Study Abroad in France

France is known across the world for its fashion, food, art and culture. But one aspect that has not gained as much popularity as it deserves is the fact that France gets a large share of the study abroad students every year.

Best Study Abroad Programs in France

Reasons to Study in France

The reason why France is the preferred choice by many is because it provides a choice of many high quality universities, curriculums that have depth and coverage and the opportunity to obtain higher education in the French language or the culture.

The richness of the French culture, art and theatre is an added advantage for the study abroad student who opts for this country to study in. Once you’ve been to France, you will see why this is one of the most popular study abroad destinations in Europe.

French Educational System

The French education system is so robust because they take their own education very seriously and therefore have rigorous curriculums that the students are expected to follow.

A typical high school study abroad involves subjects like French literature, English, a foreign language (German, Spanish or Italian), physical education, history, geography, mathematics and science. Schools also ensure that there is time set aside for extra-curricular activities like music theatre and art since the French believe that an appreciation of one or more of these is essential.

For higher studies the French study abroad programs in universities offer technical and professional courses in various disciplines that prepare students for an international career. The public and private specialized schools offer courses in engineering, management and art to mention some of the curriculums that are offered.

France has about 240 schools of engineering and they offer a diplôme d’ingénieur, which is a French national diploma earned at the end of the study abroad program. This engineering degree is reviewed and accredited by the national committee on engineering degrees. Separate schools differ in their schedules, sequence and timing of the individual courses and one needs to posses a minimum of a secondary school diploma or an equivalent in their country to apply.

Most of the approximately 230 schools for business management are affiliated to the chamber of commerce and industry in France. Most of these curriculums have a mandatory internship and offer exchange study abroad programs for their students. To apply one needs to have completed 2 years of post secondary school education or its equivalent.

Some of the best known schools of management in France are Ecole des Hautes Etudes Commerciales (HEC), Ecole Supérieure de Commerce de Paris (ESCP-EAP) and Ecole de Management de Lyon (EMLyon) and all of them are members of EduFrance. Some of them are accredited by the EQUIS and AMBA.

For those who do not want to pursue their academics in France but want a taste of the culture, the short-term courses are a good option to choose. Therefore, if you are looking at a summer study abroad option, this is what you should choose.

The degree offered is called degree of brevet de technicien supérieur (BTS) and is offered in about 86 different fields. These include courses in trade, services, hotel management, agriculture and manufacturing. Some of them offer a short course in art or architecture as well.

The academic year starts in September or October and ends in May or June.

Best Universities in France for International Students

Some of the most prestigious schools in the world are located in France, known for producing world’s greatest leaders, businessmen and powerful people in their own rights.

Top rated universities in France that offer study programs to foreign students include:

· The University Paul Cézanne Aix-Marseille III
· The American University of Paris
· INSA Lyon
· Baruch College (City University of New York) & The European Center for Advanced International Studies
· American University Center of Provence, Aix en Provence
· Schiller International University

Study in Paris

Although there are schools where you can study abroad in France throughout its 22 regions, most foreign students, especially Americans, find themselves in Paris.

Not only does Paris offer the benefit of having an abundance of different schools to choose from, it also comes with the added benefit of being one of the most exciting cities in the world.

As with most study abroad programs, a healthy understanding of the native language is helpful, but certainly not required.

One of the most popular universities for exchange students, and one of the best in all the world, is the University of Paris-Sorbonne. Here they are known for their diversity of subjects and dedication to research.

Another study abroad Paris opportunity is at the Catholic University of Paris. At this university students can get a unique global experience because the student body is comprised of students from over 120 countries.

Language

If the reason why you are keeping away from studying in France is due to the language, then you need not worry since many courses are conducted in English and this is especially true for the study abroad programs that are designed specifically for overseas students.

Fees

If you are looking for universities in Europe that offers great academic courses for less, France is the best option for you. France, compare to other European countries like Switzerland, England and Germany is a lot more affordable. Fees are around a tenth of what you have to pay in universities in places like the UK and USA. For ideas how to finance your experience studying abroad in France there is financial aid, grants and scholarships available.

How to Apply

The Process:
· Find a university and take an entrance exam. The university will be the one who will approve your application. Once that you’re approved, they will provide you some documents that you will use in applying for a student visa.
· Apply for a student visa in the nearest French embassy in your country.
· Upon arrival at France you will be assisted by your university regarding the things that you still need to comply with the government.
· You need to pass your school credentials and other proof that you are legitimate to study abroad.
· Most schools requires applicant to show bank documents as a proof that your parents/guardian are able to finance your study abroad.

Application for Student Visa:
· There are three kinds of student visas available in France. A short-stay visa that is valid for 3 months, a temporary long stay visa valid for 3-6 months and one-year visa that allows students to stay for more than 6 months to 1 year.
· Latest and authenticated passport
· Must fill out and completed visa application forms. Visa application forms are available in a France consulate in your country.
· Proof of residential status
· Medical Insurance
· School credentials
· And other documents that the consulate will ask you to submit upon your interview with them.

People and Culture

The people of France shall be more than willing to help you to find the various tourist locations since they are friendly people. They love socializing with friends and family and it would be a culturally enriching experience if you can get yourself invited to a family dinner where delectable delights are tried and served. Be sure to pick up the basics of the language before arriving, or you could book French classes in France.

Sightseeing and Free Time

Once you made the wise decision of studying in France, you should ensure that you make full use of your time there and visit all the places that are so talked about in the country. You could explore independently, or check out France tours.

Paris, the ‘City of Light’ has more to offer than just the Eiffel Tower. The museums include the Centre Pompidou, the Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre. The Notre Dame cathedral has been made even more popular by the famous work Da Vinci Code. Other than the historical museums and churches, there are the beaches of Brittany to explore. You can also visit the city of Epernay in the Champagne region from where the original renowned Champagne is sourced.

Anyone who is a sports fan will know that the French are keen followers of sports. The country also hosts the French pen Tennis Tournament and the annual Tour de France cycling race.