academic transcripts and diplomas
• Visa application form duly filled and signed
• Police clearance certificate showing no criminal record

Need further assistance in meeting requirements to study in France for international students? Contact AECC for FREE assistance in application to visa processing and more!

University intakes in France typically occur in two main sessions: the fall intake (September/October) and the spring intake (January/February). September or October marks the start of the French academic year, making the fall intake France’s primary intake. Knowing the academic calendar is paramount for those aiming to study in France, especially from the perspective of university admissions.

Government universities are more affordable for foreigners who want to study in France. Now, how much money is required to study in France? The tuition fee is the biggest factor determining foreign students' cost of studying in France. The government subsidises higher education in France, making it relatively affordable for foreigners. Private universities have considerably higher tuition fees in France, but these are lower than their American, British, or Canadian counterparts.

Many French institutions award scholarships to deserving Singaporean students seeking postsecondary education in the country. Considering the scholarships available makes it more enticing to study in France from Singapore. Here are some of the best options for Singaporean students:

The above-mentioned costs are approximations and can vary based on the city, lifestyle, and personal spending habits. Paris is often on the higher side of the expense spectrum. However, living in cities like Lille, Nantes, Toulouse, or Bordeaux is more affordable than other prominent cities in Europe.

A French master’s degree allows you to live and work here for a temporary period and earn about 150% more money than the country’s minimum wage. Obtaining permanent residency (PR) in France requires living in the country for five years or more.

Need further information about post-study work in France? Connect with an AECC counsellor, your study-abroad expert, today!