Admission Requirements for Study in France: Complete Guide for 2025

Planning to study in France? Before diving into applications, it’s essential to research your target institution carefully. Not all schools are created equal. If you don’t choose an RNCP-certified institution, your degree may not be recognized internationally. To stay on the safe side, opt for institutions recommended by Campus France, the official French agency for higher education.

Admission requirements differ by degree level and institution type. Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically required for undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs.

General Admission Requirements in France

Requirements depend on:

• The level of study (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD)
  
• The institution (public universities vs. grandes écoles)
  
• The language of instruction (French-taught vs. English-taught programs)
  

Undergraduate Admission Requirements (Bachelor’s) in France

To apply for a Bachelor’s degree in France, students usually need the following:

Required Documents:

• Academic Records:
  
  • Grade 10 transcript and certificate
    
  • Grade 11 mark sheet
    
  • Grade 12 transcript and provisional certificate
    
• Valid Passport
  
• Application Form (required by some institutions)
  
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining academic and/or professional history
  
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining:
  
  • Why you chose France
    
  • Your preferred course and career goals
    
• Letter of Recommendation (LOR) or Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter
  
• IELTS or equivalent English proficiency test (if the course is taught in English)
  

Graduate Admission Requirements (Master’s) in France

For admission into a Master’s program in France, you will need to submit:

Required Documents:

• Academic Records:
  
  • Bachelor’s degree certificate, transcript, and provisional certificate
    
  • Grade 10, 11, and 12 transcripts and certificates
    
• Valid Passport
  
• Application Form (if required by the institution)
  
• Updated CV detailing academic background and relevant experience
  
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  
• Letter of Recommendation (LOR) or Medium of Instruction (MOI)
  

Also Read: Scholarships Without IELTS or TOEFL : Learn More

Note: While some programs are bilingual or fully English-taught, an IELTS or TOEFL score may still be required for admission and visa purposes.

Postgraduate Admission Requirements (PhD) in France

PhD programs in France are research-oriented and selective. Applicants must typically present a well-developed research proposal.

Required Documents:

• Strong Research Proposal (linked to your Master’s research)
  
• Academic Records:
  
  • Master’s degree certificate
    
  • Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcript
    
  • Grade 10, 11, and 12 certificates and transcripts
    
• Valid Passport
  
• Application Form (depending on the institution)
  
• Comprehensive CV highlighting research, publications (if any), and academic journey
  
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR) or MOI letter
  
• IELTS or equivalent English language proficiency test (highly recommended for visa)
  

France is one of the most attractive study destinations for international students but it’s important to meet the exact admission requirements for study in France to avoid delays or rejections. Always verify institution-specific guidelines on their official website or through Campus France.