Why Study in France?
France, a country in Western Europe, is known for its medieval cities, Alpine villages, and beautiful beaches. Paris, its capital, is famous for its fashion houses, classical art museums, and iconic monuments.
Even today, more than 60% of Moroccan students choose to pursue their studies in France. This destination continues to attract Moroccan students who wish to continue their academic journey in high-quality institutions while enjoying the French way of life.
Pursuing higher education in France is a real advantage for Moroccan students. The education provided is of high quality and internationally recognized. Moreover, studying in the French language allows Moroccan students to improve their French skills, which is very important in the Moroccan job market. Degrees obtained in France hold strong value in Morocco, and recruiters are particularly attentive to high-quality diplomas.
France is widely recognized for the excellence of its education system. Academic programs combine both theory and practical training, ensuring complete mastery of professional skills. French universities are highly ranked and regularly appear among the world’s Top 500 institutions. Studying in France gives Moroccan students access to prestigious schools renowned for the quality of their programs, such as Polytechnique and Centrale. Its Business and Management programs are also excellent and provide strong opportunities for successful integration into the professional world.
Higher Education in France
Higher education in France follows European standards and is organized into three cycles: Bachelor’s (Licence), Master’s, and Doctorate (PhD).
University higher education programs (excluding certain specialties such as medical and other health-related professions) are structured as follows:
The Three Cycles
First cycle: lasts three years. It is open to all holders of a high school diploma (baccalaureate), except for certain selective programs, and leads to a Bachelor’s degree (Licence).
Second cycle: lasts two years. Admission may be selective, based on entrance exams or application files. This cycle leads to a Master’s degree.
Third cycle: lasts three years and corresponds to doctoral (PhD) training.
Some high-level multidisciplinary programs are offered by major public higher education and research institutions, such as the National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts (CNAM).
Types of Programs
Universities
French university education is of high quality and covers many fields of study, including law, economics, sociology, linguistics, medicine, pharmacology, chemistry, agronomy, and more. Programs follow the LMD system (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate).
Engineering Schools
France has excellent engineering schools, such as Polytechnique and Centrale. These institutions are highly selective, and admission is difficult for most students. However, more accessible alternatives exist, as over 80 engineering schools offer admission after the baccalaureate.
Architecture Schools
Art and architecture hold an important place in French education. As in other major schools, architecture studies are organized into three cycles: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate. The Master’s level leads to the State Diploma of Architect. France has 20 National Schools of Architecture (ENSA) from which students can choose.
Business Schools
France offers excellent programs in business and management through nearly 200 higher business schools, most of which are private, with varying levels of selectivity and tuition fees. The fields of study are diverse, and evolving programs prepare students for future careers. These schools recruit students from the baccalaureate level up to bac+5 (Master’s level), for different profiles. Even without an economics background, it is possible to enroll in a business school.
Two-Year Programs
Higher education in France is also known for its two-year programs, which allow students either to enter the job market quickly or to continue their studies afterward. These programs often help high school graduates strengthen their academic level and improve their records to access more demanding programs.
University Diploma of Technology (DUT)
Within French universities, institutes of technology offer short-cycle programs. These programs cover service and technological sectors, with 25 available specialties. They are professionally oriented and allow direct entry into the workforce. However, students may also continue their studies by enrolling in a professional Bachelor’s degree.
Advanced Technician Certificate (BTS)
The BTS is prepared in public or private high schools, with many specialties available across general and technological fields. This program aims at rapid integration into the workforce through company internships. The workload is intensive, and attendance is strictly monitored.
Preparatory Classes for Grandes Écoles (CPGE)
Preparatory classes prepare students to enter top engineering or business schools. These programs are highly selective and require an excellent academic foundation. The workload is demanding and requires strong motivation. Depending on your baccalaureate, you may access scientific, economic and commercial, or literary preparatory classes.
Admission Requirements
Higher education in France is accessible to any Moroccan student who has obtained a baccalaureate. It is important to achieve an academic average that matches the chosen field of study.
During the Campus France interview, students must convincingly explain their motivation to study in France. Language proficiency is also taken into account.
Taking a language test is a mandatory and essential step for Moroccan students wishing to study in France. The required level is generally B2, although it may vary depending on the program.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
The cost of living in France is higher than in Morocco. Financial sponsors must plan an adequate budget to cover study expenses. On average, student housing costs around €400 per month (depending on the city and type of accommodation: university residence, private residence, studio, shared apartment, or living with a host family). In addition, students should budget at least €250 more per month for living expenses such as food, transportation, outings, and other purchases. These costs vary according to individual lifestyle.
Regarding tuition fees, the cost of studies in public universities for international students has increased. Currently, fees are approximately €2,770 per year for a Bachelor’s degree, professional Bachelor’s degree, or DUT, and €3,770 per year for a Master’s degree.
