Choosing Between France and Germany for Higher Education: A Comprehensive Guide
Both are ranked amongst the best places in the world to study, and for good reason. On the one hand there's France with its lavish culture and art, academic education and then on the other there is Germany where it is all about hard core engineering, innovative thinking and cheaper education (at least for Under-Graduation). In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences in studying in these two nations to help you find the best match for your goals and ambitions. Let's explore which destination suits your aspirations!
Higher Education Systems in France & Germany
Each country has a higher education system that is appropriate for specific learning styles and career aspirations. Let's break it down:
Category |
France |
Germany |
Public Universities |
Major providers of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. |
Well-known schools that offer engineering, business and admin degrees. |
Grandes Écoles / Elite Schools |
Elite institutions offering specialized degrees in engineering, business, and administration. |
N/A |
Specialized Schools |
Institutions focusing on developing industry-specific skills. |
Universities of Applied Sciences: Practical-oriented programs tied closely to industry needs. |
Art & Music Institutes |
Known for arts, fashion, and design courses. |
Universities of Art/Music: Nurture creative talent in fields like design, architecture, and photography. |
Pro Tip: Visiting France and love business and arts, look no further than the Grandes Écoles or maybe Germany sound more appealing with their Universities of Applied Sciences being great for people interested in Tech or hands-on work.
Top Universities in France & Germany (2024 Rankings)
Both countries are home to several prestigious universities ranked globally:
Top 5 Universities in France |
QS World University Rankings 2024 |
Top 5 Universities in Germany |
QS World University Rankings 2024 |
Université PSL (Paris Sciences et Lettres) |
24 |
Technical University of Munich |
37 |
Ecole Polytechnique (ParisTech) |
61 |
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München |
54 |
Sorbonne University |
59 |
Universität Heidelberg |
87 |
CentraleSupélec |
138 |
Freie Universitaet Berlin |
98 |
École Normale Supérieure de Lyon |
184 |
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin |
120 |
Question: Which do you value more—France’s focus on elite, specialized education or Germany’s renowned research institutions?
Popular Courses to Study in France & Germany
Where the number of international students attracts anywhere in hundreds of universities impart various courses in a country. Most sought-after programs:
Popular Courses in France |
Popular Courses in Germany |
Medicine |
Engineering |
International Economics |
Business and Economics |
Pharmacology |
Computer Science |
Art History |
Art & Design |
Engineering |
Architecture |
Pro Tip: If your passion lies in fashion, gastronomy, or the arts, then France is your canvas. For engineering, IT, and applied sciences, Germany is your launchpad!
Admission Requirements in France & Germany
Here’s a quick look at the eligibility criteria for studying in both countries:
Degree Level |
France Requirements |
Germany Requirements |
Bachelor’s |
Class 12th certificate with minimum 60% in required subjects. |
At least 50% in Class 12th with relevant subjects. |
Master’s |
Minimum 55% in a relevant Bachelor's degree. |
Bachelor’s degree in a related field with specified passing marks. |
PhD |
Five-year Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, excellent language skills. |
Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant subject. |
Question: Are you ready to meet the challenge of mastering a foreign language if required, or would you prefer courses available in English?
Cost of Studying and Living in France & Germany
Understanding the cost involved is key to planning your education. Here's a quick comparison of the expenses:
Expense Type |
France (EUR) |
Germany (EUR) |
Bachelor’s Tuition |
400 - 2,770 per year |
14,000 - 26,000 per year |
Master’s Tuition |
600 - 3,770 per year |
20,000 - 40,000 per year |
PhD Tuition |
380 per year |
800 - 900 per year |
Living Costs (Rent) |
879 - 1220 per month |
667 - 952 per month |
Meal Cost |
14 per meal |
10 per meal |
Public Transport |
1.90 per ride |
3 per ride |
Pro Tip: While Germany has higher tuition fees, it offers affordable living expenses and tuition-free options in many public universities!
Scholarships for Studying in France & Germany
Both countries offer numerous scholarships to ease the financial burden for international students:
Germany Scholarships |
France Scholarships |
DAAD Scholarship Programs |
Université Paris-Saclay International Master's Scholarships |
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships |
Eiffel Scholarships in France |
Erasmus Scholarship Programs |
ENS International Selection Scholarships |
Question: Are you aiming for a fully-funded experience? Look into these scholarship opportunities to make your dream education a reality!
Documents Required: To apply for a student visa in France and Germany , you'll need to prepare the following documents:
- Valid passport
- Two photographs
- Academic transcripts
- Acceptance letter by a German University
- Proof of funds
- Language proficiency test results (English or German, depending on the language of your course)
- Health insurance
- Declaration of authenticity of documents submitted
- Completed application form
Job Opportunities in France & Germany
Both countries provide excellent job prospects for international students and graduates:
Popular Jobs in Germany |
Average Salary (EUR/year) |
Popular Jobs in France |
Average Salary (EUR/year) |
IT Specialists |
60,109 EUR |
Laboratory Technologist |
35,100 EUR |
Software Developers |
49,979 EUR |
Pharmacist |
63,200 EUR |
Data Scientists |
103,180 EUR |
Psychotherapist |
40,174 EUR |
Pro Tip: Germany is the technology hub of Europe, perfect for techies and engineers, while France excels in pharma and healthcare sectors.
Student Visa and PR Pathways in France & Germany
Visa requirements differ between the two countries, with each offering various options based on study duration:
Visa Type |
France |
Germany |
Long-Stay Visa |
Valid for up to one year |
German Student Visa for full-time programs |
Short-Stay Visa |
Up to three months for short courses |
German Student Application Visa for admission process |
Pro Tip: France’s Long-Stay Visa allows you to work part-time, while Germany’s student visa can be converted to a work permit post-graduation.
Conclusion: France or Germany—Which is Your Perfect Study Destination?
While France and Germany provide exceptional opportunities to study, the ultimate choice comes down to you—your career ambitions and your living preferences. Living in France would be best if you are into arts, culture,business and a top class education from Grande Écoles whereas Germany provides the opportunity for tech related programs, practical training and research opportunities.
Final Question: Do you think that in the grad schools of Paris or the technology hubs of German cities you can execute better? Make your choice according to what your ambition leads you to!
For more assistance please visit Edysor, and avail of our wide range of services for students for destinations like study in USA, study in UK, study in Canada, study in Australia, study in ireland and many more countries.