Studying in France is an enlightening experience, both from a human and professional point of view, but not only.
Indeed, for non-European students, deciding to pursue a semester or a full university cycle in France can also prove to be financially advantageous. While a student budget in America sometimes reaches bewildering sums, the cost of studying in France appears to be more reasonable. Even if the price varies depending on what kind of school is chosen (public or private), the total amount for studying in France is lower than what is observed in the United States. Ploy or reality?
Cost of studies : a true gap between these two countries?
Average budget in the US vs. average budget in France
We often hear about the alarming prices of American universities and higher education institutions. To be able to study in the United States, many students take out loans and live on credit for several years. Indeed, a year in a public American university ranges from $15,000 to $35,000; going up to $50,000 for a private school. The most prestigious schools have mind-blowing tuition fees: over $60,000 for a year at Sarah Lawrence College in New York!
In France, fees at private universities average €15,000 per year. For example at Excelia, yearly prices vary from €8,000 for a Bachelor to €15,000 for a Masters. Even if you add in the costs for a visa and insurance, the total price still remains much lower than what would be expected for a year in the United States.
Is life in France as expensive as in the US?
Accommodation
In the US, the cost of a year at university often includes classes as well as on-campus accommodation. For an academic year (9 months), prices for on-campus dorms vary from $2,250 to $5,500. The price for renting a room or a studio apartment depends on the city and neighborhood, usually ranging from $350 to $600. In France, a student housing system is also available under certain conditions. The rates are advantageous and lower than those offered for off-campus rentals. However, renting a room or a studio apartment in France essentially comes up to the same prices as those found in the United States. For international students, getting a roommate would be the best compromise: you get to meet new people while saving money!
The price of an average “student shopping basket”
In the United States, a university catering system exists which allows students to get meal vouchers. It generally costs $1,000 to $1,800 per year to eat in school cafeterias. Eating off campus will definitely make this amount rise rapidly… You are better off preparing your own meals. Whether in France or in the United States, grocery shopping is the best alternative. An average shopping cart in the US costs $250 per month against €200 for its French counterpart.
Additional costs
Studying in a new country means having the possibility to discover it in all its aspects. Therefore, these “extra” costs are a fundamental part of a student’s budget. Regarding this matter, budgets will diverge depending on cities and each student’s personality. While some are determined to visit everything, others are content to stay home. At any rate, whether in France or in the United States, this aspect is important to promote socialization, which is crucial for any foreign student spending a year in a new country!
Deciding to study in France has many benefits. While school fees (in private or public colleges) are lower than the ones in the United States, the cost of living is also worth pointing out. So for those of you who are hesitant to go for it, rest assured: France is a host country that will make you thrive both professionally and personally, no matter your budget.
