France Study Cost in 2026 What Students Pay for Tuition, Housing & Daily Living
France Study Cost in 2026: What Students Pay for Tuition, Housing & Daily Living
So, you’re thinking about trading your local chai for un café au lait and studying in France in 2026? Iconic move. But before you start practicing your "Bonjour" in the mirror, let's talk about the real deal: the "baguette budget."
Think of studying in France like a premium streaming subscription—it can be the "Essential Plan" if you’re savvy, or full "Ultra HD" if you’re eyeing a prestigious private business school in the heart of Paris. While the vibes are immaculate, the math needs to be too. Between dodging the high rent in the capital and scoring those sweet, sweet government subsidies (shoutout to CAF!), your wallet is about to go on a journey. Whether you're a math whiz or someone who thinks "budget" is a type of French cheese, this guide is your financial roadmap. We’re breaking down everything from the "hidden" fees that sneak up like a plot twist in a movie to the proof of funds you need to satisfy the visa gods.
Let's dive into the costs of living your best Emily in Paris life—without the financial drama.
What Is the Total Cost of Studying in France for International Students?
For most students heading to France in 2026, the focus has shifted toward elite Private Universities and Grandes Écoles. These institutions offer a "Fast Track" to global careers, often with English-taught programs and deep industry connections.
In 2026, an international student attending a private institution should budget between €18,000 and €28,000 per year to cover both premium tuition and living expenses. While this sounds like a lot, the Return on Investment (ROI) is significant, especially considering the networking opportunities in hubs like Paris, Lyon, and La Rochelle.
Study in France Cost Breakdown 2026 (Private Sector)
| Expense Category | Average Annual Cost (€) |
| Tuition Fees (Private) | €9,000 – €22,000 |
| Accommodation | €6,000 – €10,800 |
| Living Expenses (Food/Bills) | €3,500 – €5,500 |
| Health Insurance | €300 – €500 |
| Miscellaneous (CVEC/Visa) | €600 – €900 |
| Total Estimated Annual Cost | €19,400 – €39,700 |
How Much Are Tuition Fees in France in 2026?
When you look at top-tier education, private institutions like NEOMA, Excelia, and Paris School of Business set the standard. Unlike public universities, these schools offer specialized tracks, smaller class sizes, and direct pipelines to major European corporations.
Private Institution Fee Overview 2026
Private universities set their own fees based on the program's prestige and resources.
| Institution Type | EU Students (€/Year) | Non-EU Students (€/Year) |
| Top-Tier Business Schools (NEOMA, Excelia) | €10,000 – €16,000 | €11,500 – €18,500 |
| Specialized Master's (MSc) | €14,000 – €19,000 | €15,500 – €24,000 |
| Engineering Schools (ESME, DEVINCI) | €12,000 – €14,500 | €13,000 – €16,000 |
| International Foundation (ONCAMPUS) | €12,000 – €20,000 | €15,000 – €25,000 |
Quick Tip: Schools like EDC Paris and IFC often offer early-bird discounts or installment plans, making high-quality private education more accessible.
Which Courses Are the Most Expensive to Study in France?
The price tag on your degree usually correlates with its earning potential. If you’re aiming for the C-suite, expect to invest more:
- MBA & Management: Programs at Paris School of Business or NEOMA are heavy hitters. An MBA can range from €18,000 to €35,000.
- Specialized MSc: Courses in Luxury Brand Management or International Finance (popular at Excelia) often cost €16,000+ due to the high-level industry treks and seminars included.
- Engineering & Tech: Schools like ESME focus on hands-on lab work and innovation, with tuition typically sitting between €12,000 and €15,000.
- Arts & Digital Media: The DEVINCI cluster in Paris is famous for its digital and multimedia tracks, which are premium-priced but offer incredible tech facilities.
How Much Does Student Accommodation Cost in France in 2026?
Housing is where the "Paris Tax" becomes real. If you study at ONCAMPUS Paris or Paris School of Business, you'll be in the heart of the action, but your rent will reflect that.
- Private Student Residences (e.g., Nexity, Studapart): These are popular for international students. They come furnished with WiFi and gyms. Cost: €700–€1,100/month.
- Colocation (Shared Housing): The classic way to save. Renting a room in a shared apartment in a city like Lyon (home to NEOMA campuses) is much more affordable.
Monthly Rent by City (Private Market)
| City | Shared Apartment (€) | Private Studio (€) |
| Paris (Central) | €800 – €1,100 | €1,200 – €1,600 |
| Lyon | €500 – €700 | €750 – €950 |
| Toulouse / Lille | €450 – €600 | €600 – €850 |
| La Rochelle (Excelia Hub) | €400 – €550 | €550 – €750 |
What Is the Average Cost of Living in France for Students?
Living in France is about balance. You can eat like a king on a student budget if you know the hacks.
- Food: Monthly groceries average €250–€350. However, students at private schools often have access to subsidized cafeterias where a full meal is under €4.
- Transportation: In Paris, the Imagine R pass is essential (~€86/month). In smaller cities, a bike or a €30 monthly pass is enough.
- The "Social" Budget: Don't forget coffee dates and weekend trips! Set aside €150/month for lifestyle.
Why Is Paris More Expensive Than Other French Cities?
Paris is the luxury choice. While schools like EDC Paris or DEVINCI offer a world-class environment, the "Daily Living" cost is 20-30% higher than in the provinces.
- Rent: A 20sqm studio in Paris costs as much as a 2-bedroom flat in Bordeaux.
- Leisure: Cinema tickets and drinks are priced at a premium.
- The Benefit: You are at the center of Europe's business world. Every major internship and networking event is just a Metro ride away.
How Much Does Health Insurance Cost for Students in France?
This is the best part of the French system. Social Security is FREE for all international students.
- L’Assurance Maladie: Once registered, the government pays for about 70% of your doctor visits and meds.
- Mutuelle: To cover the remaining 30%, most students buy a "Mutuelle" for about €20–€40/month. This ensures you pay €0 out of pocket for almost any medical issue.
Which Scholarships Help Reduce Study Cost in France?
Private schools are generous with scholarships to attract global talent.
- Excellence Scholarships: Schools like NEOMA and Excelia offer up to 20-30% off tuition for high GPA students.
- Early Bird Discounts: Apply to schools like EDC or Paris School of Business early (by January/February) to shave €1,000–€2,000 off your fees.
- Region-Specific Grants: Many schools have dedicated funds for students from Asia or South America.
What Are the Hidden Costs of Studying in France?
Don't let these sneak up on you:
- CVEC Tax: A mandatory €100/year fee for student life and campus services.
- Housing Insurance: Every tenant must have it—costs about €50/year.
- Visa Validation: The OFII fee is around €50 upon arrival.
- Application Fees: Private schools usually charge €50–€150 just to process your application.
How Much Proof of Funds Is Required for a France Student Visa in 2026?
To get your visa, the French Consulate needs to see you’re financially stable.
- The Magic Number: You must show at least €615 per month for the duration of your first year.
- Total: Approximately €7,380 in a blocked account or personal savings.
- Tuition: You must also show proof that your first year's tuition is paid or that you have the funds ready.
Which French Cities Are the Most Affordable for International Students?
If you want the French experience without the Paris price tag, these cities are winners:
| City | Avg Monthly Cost (€) | Why Choose It? |
| Toulouse | €850 – €1,000 | Huge student vibe, aerospace hub. |
| Lille | €800 – €950 | 1 hour from London/Brussels/Paris. |
| La Rochelle | €750 – €900 | Coastal beauty and home to Excelia. |
| Lyon | €950 – €1,150 | The food capital and major business hub. |
Key Takeaways for Planning Your 2026 Journey
- Apply Early: Lock in those "Early Bird" discounts at private schools.
- Apply for CAF: This government housing aid can refund you up to €200/month on rent.
- Choose the City Wisely: Your lifestyle in Montpellier will be much richer on the same budget than in Paris.
- Get a Part-Time Job: Students can work 20 hours/week, earning roughly €700–€800/month.
How to make Your French Dream a Reality
Navigating the landscape of private French education can be overwhelming. Between choosing between NEOMA or Excelia, or trying to figure out if DEVINCI is the right fit for your tech career, you need an expert in your corner. Edugo specializes in the European market—we don't just help you apply; we help you settle.
From finding the right private residence to helping you apply for the CAF housing subsidy (which is basically free money from the French government), we ensure your transition to France is seamless. We know the private school landscape inside out, ensuring you find a program that fits both your career goals and your 2026 budget.
