France remains a top choice for international students seeking affordable yet high-quality education. For the 2025 academic year, several universities in France stand out as the cheapest options for international students, providing excellent educational opportunities at minimal costs. These institutions are known for their relatively low tuition fees and comprehensive fee exemptions that benefit non-EU students, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic aspirations.
Understanding the fee framework is crucial for prospective students. Since the 2019 academic year, non-EU students have generally faced higher tuition fees compared to their EU counterparts. However, many French universities offer exemptions or maintain low fees to make education more accessible. These exemptions may be based on various factors such as residency status, refugee status, or having a guardian in France, making them some of the most affordable universities in France for international students. This financial support helps students pursue their studies without overwhelming financial burden, allowing them to focus on their academic and professional goals.
Also, check the Top Scholarships in France
Top 13 Cheapest Universities in France
1. Université Paris Cité
Université Paris Cité exempts non-EU students from paying higher fees, ensuring they pay the same as French and European students.
- Bachelor’s Degree: €170 + €100 CVEC
- Master’s Degree: €243 + €100 CVEC
- Doctorate: €380 + €100 CVEC
2. Université Paris-Saclay
Université Paris-Saclay ranks high among the cheapest universities in France due to its policy of equal fees for non-EU students.
- Bachelor’s Degree: €175 + €100 CVEC
- Master’s Degree: €250 + €100 CVEC
- Doctorate: €391 + €100 CVEC
3. Université de Rennes
Université de Rennes is committed to being one of the cheapest universities in France, offering partial exemptions for non-EU students.
- Bachelor’s Degree: €175 + €100 CVEC
- Master’s Degree: €250 + €100 CVEC
- Engineering Program: €618 + €100 CVEC
- Doctorate: €391 + €100 CVEC
Also, check the Emile Boutmy Scholarship in France
4. University of Angers
The University of Angers is among the cheapest universities in France for international students, applying national fees to non-EU students.
- Bachelor’s Degree: €170 + €100 CVEC
- Master’s Degree: €243 + €100 CVEC
- Engineering Degree: €601 + €100 CVEC
- Doctorate: €380 + €100 CVEC
5. University Grenoble Alpes
University Grenoble Alpes ensures non-EU students benefit from its status as one of the cheapest universities in France through fee exemptions.
- EU Students: €243 + €100 CVEC
- Non-EU Students: €243 (with exemption) + €100 CVEC
6. University Clermont Auvergne
University Clermont Auvergne, recognized as one of the cheapest universities in France, has deferred differentiated fees for non-EU students.
- Bachelor’s Degree: €170 + €100 CVEC
- Master’s Degree: €243 + €100 CVEC
7. Avignon Université
Avignon Université offers some of the lowest tuition fees, making it one of the cheapest universities in France for non-EU students in Master’s programs.
- Bachelor’s Degree: Differentiated fees apply
- Master’s Degree: €243 (with exemption)
8. Le Mans University
Le Mans University is one of the cheapest universities in France, with low registration and CVEC fees for all students.
- Registration Fee: €250
- CVEC: €103
9. Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University stands out as one of the cheapest universities in France, with modest registration fees for all students.
- Bachelor’s Degree: €170 + €100 CVEC
- Master’s Degree: €243 + €100 CVEC
- Engineering Program: €601 + €100 CVEC
- Doctorate: €380 + €100 CVEC
10. University of Orléans
University of Orléans applies national fees to non-EU students, securing its place as one of the cheapest universities in France.
- Bachelor’s Degree: €170 + €100 CVEC
- Master’s Degree: €243 + €100 CVEC
- Doctorate: €380 + €100 CVEC
- Engineering Degree: €601 + €100 CVEC
Also, check the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
11. University of Strasbourg
The University of Strasbourg is among the cheapest universities in France, with equal fees for first-cycle programs and differentiated fees for second-cycle programs for new non-EU students.
- Bachelor’s Degree: €175 + €100 CVEC
- Master’s Degree: €3,879 (for new non-EU students) + €100 CVEC
12. Université de Montpellier
Université de Montpellier offers affordable tuition, reinforcing its reputation as one of the cheapest universities in France.
- Bachelor’s Degree: €170 + €100 CVEC
- Master’s Degree: €243 + €100 CVEC
- Engineering Degree: €601 + €100 CVEC
- Doctorate: €380 + €100 CVEC
13. University of Franche-Comté
The University of Franche-Comté is one of the cheapest universities in France, with equal fees for all students.
- Tuition Fee: €243 + €100 CVEC
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which university is the most affordable for international students in France?
Université Paris-Saclay: Université Paris-Saclay is top on the list of cheapest universities in France for international students, offering renowned courses and innovation support at low fees.
What is the average tuition fee for international students in France?
The average tuition fee at the cheapest universities in France ranges between €170 and €650 per year for both EU and non-EU students. Private universities charge between €5,000 and €30,000 annually for Bachelor’s programs.
How much is the bank balance required for a French student visa?
Students need proof of funds for the first semester’s tuition and at least €615 for the first month’s living expenses. Medical coverage costs range from €311 to €714 annually.
What are the cheapest universities in France for international students?
The list includes Université Paris-Saclay, Université de Rennes, University of Angers, University Grenoble Alpes, University Clermont Auvergne, Avignon Université, Le Mans University, Sorbonne University, University of Orléans, University of Strasbourg, Université de Montpellier, and University of Franche-Comté.
List of Cheapest Universities in France for International Students
Following are the cheapest universities in France for international students:
Université Paris Cité
Université Paris-Saclay
Université de Rennes
University of Angers
University Grenoble Alpes
University Clermont Auvergne
Avignon Université
Le Mans University
Sorbonne University
University of Orléans
University of Strasbourg
Université de Montpellier
University of Franche-Comté
What are the living costs for international students in France?
Living costs in France can vary depending on the city. On average, students can expect to spend between €700 and €1,200 per month on accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses. Cities like Paris tend to be more expensive, while smaller towns are more affordable.
Can international students work while studying in France?
Yes, international students in France are allowed to work part-time while studying. EU students can work without any restrictions, while non-EU students can work up to 964 hours per year, which is about 20 hours per week.
