Language Proficiency Requirements for Studying in France
To enroll in a French higher education institution, international students must demonstrate a sufficient level of language proficiency. This requirement ensures that students can follow lectures, participate in seminars, and complete academic assignments effectively. The specific level required depends on the language of instruction (French or English) and the level of the degree program.
Most institutions use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) to define their requirements. For programs taught in French, a B2 level is typically the minimum requirement for undergraduate (Licence) and graduate (Master) programs. However, highly competitive courses or those in the humanities and law may require a C1 level.
French Language Certifications
If the chosen program is taught in French, students must provide an official certificate from one of the recognized testing bodies. The two most common certification paths are the TCF and the DELF/DALF diplomas.
TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français)
The TCF is a standardized test used for general language placement. It is valid for two years. For university admission (specifically the "DAP" or Demande d’Admission Préalable), students often take the TCF-DAP.
- Cost: Approximately 170 EUR to 200 EUR ($185 USD to $218 USD, Jan 2026), depending on the testing center.
- Validity: 2 years.
DELF and DALF
The DELF (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française) and DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) are official diplomas awarded by the French Ministry of Education. Unlike the TCF, these diplomas are valid for life.
- DELF B2: Usually sufficient for most undergraduate programs.
- DALF C1/C2: Required for advanced research, law, or medical degrees.
- Cost: Ranges from 150 EUR to 250 EUR ($163 USD to $272 USD, Jan 2026).
Applications for these exams are handled through France Éducation International or local authorized centers worldwide.
English-Taught Programs
France offers a growing number of programs taught entirely or partially in English, particularly in business, engineering, and international relations. For these programs, proof of French proficiency is often not required for admission, but proof of English proficiency is mandatory for non-native speakers.
Accepted English Tests
Most French institutions accept the following international tests:
- IELTS Academic: Usually a score of 6.0 or 6.5 is required. Cost: Approximately 260 EUR ($283 USD, Jan 2026).
- TOEFL iBT: Usually a score of 80 to 95 is required. Cost: Approximately 250 EUR ($272 USD, Jan 2026).
- Cambridge Exams (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency): Accepted by many elite schools (Grandes Écoles).
Detailed information on English-taught options can be found on the Campus France "Programs Taught in English" catalog.
Exemptions to Language Requirements
In certain specific cases, students may be exempt from providing a language test certificate. These exemptions are usually based on the student's educational background or nationality.
Common Exemptions
- Francophone Countries: Citizens of countries where French is the sole official language are often exempt.
- French Baccalaureate: Students who have obtained a French Baccalauréat (including the International Option/OIB) or a French degree from a recognized institution.
- Bilateral Agreements: Specific exchange programs (like Erasmus+) may have different requirements defined by the home and host university agreement.
- Dual-Degree Programs: Some specific partnerships allow for internal assessment instead of standardized testing.
Note: Requirements can vary significantly between private schools and public universities. Always verify the specific criteria on the official website of the chosen institution before beginning the application process.
For official guidance on the 2025/2026 academic year, students are encouraged to consult the Ministry of Higher Education and Research portal.
