Erudera's Complete Guide to Studying Law in France
France has long become a hub for international students. It offers great opportunities for all students that choose to study in the country, especially for those who wish to study law. France has had political and legal influences in the functioning of the European Union, the UN and EU parliament so you will be learning from people that are highly experienced in the field of law. Another great thing about France is that you can study law courses both in French and English. You will have the opportunity to choose between a variety of courses, have discussions with peers and professors, learn different subjects and finally come out of the university as prepared as possible to be a successful law graduate.
Best Study Programs in Law at Universities in France
European and International Trade & Investment Law
Lyon Catholic University
Master degree
France
English
European Business Law
Aix-Marseille University
Master degree
France
English
International and European Business Law
Jean Moulin University Lyon 3
Master degree
France
English
English and French Law
Pantheon-Assas University (Paris 2)
Bachelor degree
France
English
Reasons to Study Law in France
Prestigious Education
French universities will offer you an education that will equip you with the essential skills and knowledge you will need in order to succeed in your field. In addition to this, your academic studies will be backed up by internationally recognized qualifications. So, after graduation, whether you wish to remain in France and practice law, go back to your home country, or wish to try a whole new experience in a country other than these two, a French degree will open a wide range of opportunities for you.
Affordable Education
Apart from having an excellent academic reputation, France is also quite economical for international students. Considering that the national government of France funds all public universities, students do not have to spend so much in tuition fees. However, low cost does not mean you will receive an education of a lower quality. On the contrary, in France you will be able to study in top ranked universities while paying low tuition fees. Note that private universities do not charge the same tuition fees as public universities.
French Universities are Open to International Students
What has attracted thousands of international students to study in France is the welcoming nature of French universities. Students that have already experienced the student life in the country claim that they felt more than welcome by their host universities. The French government is continually working to improve the transition of international students to their country, and it is committed to create the best possible conditions for all students that choose France as their study abroad destination.
Excellent student experience
Student’s experience is quite important in France and that is why your host university will make sure that you receive all the necessary help and guidance so you can adapt as quickly as possible to the new country. France has a lot to offer not only to its students but tourists in general. With the rich culture, the many attractions, stunning architecture, and medieval cities, France will surely steal your heart. So, if you are reluctant to study abroad, know that with all the adventures you can take on in France you will experience a thriving student life!
Requirements
Usually, universities have their own set of requirements that their prospective students must meet. So, the admission requirements to study law in France may vary depending on the university you plan to attend. Some general requirements that apply to all universities include:
- Have a high school diploma/certificate equivalent to a French one
- Submit copies of your transcripts and their official translation
- Letters of motivation (for undergraduate and postgraduate studies)
- Letters of recommendation (for undergraduate and postgraduate studies)
- Bachelor’s degree in law or similar field of study (for postgraduate studies)
- Work experience (for postgraduate studies)
Application Process
In order to apply for a degree in law in one of France’s universities you should follow the following process:
- Choose a university
- Visit the website of your chosen university
- Read all admission requirements
- Fill out the application form
- Prepare the supporting documents of your application
- Double check everything
- Apply through PacoursUp before the deadline
Note that if you wish to apply for your first year of undergraduate studies but you do not have the nationality of a EU/EEA country you will need to file a preliminary request for admission between November and January - a year before you wish to begin with your studies in France. Your request for admission or Demande d’Admission Prealable should be sent to the French embassy in your home country. If your country does not have a French embassy you should submit your application to the consulate that has jurisdiction over the country of your origin.
Degree Duration: How Long Does It Take to Study Law in France?
Law schools in France are not single entities but they are schools within a larger university. France as many other European countries has adopted the Bologna Process. So, in France, an undergraduate law degree takes at least three years of full-time study to complete which in French is called “Licence de Droit”. Postgraduate degrees in law such as a Master’s degree takes at least two years of full-time study to complete. A Ph.D. in law on the other hand can take three or more years of full-time study to complete.
Tuition Fees: How Much Does It Cost to Study Law in France?
One of the reasons why many international students choose France as their study destination is the low cost of tuition in the universities of the country. These fees are similar to those of other developed countries where a Bachelor degree costs around EUR 10,000 per year, and a Master’s degree costs around EUR 14,000 per year. However, international students that decide to study in public institutions will receive financial support from the French government which pays ⅔ of the general tuition fee.
After the government reduces the tuition fees international students may pay EUR 170 per year at the Licence level, EUR 243 per year at a Master’s level, and EUR 380 per year at the Doctoral level. Note that you must be a student coming from an EU/EEA country to qualify for the reduced fee. You should also know that private universities charge students with much higher tuition fees than public universities.
Law Career Prospects in France
Students that manage to go through the rigorous law programs in French can look ahead for a number of career opportunities. Beyond the legal professions such as an advertising lawyer, regulatory attorney, antitrust lawyer, banking lawyer, compliance attorney, corporate lawyer, tax lawyer or the like you can also work in industries such as:
- Journalism
- Recruitment
- Politics
- Human Resources
- Education
Salaries for law graduates in France range from EUR 20,500 to EUR 150,000 ($24,985 to $182,821) per year.
