France University Application Deadline 2025

If you are planning to apply to French universities, then you must understand the deadlines of application for various universities and programs. Application to French universities involves a structured process with specific deadlines. France is a popular destination for higher education because of the following reasons:

• 
  It is a global hub for higher education offering multiple intakes
• 
  It is one of the top tourist spaces, thus attracting students from all over the world for its rich culture
• 
  High-quality education at affordable prices
• 
  Most of the courses offered are fully taught in English

The admission process often begins a year prior and some variations in deadlines and application processes depend on the program and university. As per the statistics, France hosts more than 3000 international students for higher education, making it one of the best destinations for higher education globally.

Highlights:

• 
  There are two France admission intake - primary and secondary. France university deadlines differ for both the intakes.
• 
  Primary intake: Classes start in September and applications usually open several months prior. This intake has more variety of courses and universities
• 
  Secondary intake: Sessions start in January / February with applications opening a few months prior. This intake has fewer courses and universities as compared to the fall intake.
• 
  Application on platforms like "Études en France" or Parcoursup for undergraduates.
• 
  Language proficiency, visas, and financial proof for international students are some of the other requirements for international students.

Overview of Admission Intakes in French Universities

French universities have mainly two admission intakes:

• 
  The primary intake (September) - open for most undergraduate and postgraduate programs
• 
  The secondary intake (January/February) - open for selected courses only

Overview of University Intake in France’s Universities

Let us understand the intakes, program starting months, courses available and popular French universities from the table below:

List of Top France Universities and Deadlines

Below is the list of top French universities with ranks, intakes, courses offered and France university admission deadline:

Application Deadlines & Timeline for Primary Intake 2025

The primary intake is the most competitive as it offers many courses and a maximum of international students apply for this intake. Let us understand the application process and France September intake deadline from the table below:

Application Process for Primary Intake 2025:

• 
  You need to shortlist the universities depending on your preference and desired university.
• 
  Collect all the necessary documents like mark sheets/transcripts, SOP, LORs, and compulsory tests like DAP for undergraduate programs
• 
  Apply via platforms like "Études en France" or Parcoursup. Études en France is an online portal by Campus France that streamlines the application process for international students by

  • 
    Guiding students in selecting programs
  • 
    Submitting applications
  • 
    Tracking progress
• 
  Parcoursup is a centralised platform for undergraduate admissions in France. It is primarily designed for students applying to the first year of higher education.
• 
  Take required language proficiency tests such as TEF or DELF (if applicable).
• 
  Attend interviews (if required).
• 
  Once all the processes are done, you must wait for the university results. You have to check your email regularly for updates.
• 
  Apply for a visa immediately after receiving your offer letter, as delay may impact your chances of securing a seat at your dream university.

Application Deadlines & Timeline for Secondary Intake 2026

The secondary intake or the Spring intake has fewer options as compared to the primary intake. For this intake, the France university admission deadline and courses are for specialised programs, Master's programs and certain limited courses. Entrance is also less competitive as compared to primary intake.

Application Process for Secondary Intake 2026:

• 
  You need to shortlist the universities depending on your preference and desired university.
• 
  Collect all the necessary documents like mark sheets/transcripts, SOP, LORs, and compulsory tests like DAP for undergraduate programs
• 
  Apply via platforms like "Études en France" or Parcoursup. Études en France is an online portal by Campus France that streamlines the application process for international students by

  • 
    Guiding students in selecting programs
  • 
    Submitting applications
  • 
    Tracking progress
• 
  Parcoursup is a centralised platform for undergraduate admissions in France. It is primarily designed for students applying to the first year of higher education.
• 
  Take required language proficiency tests such as TEF or DELF (if applicable).
• 
  Attend interviews (if required).
• 
  Once all the processes are done, you must wait for the university results. You have to check your email regularly for updates.
• 
  Apply for a visa immediately after receiving your offer letter, as delay may impact your chances of securing a seat at your dream university.

Additional Information for International Students

As an international student preparing for France intakes, consider the following steps to avoid any unnecessary delays or cancellations at the last moment:

• 
  Additional Requirements:

  • 
    Visas: You can get a student visa through Études en France
  • 
    Proof of Funds: Submit evidence of sufficient financial resources.

   
• 
  Early Preparation Timeline: Start preparations at least 12 months in advance.

• 
  Challenges and Solutions:

  • 
    Language barrier: Take compulsory French language proficiency tests such as TEF, DELF, or TCF as per program requirements.
  • 
    Academic transcripts: Translate documents into French or English as required.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Following are some of the mistakes that can be avoided to secure your seat in your desired university:

• 
  Missing Deadlines: Stick strictly to deadlines. Do not wait for the last date, apply as early as possible once the intake process starts.

• 
  Incomplete Applications: Missing a single document can delay or reject your application.

• 
  Ignoring Visa Timelines: Visa processing can take up to 60 days, so start as soon as you receive your admission letter.

Frequently Asked Questions