France is known for its rich cultural heritage, world-renowned cuisine, and scenic landscapes, making it a popular destination for tourists and students alike. The country is also home to some of the best universities in the world, attracting students from all corners of the globe to pursue higher education in a diverse range of fields. With more than 70 public universities and several private institutions, France offers a wide variety of programs for both national and international students. The best universities in France follow the French education system that is renowned for its academic rigor, emphasis on research, and innovative teaching methods.
It is not surprising that the country has produced many Nobel laureates, renowned scientists, and influential intellectuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. In this blog, we will explore the best universities in France, known for their academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and strong international reputation. We will delve into the history of these universities and highlight some of the popular programs they offer. Whether you are interested in engineering, business, arts, or humanities, France has something to offer to students with different interests and backgrounds. Let’s now dive into the world of the best universities in France.
Topics covered
Why study in France?
France has been a hub for higher education for centuries and is known for its prestigious institutions and strong academic programs. Studying in France offers a unique opportunity for students to not only acquire a quality education but also experience French culture, language, and lifestyle.
Here are some reasons why studying in France can be a great choice for students:
- Quality Education: France is known for its high-quality education system and is home to some of the world’s best universities. Many of these institutions are highly ranked in various global university rankings.
- Diverse Course Offerings: French universities offer a wide range of courses in various fields, including engineering, science, humanities, arts, business, and more. Students can choose from a vast selection of programs to match their interests and career goals.
- Research Opportunities: France is home to many research institutions and laboratories that offer research opportunities for students. This can be a great way for students to gain practical experience in their field of study and build their resumes.
- Multicultural Environment: France is a melting pot of cultures and attracts students from all over the world. Studying in France provides an opportunity for students to meet people from different backgrounds and gain a global perspective.
- Language Learning: France is known for its beautiful language, and studying in France is an excellent opportunity for students to improve their French language skills. Many universities offer language courses to help students improve their language proficiency.
- Affordable Education: Compared to other countries like the UK or the US, education in France is relatively affordable. Tuition fees are lower, and there are many scholarship opportunities available for international students.
- Vibrant Lifestyle: France is a country with a rich cultural heritage and offers a vibrant lifestyle that attracts many students. From its beautiful architecture to its world-renowned cuisine, France has a lot to offer beyond academics.
List of the Best Universities in France
In this section, we will be looking at the list of the best universities in France. If you are considering going to France for your higher studies then these institutions should be on the top of your wish list.
| Name of the Institutions | QS Global 2023 Rank |
| Universite PSL | 26 |
| Institut Polytechnique de Paris | 48 |
| Sorbonne University | 60 |
| University Paris-Saclay | 69 |
| Ecole Normale Superieure de Lyon | 111 |
| Ecole des Ponts ParisTech | 174 |
| Universite Paris Cite | 148 |
| Science Po | 259 |
| Universite Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne | 300 |
| University Grenoble Alpes 33.8 | 317 |
| Universite de Strasbourg | 434 |
| Institut National des Sciences Appliquees de Lyon (INSA) | 457 |
| Aix-Marseille University | 490 |
| Universite de Montpellier | 501-510 |
| University of Bordeaux | 521-530 |
| University Paris-Pantheon-Assas | 601-650 |
| Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1 | 601-650 |
| CY Cergy Paris University | 751-800 |
| Universite Cite d’Azur | 751-800 |
| Universite de Lille | 751-800 |
Also, Read: Best Universities in Europe
About the Top 10 Best Universities in France in Detail
In the previous section, you have seen a list of the best universities in France. In this section, we will be looking at the top 10 best universities in France in detail.
Universite PSL
The top-ranked university among the best universities in France is Universite PSL. Université PSL is a French public university that is ranked among the top research-intensive institutions in the world. PSL brings together prestigious schools and research organizations to offer a multidisciplinary approach to education, research, and innovation. With a focus on creativity, intellectual curiosity, and openness, PSL aims to develop global leaders who can tackle complex societal challenges.
| Founding Year | 2010 |
| Location | Paris, France |
| QS Score | 83.80 |
| Popular Courses Offered | Some of the popular courses offered at PSL include mathematics, computer science, physics, literature, history, economics, and business. |
| Average Tuition Fees | The average tuition fees for international students at PSL range from INR 3,00,000 to INR 6,00,000 per year, depending on the program. |
| Average Salary | Graduates from PSL are highly sought after by employers and can expect to earn an average salary of around INR 50,00,000 per annum, depending on the field of study and level of experience. |
Institut Polytechnique de Paris
Institut Polytechnique de Paris (IPP) is a French public institution of higher education and research that is dedicated to advancing science and technology through education and research. It brings together five leading engineering schools to offer a multidisciplinary approach to education and research, with a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and societal impact.
| Founding Year | 2019 |
| Location | Palaiseau, France |
| QS Score | 76.80 |
| Popular Courses Offered | IPP offers a wide range of courses in various fields, including engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, economics, and more. Some of the popular courses offered at IPP include Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Energy, and Quantum Engineering. |
| Average Tuition Fees | The average tuition fees for international students at IPP range from INR 7,00,000 to INR 12,00,000 per year, depending on the program. |
| Average Salary | Graduates from IPP are highly sought after by employers and can expect to earn an average salary of around INR 55,00,000 per annum. |
Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University is a renowned public research university with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. With a focus on academic excellence and multidisciplinary research, Sorbonne University is recognized as one of the leading institutions of higher education in the world.
| Founding Year | 1257 |
| Location | Paris, France |
| QS Score | 70.10 |
| Popular Courses Offered | Some of the popular courses offered at Sorbonne University include philosophy, economics, law, engineering, medicine, and art history. |
| Average Tuition Fees | The average tuition fees for international students at Sorbonne University range from INR 6,00,000 to INR 10,00,000 per year. |
| Average Salary | Around INR 60,00,000 per annum. |
Worried about Visa procedure, read our France Student Visa Blog post!
University Paris-Saclay
Another name in the list of the best universities in France is University Paris-Saclay. University Paris-Saclay is a French research university that was established with the aim of creating a world-class scientific and technological research and education hub. The university is committed to promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, and societal impact through its research and educational programs.
| Founding Year | 2014 |
| Location | Paris, France |
| QS Score | 68.10 |
| Popular Courses Offered | Some of the popular courses offered at the University Paris-Saclay include mathematics, computer science, physics, economics, and biology. |
| Average Tuition Fees | The average tuition fees for international students at University Paris-Saclay range from INR 4,50,000 to INR 9,00,000 per year, depending on the program. |
| Average Salary | Around INR 45,00,000 per annum. |
Ecole Normale Superieure de Lyon
Ecole Normale Supérieure (ENS) is a highly selective grande école in France that is renowned for its excellence in education and research. The institution is committed to promoting interdisciplinary learning and research across various fields, including science, humanities, and social sciences.
| Founding Year | 1974 |
| Location | Paris, France |
| QS Score | 56.60 |
| Popular Courses Offered | Some of the popular courses offered at ENS include mathematics, physics, philosophy, literature, history, and social sciences. |
| Average Tuition Fees | The average tuition fees for international students at ENS range from INR 1,50,000 to INR 4,50,000 per year, depending on the program. |
| Average Salary | Around INR 45,00,000 per annum. |
Ecole des Ponts ParisTech
Ecole des Ponts ParisTech is a French engineering school that specializes in civil engineering, transport, and urban planning. The institution is committed to providing its students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to tackle the challenges facing society today and in the future.
| Founding Year | 1747 |
| Location | Marne-la-Vallee, Paris, France |
| QS Score | 56.60 |
| Popular Courses Offered | Some of the popular courses offered at Ecole des Ponts ParisTech include civil engineering, environmental engineering, transportation engineering, and urban planning. |
| Average Tuition Fees | The average tuition fees for international students at Ecole des Ponts ParisTech range from INR 3,50,000 to INR 7,00,000 per year. |
| Average Salary | Around INR 60,00,000 per annum. |
Universite Paris Cite
Another name in the list of the best universities in France is Universite Paris City. Universite Paris Cite is a public research university in France that is committed to providing its students with a well-rounded education and a rich academic experience. The institution focuses on interdisciplinary learning and research, encouraging its students and faculty to explore and engage with a variety of fields and perspectives.
| Founding Year | 2010 |
| Location | Paris, France |
| QS Score | 38.10 |
| Popular Courses Offered | Some of the popular courses offered at Universite Paris Cite include law, medicine, political science, economics, and humanities. |
| Average Tuition Fees | The average tuition fees for international students at Universite Paris Cite range from INR 1,50,000 to INR 4,50,000 per year. |
| Average Salary | Around INR 35,00,000 per annum. |
Science Po
Science Po is a French university that specializes in social sciences and political studies. The institution offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs that provide students with a comprehensive understanding of global affairs, public policy, and social issues. Science Po is committed to fostering critical thinking, creativity, and innovation among its students.
| Founding Year | 1872 |
| Location | Paris, France |
| QS Score | 38 |
| Popular Courses Offered | Some of the popular courses offered at Science Po include political science, international relations, economics, and public policy. |
| Average Tuition Fees | The average tuition fees for international students at Science Po range from INR 6,00,000 to INR 9,00,000 per year. |
| Average Salary | Around INR 50,00,000 per annum. |
Universite Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne
Universite Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne is a public research university in France that is dedicated to providing students with a high-quality education in a range of fields. The institution is committed to promoting academic excellence, research, and innovation, and offers a range of programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.
| Founding Year | 1971 |
| Location | Paris, France |
| QS Score | 35.20 |
| Popular Courses Offered | Some of the popular courses offered at the institution include law, economics, history, philosophy, sociology, and political science. |
| Average Tuition Fees | The average tuition fees for international students at Universite Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne vary depending on the program, but generally range from INR 3,50,000 to INR 6,50,000 per year. |
| Average Salary | Around INR 40,00,000 per annum. |
University Grenoble Alpes
University Grenoble Alpes is a public research university in France that offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines. The university is committed to providing high-quality education, fostering innovation and research, and promoting internationalization.
| Founding Year | 2016 |
| Location | Grenoble, France |
| QS Score | 33.80 |
| Popular Courses Offered | Some of the popular courses offered at the institution include computer science, engineering, physics, political science, and management. |
| Average Tuition Fees | The average tuition fees for international students at University Grenoble Alpes vary depending on the program but generally range from INR 3,00,000 to INR 6,00,000 per year. |
| Average Salary | Around INR 35,00,000 per annum. |
Disclaimer: Average tuition fees and average salary might change according to the course and the location of the campus. Students are requested to check the universities’ websites for the exact tuition fee and for more details.
Conclusion
France is home to some of the best universities in the world, renowned for their academic excellence, innovation, and research. From the historic Sorbonne University to the modern Institut Polytechnique de Paris, and the multidisciplinary University Paris-Saclay, these best universities in France offer a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines. Moreover, the French government invests heavily in higher education, making education affordable and accessible for all.
With their commitment to internationalization, these best universities in France also provide opportunities for students to gain a global perspective and network with peers from around the world. Therefore, students looking for a world-class education in a culturally rich and diverse environment should consider studying at one of the best universities in France.
iDreamCareer is on a mission to reach every state and every child in order to ensure that talent is appropriately delivered to the industry. Talk to our study abroad experts to know yourself in and out! We have helped several brilliant but confused minds with the aim of selecting their most-suited career choices. We have helped many students like Anjana Prasanna who was not very confident about her capabilities. Later with the help of career guidance and moral support from our study abroad experts, she got an offer from King’s College London! We have also helped several brilliant but confused minds like Aayush, and Tapan with an aim to select their most-suited career choices.
Also, Read
- Best Countries to Study Abroad
- Scholarships to Study Abroad for Indian Students
- Strive to Make a Difference
- How to get a scholarship to study abroad?
- Study Abroad Consultants
- Best country for MBA
FAQs
To apply to the best universities in France, you need to complete an application form and provide relevant documents, such as transcripts and language proficiency tests. The application process may vary depending on the institution and program of study, so it’s best to check with each university’s admissions office for specific requirements.
Yes, universities in France welcome international students and provide various support services such as language courses, counseling, and student associations to help them adapt to campus life.
Tuition fees in France are relatively affordable compared to other popular study destinations. The average tuition fees for international students range from €2,500 to €10,000 per year, depending on the program and institution.
Yes, many universities in France offer scholarships and financial aid for international students. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both. Eligibility and application procedures vary, so it’s best to check with each university for more information.
Yes, many universities in France offer programs taught in English, especially at the graduate level. However, it’s always best to check with the individual institution for their specific English-taught program offerings.
Sushant, an accomplished content writer at iDreamCareer, has dedicated his life to the pursuit of writing since childhood. Having earned his education at the prestigious University of Delhi, he possesses a profound understanding of both arts and science in the field of education. Leveraging his professional experience, Sushant brings a fresh perspective to analyzing emerging trends in the realms of writing and education. His youthful mindset, coupled with a positive outlook, is geared towards enlightening students through the impactful delivery of wisdom and knowledge.
