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Tuition Fees at Paris Universities for Non-EU Students: The Numbers You Need
If you are a non-EU student planning to study in Paris, understanding tuition fees is crucial. Public universities in France charge significantly lower fees than private institutions, but non-EU students pay higher rates than EU students. Here’s what you need to know.
Public Universities: Differentiated Tuition for Non-EU Students
Since 2019, non-EU students at French public universities pay “differentiated tuition fees.” These are set by the French government and apply to most bachelor’s and master’s programs. However, some universities may grant partial or full exemptions.
| Degree Level | Annual Tuition Fee (Non-EU) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s (Licence) | €2,770 | Standard fee for most programs |
| Master’s | €3,770 | Same for all fields except engineering |
| Doctorate (PhD) | €380 | Same for all nationalities |
| Engineering (Grandes Écoles) | €620–€3,770 | Varies by school; many charge €620 |
These fees apply to universities like Sorbonne University, Université Paris Cité, and Université Paris-Saclay. Some schools, such as Sciences Po Paris, have their own fee structures (see below).
Private Institutions and Grandes Écoles
Private universities and business schools in Paris charge much higher tuition. Examples:
- Sciences Po Paris: €14,000–€18,000 per year for non-EU bachelor’s; master’s up to €25,000.
- HEC Paris: €45,000–€70,000 for full master’s programs.
- ESSEC Business School: €15,000–€25,000 per year.
- Paris College of Art: €25,000–€30,000 per year.
- American University of Paris: €24,000–€28,000 per year.
Do All Paris Universities Charge the Same Fees?
No. While most public universities follow the national rates, some have exemptions. For instance, Université Paris-Saclay offers partial fee waivers for outstanding students from developing countries. Additionally, certain programs (like engineering at CentraleSupélec) charge lower fees (€620). Always check the specific program page.
Hidden Costs Beyond Tuition
Non-EU students should budget for additional expenses:
- CVEC (Student Life and Campus Fee): €103 per year (mandatory for all students).
- Health Insurance: €217–€600 per year (if not covered by French social security).
- Housing: €800–€1,200 per month in Paris.
- Living Expenses: €600–€1,000 per month.
How to Pay Less: Scholarships and Fee Waivers
Non-EU students can reduce costs through:
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship: Covers tuition and living expenses for master’s and PhD.
- French government scholarships: Bourses du Gouvernement Français.
- University-specific waivers: Many public universities offer partial or full tuition exemptions based on academic merit.
- Programs with reduced fees: Some master’s programs in science and engineering charge only €620 per year.
Step-by-Step Checklist for Non-EU Applicants
- Check the official fee page of your target university (e.g., “Frais d’inscription” for non-EU).
- Apply for scholarships early – deadlines are often 6–12 months before the start.
- Budget for CVEC and health insurance.
- Prepare proof of funds for visa application (€615 per month minimum).
- Confirm if your program qualifies for reduced fees (e.g., engineering).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tuition fees the same for all non-EU students?
Yes, the standard rates apply to all non-EU students, but some universities offer exemptions based on nationality or academic profile.
Can non-EU students get a tuition fee waiver?
Yes, many public universities grant partial or full waivers. For example, Université Paris-Saclay offers up to 100% exemption for selected students.
Do tuition fees include health insurance?
No. Tuition does not include health insurance. Non-EU students must pay for social security (€217–€600) unless exempt.
Is there a difference between bachelor’s and master’s fees?
Yes. Bachelor’s fees are €2,770, master’s are €3,770, and PhD is only €380 per year.
What are the cheapest universities in Paris for non-EU students?
Public universities like Sorbonne Université, Université Paris Cité, and Université Paris 8 offer the lowest fees (€2,770–€3,770).
Do private universities in Paris charge more than public ones?
Yes, significantly more. Private schools can cost €15,000–€70,000 per year.
Final Recommendations for Non-EU Students
To minimize costs, target public universities and apply for fee waivers. Always verify the exact tuition on the university’s official website, as rates can change. Compare living costs and consider housing outside central Paris. With careful planning, studying in Paris can be affordable.
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
What about the CVEC fee? Is it mandatory for all students, and how do I pay it?
The CVEC (Contribution de Vie Étudiante et de Campus) is mandatory for all students, including non-EU, and costs €103 per year. You pay it online via the cvec.etudiant.gouv.fr website before enrolling. You’ll need the receipt to complete registration.
Thanks for the breakdown! One thing I’m wondering: do the differentiated tuition fees apply to all master’s programs, or are there some that cost less?
For most master’s programs at public universities, the fee is €3,770 per year. However, some programs, especially in engineering at Grandes Écoles, may charge as low as €620. Also, certain master’s in science or engineering at public universities might have reduced fees. Always verify on the program page.
I’m from India and looking at bachelor’s programs in Paris. The article says €2,770 per year for non-EU students—does that apply to all public universities, or are there exceptions?
Great question! The €2,770 fee applies to most bachelor’s programs at public universities like Sorbonne and Université Paris Cité. However, some universities offer partial or full exemptions. Always check the specific university’s website for their fee waiver policies.
I’m considering Sciences Po Paris for a master’s. The article mentions €14,000–€18,000 for bachelor’s, but what about master’s?
For non-EU master’s students at Sciences Po Paris, tuition ranges up to €25,000 per year. It’s a private institution, so fees are higher. They do offer scholarships, so check their financial aid page.
I’m from Brazil and interested in engineering at CentraleSupélec. The article says fees are €620. Is that for all non-EU students?
Yes, CentraleSupélec (a public Grande École) charges €620 per year for non-EU students in engineering programs. This is much lower than the standard master’s fee. However, confirm on their website, as some programs may differ.
Can you clarify the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship? Does it cover full tuition or just part of it?
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship covers full tuition fees plus a monthly allowance (around €1,181 for master’s, €1,700 for PhD) and other benefits like travel and health insurance. It’s highly competitive and awarded for the entire duration of the program.
The article says PhD fees are €380 for all nationalities. That’s great! Is that really the same for non-EU students at all Paris universities?
Yes, that’s correct. PhD tuition at French public universities is the same for all students, EU and non-EU, at €380 per year. This applies to universities like Sorbonne, Paris Cité, and Paris-Saclay.
I’m from the US and worried about the total cost. The article mentions housing at €800–€1,200 per month in Paris. Is that realistic for a student budget?
Yes, those figures are realistic for Paris. Student housing (like CROUS residences) can be cheaper, around €400–€600 per month, but private apartments or studios often cost €800–€1,200. Many students share flats to reduce costs.