PhD Study in France: A Guide for International Students

Written by ScholarsChapter · Last updated 19 October 2026 · Europe

France funds most PhDs through three-year PhD contracts within PhD schools, with strong national research organisations such as CNRS and Inria.

PhD opportunities in France

Universities in France

Well-known research universities and institutes for PhD study in France include:

• Université PSL
• Sorbonne University
• Université Paris-Saclay
• Institut Polytechnique de Paris
• Université Grenoble Alpes

Choose a university by your supervisor and research group, not the overall ranking — fit with the group decides most PhD outcomes.

PhD structure

You enrol in a PhD school (école doctorale), follow a small training programme, are monitored by an individual committee, and defend the thesis publicly.

Fees and funding

Fees: PhD registration fees are set nationally and are low compared with other countries.

Main funded routes: PhD contracts, ANR-funded projects, university PhD schools.

Official starting points: Campus France

See PhD funding by country to compare routes across 46 countries, or estimate your budget with the study cost calculator.

Applying for a PhD in France

Most positions are advertised by labs or PhD schools (and on national job portals) in spring for October starts. Contact the supervisor, then apply to the PhD school's competition for a contract.

Language: Many STEM labs work in English; French helps for daily life and some fields require it.

Your application checklist

• CV with research experience and any publications
• Research proposal or statement written for the project or supervisor — see our research proposal guide
• Master's (and undergraduate) transcripts and degree certificates; for Pakistanis, HEC-attested copies
• Two or three academic references — see our recommendation letter guide
• English test score or proof of English-medium study, if required
• Interview preparation — see our interview guide

Student visas and work

Visa: Non-EU candidates use the 'Passeport Talent – chercheur' (researcher) or student visa via Campus France.

Working during your PhD: PhD contract holders are employees; student-visa holders may work up to 964 hours a year.

After your PhD

Graduates can apply for a temporary residence permit (APS) to look for a job or create a company.

Open PhD opportunities in France

This guide gives an overview for international applicants. Rules on fees, funding and visas change — always confirm the details on the university, funder and embassy websites before you apply.