1. Overview of Higher Education in France

The French system of higher education is distinguished by a diversity of institutions, courses, organisational arrangements, and admission requirements.

Over 3500 different institutions offer higher education studies to over 2 million students.

In recent years universities have adopted the threefold European wide system of qualification (Bachelor, Masters, Doctorate) in line with EU agreements, but there are also a range of other qualifications that sit alongside the mainstream studies.

In many respects higher education in France is also the ‘Cinderella’ of the education system. The country spends less on higher education than many of the richer nations of Europe and the USA. It spends a great deal more per pupil on secondary school education.

Many universities are regularly overspent each year, there is a lack of adequate research funding, and the level of capital investment is meagre.

There is a shortage of student accommodation in most cities and rents have risen beyond a level that most students can afford. The situation is particularly severe in Paris.

The system of financial assistance for students is very confusing and inadequate – there are many different grants available, from different agencies and levels of government. There are also significant delays in the payment of grant and loan support.

That said, tuition fees in France (excepting specialised institutions) are exceptionally low, although higher for non-EU students.

The culture of many universities is rather impersonal, with large classes and students left to their own devices.

France has a generally poor ranking in OECD ratings. In a regular annual review carried out by the University of Shanghai, France barely figures in the list of the best universities in the world. Nevertheless, the 'grandes ecoles' offer some of the best education in the world - if you can obtain access!

Only around 40% of young French people pursue higher education, a figure lower than many other OECD countries.

Of those who attend, only 59% then complete their studies, 11% less than the average for developed countries. Around 40% of students fail before completing their second year. This is mainly due to the fact that the selection process to universities (at least for the first year) is not as rigid as in many other countries.

Despite the cloak of nationally recognised diplomas and the ostensible equality of education there are also many inequalities in the system.

Children from poorer households are inadequately represented, and regional universities with close political ties are given greater priority than their neighbours.

Indeed, in many respects a two-speed system is in operation, with a few prestigous universities, (the grandes écoles and the technical institutes (IUT)) receiving better investment, and openly more selective admissions policies.

Thus, whilst the level of investment per university student is around €7,000 per year, the amount for a student in a grande école is nearer €14,000.

To its credit, in recent years the French government has recognised there is a problem, and efforts are being made to improve things.

Universities have been given greater autonomy in funding, staff and building construction, beginning with the recruitment of around many new teaching and research staff.

A building programme for student accommodation has also been undertaken, and some key universities have been identified for a major programme of investment.

The Government is also encouraging universities to spawn off their own research led business operations, and to seek partnerships with the private sector.

The Government has also stated that the grande écoles must make greater provision for those from disadvantaged households, to which end improved financial support will be available for the students.

There is a useful site on higher education, which is well worth consulting. Onisep is also a great official source of information.

Next: French Universities