Updated on Feb, 18 2026 07:53 IST
Study Medicine and Health in France
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Are you planning to build your career in the medical or healthcare field then if yes, France is a suitable choice for you. France is known for its strong healthcare system and high quality medical education. During this course students can study subjects like human anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology and clinical training depending on the program they choose. Most of the courses are taught in French language but some of them also offer English. So even if you do not know French, you can study easily. Public universities in France charge reasonable tuition fees compared to many other countries offering medical education. At the same time, there are several scholarships available for international students which can help in managing tuition fees and living expenses. After completing the course, students can explore different career options such as working in hospitals, healthcare organizations, research institutions, pharmaceutical companies or continue further specialization. If you are really interested in building your future in medicine and health then our team of Anigdha will be here to help you!
The courses in France are competitive and structured so it is always better to check the exact eligibility criteria on the official university website before applying. Here is the list of eligibility criteria written separately for bachelors and masters.
Bachelors eligibility criteria
Application requirement: First you need to apply through the official university portal or through the Campus France procedure depending on your country. Fill the application form carefully and upload all required documents before the deadline.
Educational requirement: Students need to complete your 12th standard from a recognised board. Subjects like Biology, Chemistry and Physics are compulsory because they are highly important for medical studies.
Global admission test: There is no SAT or other global admission test required. Students must pass the competitive examination after the first year like PASS or LAS.
Additional requirement: Students must need to submit a statement of purpose. A medical fitness certificate can also be required. Some universities may conduct interviews or additional evaluations.
Language proficiency requirement: Most medical programs in France are taught in French. However, some health-related programs at private institutions are also available in English. Here are some commonly accepted scores:
IELTS: between 6.0 to 6.5
TOEFL iBT: between 80 to 90
Duolingo: Around 100 to 115
Master’s eligibility criteria
Educational requirement: Students need to have a relevant Bachelor’s degree in Medicine, Health Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy, Biotechnology or a related medical field from a recognised university.
Application requirement: Fill the online application form and upload all required academic documents. Make sure all details are correct and submitted before the deadline.
Additional requirement: Students need to submit a statement of purpose explaining your academic background and career goals. It also includes recommendation letters from professors.
Language proficiency requirement: If it is taught in French, you must provide a French language proficiency certificate. If the master’s program is taught in English, you must provide valid English test scores. Here are some accepted scores:
IELTS: Overall score of 6.5
TOEFL iBT: between 85 to 95
Duolingo: between 110 to 120
There is mainly one major intake. It is the Fall Intake or September Intake. The application process for this usually starts around November or December of the previous year. If you are applying through Campus France, then you must follow their official calendar because they have fixed deadlines and you cannot apply after that.
Some private institutions or certain health-related master’s programs may offer a January intake but this is limited and not common for core medicine degrees. Since medical programs are competitive and seats are limited, it is always better to apply as early as possible. Therefore, always check the official university website or Campus France portal for exact deadlines as they may change every year.
Here is the list of important documents you must prepare before applying to study Medicine and health in France.
Documents required for bachelors in Medicine and Health:
Submit the completed online application form through the university portal or Campus France platform.
Class 10th and 12th mark sheets.
Submit your 12th passing certificate from a recognised board with science subjects like Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
A detailed academic transcript showing your subjects and marks.
A valid passport copy clearly scanned.
If required, you need to submit a French language proficiency certificate (usually B2 or C1 level) because most medical programs are taught in French.
If the program is in English, you must provide IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo scorecards.
Submit a Statement of Purpose explaining why you want to study Medicine or Health Sciences.
Submit passport size photographs as per guidelines.
A birth certificate copy translated into English or French.
A medical fitness certificate may be required.
If applying through Campus France, you must upload all required documents on their portal also.
Some universities may ask for a declaration form or additional administrative documents.
Documents required for master’s in Medicine and Health
Submit the completed online application form of the university.
A bachelor's degree certificate in Medicine, Health Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy, Biotechnology or related field.
A complete academic transcript of your undergraduate studies.
Submit a detailed Statement of Purpose explaining your academic background and career goals.
Two or three Letters of Recommendation preferably from professors or supervisors.
If you have work experience in the healthcare field, you should submit experience certificates.
French language proficiency certificate if the program is taught in French.
If the program is taught in English, you must submit IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo test scores.
Submit a research proposal for certain health or public health programs.
Passport size photographs as required.
Medical fitness certificate if required.
If applying through Campus France, you must upload all documents on their platform and complete the interview process if applicable.
In France, most Medicine programs are taught in French, especially core degrees like MBBS equivalent, Dentistry, Pharmacy and Nursing. If you want to study French programs, you normally need to show French language proficiency at B2 or C1 level. However, some universities offer programs in English, especially at Master’s level. If the program is taught in English, then you must provide English language test scores. Here are some accepted scores:
IELTS: between 6.0 to 6.5
TOEFL iBT: Around 80 to 90
Duolingo english test: Around 100 to 115
The duration of bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences is usually around 3 years. It is divided into six semesters. During these three years, students can get to study basic science subjects, health related theory and practical training depending on the course.
If you are applying for a Master’s program in Health Sciences, the duration is generally 2 years. It is divided into four semesters. This course focuses on advanced subjects related to their specialization. It usually includes thesis, internship or practical training depending on the program.
General Medicine
France has many well-known public universities that offer quality programs in Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Here are the top 5 universities along with their category and the city.
| Name of the University | Category | City |
|---|---|---|
| Sorbonne University | Public | Paris |
| Universite Paris Cite | Public | Paris |
| Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1 | Public | Lyon |
| Universite de Montpellier | Public | Montpellier |
| Aix-Marseille Universite | Public | Marseille |
Most of the top medical universities in France are public universities, so the tuition fees are generally regulated by the government. Here is the list of the top 5 universities along with approximate Bachelor’s and Master’s tuition fees per year.
| Name of the University | Bachelor's fees per year | Master's fees per year |
|---|---|---|
| Sorbonne University | Around €2,770 per year for health related bachelor programs in public structure. | Around €3,770 per year for master’s programs in health and biomedical fields. |
| Universite Paris Cite | Approximately €2,770 per year for undergraduate health programs. | Approximately €3,770 per year for master’s level health programs. |
| Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1 | Around €2,770 per year for bachelor level health sciences. | Around €3,770 per year for master’s programs. |
| Universite de Montpellier | Around €2,770 per year for bachelor’s in health sciences. | Around €3,770 per year for master’s in health and medical sciences. |
| Aix-Marseille Universite | Approximately €2,770 per year for undergraduate health programs. | Approximately €3,770 per year for postgraduate health programs. |
There are several scholarship options available for international students. One of the most well-known scholarship programs is the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme. This scholarship is offered by the French government to support international students who are applying mainly for master’s and PhD level programs. Another good option is the Charpak Scholarship offered by the French Embassy in India through Campus France. Many French universities also offer their own scholarships for international students. These may be merit based or need based. There are also external scholarships offered by international organisations and foundations that support students studying abroad in health related fields. Therefore, if you prepare your documents early and apply on time, you can have a better chance of getting financial support for your Medicine and Health studies in France.
The process to apply for medicine and health in France is simple once you know the steps. Here, we have listed all the separate steps for applying to bachelor’s and master’s programs:
Admission procedure for bachelors in Medicine and Health
First you need to decide whether you want to apply for core Medicine or for a Health related bachelor program like Health Sciences or Biomedical Sciences.
Then check the eligibility criteria, required subjects like Biology, Chemistry and Physics and the language requirement carefully on the official university website.
After that, create your account on the university portal or complete the procedure through Campus France if it is required for your country.
Fill the online application form properly. Make sure you enter all your academic and personal details correctly.
Upload all required documents such as 10th and 12th mark sheets, passport copy, language certificate and other required documents.
If you are applying for Medicine, remember that admission usually starts with PASS or LAS first year.
Pay the application fee if required and keep the confirmation copy.
Wait for the university to review your application. Some institutions may conduct an interview or ask for additional documents.
If you receive the admission letter, accept the offer within the given deadline.
After that, complete the Campus France interview process if applicable and then apply for your student visa.
Once your visa is approved, you can arrange your travel and prepare to begin your studies in France.
Admission procedure for master’s in Medicine and Health
First you need to choose the specialization you want to apply for such as Public Health, Health Management, Biotechnology or Biomedical Sciences.
Check the eligibility criteria and language of instruction carefully before applying.
Create your account on the university admission portal and start filling the application form.
Enter all details of your bachelor’s degree correctly and upload your degree certificate, statement of purpose and recommendation letters.
Submit your English or French language test scores depending on the course language.
If you have internship or hospital experience, upload those certificates as well.
Pay the application fee if required and keep the payment confirmation.
If you receive the offer letter, accept it within the deadline mentioned.
After accepting the offer, complete the Campus France process and apply for your student visa.
Submit financial documents, admission letter and accommodation proof for visa processing.
Once your visa is approved, you can book your tickets and get ready to start your Master’s program in France.
Can I study Medicine in France in English?
Most core Medicine programs in France are taught in French. So if you want to study MBBS equivalent or Doctor of Medicine, you must know French. However, some health related master’s programs are also available in English.
Is NEET required to study Medicine in France?
If you are an Indian student and you want to practice medicine in India after completing your degree abroad, then NEET qualification is required as per Indian regulations but in France, universities mainly focus on academic background and French language proficiency.
What is the duration of Medicine in France?
It usually takes around 9 to 11 years including specialization. Bachelor’s programs in health sciences take 3 years and master’s programs usually take 2 years.
Is French language compulsory for Medicine?
Yes, for most medical programs French language is compulsory because students have to interact with patients during hospital training. Usually B2 or C1 level French is required.
Are there scholarships available for Medicine and Health programs?
Yes, there are government scholarships like the Eiffel Scholarship and also university based scholarships. You need to check eligibility and apply before the deadline.
Can international students work while studying Medicine in France?
Yes, international students are allowed to work part time as per student visa rules. However, medical studies are intensive, so you need to manage your time properly.
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