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179 Affordable Master's degrees in France
When considering an affordable master's degree, it's essential to understand what qualifies as 'affordable'. In our system, any master's programme with tuition fees ranging from 0 to 2,500 euros per year is considered affordable. France stands out as an excellent destination for international students seeking budget-friendly master's programmes. In France, affordable master's programmes can start from €0, meaning tuition-free education is available. This makes France incredibly appealing for cost-conscious students. With many top universities in France offering programmes within this affordable range, international students can pursue high-quality education without the burden of exorbitant tuition fees. Whether you're looking for a cheap master's in France or an affordable master degree in France, you'll find numerous options that fit your budget. Explore the top universities in France to discover affordable programmes that suit your academic and financial needs.
Applied Economics (Public Policy and Development)
The Applied Economics (Public Policy and Development) programme at Université PSL is designed to face the rising demand for evaluation and expertise on public policies to evaluate public policies in both developed and developing countries.
European Master Program on Sustainable Materials (SUMA)
The Master Programme on Sustainable Materials (SUMA) aims to train tomorrow’s industrial engineers in collaborative work in a global world and gather some of the best educational programmes in the field of Sustainable Materials Engineering in Europe.

International Marketing of Innovation
The International Marketing of Innovation programme from Toulouse School of Management (TSM) full-time double degree over two years, entirely taught in English and designed for International and French university graduates.
M2 Climate, Land Use and Ecosystem Services
The overarching objective of this M2 Climate, Land Use and Ecosystem Services programme at Paris-Saclay University is to provide students with the scientific knowledge, know-how and skills necessary to understand the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems in response to major drivers such as climate change, land-use change patterns and ecosystem management technologies.
Life Sciences
The AIRE Life Sciences Master (AIRE-LiSc) at University Paris Cité is an interdisciplinary two-year program tackling quantitative approaches of different interfaces in Life Sciences. Its goal is to study Life Sciences through an innovative, interdisciplinary approach based on the convergence of Biology, Physics, Computer Sciences, and many other disciplines.
Life Sciences
The Master's in Life Sciences from PSL Research University is an interdisciplinary Master's program that aims to prepare the next generation of scientists, engineers, and physicians to address emerging problems in contemporary biology, ecology and environmental science.
Quantitative Economics
The Quantitative Economics program at Université PSL is a two-year graduate program oriented towards research and advanced quantitative methods in economics.
Neurosciences
The Neurosciences master’s program at University Paris Cité will provide students with a broad knowledge in the field of neuroscience ranging from molecular and cellular to integrative neuroscience.
Biomedical Engineering - Molecular and Cellular Biotherapies
The Biomedical Engineering - Molecular and Cellular Biotherapies programme at University Paris Cité is designed to provide a 2-year education program in the field of bioengineering, at the crossroad of biomedical and engineering science.
English Studies - Literature
The Master in English Studies - Literature from University Paris Cité, fully taught in English, aims to provide students with a thorough knowledge of literatures in English, in all their historical (from the 16th century to the present day), cultural and generic diversity.
Microbial and Plant Systems Biology
The Master 1 Microbial and Plant Systems Biology from Paris-Saclay University is training a new generation of high-level scientists specialised in the most recent concepts of systems biology through research at an international level.
InterMaths Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (Interdisciplinary Mathematics)
InterMaths (Interdisciplinary Mathematics) from University of L´Aquila is a 2-year full-time Erasmus Mundus Joint Degree with interdisciplinary applications, with a specific focus on Biomedical Sciences and Industrial Engineering, jointly offered by five EU Universities.
M1 Chemistry - International Track - ERASMUS Mundus
The M1 Chemistry - International Track - ERASMUS Mundus is a two-year Erasmus Mundus training in Surface, Electro, Radiation, and Photo-Chemistry offered by a consortium of four European universities, namely Paris-Saclay University (France), Università degli Studi di Genova (Italy), Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan (Poland) and Universidade do Porto (Portugal).
Mathematics, Modeling and Simulation
The Mathematics, Modeling and Simulation program delivered by University of Pau and Pays de l'Adour offers up-to-date knowledge in areas of applied mathematics related to modeling with partial differential equations.
Earth and Planetary Science, Environment
The Earth and Planetary Science, Environment program at PSL Research University provides cutting-edge training in key disciplines such as earth science, meteorology, oceanography, climate science, and biogeoscience. The program also emphasizes the application of these fields in environmental science, addressing challenges both on Earth and in space.
Molecular Chemistry and Physicochemistry
Molecular Chemistry and Physicochemistry from University of Lorraine aims to meet the expectations of the companies by offering a program with a specialization covering several domains of activity which are recognized as sources of employment: chemical analysis, surface treatments, biomaterials, environmental preservation, modeling, synthesis.
M2 Fundamental Concepts of Physics
The M2 Fundamental Concepts of Physics master at Paris-Saclay University is organized around four different programs: Condensed Matter Physics, Soft Matter and biological physics, Quantum Physics and Theoretical Physics.
Earth and Planet Sciences, Environment - Fundamentals of Remote Sensing
Train high-level specialists in Earth and planetary remote sensing from drone to satellite in the Earth and Planet Sciences, Environment - Fundamentals of Remote Sensing programme at University Paris Cité.
Large Scale Accelerators and Lasers
The Large Scale Accelerators and Lasers master from Paris-Saclay University aims at training experts in the most advanced experimental and theoretical tools and concepts in accelerators, high power lasers and associated advanced sources, as well as in their applications for science and society.
Frequently Asked Questions
To qualify for a master's programme in France, you need a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. Most programmes require a minimum of three years of undergraduate study. Additionally, you should have a strong academic record and meet any specific prerequisites for your chosen field. Some programmes may require standardised test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT, though this is less common. Proficiency in French or English, depending on the language of instruction, is also essential. For detailed information on application requirements, visit the top universities in France and check their individual admission criteria.
France is home to several world-renowned universities that offer high-quality, affordable master's degrees. Among the top institutions are Université PSL, Paris-Saclay University, and Sorbonne University. These universities are not only known for their academic excellence but also for their budget-friendly tuition fees, often under €2,500 per year. They offer a wide range of programmes across various disciplines, making them attractive options for international students seeking cheap masters in France. For a comprehensive list and detailed rankings, explore the top universities in France.
Master's degrees in France are remarkably affordable due to significant government funding and subsidies. The French government heavily invests in higher education to make it accessible to all students, including international ones. This results in low-cost tuition fees, often under €2,500 per year for most programmes. Additionally, the economic structure in France supports these low fees, ensuring that quality education remains affordable. This makes France an attractive destination for students seeking economical master's degrees without compromising on quality.
Language requirements for affordable master's degrees in France vary depending on the programme and university. Most programmes offered in English require proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores. For programmes taught in French, you need to demonstrate French language skills, typically through DELF or DALF certifications. Some universities may offer preparatory language courses to help you meet these requirements. It's essential to check the specific language prerequisites for your chosen programme to ensure you meet the criteria for admission.
Yes, international students in France are allowed to work part-time while pursuing their studies. You can work up to 964 hours per academic year, which translates to approximately 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. This flexibility allows you to gain work experience and support your living expenses. However, it's important to balance work with your academic responsibilities to ensure you maintain good standing in your programme. Always check the specific regulations and limitations set by your university and the French authorities.
While tuition fees for master's degrees in France are low, there are additional costs to consider. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and health insurance, can vary depending on the city you choose to study in. On average, students should budget between €600 to €1,000 per month for living costs. Additionally, there may be application fees, visa processing fees, and costs associated with obtaining necessary documentation. It's important to plan ahead and consider these hidden costs to ensure a smooth transition to studying in France.