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France lies in Western Europe, with the Mediterranean Sea to the east, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Spain to the south, Belgium and Luxembourg to the north and Germany, Switzerland and Italy to the east. This constitutional republic is known for its beautiful beaches, magnificent castles and palaces, fine wines, sophisticated cuisine and high fashion. The capital city, Paris, is home to iconic sites such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Elysees, as well as the imposing cathedrals of Notre Dame and Sacre Coeur. The nation has a longstanding history of nurturing some of the world¡¯s greatest artists, writers, scientists and thinkers.

What Types of Schools Offer Undergraduate Studies in France?

Students pursuing higher education in France have many options. There are over 3,000 public universities to choose from, including several branches of foreign universities. While there are a number of large universities that offer a wide range of studies, the majority are small and tend to specialize in a particular field, such as political studies, economics, engineering and government administration. Grandes ecoles are extremely prestigious and selective, and each specializes in a single field of study.

Tuition Fees

The French government subsidizes education at all levels. While students are required to contribute to the cost of tuition, rates are relatively low. Private schools, particularly engineering and business schools, can be more expensive, with tuition rates similar to equivalent programs in other European countries. The location of the school impacts the cost of living a student should be prepared for.

How Long Is the Academic Year in France?

The academic year is divided into two semesters. Classes begin in September or October and end in May or June, depending on the university. Students take a two-week vacation over the Christmas and New Year holidays, and a two-month vacation during July and August for the summer holidays. Several religious and national holidays are also celebrated with one- or two-day long hiatus from classes.

How Long Does it Take to Earn an Undergraduate Degree in France?

A bachelor¡¯s degree is also called a "Licence" or "Licence Professionnelle". Students must earn a minimum of 180 credits to complete this type of program. A full-time student who takes 60 credits per year can complete their degree in about three years. Some programs may take longer, particularly if they are research-based or include preparation for graduate studies.

Why Choose Undergraduate Studies in France?

French universities have welcomed students from around the world since the creation of La Sorbonne over 800 years ago. The government has introduced several policies that make it easy for foreign students to study undergraduate studies in France, a practice that has made French universities some of the most diverse and cosmopolitan in the world. Students can enjoy affordable tuition and knowledgeable professors in one of the most beautiful, culturally rich nations in the world.

Higher Education in France

France is currently the fourth most popular study destination in the world, and it's no wonder

with its excellent culture, highly rated university system and the draw of relatively low tuition.Each year, close to 300, 000 students travel to France for the sole purpose of studying in its schools.

The higher education system in France can be a little confusing.The system is being standardized

into a three- level system, which makes it a little easier to understand.Today, undergraduate students will

begin by pursuing a License, which is similar to a bachelor's degree. This is followed by master level training. The final level of training is the doctorat. The license takes three years to complete, with two years necessary for a master program. A doctorat program usually requires three additional years.

France's universities are state-funded, so tuition is not high. Plan to spend about €200-€400 per year, depending on the studies you are pursuing and the university you attend. The exception to this are French business schools. Most business schools are privately owned, and tuition can be over €15,000 a year.

France has fairly open enrollment for first-year undergraduate programs. However, after the first year, students will need to pass a series of exams, which can be highly competitive, to find a place as second-year students. The country also has a system of selective schools called"Grandes ?coles"", which only

select students are chosen for, and these have selective entrance exams, higher tuition and more prestige.

The academic year in France begins in late September,

with a spring semester starting in early February.Holidays are held during Christmas and New Years, as well as All Saints ' Day and Easter.Most schools also have a spring break and three months of summer holiday.

Upon graduation, many students go

on to pursue scientific study programs.These one - to three- month programs can be subsidized through a high- level scientific study program

grant, which covers travel costs, tuition and living expenses.

Visa Requirements

If you are coming to study in France from a country in the European Union, you will not need to apply for a student visa.If your home country is outside the EU, then you will need to visit a French consulate to

get a student visa prior to traveling to the country.Your visa will serve as proof of your residency status during your first year of study.After a year, you will need to apply for a Carte de Sejour.Also, you will need to register with the local immigration office within 30 days of your arrival in the country.

Tips

Because of the lost cost of tuition and high interest by international students, you will want to make your plans for studying in France early.While entrance to the universities will not be much of a difficulty if you are a first - year student, finding housing and getting your paperwork in order takes some time.If you need financial aid, you will want to apply for a study or course

grant as well.

As you

prepare to study in France, you will be among some of the world's top thinkers. You'll have the opportunity to study in halls that were once graced by names like Sartre, Durkheim or Marie Curie. While the process of applying to the universities and working through the red tape can be daunting, in the end you will receive a quality education at a surprisingly affordable price, making the effort well worth taking.