France is home to some of the most prestigious universities in Europe, from historic institutions such as the Sorbonne University to world-class business schools like HEC Paris and International business schools like Paris School of Business.
French universities consistently appear in the QS Ranking World University and the Times Higher Education Ranking, making the country one of the top global destinations for international students.
Best French Universities
When thinking about higher education in France, many immediately picture the universities of Paris, such as Sorbonne University or Université Paris-Saclay, which are indeed among the most renowned. Beyond Paris, several major French cities also host universities of international standing for their research, academic quality, and specialised fields of study.
- Sorbonne University : humanities, sciences, medicine.
- Université Paris-Saclay : sciences, engineering, mathematics.
- PSL (Paris Sciences et Lettres): multidisciplinary, elite research, management (Université Paris Dauphine).
- Panthéon-Assas : law, political science (often considered the best law school in France).
- ENS Lyon (Grande Ecole) : highly selective, humanities and sciences.
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 : medicine, health sciences, technology.
- Université Grenoble Alpes : physics, engineering, computer science.
- Université Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier : aerospace, engineering, natural sciences.
- Université de Bordeaux : neuroscience, medicine, wine sciences (oenology).
- Université de Lille : economics, political science, law.
- Université d’Aix-Marseille : law, medicine, social sciences.
What is the best university in France?
Strictly speaking, there is no single “best university.” The answer depends on the discipline. Sorbonne University is often seen as the most prestigious for its history and research; Université Paris-Saclay is a global leader in mathematics and physics; PSL stands out for research and its connection with Université Paris Dauphine in management.
But in France, higher education is not limited to public universities. The most prestigious pathways are often through the Grandes Écoles, which sit outside the traditional university system.
Admission requires competitive entrance exams after at least two years of classes préparatoires (prépa). Students who succeed join elite programmes at institutions such as École Normale Supérieure (ENS), École Polytechnique (X), or Les Mines.
Selective Master’s programmes at universities like Sorbonne or Lyon recruit students via applications but competition remains high. All University Masters ar selective in French University (application + interview are very common).
These are private institutions, equally selective, accessible via entrance exams or direct applications. They include HEC Paris, ESSEC, ESCP, and also Paris School of Business (PSB). Business schools offer the prestigious Programme Grande École, but also flexible Bachelor’s degrees, specialised MScs, and MBAs. Many programmes are 100% in English, making them highly attractive for international students.
This division between universities, public Grandes Écoles, and private business schools is what makes the French system unique. It allows students to specialise early and to target elite training in sciences, humanities, law, business, or engineering.
How to Apply to a University in France?
Admission Criteria
French universities and Grandes Écoles base their admission on different models:
- Public Universities : They are open to all students holding a baccalauréat or an equivalent high school diploma. French students must apply on Parcoursup, foreign students apply on Campus France. At the Master’s level, admission is selective and based on academic records.
- Grandes Écoles (public and private) : They are highly selective institutions (competitive exams). For international students, admission is usually based on transcripts, language level, and interviews.
- Business Schools : Private institutions such as HEC, ESSEC, ESCP, or Paris School of Business (PSB) select on competitive exams, or direct applications for international students. Requirements typically include transcripts, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS), and sometimes GMAT/GRE scores.
Application process for international students
If French high school students are required to submit their applications through Parcoursup—a rule that also applies to non-French students enrolled in French secondary schools—the admission pathway is different for international students coming from abroad. For them, entry into French higher education depends on their country of origin and the type of institution they are targeting.
- Campus France : In many countries, applications to French universities must be made through the Études en France platform run by Campus France. This system centralises the application and visa process.
- Direct Application : In countries not covered by Campus France, international students apply directly to the university or school of their choice, sending transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of language proficiency (French or English depending on the programme).
- Visa Requirements : Non-EU students must apply for a student visa once admitted, usually with the assistance of Campus France.
Paris School of Business: English-taught entry routes
Unlike traditional public universities, Paris School of Business (PSB) offers admission fully accessible to international students through programmes taught entirely in English.
- Entry requirements : Academic transcripts, motivation letter, proof of English proficiency, and an interview.
- Programmes available :
At PSB, students join a highly international environment (over 100 nationalities on campus) and benefit from strong corporate connections in Paris.
This makes PSB one of the most attractive Business Schools in France for international students, particularly for those interested in pursuing business, management, and luxury studies without needing to master French before arrival.