According to Campus France, there were 412,087 international students enrolled in French higher education institutions in 2022-23. That was a 3% rise over the previous year and a 17% rise over the five years before that.
This is ample evidence that France stands as a top choice for higher education among students globally.
If you wish to study in France, you will need to identify the right examinations to prepare for. We’ve done the preliminary research and compiled all the information in this guide.
Let’s get started.
What exams are required to study in France?
When you plan to study in France, you need to be aware of two main types of exams.
- First, there are exams for the specific course you want to pursue. These include standardized tests like the GRE or GMAT.
- Second, you need to prove your language proficiency. This can be divided into two subtypes:
- English Language Proficiency Exams: If your course is taught in English, you will need to take an English language test such as the IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
- French Language Proficiency Exams: If your course is in French, or if you want to demonstrate your proficiency in French, you’ll need to take a test like the DELF or DALF.
To ensure you meet all the necessary criteria for studying in France, you need to understand these requirements. We will explore these exams in greater detail later in the next section.
Academic exams required to study in France
GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)
The GRE is a standardized test required by many graduate programs in France, especially for fields other than business. It measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
The GRE is designed to predict how well students might perform in demanding academic settings.
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
Predominantly required for business school admissions, the GMAT evaluates analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills.
This test is a staple for prospective MBA students or other business-related postgraduate programs.
Candidates can take the GMAT up to five times a year but no more than eight times.
| University | Average GMAT Score |
| HEC Paris | 690 |
| INSEAD Paris | 670-750 |
| TBS Business School | 500 |
| Grenoble Ecole de Management | 550 |
| EDHEC Business School | 640-700 |
| Audencia Nantes Business School | 400-800 |
Language proficiency exams required to study in France
English language proficiency exams
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
The TOEFL is an essential exam for students whose first language isn’t English. This test measures your ability to use and understand English at the university level by testing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
Universities in France use TOEFL scores to ensure students can succeed in their English-taught programs. The score requirements vary depending on the university, typically from 100 to 120.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
IELTS assesses the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. It is co-managed by the British Council and Cambridge Assessment English.
This test is widely accepted and is necessary for students who plan to attend lectures in English. The score ranges from 0 to 9; you usually need a 6 to pass. Each university decides its own IELTS cut off score for admissions.
TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication)
Unlike TOEFL, which is geared towards academic environments, TOEIC measures English proficiency in a workplace setting.
However, universities sometimes accept it, particularly for programs that blend academic learning with practical applications. Examples of such programs include International Business Management, and Hospitality & Tourism Management.
The TOEIC tests listening and reading comprehension and offers speaking and writing tests.
PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic)
The PTE Academic exam is another English language proficiency test recognized by several top universities in France. While it’s a renowned test, it’s not as universally accepted as the TOEFL or IELTS. The PTE test assesses English language skills of non-native English speakers who plan to study at English-speaking universities.
Duolingo English Test (DET)
The Duolingo English Test (DET) has gained recognition for assessing the English proficiency of international students. It’s now officially accepted by many universities in France as a legitimate English proficiency exam.
More and more institutions in France recognize the DET as a valid way to measure English proficiency. This makes DET a viable option for students applying to French universities.
| University | IELTS | TOEFL IBT | PTE | TOEIC | Cambridge English Exams |
| HEC Paris | 7.0 – 9.0 (min 6.5 in each section) | 100 | 72 | 880/990 | CAE B | BEC above B | CPE C |
| INSEAD Paris | 7.5+ | 103+ | 70+ | NA | NA |
| Ecole Polytechnique | 6.5 | 90 | NA | NA | 176 Grade B |
| ESSEC Business School | 7.5 | 95 | NA | 850 | 175+ Grade B2 |
| SKEMA Business School | 6.5 | 80 | NA | 810 | NA |
| SciencesPo Paris | 6.5 | 90 | NA | NA | Grade B2, C1, C2 |
French language proficiency exams
TCF (Test de connaissance du français)
French Ministry of Education devised TCF, which is a standard French examination to measure French abilities among foreigners.
A1(Beginner) to C2 (Advanced )are the levels used for grading according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
All students intending to enroll in courses taught in French must take this test.
Le TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français)
The reading, writing, listening and speaking abilities are tested through Le TEF.
This exam is a must for students who have chosen to study in French language and need to prove their competence in it; hence, it has both compulsory and optional parts that allow for comprehensive assessment of the language.
It has been given different levels starting with A1 (Beginner level), A2 (Elementary), B1 (Intermediate), B2 (Upper intermediate), C1 (Advanced) and C2 (Proficient) for its grading system.
DELF (Diplôme d’études en langue française)
This exam awards diplomas in French language to students who wish to be fully involved in studies carried out in French.
It establishes the non-native speakers’ language skills in French, and they are awarded by the International Centre for French Studies on behalf of the French Ministry of Education.
DELF diploma covers levels A1 to B2.
DALF (Diplôme approfondi de langue française)
For students with an advanced knowledge of the French language, DALF, or Diplôme approfondi de langue française would be appropriate.
The DALF offers two different diplomas–DALF C1 and DALF C2, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for languages (CEFR).
These certifications are particularly suitable for those who have reached high proficiency levels and wish to pursue further academic or professional activities in a French-speaking environment.
| University | DELF | DALF | Minimum TCF Score Required | Minimum TEF Scores Required |
| INSEAD Paris | A2/B1/B2 | C1/C2 | 250 | 900 |
| PSL University Paris | B2 | C1 | NA | NA |
| Sorbonne University | B2 | C1 | NA | NA |
| University of Strasbourg | B1 | NA | NA | NA |
Top courses and universities to study in France
The QS 2024 rankings spotlight several French universities in the top 100.
Top-ranked universities in France
Here are some of the best universities in France as per QS global and domestic rankings:
| University | QS 2024 Ranking | Notable Rankings |
| PSL (Paris Sciences et Lettres) | 24th | 1st in Times Higher Education Young Universities 2022 |
| Institut Polytechnique de Paris | 38th | 6th in Times Higher Education Young Universities 2022 |
| Sorbonne Université | 59th | 12th in Times Higher Education Young Universities 2022 |
| Université Paris-Saclay | 71st | 15th in Shanghai Ranking 2023 |
| Université Paris Cite | 236th | 18th in Times Higher Education Young Universities 2022 |
| École Normale Supérieure (ENS) | 184th | Top 100 in QS World University Ranking |
| Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA) | 294th | Top 150 in Shanghai Ranking 2023 |
Top courses to study in France
Some of the top-notch courses in France include:
| Serial No. | Course Name |
| 1 | Masters in Business Administration |
| 2 | Masters in Sales |
| 3 | Masters in International Marketing |
| 4 | Masters in Culinary Studies |
| 5 | Masters in Computer Science |
| 6 | Master in Pharmacy |
| 7 | Masters in Literature and Philosophy |
| 8 | Masters in Fine Arts |
| 9 | Masters in Artificial Intelligence |
| 10 | Masters in Public Health |
France is home to some of the most incredible universities where students can seek admission to these courses. However, selecting from a vast array of universities and programs can be quite challenging. That’s why we recommend SelectRight to simplify your university search.
What’s SelectRight?
SelectRight is a DIY, AI-powered platform that allows you to find your best-matched universities and programs, based on your interests, and academic profile. You can skip the overwhelm of too many options of studying in France, by signing up on SelectRight.
Here’s how SelectRight helps you shortlist the best programs.
- Create your profile in SelectRight.
- Sit back as the AI algorithm crunches 8 million data points and matches your profile with the best possible universities and programs.
- Shortlist and compare programs.
- Get expert and unbiased advice from an expert from our team.
- Connect with peers, seniors, and alumni from the university of your choice.
Why choose France as a country for your higher studies?
- France’s universities are renowned for their high standards and diverse academic environments.
- The country is actively improving and promoting its educational offerings to international students. Initiatives like President Macron’s goal to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030 and the “Choose France Tour 2023” are a few examples.
- Studying in France also means immersing yourself in a country with a deep cultural heritage. It’s a chance to experience life in one of the world’s most culturally vibrant countries while studying.
FAQs
Can I study in France without IELTS?
Yes, some French universities accept alternatives to IELTS like TOEFL or PTE to assess your English for study in France.
Which exams are required to study in France for a business degree?
For business degrees, you’ll likely need to provide GMAT scores.
Are there specific exams for engineering master’s programs in France?
Yes, there are specific exams to pursue engineering master’s programs, it is the GRE exam scores.
Is French proficiency required to study in France?
Yes, exams like DELF, DALF, or TCF are required for programs taught in French.
Can I use previous academic performance instead of standardized tests for studying in France?
Yes, some programs may consider your academic transcript over standardized test score cards as part of the assessment process.
How do I find out which exam is required for my chosen program in France?
You must check the university’s admission requirements or use SelectRight to identify which exam is required for study in France.
What are the benefits of using SelectRight for choosing a university in France?
SelectRight matches your profile to suitable programs and provides details on exams to study in France.
