Are you dreaming of studying in Paris but are worried about the high cost of education? Many aspiring students worldwide have the idea that studying in Paris may be financially out of reach. However, several world-class French institutions offer top-tier programs without breaking the bank.
Paris presents a unique opportunity whether you are pursuing a degree in science, technology, humanities, or law by providing an enriching academic experience while maintaining affordability.
This article explores some of the cheapest universities in Paris, their tuition structures, histories, and programs available. We will discuss what makes them stand out and why they may be your perfect fit in pursuit of higher education at any level.
Affordable Universities in Paris for International Students
1. Sorbonne University
Also known as the University of Paris, Sorbonne University has a long and eventful history. It came into being in 1257 as the Sorbonne College, an institution for imparting theological knowledge among the students. It was aimed at the financially crippled students who were keen to acquire religious knowledge.
Passing through a tumultuous history—that includes its closing down after the French Revolution and reopening during the Restoration by King Louis XVIII—it gained its present status as late as January 2018.
Presently it offers multidisciplinary courses and maintains an impressive reputation among the locals as well as the international students. Sorbonne University offers low tuition fees in Paris and accommodation fees for foreign students as compared to the locals.
2. Blaise Pascal University
- Tuition Fees
- Tuition Fees: €175/year (Undergraduate) | €250/year (Master’s) | €250 (Ph.D.)
Blaise Pascal University is another public sector university that offers an advanced level of education at affordable rates. It is also known as Clermont-Ferrand II and officially came into being in 1854 with its main campus in Clermont-Ferrand. It was named after the renowned scientist, mathematician, and philosopher Blaise Pascal. This university lies in the heart of the region of Auvergne—an extremely picturesque location that is surrounded by medieval castles and old villages.
It provides local as well as foreign students with bachelor’s, master’s, and postgraduate courses in the disciplines of social sciences, cultural studies, languages, humanities, science, and technology. It is a highly prestigious institution.
3. Université Paris Descartes
- Tuition Fees
- Tuition Fees: €170+ €100 CVEC (Undergraduate) | €243+ €100 CVEC (Master’s) | €380 + €100 CVEC (Doctorate)
This university enjoys the reputation of being the only university that offers courses in pharmacy, dentistry, and medicine under one roof in Paris. It is named after the 17th-century philosopher Rene Descartes. It was created in 1971 when a reform of the University of Paris resulted in the creation of eight further institutes under different faculties. It is one of the top universities in Paris that offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees to foreign students at remarkably cheap tuition.
4. Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1
- Tuition Fees
- Tuition Fees: €175/year (Undergraduate) | €250/year (Graduate) | €391/year (Doctorate)
Among the three public sector universities of France, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, is one of the best educational institutes. It offers a higher level of academic excellence in the faculties of science and medicine. Also, it has various campuses. The main campus is situated in Villeurbanne while other campuses are in Gerland, Rockefeller, and Laennec.
It has one of the most capable faculties and it provides its students with a great environment and numerous sports and cultural facilities. It reserves 10.2% of its seats for foreign students. It is a prestigious institution that offers one of the best bachelor’s and master’s programs in the world.
Studying in Paris is accessible to international students without heavy price tags. The above universities not only provide quality education but also immerse students in the city’s culture and history. Start planning your educational journey in Paris today!
We hope this article on cheap universities in Paris was helpful. Make sure to also check out the Available Programs in Europe and Study in France sections!
