Updated on Jan, 27 2026 12:08 IST
Do you want to study graphic design and build a creative career? Studying Graphic Arts in France is a good choice for students interested in design and art. Universities in France are popular for giving practical learning with real life projects and studio classes. Along with quality education, France offers safety, culture and various global connections for students. This helps in personal growth and gives exposure to global design perspectives. The country also offers courses in English but learning French can open better opportunities in top hospitality environments. After graduation, students can work in graphic design, visual media, and creative companies. As compared to many Western European countries, France gives affordable tuition and living costs. If you want a smooth and successful study abroad experience in Graphic Arts, Anigdha is here to guide you.
Below are the simple eligibility criteria that students need to follow if they plan to study this course in France and want a smooth and stress free admission process.
Bachelor’s Eligibility Criteria
Application requirement: The application should be completed online from the college website. Fill the form carefully with correct details and also upload your passport copy and basic information asked by the university.
Educational requirement: You must pass Class 12 from a recognized board. Students from any stream can apply as graphic arts focuses more on interest and creativity than academic background.
Global admission test: Most French colleges do not ask for entrance exams for graphic arts courses. Admission is usually given after checking your documents and creative work.
Additional requirement: You need to submit a simple portfolio. It can include drawings, posters, digital designs or small creative work that shows your interest in graphic arts.
English proficiency requirement: If the program is taught in English, you must submit a valid English test score.
IELTS: between 5.5 and 6.0 for bachelor
TOEFL iBT: between 70 and 80
Duolingo: between 90 and 100
Master’s Eligibility Criteria
Educational requirement: You must complete a bachelor degree in graphic arts, design or a related field from a recognized university to apply for a master course in France.
Application requirement: The application is submitted online through the university website. Upload your academic documents, passport copy, resume and a clear statement about your study plan.
Additional requirement: A detailed portfolio is required at master level. It should include your design work, college projects and practical experience related to graphic arts.
English proficiency requirement: Students applying to English-taught programs must submit valid language scores. Here are some accepted scores:
IELTS: between 6.0 and 6.5
TOEFL iBT: between 80 and 90
Duolingo: between 100 and 110
Before applying, students should collect all the documents properly. Each and every document is important to ensure smooth admission. Here is the list of documents listed separately for bachelors and masters:
Bachelor’s documents:
Passport copy valid for at least six months.
A recent passport size photograph.
Class 10th and 12th marksheet and certificate.
School leaving or migration certificate if required.
Clear scanned copy of national ID if available.
Birth certificate with translation if not in English or French.
A simple resume or CV with education and projects.
Short statement of purpose explaining your interest in graphic arts.
One recommendation letter from a teacher or mentor.
Proof of funds or bank statements to show money for fees and living.
Medical certificate or health form if the university or visa asks.
Vaccination records if requested by the college or visa office.
Application fee payment receipt or proof of payment.
Translated and certified copies of any document not in English or French.
Any university specific form or extra paperwork requested.
Master’s documents:
A passport copy valid for at least six months.
A recent passport size photograph.
Bachelor degree certificate or provisional degree letter.
Official transcripts from your bachelor studies.
Detailed resume or CV with projects and work experience.
Statement of purpose describing your goals and study plan.
Two recommendation letters from professors or employers.
Research proposal if the master program asks for one.
Work experience or internship letters if you have them.
Proof of funds, scholarship letter, or bank statements for visa.
Proof of accommodation or housing confirmation for initial stay.
Medical certificate, health insurance, or required health forms.
Vaccination records if the university or visa authority asks for them.
Police clearance certificate if required by the university or visa office.
Application fee payment receipt or bank proof.
Translated and legalized copies of any document not in English or French.
Any extra university specific forms or paperwork requested by the school.
The main intake for graphic arts courses in France is in September every year. Most universities open applications from November and close around February or March. Some universities also have a smaller January intake but seats are limited. However, it is important to check the exact dates on the university website and apply early to secure your admission. Students are also advised to apply early because universities can close applications once the seats are full. This can increase your chances to secure a seat without any stress.
In France, graphic arts courses are offered in either English or French depending on the college. Most international students choose English programs to join easily, while French programs are available for students who know the language. It is very important to check the language of instruction before applying so you can prepare the required certificate on time. Here are English programs requirements:
IELTS: 6.0 to 6.5
TOEFL iBT: 80 to 90
Duolingo: 105 to 110
Bachelor’s Duration: Bachelor’s programs in graphic arts in France usually take three to four years. During this course students can explore design, drawing and digital tools. Most colleges follow a yearly academic calendar with projects each semester.
Master’s Duration: Master’s programs in graphic arts usually take one to two years. This usually focuses on advanced design skills and complete creative projects. As a result, it helps them work professionally in graphic arts or design studios.
Here are some of the top Polish universities where you can pursue your desired bachelor’s or master’s course of Graphic Arts in France:
| Name of the University | Bachelor's fees per year | Master's fees per year |
|---|---|---|
| Ecole de Communication Visuelle (ECV) | Private | Paris |
| Gobelins, l’ecole de l’image | Public | Paris |
| Ecole Superieure des Arts et Techniques (ESAT) | Private | Paris |
| Strate School of Design | Private | Paris |
| Ecole Pivaut | Private | Nantes |
Here is the list of top universities that can give you excellent courses and practical learning. However, bachelor’s programs can cost less than Master’s programs but understanding this early can help you plan your budget smartly.
| Name of the University | Bachelor's fees per year | Master's fees per year |
|---|---|---|
| Ecole de Communication Visuelle (ECV) | The bachelor’s program at ECV costs around €9,000 per year. This fee covers tuition, access to labs, software and creative workshops offered by the college. | The master’s program costs approximately €10,000 per year. This includes advanced project work, studio access, and guidance from professional instructors throughout the course. |
| Gobelins, l’ecole de l’image | The bachelor’s course at Gobelins costs around €7,500 yearly. Students get full access to digital labs, studio equipment and creative project support. | Master’s programs cost about €8,500 per year. Students can work on professional projects and develop advanced skills with guidance from experienced faculty. |
| Ecole Superieure des Arts et Techniques (ESAT) | The bachelor’s fee at ESAT is roughly €8,000 per year. It includes tuition, project materials and access to all creative and digital facilities. | The master’s program costs around €9,000 annually. Students focus on higher level design projects and advanced creative techniques under expert guidance. |
| Strate School of Design | The bachelor’s course costs approximately €10,000 per year. This includes classes, workshops, software access and support from design professionals during the program. | Master’s fees are around €11,000 per year. Students explore advanced design areas and receive mentoring on professional and creative projects. |
| Ecole Pivaut | The bachelor’s program costs roughly €8,500 per year. Students get training in digital and traditional design tools, project work and portfolio development. | The master’s program costs about €9,500 annually. It focuses on specialized design skills, creative projects and preparation for professional careers. |
Students who wish to study graphic arts in France can apply for several scholarships to help with tuition and living costs. One of the most popular is the Eiffel Scholarship. It is offered by the French government for international students pursuing master’s programs. Some universities like Gobelins and ECV provide their own merit based scholarships for talented students. The Charpak Scholarship supports Indian students studying in France. There are also regional scholarships from French regions and private organizations for creative fields. However, it is important to apply early to increase your chances of receiving financial support for your studies in France.
If you are planning to study Graphic Arts in France, follow these steps to make your admission smooth:
Bachelor’s admission procedure
First, choose a college in France offering a bachelor’s program in graphic arts that matches your style and interest.
Check the eligibility requirements carefully such as educational qualifications, language certificates, applications and other important criteria.
Prepare all required documents like school marksheets, passport, photos and a statement explaining why you want to study graphic arts.
Some colleges may also ask for a small portfolio with your creative work, drawings or digital designs to show your skills.
Fill out the online application form on the college website or the official French student platform and upload all documents.
Wait for the college to review your application. If selected, you will receive an offer letter to confirm admission.
After getting the offer letter, apply for a student visa to France with all necessary documents and admission proof.
At last, plan your travel, accommodation and start preparing for the course before the semester begins in September or January intake.
Master’s admission procedure
First, choose a French college that offers a master’s program in graphic arts suitable for your specialization and interests.
Check eligibility requirements, including graduation, preferred fields and required language proficiency for the course you want.
Prepare all necessary documents, such as graduation marksheets, resume, passport and a clear statement of purpose.
Universities can also require a portfolio showcasing your previous creative projects, digital work or professional assignments.
Submit your online application through the college website or French admission portal while uploading all required documents before the deadline.
If selected, the college will issue an offer letter confirming your admission to the program.
After receiving the offer, apply for a French student visa with all documents, including admission proof and financial statements.
Finally, start arranging travel, accommodation and other essentials before the course starts in September or January.
What is the duration of graphic arts courses in France?
Bachelor’s programs in graphic arts in France usually take three to four years while master’s programs take one to two years. This duration depends upon the type of college and chosen specialization.
Can I study graphic arts in English?
Yes, graphic arts courses are available in English and French. You are required to check the language of your chosen college and prepare the required language certificates in advance.
What are the eligibility criteria for studying graphic arts in France?
Students applying for a bachelor’s must have completed 12th class while master’s applicants need graduation in a relevant field. You may include English language certificates like IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo.
What documents are needed to apply for graphic arts courses?
You need marksheets, passport, photos, statement of purpose and a portfolio showing your creative or digital work. Some colleges may also ask for additional letters or recommendations.
Are scholarships available for international students studying graphic arts?
Yes, students can apply for scholarships like Eiffel Scholarship, Charpak Scholarship and some colleges offer merit-based financial support for talented creative students.
Can students work while studying graphic arts in France?
Yes, international students can work part time up to 20 hours per week during studies and full time during holidays to support living expenses.
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