France is renowned as a top choice for students worldwide. It stands out for its exceptional education quality, affordable tuition fees, and the vibrant French way of life.

The higher education system in France is highly regarded across Europe and globally. Many French universities consistently achieve top rankings in international university assessments. Noteworthy institutions include École Normale Supérieure, École Polytechnique, Pierre and Marie Curie University, and University of Paris-Sud.

Studying in France offers a life-changing experience. The standard of living is remarkably high, catering to a wide range of tastes. Whether you're drawn to the lively urban atmosphere of Paris, the tranquillity of mountainous regions, or the relaxed ambience of the Mediterranean coast, France has something to offer.

Coastal cities like Marseille and Montpellier provide easy access to summer beaches, while Rennes and Nantes offer proximity to the rugged Atlantic coastline. Meanwhile, cities like Grenoble and Lyon are near the majestic Alps.

In this article, we will explore the top universities in France, their advantages, the application process, and specific university requirements, and highlight popular courses and programmes available for prospective students.

Benefits of Studying in France

France offers a lot of benefits for international students. Here are the specific advantages:

1. Best Tourist Destination: France is renowned worldwide as a top tourist destination, attracting the highest number of visitors globally. Its rich cultural heritage and iconic landmarks make it a fascinating place to study and explore.
2. Very Low Tuition Fees: Despite the strong value of the Euro compared to many currencies, studying in France is remarkably affordable. Public universities charge tuition fees ranging from 200 to 1,000 EUR per academic year, making it accessible for international students.
3. After-Study Job Opportunities: One of the significant benefits of studying in France is the opportunity for career development. After completing their studies, students can apply for a 12-month residence permit to gain professional experience. This permit allows them to work in their field of study or even start a business related to their academic background. Successful employment can extend their stay and potentially obtain residency in France.
4. Research Excellence: France boasts a strong reputation for research and innovation. It is home to numerous renowned research institutions and universities, contributing significantly to global scientific advancements.
5. Diverse Cultural Experience: Studying in France offers more than just academic benefits. It allows students to immerse themselves in French culture, language, and history, enriching their educational experience.

Everything You Need to Go to France

France offers international students not only quality higher education but also the opportunity to immerse themselves in a beautiful and culturally rich environment. From famous landmarks to daily life experiences, studying in France promises an enriching journey.

1. Choose Your Study Major

Selecting your study major is crucial as it shapes your future career. France offers diverse degrees across various disciplines, from fashion management in world-renowned fashion capitals to business degrees from Grandes écoles.

2. Check the Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary based on your nationality, academic level, and chosen programme. Contact the French Embassy or Campus France for guidance. Ensure you understand specific documentation requirements, including translations into French for non-French documents.

3. Prepare the Necessary Documents

Start gathering required documents early. Typical documents include:

• Completed application form
• Campus France authorisation
• Civil liability certificate
• ID photos and passport
• High school transcripts
• Essay (if required)
• Proof of language proficiency (English or French)
• Proof of application fee payment
• Additional documents for non-European students such as birth certificates and financial support proof

4. Submit Your Application

EU nationals apply through the Parcoursup platform for first-year Bachelor’s programmes. Non-EU students must complete the Preliminary Admission (Demande d'Admission Préalable - DAP) and apply via Campus France.

5. Apply for a French Student Visa

Upon acceptance, pay your tuition fees and apply for a French student visa. Determine the type of visa required (short or long-term) based on your nationality. Contact the French embassy for visa assistance.

• Entry Criteria for French Universities

Admission requirements may include exams like GRE, GMAT, or LSAT, depending on the university and programme.

• General Entry Requirements:

Typical documents needed for admission:

• Campus France authorisation
• Passport copy
• Passport-size photo
• Transcripts and graduation diplomas
• European health card (EU students)
• Application fee (if applicable)
• Civil responsibility certificate
• Cover letter
• Language proficiency proof (French and/or English)
• Proof of financial means

6. Do I Need a Student Visa?

Non-European students require a student visa, supported by:

• Admission letter from a recognised French university
• Proof of financial support (€615 per month)
• Return ticket proof
• Medical insurance (€30,000 coverage)
• Proof of accommodation.

Where to Study in France?

Highest Ranking Universities in France
University Name	Times Higher Education (National Ranking)	Times Higher Education (Global Ranking)	U.S. News (Global Ranking)
Paris Sciences et Lettres – PSL Research University Paris	1	40	112
Université Paris-Saclay	2	58	76
Institut Polytechnique de Paris	3	71	-
Sorbonne University	4	75	56
Université Paris Cité	5	=152	43
École Normale Supérieure de Lyon	6	251-300	665
Université Grenoble Alpes	=7	301-350	237
Montpellier University	=7	301-350	218
Aix-Marseille University	=9	351-400	199
University of Bordeaux	=9	351-400	281

1. Paris Sciences et Lettres – PSL Research University Paris

Paris Sciences et Lettres (PSL) is a university in the centre of Paris. It has 17,000 students and 2,900 researchers. The university is made up of 9 schools and 2 associate members and works with 3 research groups. These schools work together to offer great opportunities in education, research, technology, and partnerships both in France and around the world.

The alumni of PSL have won many awards, including 28 Nobel Prizes, 10 Fields Medals, and 3 Abel Prizes. It represents about 10% of French research and has received over 150 ERC grants. The university has 140 labs where students and researchers can work on many different subjects. 

Students from all over the world come to PSL because of its strong reputation. At PSL, they are carefully guided in their studies and can become researchers, entrepreneurs, managers, or artists. It welcomes students from all backgrounds, genders, and countries.

Not only that, PSL is also a major centre for arts and culture. It hosts many events like debates, lectures, exhibits, shows, and concerts. The university works with top universities around the world and is a leader in innovation. It helps turn research into real-world applications by creating around 50 start-ups and filing 70 patents each year. In 2017, it started its own fund to support new ideas, called the PSL Innovation Fund.

PSL offers a variety of programmes:

• 9 bachelor's degrees, including: 
  • A multidisciplinary undergraduate programme, 
  • A programme in Sustainability Sciences, 
  • General degrees in Management, Applied Economics, Social Science, Law, Applied Mathematics, Organisational Computer Sciences, and an actor training programme
• 48 master's degrees in various disciplines, about 20 of which are taught in English
• 18 graduate programmes.

Paris Sciences et Lettres – PSL Research University Paris
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
15%	16,120	22%	15.0	51:49

 

Paris Sciences et Lettres – PSL Research University Paris
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Ecology	Space Science	Marine and Freshwater Biology	Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences	Physics
Subject Ranking	16	21	31	31	39

 

Paris Sciences et Lettres – PSL Research University Paris
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	GRE	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
33	3	300	650	6.5	90

2. Université Paris-Saclay

Université Paris-Saclay has a long history that dates back to 1150 when the University of Paris was founded. In 1971, a branch of this university in Orsay was renamed the University of Paris-Sud. In 2019, it became known as Université Paris-Saclay. 

The university is part of the Paris-Saclay project, which brings together nine higher education institutions and a business cluster to form a research-focused academic campus. This campus is being developed on the Plateau de Saclay, on the outskirts of Paris. This model is similar to the one used by the University of Oxford and Cambridge in the UK, where each college stays independent while being part of the university.

Located in the south of Paris, the capital of France, Université Paris-Saclay offers various degree programmes at the undergraduate, master's, and PhD levels. These programmes cover fields like science and engineering, life and health sciences, social sciences, and humanities. 

Research is a key part of the university's work. It conducts research at its 275 laboratories, which it shares with different institutes and companies. Some of these include the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission and the French National Centre for Scientific Research.

Université Paris-Saclay
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
15%	31,662	24%	13.0	50:50

 

Université Paris-Saclay
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences	Oncology	Mathematics	Physics	Space Science
Subject Ranking	3	10	14	14	20

 

Université Paris-Saclay
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GRE	IELTS	TOEFL
30	2.7	65%	Not required	6.5	80

3. Institut Polytechnique de Paris

Institut Polytechnique de Paris is a public university that brings together five top French engineering schools: 

• École Polytechnique, 
• ENSTA Paris, 
• ENSAE Paris, 
• Telecom Paris, and 
• Telecom SudParis. 

Established in May 2019, it builds on 200 years of experience in science and technology from these schools. Each year, the Institute welcomes 8,500 students, with 35% coming from other countries. It is located near Paris, in one of the world’s leading areas for innovation.

Students are admitted through a very selective process and receive a high-quality education from 1,000 faculty members who are experts in their fields. The Institute offers education from Bachelor’s to PhD levels and has research programmes in ten areas: 

• Biology, 
• Chemistry and Processes, 
• Economics, 
• Information, 
• Communications and Electronics, 
• Computer Science, 
• Data and Artificial Intelligence, 
• Mathematics, 
• Mechanics and Energetics, 
• Physics, 
• Humanities, 
• Arts, 
• Literature and Languages, 
• Social Sciences, and 
• Management. 

This approach allows for new ideas and technologies to be used across different fields.

Institut Polytechnique de Paris
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
10%	6,073	42%	6.8	25:75

 

Institut Polytechnique de Paris
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Mathematics	Engineering and Technology	Statistics and Operational Research	Natural Sciences	Computer Science and Information Systems
Subject Ranking	14	21	23	26	31

 

Institut Polytechnique de Paris
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GRE	IELTS	TOEFL
33	3	85%	Not required	6.5	90

4. Sorbonne University

Sorbonne University is a public university in Paris, France. It was officially formed in 2018 when Paris-Sorbonne University and Pierre and Marie Curie University joined together. However, its history dates back to the 13th century with the University of Paris and the Collège de Sorbonne, which was founded in 1257.

The main campus is in Paris’s Latin Quarter. The Jussieu Campus is located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris and was the main campus for Pierre and Marie Curie University. Another campus, Maison de la Recherche, houses the history and geography departments and has a library with over 50,000 works.

Sorbonne University has three main faculties: arts and humanities, science and engineering, and medicine. It also has a branch in Abu Dhabi, established in 2008, which teaches various subjects in French.

The university has many important scientific collections. These include a display of 1,500 minerals, photographic plates made by Gabriel Lippmann, and the Charcot library, which has books from the neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot.

Sorbonne University was first ranked in the 2019 World University Rankings. Before that, Paris-Sorbonne University and Pierre and Marie Curie University were ranked separately.

Sorbonne University
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
20%	41,527	22%	14.5	60:40

 

Sorbonne University
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Mathematics	Marine and Freshwater Biology	Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences	Space Sciences	Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Subject Ranking	7	8	9	10	12

 

Sorbonne University
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	GRE	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
33	3.0	300	550	6.5	79

5. Université Paris Cité

Université Paris Cité is a well-known research university in Paris, with over 14 campuses and research centres around the city. It is known internationally for its excellent research and wide range of subjects. 

The university started in 2019 when Paris Diderot, Paris Descartes, and the Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris merged. Since July 2021, the Institut Pasteur has been a partner for research. 

The university aims to create positive changes in society and help students and staff make a difference in the world. It has strong connections with other top universities and offers many programmes in arts, humanities, social sciences, science, technology, and health. Most courses are in French, but there are also joint degrees and programmes in English.

Université Paris Cité wants to attract international students for master’s and doctoral programmes and offers different scholarships to help them. The university has 21 libraries, co-working spaces like the Fablab, sports facilities, and organises cultural events. It also partners with cultural institutions in Paris.

The alumni network has over 500,000 former students. Current students can learn from alumni and get opportunities for internships, work-study programmes, or jobs. They can connect with each other through the alumni platform.

Université Paris Cité
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
11%	61,690	18%	16.9	66:34

 

Université Paris Cité
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences	Gastroenterology and Hepatology	Infectious Diseases	Immunology	Surgery
Subject Ranking	4	5	6	7	8

 

Université Paris Cité
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
33	3	75%	Not specified	6.5	90

6. École Normale Supérieure de Lyon

École Normale Supérieure de Lyon (ENS Lyon) is a well-known French school in the city of Lyon. It is one of the four top Écoles Normales Supérieures in France. 

Most of its students come from special French preparatory schools, but some get in by passing tough entrance exams. These students come from France and Europe and are expected to work for France in return for financial support during their studies.

The goal of ENS Lyon is to teach students to ask good questions and find creative answers. The university has its own start-up business centre, which helps develop projects in areas like medical technology, computer sciences, and geography. 

One project led to the creation of supercomputer technology that can predict earthquakes, which is a big help in preventing disasters.

The first École Normale Supérieure was started after the French Revolution and has had famous people like Louis Pasteur, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone Weil as students. ENS Lyon was established in 1880, building on the success of the original school.

The campus is near the city centre of Lyon and has good public transport links. ENS Lyon hosts conferences and events throughout the year in places like the Kantor Theatre and the Salle Dutilleux.

École Normale Supérieure de Lyon
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
3%	2,024	11%	7.9	43:57

 

École Normale Supérieure de Lyon
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Space Science	Geosciences	Mathematics	Physics	Physical Chemistry
Subject Ranking	147	212	391	517	588

 

École Normale Supérieure de Lyon
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	GRE	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
27	2.5	318	650	6.0	80

7. Université Grenoble Alpes

Université Grenoble Alpes was formed in 2020 by merging Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble Institute of Technology, Grenoble Institute of Political Studies, and Grenoble School of Architecture. The university's history goes back to 1339 when it was first established, offering studies in medicine, liberal arts, canon law, and civil law.

The university has about 59,000 students, with 10,000 of them coming from outside of France, representing 160 different nationalities. It is located on two main campuses: Domaine Universitaire, between Saint-Martin-d'Hères and Gières, and Campus GIANT in Grenoble, with additional centres around France.

Université Grenoble Alpes is famous for its research and education in natural sciences and engineering, but it also offers courses in law, economics, linguistics, and psychology. Students can study at all levels, from undergraduate to PhD. Many programmes are available in English, including architecture, engineering, law, economics, political science, and computer science.

The university has partnerships with over 1,000 universities worldwide, allowing for a diverse and international academic environment.

Université Grenoble Alpes
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
13%	51,244	17%	18.4	53:47

 

Université Grenoble Alpes
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Geosciences	Space Science	Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences	Physics	Polymer Sciences
Subject Ranking	19	55	56	57	62

 

Université Grenoble Alpes
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	GRE	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
33	3	301	540	6.0	87

8. Montpellier University

Montpellier University, known as UM, was created in January 2015 by merging Montpellier Universities 1 and 2. This merger brought together the strengths of both institutions. The university has a rich history that dates back to 1289 when the first university was established in Montpellier. This university was secular and international from the start.

Over the centuries, many famous intellectuals and scientists, such as Rabelais, Curie, Renaudot, Chaptal, and Grothendieck, have been part of the university, contributing to its strong connection with the city's life and its involvement in significant challenges of their times.

Today, UM is a large and diverse community of knowledge. It covers many fields, including science, technology, medicine, environmental science, education, economics, law, and political science.

The university's commitment to excellence in these areas makes it a prominent institution in France and internationally. UM aims to provide high-quality education and foster innovation and research.

It continues to build on its historical legacy, offering students and researchers a dynamic and stimulating environment to pursue their academic and professional goals. With its blend of tradition and modernity, UM remains a key player in the academic world, shaping the future while honouring its rich past.

Montpellier University
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
14%	40,734	15%	20.5	55:45

 

Montpellier University
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Ecology	Environment/Ecology	Marine and Freshwater Biology	Agricultural Sciences	Water Resources
Subject Ranking	2	21	34	63	66

 

Montpellier University
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
30	2.7	65%	Not specified	6.0	80

9. Aix-Marseille University

Aix-Marseille University (AMU) is a public research university in Provence, with origins dating back to 1409. Louis II of Anjou founded the University of Provence. The present-day AMU was formed on 1 January 2012 by merging three universities: 

• The University of Provence, 
• The University of the Mediterranean, and 
• Paul Cézanne University. 

This merger made AMU the largest university in the French-speaking world in terms of student numbers and funding, which is currently €750 million.

AMU has campuses in Aix-en-Provence and Marseille, offering about 600 courses in arts, literature, social sciences, science, and technology. The university has 19 faculties and 12 doctoral schools, collaborating with over 500 research and teaching partners. 

Some of these institutions include: 

• The French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and 
• The French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energies Commission (CEA). 

Some programmes are also taught in both French and English to accommodate over 10,000 international students.

AMU also has notable alumni and faculty in law, politics, business, economics, and literature. Among them are four Nobel Prize winners, including J. M. G. Le Clézio, who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2008. 

The university's alumni include heads of state, judges, economists, diplomats, scientists, journalists, artists, musicians, filmmakers like Jean Renoir, and actors like Bradley Cooper. AMU continues to uphold its legacy of academic excellence and global influence in diverse fields.

Aix-Marseille University
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
20%	72,946	14%	17.3	60:40

 

Aix-Marseille University
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Infectious Diseases	Oncology	Microbiology	Marine and Freshwater Biology	Space Science
Subject Ranking	32	36	48	64	73

 

Aix-Marseille University
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	GRE	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
27	2.5	301	540	6.0	83

10. University of Bordeaux

The University of Bordeaux is one of the top universities in France. It is known for its excellent academic courses, research, and knowledge transfer programmes. The university is innovative and has been awarded the "Initiative of Excellence" label. It works with academic and socioeconomic partners in France and abroad, contributing to major scientific advances.

Moreover, it is part of the ENLIGHT European alliance, along with nine other universities from across Europe. Together, they address six main challenges: health and well-being, climate action, digital innovation, equity, energy transition, and culture and creativity.

The university has 54,000 students, including almost 2,000 PhD students and 7,200 international students. It offers 150 Bachelor’s and 250 Master’s programmes in four major fields: Science and Technology, Law, Political Science, Economics, Management, Life and Health Sciences, and Social and Human Sciences. The university has nearly 700 partner universities in over 80 countries and offers many international study programmes.

Research at the University of Bordeaux is multidisciplinary and organised into 11 departments, including social sciences, biological and medical sciences, public health, environmental sciences, engineering, and archaeology.

These departments have almost 90 research laboratories working with national research bodies like CNRS, Inserm, and INRAE. The university also has seven major research programmes focused on important scientific and social issues.

The university is a hub of international research with 200 joint doctoral agreements, 22 international research laboratories, and 130 EU collaborative projects. It has also received 30 European Research Council (ERC) grants. The university has a Welcome Centre for International Researchers.

The University of Bordeaux has one of the largest campuses in Europe, with several sites near the city offering various services and amenities. There are 135 student associations that organise cultural activities throughout the year. 

Not only that, but it also offers over 50 sports activities, from rugby to surfing to dancing. In 2020, Campus France awarded the University of Bordeaux the highest rating (3 stars) for the "Choose France" label, recognising its high-quality services for international students.

University of Bordeaux
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
14%	52,643	14%	21.7	60:40

 

University of Bordeaux
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Neuroscience and Behavior	Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems	Oncology	Gastroenterology and Hepatology	Space Science
Subject Ranking	68	110	115	117	133

 

University of Bordeaux
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	GRE	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
30	2.8	301	540	6.5	90

Where Do You Plan to Study in France?

France offers a variety of universities where you can study. Many of them are highly ranked among the best in Europe and the world. Another important fact shows that France is one of the top countries in the world for higher education: it has produced many Nobel Prize winners.

Because of the excellent reputation of French education, earning a degree from a university in France will open doors for you globally.

In conclusion, studying in France provides not only top-tier education but also international recognition and opportunities. Whether you choose to study in bustling cities or serene landscapes, France's universities offer a pathway to a successful future.

You too can become a part of their international student community by reaching out to our counsellors at CounsellingX. Affordable, guaranteed admission, personalised counselling and whatnot!  

For now, sign up to CounsellingX for access to more than 500 counsellors and reliable information related to admission processes in various regions. 

Key Takeaways

• Admission Process:
  • EU nationals apply via Parcoursup for bachelor's programmes; non-EU students apply via Campus France or DAP.
  • Admission may require specific exams like GRE, GMAT, or language proficiency tests depending on the programme.
• Required Documents:
  • Completed application form, Campus France authorisation (for non-EU students), and passport copy.
  • Transcripts, graduation diplomas, and proof of language proficiency (French or English).
  • Additional documents for non-European students include birth certificates and proof of financial support.
• Visa Requirements:
  • Non-European students require a French student visa, supported by an admission letter, proof of financial means, medical insurance, and accommodation details.
• Financial Support:
  • Non-European students must demonstrate financial means to support themselves during their studies, typically around €615 per month.
  • Proof of financial support is crucial for visa applications.
• Health Insurance:
  • International students must have medical insurance covering at least €30,000 for healthcare in France.
• Language Proficiency:
  • Proof of proficiency in French or English is required, depending on the language of instruction for the chosen programme.
• Application Procedures:
  • EU nationals apply through Parcours Up for undergraduate programmes, while non-EU students must follow specific procedures via Campus France or DAP.

Top Universities

• Paris Sciences et Lettres (PSL) Research University Paris
  • Located in Paris, PSL is renowned for its multidisciplinary approach and strong research focus.
  • Offers a wide range of programmes including bachelor's and master's degrees, with many taught in English.
  • Notable alumni include numerous Nobel Prize and Fields Medal winners.
• Université Paris-Saclay
  • Formed from a prestigious group of institutions, it is a leading research-focused university.
  • Situated on the Plateau de Saclay, it offers diverse programmes in science, engineering, and humanities.
  • Known for its extensive research collaborations with institutes and companies.
• Institut Polytechnique de Paris
  • Combines five renowned engineering schools, providing a selective and high-quality education.
  • Offers programmes from bachelor's to PhD levels across various disciplines including humanities and management.
  • Emphasises innovation and interdisciplinary research.
• Sorbonne University
  • Formed in 2018 from Paris-Sorbonne University and Pierre and Marie Curie University, with a rich historical legacy.
  • Offers programmes in arts and humanities, science and engineering, and medicine.
  • Has international campuses and significant scientific collections.
• Université Paris Cité
  • Known for its strong research reputation and wide range of academic disciplines.
  • Offers programmes in arts, humanities, social sciences, science, technology, and health.
  • Has extensive facilities including libraries, co-working spaces, and cultural partnerships.
• École Normale Supérieure de Lyon (ENS Lyon)
  • One of France's top Écoles Normales Supérieures, known for its rigorous academic programmes.
  • Located in Lyon, it offers a focus on research and innovation across various fields including medical technology and computer sciences.
  • Notable for its historical significance and notable alumni.
• Université Grenoble Alpes
  • Formed by merging several institutions, it is a leading university in natural sciences, engineering, law, and economics.
  • Located in Grenoble with campuses spread across the region, fostering a diverse and international academic environment.
  • Strong research focus with partnerships globally.
• Montpellier University
  • Merged in 2015, it combines strengths in science, technology, medicine, education, economics, law, and political science.
  • Historical roots dating back to 1289, known for its international outlook and commitment to academic excellence.
  • Actively involved in major scientific and societal challenges.
• Aix-Marseille University (AMU)
  • Formed from the merger of three universities, it is the largest French-speaking university globally.
  • Located in Provence with campuses in Aix-en-Provence and Marseille, offering diverse courses in arts, literature, social sciences, science, and technology.
  • Notable alumni include Nobel Prize winners and influential figures across various fields.
• University of Bordeaux
  • Known for its academic excellence and multidisciplinary research across 11 departments including social sciences, medical sciences, and environmental sciences.
  • Part of the ENLIGHT European alliance, focusing on key challenges such as health, climate action, and digital innovation.
  • Offers extensive international study programmes and research collaborations.