Tuition fees in France

Introduction of tuition fees

Tuition fees existed in French universities prior to the second world war and has remained at approximately the same level as % of total funding. Since 2007 universities in France have been granted a greater degree of independence, including the ability to increase fees in excess of the maximum established by the state for postgraduate studies. Undergraduate studies are nevertheless capped.

Private sector institutions are free to establish the fees they desire. In the public sector fees may differ between Universities and higher education establishments (Grands établissements).

Tuition fees in the public sector

Non-autonomous Universities

Fees for undergraduate studies are determined annually by the Education Ministry. In 2013 the following fees were set by the state;

  * Undergraduates 184 euros 
  * Post-graduates 254 euros 
  * Doctorates 388 euros

Autonomous universities

Since 2007 universities may opt for an autonomous status. Autonomous universities have the ability to determine certain tuition fees. While undergraduate fees are capped at the level set by the Ministry of Education, post-graduate and doctorate studies may be set freely by the universities. Paris-Dauphine university was one of the first universities to approve a significant increase in the tuition fees for its Masters in 2010 Fees were increased from the then national standard fees of 210 euros to 4000 euros (for family revenus above 80,000 euros).In 2013 90% of French universities had opted for the autonomy status.

Higher education establishments

Higher education establishments (also referred to as Grands établissements)differ from universities as admissions are based on entry exams. The fees charged by these state establishments are higher than in universities but remain low by international comparison. There are 60 such establishments. The fees range from 450 euros to 1100 euros per annum

Supplementary fees

Since 1993 Universities may also charge certain clearly identified supplementary fees linked to the particular type of studies. Such fees may include a contribution to the costs of specialist equipment. Some universities have been accused of using this as a cover to increase fees above that established by the state.

Social security

Although not part of tuition fees students are required to pay social security contributions of approximately 200 euros per year.