Study in the UK for French Citizens | Universities & Visas

Why Study in the United Kingdom?

The UK is one of the most popular study destinations for French students due to its academic excellence and international reputation.

Key Benefits for French Students

• Home to top-ranked universities (Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL)

• Globally recognised degrees

• Shorter degree duration (3 years undergraduate, 1 year master’s)

• Wide range of English-taught programmes

• Multicultural campuses and strong student support

• Graduate Route visa allowing work after studies

• Strong employability in finance, tech, healthcare, and research

Popular Courses in the UK for French Citizens

French students commonly enrol in the following programmes:

• Business, Finance & Management

• Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence

• Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil)

• Law & International Relations

• Medicine & Life Sciences

• Economics & Data Analytics

• Arts, Design & Media Studies

Top UK Universities for French Students

According to QS World University Rankings 2024 and Times Higher Education, leading UK institutions include:

• University of Oxford

• University of Cambridge

• Imperial College London

• University College London (UCL)

• London School of Economics (LSE)

• University of Edinburgh

• King’s College London

• University of Manchester

• University of Bristol

• University of Warwick

Types of Higher Education Institutions in the UK

UK higher education institutions include traditional universities known for research; newer Metropolitan/Post-92 universities focusing on applied learning; Specialist institutions (Conservatoires, Agricultural Colleges); and other recognised bodies, such as colleges with HE provision, offering diverse options from deep history to modern, vocational focus.

Public Universities

State-funded institutions offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

• University of Manchester

• Russell Group Universities

Elite research-focused universities with high academic standards.

• University of Cambridge

Private Universities

Smaller institutions offering specialised or career-focused programmes.

• University of Buckingham

• Colleges & Pathway Providers

• Foundation years and preparatory programmes for international students.

Admission Requirements for French Citizens Studying in the UK

Academic Qualifications

• Baccalauréat accepted for undergraduate entry

• Competitive universities may require high grades or additional exams

• Master’s programmes require a recognised bachelor’s degree

English Language Requirements

• IELTS Academic: typically 6.0–7.0

• TOEFL or equivalent accepted

• Exemptions possible if prior education was in English

Personal Statement

• Required via UCAS (undergraduate)

• Explains academic goals and motivation

Academic References

• One or two references required

• Must often be translated into English

UK Student Visa Requirements for French Citizens

French nationals must apply for a UK Student Visa for studies longer than 6 months.

Key Visa Requirements

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

• Proof of financial funds: Tuition fees (first year). Living costs: £1,334/month (London) and £1,023/month (outside London)

• Valid passport

• English language proof

• Tuberculosis test (if required)

• Applications are submitted via UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

Can French Students Work While Studying in the UK?

Yes. With a valid UK Student Visa, French students can:

• Work up to 20 hours per week during term time

• Work full-time during holidays

• Take internships related to their course

Post-Study Work Options in the UK

Graduate Route Visa

• Stay in the UK for: 2 years after undergraduate or master’s or 3 years after a PhD

• No sponsorship required

• Ideal for gaining UK work experience

Documents Required to Study in the UK

• University Applications

• Passport

• Academic transcripts and diplomas

• Personal statement

• Reference letters

• English test results

• Student Visa

• CAS letter

• Proof of funds

• TB test certificate (if applicable)

• Certified English translations (if documents are in French)

Certified Translation Requirements for UK Study Applications

UK universities and the Home Office require UK certified translations of any documents not issued in English, including:

• French diplomas and transcripts

• Birth certificates

• Academic references

• Civil status documents

Translayte provides:

• UKVI-compliant certified translations

• Fast turnaround

• Acceptance by UK universities and embassies

Request a free quote to get started.

Step-by-Step: How French Citizens Apply to Study in the UK

• Research courses and universities

• Meet academic and English requirements

• Prepare and translate the required documents

• Apply via UCAS or directly to universities

• Receive an offer and CAS letter

• Apply for the UK Student Visa

• Arrange accommodation and travel

• Enrol and attend orientation

Cost of Studying in the UK for French Citizens

Tuition Fees

• Undergraduate: £10,000–£25,000/year

• Master’s: £12,000–£30,000/year

• Medicine & MBA: higher

Living Costs

• London: £1,200–£1,500/month

• Outside London: £900–£1,100/month

Additional Costs

• Student visa: £490

• Immigration Health Surcharge: ~£776/year

• Certified translations: from €25 per page on Translayte.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing UCAS or visa deadlines

• Insufficient proof of funds

• Incomplete or untranslated documents

• Weak personal statements

• Applying for the wrong visa type