It is a French tradition to welcome foreign students from all across the world. Since the Middle Ages, and the birth of La Sorbonne, the first French University, which occurred more than 800 years ago, students from all across Europe have come to France to study, especially in the areas of theology, medicine and law.

Why study in France?

According to students reporting on what it was like to study in France, the country offers a great multicultural study experience, bringing together cultures from all over the world. Students appreciate the beautiful, developed cities and the great variety of social life available. Impressions about French culture and city life were overall more positive than the European average. Even the smaller cities offered opportunities for fun student activities.

Students were also pleased with the close proximity to other European countries and major cities, commenting on opportunities to explore the country and its surroundings. Reviewers seem pleased with the events organized by universities in France and the friends they made during their international study experience. Students rarely complain about the weather in France, considering it better than in many other parts of Europe.

Key Statistics

Official Name – French Republic

Capital – Paris

Independence – 843

Population – 65,350,000

Total Area – 674,843 km

Language Spoken – French Provencal German Breton Catalan Basque

Climate –

Summer (Dec/Feb) 13 – 25
Autumn (Mar/May) 5 – 21
Winter (Jun/Aug) 1 – 7
Spring (Sept/Nov) 4 – 20

Economic Indicators

Currency – Euro
Central Bank – Bank of France is part of the Euro system and the European Central Bank
GDP – 2,217,900 Billion US$
Inflation – 2%
Unemployment Rate – 9.9%

GDP Composition by Sector –

Agriculture: 1.7%
Industry: 18.5%
Services: 79.8% (2011 estimate)

Major Industries By Rating –

Today the main French growth industries are hi-tech including micro-electronics telecommunication & aerospace. Only rivalled in scale by that of the USA car manufacture dominated by the giants Renault & Peugeot and highly diversfield tourist industry.