How to Apply to a French University (In 5 Easy Steps!)

Want to study in France this year? You're in luck! It's a lot easier than you might believe. In fact, I will summarize how to enroll (outside of exchange programs) in just five easy steps:

1. Create a CampusFrance account.

2. Take the appropriate language proficiency exam. (DELF B2, TCF DAP)

3. Organize a CV, (resume), featuring your education, professional experience, and level of French proficiency obtained.

4. Decide which "formation" or major you want to pursue. Choose three universities in France that correspond to your interests.

5. Submit your completed CampusFrance application and participate in the final phone interview.

That's it! Once you've completed the application process the folks at CampusFrance do the rest of the work for you. You'll hear back in a month or two from the universities you applied to.

Additional Information | FAQ

Q: Why enroll as an actual student and not participate in exchange?

A: While exchange programs are a great way to build your initial knowledge of French culture and language, they can be expensive, fleeting, and/or inhibiting depending on the program. For individuals looking to pursue long-term education or eventually live in another country, it's best to enroll directly as a student. When you enroll as a French student, you also get to benefit from their tuition prices (ranging from 100-200 euros ANNUAL) and their social aid programs. That's definitely better than paying 2,000 dollars to go for just one term with an American university. Note: for student who have not yet completed high school but still want to live in France, I recommend a Rotary Exchange!

Q: What is CampusFrance really?

A: Think of CampusFrance as the French equivalent to the common application but specifically designed for foreigners who want to study in France. Each country outside of the EU has their own CampusFrance. For example, I used Campus France US because I am American.

For more information about the Campus France Application, click here: "Your Complete Guide to the Campus France Application."

Q:When should I begin the process and what are the important deadlines?

A: I always suggest getting a head start because applying requires a lot of documents (letters of recommendation, translated high school diplomas and transcripts,) not to mention you have to register for your language exam and study!

Here is a suggested timeline for turning in your application on time:

Summer: Begin to organize papers, sign up for a language exam, request letters of rec, practice your french, construct a plan

Fall: Take language exam

December: Construct and edit resume (CV)

January: Submit completed application (usually deadline occurs around Jan.22nd)

February: Phone interview with Campus France representative

March: Response from Universities

Hope this information helps! Stay tuned for more and don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions regarding the process.

(All photographs are mine unless otherwise noted.)