Discover Why France Is the Perfect Place to Study

France ranks as a top global destination for international students in global rankings. It blends prestigious universities, career opportunities, cultural richness, and vibrant student life. 

EDHEC Business School has campuses in cities like Nice, Lille, and Paris, offering far more beyond sheer beauty for every student looking to expand their horizons. EDHEC combines academic excellence, cultural exposure, career focus, and specialized programs. Consequently, students gain powerful life experiences combined with strategic academic environments that support student growth and career success.

Here are 10 compelling reasons to study a master’s in France and explore specializations. 

10 Reasons to Study in France

France offers students a chance to learn in world-class institutions. It also allows them to immerse themselves in a rich culture and access thriving professional networks. Below, we explore each reason in detail to see how EDHEC’s campuses help make studying in France an exceptional experience.

1. France Offers World-Renowned Academic Excellence

France is known for academic rigor and elite institutions. A shining example, EDHEC Business School holds triple accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA) and consistently ranks among Europe’s elite business schools. For example, the Financial Times ranked EDHEC 7th in its 2024 European Business School Rankings

Students also benefit from the expertise of highly qualified Faculty and boast cutting-edge research initiatives. EDHEC also welcomes industry experts to share their insights and teach courses, bringing real-world experience directly into the classroom. 

Master’s programs center on finance, business management, marketing, sustainability, and data science and AI to shape leaders ready for the future. As a result, this global academic depth, coupled with EDHEC’s reputation, enhances the real value of your degree.

2. Internationally Recognized Degrees & Programs

EDHEC Business School degrees, including the Master of Science (MSc), Master in Management (MiM), and Global MBA, are taught in English and designed for global careers. The Global MBA ranks #1 worldwide for Entrepreneurship in 2025.

EDHEC regularly updates its curricula to align with industry trends and the needs of diverse employers. A key benefit to undertaking a master’s degree in France is the exposure to a global business environment, and then graduating with an internationally recognized qualification. It is this international exposure that builds confidence and career readiness.

3. Affordable Tuition Compared to Other Global Hubs

Tuition in France remains lower than in the U.S. or the UK. In addition, EDHEC Business School provides access through scholarships and financial aid, making the tuition-to-value ratio more appealing for international students. 

EDHEC rewards strong academic and leadership profiles through its various scholarship programs, such as the “Make an Impact Scholarship.” They also offer support to high achievers with merit-based “Excellence Scholarships.”

Government subsidies help manage costs for housing and transportation. As a result, students gain a top-ranked education without gathering excessive debt. This affordability frees graduates to focus on careers rather than repayments.

4. Experience Vibrant Student Life in Iconic Cities

EDHEC campuses in France are located in exciting, student-friendly cities.

Nice

Located on the French Riviera, the Nice campus is nestled between the sea and the mountains. It hosts the Masters’ in Finance, and the Master in Management – Data Science & AI for Business programs, as well as the Global MBA and Ph.D in Finance, with the EDHEC-Risk Climate Impact Institute also on site. Its Mediterranean position within a hub of global business fosters innovation and connections with tech companies. This campus also hosts a Bloomberg Trading Room. In addition, cultural festivals and beach life in the south of France provide balance to intense academic schedules.

Lille

Surrounded by 8.5 hectares of green parkland, the campus features modern facilities that include a digitally networked library, a trading room, a sports complex, and an incubator, a few hundred metres away on the Jean Arnault Campus. With a thriving arts and cultural scene, Lille’s cobblestone streets and historic centre add to its overall charm. Lille’s youthful vibe fosters collaboration and creativity, while the lower living expenses attract astute international talent. Lille also enjoys excellent transport connections to Paris, Brussels, and London, making it a perfect location for students wishing to base themselves in Europe.

Paris

Paris is world-renowned as the ‘City of Lights’, and is also home to Europe’s largest purpose-built business district. EDHEC Paris is ideally located between the Stock Exchange and the Opera House in this historic business centre. EDHEC Paris is also situated close to innovation hubs such as Station F. Home to the Global Master in Management – GETT Program, the Paris campus also hosts the apprenticeship program. For all these reasons, countless business students flock to Paris every year and truly thrive in this global business capital.

5. Gateway to the European Job Market

France’s central location and EDHEC Business School’s corporate partnerships result in exceptional placement opportunities. In the 2024 Placement Report, 37% of international students found work in France, 32% of jobs were outside France, while 36% of graduates work outside their home country. 

Overall, the Class of 2024 outcomes are impressive:

  • 93% chose a job that matched their career objectives
  • 75% of students signed contracts before leaving school or less than 2 months after graduation
  • 54% found a job via the Career Centre and EDHEC
  • 38% found roles in finance
  • 25% found jobs in consulting

Visa options like the “post‑study work visa” support non‑EU students after graduation. Additionally, EDHEC Business School hosts regular career fairs attended by top European firms. EDHEC alumni work in London, Luxembourg, Berlin, the U.S., and beyond. Ultimately, this network significantly expands your job opportunities and career reach in France and across Europe.

6. Multicultural Environment and International Community

France is a melting pot of cultures. Similarly, EDHEC’s student body represents over 130 nationalities and includes a highly international faculty. EDHEC’s diverse faculty of professors brings global expertise that enriches every classroom discussion.

As a result, classroom discussions reflect global perspectives and promote inclusive thinking. Likewise, group projects simulate real international business scenarios and teamwork. Friendships formed here often span the globe, creating long-term professional networks that extend worldwide. Overall, this diverse environment prepares students for multicultural teams and global careers.

7. Study in English, Live in French

While classes are primarily in English, living in France encourages you to attempt learning French. This approach combines academic accessibility with deep immersion in French culture, while building valuable language and communication skills for global careers. 

To enhance this experience for international students, EDHEC Business School offers French courses for beginners and intermediates. Consequently, students gain confidence to engage locally and professionally. Studying French while in France is an opportunity to live as a true global citizen.

8. Career-Driven Curriculum with Global Impact

EDHEC Business School integrates real-world projects, internships, consulting, and company challenges into every program. Similarly, EDHEC boasts top-ranked career services, with 98% employment rates at three months for MiM graduates.

Students can choose specialized tracks in finance, business management, data science and AI for business, or global economic transformation and technology, or choose within multiple specializations such as marketing, tech & data, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. They can join global competitions and innovation labs, while faculty help to guide students in research and entrepreneurial ventures. On the whole, this holistic approach strengthens the professional readiness of EDHEC graduates.

9. Supportive Infrastructure for International Students

The French government and schools like EDHEC Business School offer strong support to international students. The International Students Office (ISO) assists with housing, visas, orientation, healthcare, and language courses. 

Furthermore, the school provides guidance that helps students integrate quickly into French student life. They provide dedicated counselors to help you adapt quickly and access all the necessary resources to thrive in a new study environment. Meanwhile, student associations also offer peer mentoring. These services ensure a smooth start and steady growth during your studies.

10. A Lifestyle That Balances Academics and Wellbeing

France places high importance on quality of life. As a student at EDHEC, you’ll enjoy student clubs, over 100 societies, an active sailing regatta tradition, and vibrant community life. Another aspect international students enjoy is exploring French cuisine, local markets, and art galleries that enrich your daily experience.

The Nice campus offers beach access, warm sunshine, and a range of outdoor activities near the sea. Similarly, the Lille campus promotes a sense of community, hosts various cultural events, and fosters strong academic connections. Meanwhile, the Paris campus delivers urban energy, professional exposure, and deep global networks.

Beyond campus, weekend trips and cultural outings create memorable moments, while sports and wellness initiatives play a crucial role in supporting student mental health. These collaborative events and shared experiences foster global awareness and cultivate lifelong friendships. This rich environment nurtures both personal and academic growth.

Shape Your Global Future with EDHEC

Studying in France for a master’s degree at EDHEC offers you a world-class education, global credentials, affordable tuition, and a rich, vibrant daily life. At EDHEC, you will gain access to strong career prospects and excellent student support while enjoying a balanced lifestyle.

Now it is up to you to explore EDHEC’s campuses and connect with ambassadors. Choosing France and EDHEC guarantees a quality education, career growth, and cultural exposure. Ultimately, remember that choosing the right location can shape your global future.

Want to study at EDHEC? Take our eligibility quiz to see if you qualify!