Study in France Without Speaking French (Yes, It’s Possible!)

If you've always wanted to study abroad in France, you may be wondering if your French skills are good enough to take university classes alongside French students. But let me let you in on a little secret: It is definitely possible to study abroad in France if you only know English! If your French isn't up to par but are excited by French culture, there are still many opportunities in France for you to study abroad. Keep reading to learn how to study abroad in France as an English speaker, without speaking French.

Short answer: yes! You can absolutely study in France without speaking French. Whether you're enrolling in a full degree program or studying abroad for a semester, there are many options that offer courses entirely in English. That said, there are a few key things to consider before you pack your bags.

With a growing number of universities offering programs in English, you can earn your degree or spend a semester abroad without being fluent in the local language. That said, navigating daily life in France without French does come with its own set of challenges.

Before you commit to studying in France, consider the following.

• Location matters: You probably aren't going to find very many English speakers outside of France's major cities. If your language skills are vraiment nuls, and you want to stick to English at all costs, stick to cities like Paris or Lyon, for a smoother daily experience.
• Choose your housing wisely: Even if your classes are in English, your living situation can make or break your experience. Housing is where you’ll spend a large portion of your time and where language barriers might occur. Look for a program whose housing options are English-friendly: perhaps a dorm with other international students or apartments with other American program participants.
• Understand the limitations of English-taught programs: Not every subject is widely available in English, especially at the undergraduate level. Fields like business, international relations, and STEM are more likely to offer English instruction, while humanities and arts programs may require French proficiency. Always double-check course offerings before applying.
• Some French might be necessary: Even if you sign up for a program taught entirely in English, be prepared that there will still be some need for basic French language skills along the way.

Continue reading to find out more about the programs we recommend, tips for how to apply, as well as how to make the most of your time in France despite the inevitable language barrier.

While there are plenty of opportunities to immerse in French during study abroad, there are also numerous universities around the country that support studies in English. Here are some of our top recommendations for French universities that offer degree programs taught in English:

• Sciences Po: A prestigious French university accessible only by entrance exam, that's open to undergraduates. Sciences Po candidates are required to have excellent English, meaning that the school offers lots of courses for their own students and for visiting students in English.
• American University of Paris: An accredited American university that happens to be located in Paris. Eligible for federal financial aid and student loans, it's a great place to study abroad in France in English because the entire program is English.
• Sorbonne University: One of the most well-known universities in France due to its history dating back to the Middle Ages, Sorbonne University is quite research-intensive, particularly in the humanities, sciences, and engineering.
• PLS University (Paris Sciences & Lettres): This Parisian university is known for having a wide variety of programs taught in English, particularly at the Master’s level. They also have a number of Bachelor’s and PhD programs taught entirely in English.
• CentraleSupélec: Provides a variety of programs that are taught in English, and even offers courses specifically for students who do not yet speak French. Located in the outskirts of Paris, providing you access to the amenities of a major metropolitan area.

On the official Campus France website, there are over 1,600 degree programs offered 100% in English. Completing a bachelor's or master's degree in France allows graduates wishing to stay in France longer term to do so with a Temporary Residence Permit or the Autorisation Provisioire de Séjour (APS). This permit is valid for one year and is perfect for grads searching for a job or starting their own company.

Don't forget: You can use your U.S. Federal Financial Aid at select French universities!

Read more: The Top 10 American Universities in Europe 

Depending on the university, there are many different program offerings across the numerous universities in France. Of course, if you are going to take a semester or year abroad to study, you want to make sure that your credits will transfer back to your home university and ideally help you make progress towards completing your degree. 

While there are many majors and degrees available beyond the ones listed below, these are just a few areas of study that we have found to be more prominent at French universities:

• Business and Management
• Hospitality
• Engineering
• The Arts
• Art History
• Political Science
• Law

Make sure you take your degree into consideration when you are researching universities where you are interested in studying abroad to ensure your credits will transfer appropriately!

So you’ve decided you want to study abroad in France: congratulations! Here are a few of the steps you will likely go through in order to make that dream a reality.

1. Choose a program (considering these factors): Direct enrollment vs program provider, program location, language of instruction in the classroom, and housing options.
2. Complete online application: Every university is going to have their own online application process, and some might include language requirements.
3. Apply for visas: For any student staying longer than 90 days in France, you will need a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS), which also serves as a temporary residence permit. You may also need to register with Campus France, a program that helps facilitate study abroad in France.
4. Coordinate logistics: Some of the additional logistics you might need to coordinate include flights, finding your housing, and signing up for classes.

Keep in mind that you will want to start these steps well in advance, as some items (such as a visa application) can take a few months to process!

As long as you are looking at a university that offers classes and programs taught in English, then French proficiency is not a requirement to participate in the program (although knowing some does help with daily life!). You’ll find that French language classes are also available at most universities, in case you are interested in trying your hand at the local dialect. 

That depends on the language of instruction for your chosen program, as well as the program requirements. 

• For English-taught programs: You may be required to submit proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores. However, if you’re a native English speaker or have previously studied in English, some universities may waive this requirement.
• For French-taught programs: If you’re applying to a program taught entirely in French, you'll likely need to demonstrate your French language skills through exams like the TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) or DELF/DALF.

At the end of the day, it will ultimately depend on which program you are looking at and what their specific requirements are, so it is worth looking into these details during your program search and application process!

Even though it’s possible to navigate France without speaking French, you will inevitably run into some hurdles when you need to communicate with someone, purchase a souvenir at a market, or simply find a restroom or pay your bill at a restaurant. And that’s part of the fun of travel! That being said, here are a few ideas to help you navigate a new and different language:

• Use translation apps: Even if you are a bit off the grid or don’t have an international plan, many translation apps (such as Google Translate) allow you to download the app for functionality offline. You can use this to translate written text with a photo, or even type in a word or phrase in English and have it translated and spoken aloud to the person you are communicating with in French.
• Stick to major cities: You are much more likely to find people who speak English, as well as other amenities in English, when you are in larger city centers. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still explore the more rural or remote parts of the country during your time there, but you might be better off setting your home base in a major city such as Paris, Marseille, or Lyon.
• Learn the basics: It’s likely you will pick up some basics without even trying, but it can be helpful to learn a few key phrases before you embark on your journey. Some of the most helpful can include: “Hi, my name is ___”, “How are you”, “I don’t speak French”, “Where is the toilet”, and “How much does it cost”, just to name a few!
• Join international student communities: Look for Facebook groups, WhatsApp chats, or Erasmus student clubs. These can help you make friends, practice French in a low-pressure setting, and get insider tips on life in France.
• Come prepared and follow proper etiquette: Always say “bonjour” when entering a shop or greeting someone—it’s considered rude not to. A quick “merci” also goes a long way. These little things help build rapport and show respect.

At the end of the day, you don’t need to be fluent to thrive—but being open, respectful, and willing to learn will go a long way.

Read more: Things to Know Before Studying Abroad in France as an International Student

Francophiles who don't speak French can still live out their dreams in France by studying in English. Whether you’re looking for short-term options like summer or a semester, or a full degree and a more permanent life abroad, there is something for everyone. Check out all the great opportunities out there and start planning your French adventure today!

Read more:

• How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad in France?
• How to Study Abroad in France on a Budget