France has long been a popular destination for students seeking quality education, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse academic opportunities. Each year, many Bangladeshi students aspire to pursue a bachelor’s degree in France, attracted by the country’s world-renowned universities and manageable living costs.
Why Choose France for Higher Education?
France is known for its high standards in education. The 2025 QS World University Ranking listed 35 French universities, with four of them securing spots in the top 100. Historically, France has been a hub for higher education in Europe, with institutions like Sorbonne University, founded in 1257, being among the oldest in the continent. Besides academic excellence, France offers a low crime rate, making it a safe and appealing option for international students.
Popular Programs and Application Process
France provides a wide range of programs for international students, including Fashion Design, Fine Arts, Business Administration, Law, Film Studies, Computer Science, and Social Sciences. Non-EU students, like those from Bangladesh, need to apply through the “Etudes en France” program via the Campus France portal. This process includes choosing a program and university, creating an account, filling out application forms, and submitting necessary documents like transcripts, language proficiency scores, and a motivation letter.
However, as the Etudes en France program is not available in Bangladesh, students must apply through the "Demande d'Admission Préalable - DAP" (preliminary request for admission). This involves completing the White Folder form and sending it, along with other required documents, to the French Embassy in Bangladesh.
Tuition and Living Costs
Since September 2019, tuition fees for non-EU students in France have increased but remain competitive compared to other European countries. Public university fees for a bachelor's program are around 2,770 Euros per year, equivalent to approximately 3,52,849 BDT. Private universities charge between 3,000 to 20,000 Euros per year, depending on the program.
Living costs vary by city. In cities like Bordeaux, Lyon, and Toulouse, students can expect monthly expenses between 850 to 1,000 Euros, while in Paris, costs are higher, ranging from 1,250 to 1,400 Euros per month.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
To offset the increased tuition fees, the French government and private organizations have expanded scholarship opportunities for non-EU students. Notable scholarships include the French Government and Research Institution Scholarship, Regional Authority Scholarships, and the Erasmus+ Mobility Scholarship.
Students can explore available scholarships through the Campus France portal, filtering by type, level of education, field of study, and nationality.
Visa Process and Post-Graduation Opportunities
Bangladeshi students must apply for a long-stay student visa through the French Embassy in Bangladesh. The visa process involves two interviews and requires several documents, including academic transcripts, financial proof, and accommodation details. After graduation, non-EU students can apply for a temporary resident permit called APS, allowing them one year to find employment in France.
Final Thoughts
France offers Bangladeshi students a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural exposure, and post-graduation opportunities. While the process and costs may be higher for non-EU students, the experience and potential career benefits make France a compelling choice for higher education.
