Top French universities for international students include Sorbonne University, PSL University, Université Paris-Saclay, École Polytechnique, Grenoble INP, Université Grenoble Alpes, Université de Montpellier, Aix-Marseille University, HEC Paris and Sciences Po. These institutions offer world-ranked programs, affordable tuition ranging from €2,700–€4,000 at public universities, English-taught master’s programs, excellent research facilities and strong employment opportunities in Europe.
France continues to be a top study-abroad destination for international students because of its world-ranked universities, affordable tuition fees, English-taught programs and strong career opportunities across Europe. Whether your focus is engineering, business, social sciences, computer science, fashion, or life sciences, French universities offer high-quality education backed by strong global recognition.
This guide highlights the top French universities for international students in 2026, along with rankings, strengths, fees and why they stand out.
Why International Students Choose France
- Low tuition fees at public universities
- Wide selection of English-taught master’s programs
- Strong research and innovation environment
- 2-year post-study work visa
- Access to major industries: technology, fashion, business, aerospace, tourism
- Excellent global rankings and career prospects
Top French Universities for International Students in 2026
1. Sorbonne University (Paris)
Best for: Humanities, Sciences, Medicine, Arts
QS 2026 Ranking: Top 60
Fees: €2,700–€4,000
Sorbonne University is one of France’s most historic and prestigious institutions, offering world-class programs in humanities, science, engineering and health studies. It remains a popular choice for international students seeking academic excellence and research-driven learning.
2. PSL University (Paris Sciences et Lettres)
Best for: Mathematics, Physics, Data Science, Arts
QS 2026 Ranking: Top 30
Fees: €2,500–€4,500
PSL is known for cutting-edge research and strong international reputation. Its multidisciplinary environment and elite training make it one of the top French universities for science, technology and innovation.
3. Université Paris-Saclay
Best for: Engineering, AI, Computer Science, Life Sciences
QS 2026 Ranking: Top 20
Fees: €2,700–€4,000
Paris-Saclay consistently ranks among the world’s top institutions for engineering, mathematics and physics. It hosts one of Europe’s strongest STEM ecosystems, attracting international students pursuing research and innovation.
4. École Polytechnique (L’X)
Best for: Engineering, Quantum Science, Mathematics
QS 2026 Ranking: Top 60
Fees: €12,000–€16,000
Known for its selective admissions and rigorous curriculum, École Polytechnique is among the best engineering universities in Europe. Graduates often secure high-level positions in research, technology and consulting.
5. HEC Paris
Best for: Business, Management, Finance, Marketing
QS Business Ranking: Top 5 in Europe
Fees: €20,000–€45,000
HEC Paris is France’s leading business school with globally recognised MBA, MiM and finance programs. It offers strong corporate links, internships and global career opportunities.
6. Grenoble INP – UGA
Best for: Engineering, Embedded Systems, Energy, Materials Science
QS 2026 Ranking: Top 350
Fees: €2,700–€3,500
Grenoble INP provides high-quality engineering programs with strong industry partnerships. It is ideal for students seeking practical, research-based learning in a tech-driven city.
7. Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA)
Best for: Computer Science, Physics, AI, Earth Sciences
QS 2026 Ranking: Top 200
Fees: €2,700–€3,000
UGA is known for offering affordable, English-taught programs with a strong focus on research. It is one of the most budget-friendly options for international students in France.
8. Aix-Marseille University
Best for: Medicine, Law, Humanities, Marine Sciences
QS 2026 Ranking: Top 350
Fees: €2,700–€4,000
Aix-Marseille is one of France’s largest public universities with diverse programs and a vibrant campus culture. Its location in southern France offers a comfortable, affordable student lifestyle.
9. Université de Montpellier
Best for: Biology, Medicine, Environmental Science, Engineering
QS 2026 Ranking: Top 300
Fees: €2,700–€3,000
Montpellier ranks high for life sciences and environmental research. It is one of the most student-friendly and affordable cities in France.
10. Sciences Po Paris
Best for: Political Science, International Relations, Economics, Public Policy
QS Social Science Ranking: Top 50
Fees: €10,000–€17,000
Sciences Po is globally recognised for social sciences and prepares students for careers in diplomacy, public affairs, research and global governance.
Best French Universities by Course (2026)
Best for Engineering
- École Polytechnique
- Université Paris-Saclay
- Grenoble INP – UGA
Best for Business and Management
- HEC Paris
- ESSEC
- ESCP Europe
Best for AI, Data Science & Computer Science
- PSL University
- Université Grenoble Alpes
- Sorbonne University
Best Budget-Friendly Options
- Université de Montpellier
- Aix-Marseille University
- UGA
Cost of Studying in Top French Universities
| Category | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Public Universities | €2,700–€4,000 |
| Engineering Grandes Écoles | €10,000–€18,000 |
| Business Schools (MBA/MiM) | €20,000–€45,000 |
FAQs
1. Which is the best university in France for international students?
Sorbonne University, PSL University and Paris-Saclay are among the best universities for international students due to their strong global rankings and affordable fees.
2. Are French universities good for international students?
Yes. French universities offer high-quality education, English-taught master’s programs, low tuition fees and excellent post-study work options.
3. Which French universities offer English-taught programs?
PSL, Paris-Saclay, UGA, Sciences Po, HEC Paris, and Grenoble INP offer numerous English-taught programs in engineering, business, computer science and social sciences.
4. What is the cost of studying at top French universities?
Public universities cost €2,700–€4,000 per year, while business schools and grandes écoles charge higher fees depending on the program.
5. Which city in France is best for students?
Grenoble, Montpellier, Lyon and Marseille are popular for affordability, student culture and academic opportunities.
6. Which French universities are best for engineering studies?
École Polytechnique, Université Paris-Saclay and Grenoble INP are among the best engineering universities in France for international students due to their research output and global rankings.
7. What are the most affordable French universities for international students?
Aix-Marseille University, Université de Montpellier and Université Grenoble Alpes offer high-quality programs with tuition fees as low as €2,700–€4,000 per year.
8. Which French universities offer the best job opportunities after graduation?
HEC Paris, École Polytechnique, Paris-Saclay and PSL University have strong industry connections and high employability rates across Europe.
9. Do French universities offer scholarships for international students?
Yes. Scholarships like Eiffel, Emile Boutmy, Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarship and Charpak support international students financially.
10. Are there English-taught bachelor’s programs in French universities?
Most English-taught courses are at the master’s level, but some universities and business schools offer English-taught bachelor’s programs in business, management and STEM.
11. Which French university is best for computer science and AI?
PSL University, Université Grenoble Alpes and Paris-Saclay are top choices for computer science, artificial intelligence and data science programs.
12. How competitive is admission to top French universities?
Admission to elite institutions like École Polytechnique, PSL and HEC Paris is highly competitive, while public universities have moderate admission requirements.
13. What is the cost of living for international students in France?
Living costs range from €700–€1,400 per month, depending on the city. Grenoble and Montpellier are affordable, while Paris is more expensive.
14. Which French universities are best for business and management studies?
HEC Paris, ESSEC and ESCP Europe offer world-renowned business programs with high global rankings and strong international placements.
15. Is France a good destination for Indian students?
Yes. France offers affordable education, multiple English-taught programs, strong STEM and business sectors, scholarships like Charpak and a 2-year post-study work visa.