Eligibility criteria.
Nationality
Open to all non-French nationals. EU and non-EU students are both eligible. French nationals are not eligible for the DUEF.
Age Requirement
Minimum age 18 at the time of enrollment. No maximum age restriction — adult learners are welcome.
Education Level
Minimum secondary school (baccalaureate equivalent) or higher. University students, graduates, and professionals are all eligible.
French Level
No prior French required for A1 entry. Students with existing French skills will be placed by a placement test. B1+ required for advanced modules.
Health Insurance
All students must have valid health coverage. Non-EU students under 28 can join the French student social security scheme (CVEC).
Visa Status
Non-EU students must hold or obtain a valid French long-stay student visa (VLS-TS). EU/EEA citizens need only a valid passport or national ID.
What to prepare.
Completed online application form (via Campus France or university portal)
Certified copy of highest diploma or degree certificate
Official academic transcripts (last 3 years)
Copy of valid passport (all pages)
Two passport-sized photographs
Motivation letter in French or English (500–800 words)
Two academic reference letters
Proof of French language level (if applicable — DELF, DALF, or TCF)
Bank statement showing sufficient funds (minimum €6,000)
Application fee receipt (€50 non-refundable)
Need help with your application?
Our admissions advisors are available Monday–Friday, 09:00–17:00 CET to answer questions about eligibility, document requirements, and the application process.
October to September —
your roadmap.
Applications Open
Online application portal opens. Begin gathering documents and writing your motivation letter.
Early Decision Deadline
Priority review for students applying before December 15. Decisions issued within 3 weeks.
Placement Tests
Online French placement test sent to all accepted students. Results determine class group assignment.
Visa Application Period
Non-EU students receive acceptance letters for visa applications at French consulates.
Final Application Deadline
Last date to submit all application documents for the September 2026 intake. No extensions granted.
Final Decisions
All applicants notified of final admission decisions. Enrollment confirmation and fee payment.
Pre-Arrival Orientation
Online orientation session covering housing, health insurance, and arrival logistics.
Program Begins
Welcome week, campus tours, and placement test results. Classes begin the second week of September.
Transparent
fee structure.
DUEF tuition is significantly lower than comparable private language programs. As a public university diploma, fees are regulated by the French government.
Tuition Fees
Per academic year. Varies by university and residency status.
Registration Fee
Non-refundable application processing fee.
CVEC (Student Contribution)
Annual student life contribution required for all students in France.
Health Insurance
EU students covered by EHIC. Non-EU students under 28 covered by French student scheme at no cost.
CROUS Student Housing
University-managed residences. Apply early — spaces are limited.
Living Expenses (Paris)
Estimated monthly cost including housing, food, transport, and leisure.
Living Expenses (Other Cities)
Cities like Lyon, Bordeaux, and Strasbourg offer more affordable living costs.
Scholarship opportunities available
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, Erasmus+ grants, and bilateral country agreements may cover partial or full tuition. Contact our admissions office to explore funding specific to your nationality and academic profile.
Six steps to
your place in France.
Check Eligibility
Review the eligibility criteria and confirm you meet the nationality, age, and education requirements.
Choose Your University
Browse our partner universities and select the city and institution that best matches your preferences.
View UniversitiesPrepare Documents
Gather all required documents: diplomas, transcripts, passport, motivation letter, and references.
Submit Application
Complete the online application form and upload all documents before the March 31 deadline.
Apply OnlinePlacement Test
Complete the online French placement test. Results are used to assign you to the appropriate language group.
Receive Decision & Enroll
Upon acceptance, confirm your enrollment, pay the registration fee, and arrange your visa and housing.