Aug 13, 2025
One of the most demanded study destinations for international students, France has attracted thousands of young minds over the years - and for all the right reasons. One such aspect is the affordability of education here. The country offers not only beauty and culture but also education that is recognised globally, and that too, at a feasible price.
If you’re among those who have set their sights on studying in France, then one of the most essential factors on your mind is likely the cost involved. In this blog, we’ll break down the entire cost of education in France so that you can plan better and complete your studies smoothly without stressing over the numbers. Let’s get started.
Table of Content
The most essential contributing factor to the cost of studying in France is the tuition fees. While this differs for different universities or institutions, here is the indicative study in France cost for bachelors and masters.
| Type of Institution | Indicative Average Annual Tuition Fees (in €) |
| Public Universities (Subsidised) | €2,000 – €5,000 |
| Private Universities | €7,000 – €20,000 |
| Type of Institution | Indicative Average Annual Tuition Fees (in €) |
| Public Universities (Subsidised) | €3,000 – €10,000 |
| Private Universities | €9,000 – €30,000 |
Another prominent contributing factor to the cost of studying in France is the living expenses. The living cost is the total of various components that are covered in the following table:
| Expense Category | Annual Estimate (€) |
| Accommodation (Rent) | €3,600 – €7,200 |
| Food and Groceries | €1,800 – €3,000 |
| Transportation | €360 – €600 |
| Utilities and Internet | €600 – €960 |
| Health Insurance | €240 – €600 |
| Leisure & Miscellaneous | €1,200 – €1,800 |
| Total Living Expense | €10,000 – €14,000 |
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key components of living expenses in France.
Finding the right place to stay is one of the biggest concerns for international students. Options include university dormitories, shared apartments, or private rentals. Student residences are often the most budget-friendly and convenient choice. On average, you can expect to spend around €3,600 – €7,200 per year on accommodation in France.
Managing meals as a student in France can be both affordable and enjoyable. Cooking at home is the best way to save money, while university cafeterias also offer low-cost meals. With smart budgeting and occasional dining out, your yearly food expenses typically range between €1,800-€3,000.
Getting around in France is fairly easy, thanks to student-friendly public transport. Most cities offer discounted monthly passes for buses, trams, or metros. Biking is also a popular and low-cost option. On average, international students spend about €360 – €600 annually on transportation.
Apart from tuition and rent, you’ll also need to budget for essentials like electricity, water, internet, and mobile plans. These typically cost around €600 - €960 per year. In addition, everyday expenses like personal care, entertainment, shopping, or occasional travel may bring your miscellaneous and leisure spending to around €1,200 - €1,800 annually. This largely depends on your lifestyle and personal preferences.
While tuition and living costs form the bulk of your budget, there are a few other one-time or occasional expenses you should plan for as an international student in France.
All those numbers might have made your mind go for a toss. The good part is that there are plenty of scholarships and funding options available to manage the overall cost and make your studies in France further affordable.
Here are some popular scholarships for international students:
Another smart way to manage your expenses while studying in France is by taking up part-time work. International students are legally allowed to work up to 964 hours per year, which comes to roughly 20 hours per week during term time. This not only provides valuable work experience and networking opportunities but also helps cover your living expenses. If you’re mindful, you might even manage to save a bit.
Here are a few common part-time roles that international students prefer in France:
| Job Role | Average Pay (per hour) | Details |
| Retail Assistant | €10 – €12 | Flexible shifts, often in supermarkets or clothing stores. |
| Waiter/Waitress | €11 – €13 | Evening/weekend roles, tips may boost earnings |
| Campus Jobs | €10 – €12 | Library, admin, or lab support jobs within the university |
Living on a student budget in France doesn't mean missing out on the French life experience. With some smart planning and local know-how, you can stretch your euros further than you think.
Studying in France is relatively affordable compared to many countries, but smart planning makes all the difference. At KC Overseas, we help you find budget-friendly universities, choose courses that match your goals, and even assist in finding affordable accommodation in France. From planning your finances to guiding you through the France Student Visa process, our experts ensure you’re all set, academically and financially, to begin your journey hassle-free.
Some universities in France do allow instalment payments, but it's best to check directly with the institution or get help from study abroad experts for clarity.
On average, international students should plan for around €800 - €1,200 per month, depending on the city, lifestyle, and housing choices.
Yes, many public universities charge minimal fees due to government subsidies. Choosing smaller cities over Paris can also significantly reduce your overall expenses.
Definitely, cities like Paris are more expensive, while places like Lille, Nantes, or Toulouse are much more affordable for students in terms of rent and daily costs.
Yes, you need to show that you have at least €615 per month to cover your living expenses. This is a key financial requirement for the France student visa application process.