If you are planning to study in France, Lyon is a top destination for international students. But one of the first questions you ask is: What is the tuition fee for international students at Lyon universities? The answer depends on the university, your nationality, and your level of study. This guide breaks down the fees at major Lyon universities, explains the difference between public and private institutions, and gives you practical tips to budget effectively.
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Understanding Tuition Fees in Lyon: Public vs. Private Universities
Lyon is home to several public universities under the Université de Lyon federation, as well as private and specialized schools. Public universities in France charge low tuition thanks to government subsidies, but fees for non-European international students increased in 2019. European Union/EEA students still pay the same low rates as French students.
Public University Fees for International Students (Non-EU)
Since the 2019 reform, non-EU international students at French public universities pay differentiated tuition fees. However, many universities offer partial or full exemptions. Here are the standard annual fees for 2023-2024:
- Bachelor’s programs: €2,770
- Master’s programs: €3,770
- Doctorate programs: €380
These fees apply to the main public universities in Lyon: Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 (science and health), Université Lumière Lyon 2 (social sciences and humanities), and Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3 (law, business, languages).
EU/EEA Students: Lower Fees
If you are from an EU/EEA country, Switzerland, or Andorra, you pay the same low fees as French students: around €170 per year for a bachelor’s and €243 for a master’s. Doctorate fees are about €380.
Private and Specialized Schools
Lyon also has private institutions like EM Lyon Business School, Institut Polytechnique de Lyon, and École Centrale de Lyon. Their fees are much higher, ranging from €10,000 to over €20,000 per year for international students. Always check the school’s website for exact amounts.
Detailed Fee Breakdown by University
Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 (UCBL)
Lyon 1 focuses on science, technology, and medicine. For non-EU students, bachelor’s fees are €2,770/year, master’s €3,770/year. However, many students receive partial exemptions reducing fees to EU levels. Health programs (medicine, pharmacy) may have additional costs for materials.
Université Lumière Lyon 2
Lyon 2 specializes in arts, social sciences, and economics. Non-EU fees follow the national rates. Some master’s programs in high demand may charge higher fees, but this is rare. The university also offers fee waivers for students from certain countries or with excellent academic records.
Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3
Lyon 3 is known for law, political science, and languages. Fees are standard public rates. Additional costs may include language courses or specific program materials. Lyon 3 also has a foundation year program for international students with fees around €4,000-€5,000.
Engineering Schools (Grandes Écoles)
Lyon has several prestigious engineering schools. École Centrale de Lyon charges about €15,000/year for non-EU students. Institut National des Sciences Appliquées (INSA) Lyon charges around €6,000/year for non-EU students. Check if you qualify for scholarships like the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship.
Business Schools
EM Lyon Business School is one of France’s top business schools. Tuition fees for international students range from €14,000 to €20,000 per year depending on the program. ESDES Lyon (Catholic University) charges around €10,000/year.
Additional Costs to Consider
Tuition is only part of the expense. Here’s a checklist of other costs:
- Student visa fee: €99 for the long-stay visa (as of 2024)
- CVEC (Contribution de Vie Étudiante et de Campus): €103 per year – mandatory for all students, covers health services and campus activities
- Health insurance: EU students use their European Health Insurance Card; non-EU students must enroll in the French social security (around €217/year, but often covered by CVEC)
- Housing: €400-€800 per month depending on location and type (studio, shared flat, CROUS residence)
- Living expenses: €600-€900 per month including food, transport, phone, and leisure
- Books and supplies: €50-€100 per semester
Total annual budget for an international student in Lyon (excluding tuition) is approximately €8,000-€12,000.
Scholarships and Fee Waivers for International Students
Many international students can reduce their tuition through scholarships or exemptions. Here are common options:
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship: For master’s and PhD students, covers tuition and living expenses
- Regional scholarships: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region offers scholarships for international students
- University-specific waivers: Lyon 1, Lyon 2, and Lyon 3 offer partial or full tuition exemptions based on academic merit
- French government scholarships: Campus France manages many bilateral programs
- Erasmus+: For EU students, but also some non-EU partner country students
Always apply early and check eligibility. Some scholarships require you to apply before admission.
How to Apply for Tuition Exemptions at Lyon Universities
If you are a non-EU student and want to pay the lower EU rates, you must request an exemption. The process varies by university:
- Check your eligibility: Most exemptions are based on academic excellence, country of origin, or financial need.
- Prepare documents: Transcripts, motivation letter, recommendation letters, proof of income (if applying for need-based).
- Submit with your application: Some universities require you to apply for exemption at the same time as admission. Others allow separate requests.
- Wait for decision: Exemptions are typically granted for the entire program but may require renewal.
Tip: Contact the international relations office of your chosen university early. They can guide you on specific procedures and deadlines.
Common Mistakes International Students Make About Tuition Fees
- Assuming all universities charge the same: Fees vary widely between public and private institutions. Always verify on the official website.
- Forgetting the CVEC: This mandatory fee is often overlooked but is required to enroll.
- Not applying for exemptions: Many students miss out on fee waivers because they don’t know they exist. Always ask.
- Underestimating living costs: Lyon is cheaper than Paris but still requires a solid budget. Plan for at least €800/month.
- Ignoring currency exchange rates: If you pay from abroad, bank fees and exchange rates can add up. Use transfer services like Wise or Revolut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students work while studying in Lyon?
Yes. International students with a valid student visa can work up to 964 hours per year (about 20 hours per week). This helps cover living expenses but not tuition.
Are tuition fees the same for all programs at Lyon universities?
Most public universities charge the same fees for all bachelor’s or master’s programs. However, specialized programs like MBAs or engineering degrees at private schools have different rates.
Do I need to pay tuition in advance?
Yes, tuition is usually paid at the start of the academic year. Some universities allow installment payments. Check with your institution.
Is health insurance included in tuition fees?
No. Health insurance is separate. EU students use their EHIC; non-EU students must register for French social security (covered by CVEC for most, but additional complementary insurance may be needed).
Can I get a refund if I leave the program early?
Refund policies vary. Generally, if you withdraw before the start of classes, you may get a full or partial refund. After that, it’s unlikely. Always read the terms.
What is the cheapest university in Lyon for international students?
Public universities (Lyon 1, 2, 3) are the cheapest for EU students. For non-EU students, they are still affordable compared to private schools, especially if you get a tuition exemption.
Next Steps: Budget Planning for Your Studies in Lyon
Now that you know what is the tuition fee for international students at Lyon universities, it’s time to plan your finances. Start by listing your target universities and their exact fees. Add living costs, visa fees, and insurance. Research scholarships and exemptions early. Create a spreadsheet to track all expenses. Finally, consider opening a French bank account or using an international student account to avoid high transfer fees. With careful planning, studying in Lyon can be an affordable and rewarding experience.
Photo by Felipe Souza Melo on Pexels
This is really helpful. I was worried about the costs, but seeing the fee waiver options gives me hope. Thanks!
You’re welcome! Yes, many international students receive exemptions, so it’s definitely worth exploring. Don’t forget to also look into the French government’s Eiffel scholarship or regional grants. Good luck with your application!
What about PhD fees? The article says €380, but is that for all international students regardless of nationality?
Yes, doctoral fees are the same for all international students: €380 per year at public universities in Lyon. This is a flat rate not affected by the 2019 reform. However, some doctoral schools may have additional administrative fees, so always confirm with your specific program.
I’m from India and planning to apply for a Master’s at Lyon 2. Do all non-EU students really pay €3,770, or can I get a fee waiver?
Great question! The standard non-EU master’s fee is indeed €3,770 per year at Lyon 2, but the university does offer partial or full fee waivers based on academic merit or country of origin. You should check the specific scholarship page on Lyon 2’s website or contact their international office to see if you qualify.