When registering at a higher education establishment in France, you will generally be asked to prove your level of proficiency in French. A minimum level of B2 French is required to effectively follow courses, fully integrate into a traditional university curriculum, and maximize your chances of academic success in France. Some establishments, particularly in the fields of law and medicine, may require a more advanced level of French, such as the C1 diploma. It is strongly recommended to check the specific requirements on the website of the university or institution you wish to join. The majority of Groupement FLE member schools offer intensive training in French, designed to prepare international students for success in the French education system. These schools also offer preparation for cultural integration, familiarizing you with the codes of French culture and civilization.
How is higher education organized in France?
As part of the harmonization of European higher education curricula, the French university curriculum is organized around these three national diplomas:
The license – the master – the doctorate. (see document page: the LMD system)
The academic year in France is divided into two semesters: first semester from September to January, second semester from February to June.
Higher education in France follows a model harmonized with other European countries, allowing international recognition of diplomas. The French university system is based on three main national diplomas: the license, the master and the doctorate (known as the LMD system: License, Master, Doctorat).
The academic year in France is divided into two semesters: the first semester runs from September to January, while the second semester runs from February to June. This semester schedule allows international students to easily integrate the French curriculum at any time of the year.
If you want to study French in France and discover its higher education system, joining one of the FLE Group’s certified schools is an excellent choice to benefit from a quality and recognized learning environment.
How to enroll in higher education in France for foreign students
Do you want to study in France and enroll in French higher education? The registration procedure varies depending on your nationality, your level of studies, and the type of higher education establishment in France that you are targeting, whether it is a university, a business school, or a specialized institute.
As a foreign student, it is important to find out about the specific procedures for accessing higher education in France. Whether you are at the start of your course or looking to continue your studies at master’s or doctoral level, each step is essential to realize your academic project in France.
For more details on registration procedures, French language requirements, and deadlines, consult the official resources:
- Official website of the Ministry of Higher Education in France
- Detailed article on higher education in France on Wikipedia
Don’t forget that choosing a quality school is crucial to succeeding in your studies in France. The FLE Group brings together French schools in France which offer courses adapted to international students, with a commitment to quality services. Learn French in an immersive environment while preparing for your academic future at one of the institutions affiliated with the FLE Group.
Are my foreign diplomas recognized in France?
Are you wondering if your foreign diplomas are valid in France? It is important to know that there is no official equivalence for foreign higher education diplomas in France. Each higher education establishment establishes its own admission criteria, whether for a bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate.
To study in France, it is essential to have your diplomas recognized, regardless of your nationality. The Enic-Naric France Center can issue you with a certificate of comparability to facilitate this process. Note that the procedure for recognizing your diplomas varies depending on whether you come as part of a European program (such as Erasmus+) or not.
To find out more about the recognition of diplomas in France, consult the official guide of the Enic-Naric Center
