Are you planning to study in French universities? But which entrance exam helps you to get your dream course in France?
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That’s normal to have.
Between you and your aspiration study program in France, you need to fulfill some admission requirements.
In this blog, we are going to discuss the admission required exams that are essential for you to get admission in French universities like Sorbonne University, Skema Business School, Paris School of Business, etc. You need to provide language proficiency tests and academic entrance exams for the specific course.
Let’s discuss them one by one.
What Language Proficiency Exams are Required for France?
If you’re planning to study in France, one of the first requirements you’ll encounter is proof of language proficiency. The specific exam you need depends largely on the language of instruction for your chosen program.
English Language Tests
For English-taught programs, international students must usually submit scores from approved English proficiency exams.
IELTS
IELTS is one of the most widely accepted English tests for universities in France, especially for English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs. The minimum overall band requirement for studying in France ranges between 6.0 and 7.0, depending on the course and institution. The validity of this test is 2 years.
Most public universities ask for 6.0–6.5 overall, with no individual band lower than 5.5 or 6.0 in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Competitive programs such as business schools or engineering degrees may expect 6.5 or higher. So, you need to always check with the university’s course requirements carefully, as failing to meet the minimum in one section can affect admission eligibility.
TOEFL
TOEFL iBT is another exam for English proficiency in France. It is fully internet-based and evaluates Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing skills in academic contexts. Most universities require a score between 80 and 100 out of 120. As widely recognized by business schools and engineering institutions, it is a strong alternative to IELTS for students who want to study in France and are comfortable with computer-based testing. Like IELTS, this test is also valid for 2 years. After that period of time, you need to do another test.
French Language Tests
For French-taught programs in France, universities require official proof of French proficiency to ensure students can understand academic lectures, complete assignments, and participate confidently in discussions. The most commonly accepted exams to study in France for french-based-course are DELF, DALF, and TCF. Required levels typically align with upper-intermediate to advanced standards, depending on the degree level and institution.
DELF & DALF
DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) and DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) are official certifications issued by the French Ministry of Education. They assess Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking skills.
Levels range from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient) under the CEFR framework. Most French universities require B2 or C1 for admission. A major advantage is that DELF and DALF diplomas are valid for life, with no expiry.
With the DELF degree, you can only get admission in the bachelor courses of a French-taught program. Further, you need to hold a DALF degree to study in France for the Masters or a PhD degree.
TCF
TCF is a standardized French language test that evaluates general language ability. Unlike DELF/DALF, it provides a score rather than a permanent diploma and is typically valid for two years.
The TCF DAP (Demande d’Admission Préalable) is specifically required for some international students applying to undergraduate programs in public universities. Most institutions expect a performance equivalent to B2 level, though requirements may vary by program.
Apart from these language proficiency tests, you need to meet some academic requirements to get admission in the programs offered by French universities.
Read further to know about those academic entrance exams to study in France.
Academic Entrance Exams for studying in France
France generally does not require a single national entrance exam for all programs. Here you can get the admission is primarily based on academic records and program-specific criteria. However, certain competitive fields like:
- Engineering
- Business
- Specialized Grandes Écoles
may require standardized tests or selective assessments as part of their evaluation process.
Undergraduate Programs
For studying undergraduate programs in France, admission is generally based on academic transcripts, subject relevance, and overall grades. So, it’s mandatory for you to have a recognized secondary school qualification equivalent to the French Baccalauréat.
Studying in competitive fields such as medicine, engineering, architecture, and design may require entrance exams, interviews, or portfolio submissions.
Some specialized programs, particularly in Grandes Écoles, follow selective admission procedures with additional assessments beyond academic records.
Master’s Programs
Like bachelors, to study a Master’s program in France requires a recognized bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of study. Some programs may also conduct interviews as part of the selection process.
- Engineering & STEM: A strong academic background in mathematics, science, or technical subjects is essential. Some competitive programs may request additional assessments.
- Arts & Design: Portfolio submission is usually mandatory for study in France.
- Research-based Master’s: A research proposal and faculty approval may be required.
Selective Grandes Écoles follow more competitive admission procedures.
Engineering Schools (Grandes Écoles)
Engineering Grandes Écoles in France are highly selective institutions offering elite technical education. To get admission in such courses typically goes through competitive entrance exams testing advanced mathematics and science.
Many French students prepare via two-year Classes Préparatoires (CPGE) programs. International applicants may apply through specific parallel admission pathways based on academic performance and interviews.
MBA Programs
France is home to prestigious Business schools, so if you are planning to study MBA programs in France, you need the GMAT. The typical GMAT score range falls between 550 and 700+, depending on the school’s competitiveness. Highly ranked institutions generally expect scores above 650.
However, some schools may waive the GMAT requirement for candidates with strong academic backgrounds, significant professional experience, or prior quantitative coursework.
In addition to test scores, MBA admissions also evaluate work experience, leadership potential, essays, and interviews.
Quick Table: Exams Required & When to Start Preparing for Study in France
To help you stay organized, here’s a quick overview of the major exams required and the ideal time to start preparing for each one.
| Exam | Type | Typical Requirement | Validity | When to Start Preparing |
| IELTS | English Proficiency | 6.0–7.0 overall (no band below 5.5–6.0) | 2 Years | 3–6 months before test date |
| TOEFL (iBT) | English Proficiency | 80–100+ out of 120 | 2 Years | 3–6 months before test date |
| DELF | French Proficiency | B2 (Bachelor’s level) | Lifetime | 6–12 months (depending on level) |
| DALF | French Proficiency | C1 (Master’s/PhD level) | Lifetime | 6–12 months (advanced prep) |
| TCF | French Proficiency | B2 equivalent | 2 Years | 3–6 months before test date |
| GMAT | MBA Admission Test | 550–700+ | 5 Years | 4–6 months before test date |
| Engineering Entrance Exams (Grandes Écoles) | Academic Competitive Exams | Subject-based ranking exams | Varies | 1–2 years (if via CPGE route) |
Application Timeline & When to Take Exams for Study in France
Planning your exams early is crucial when applying to universities in France—most institutions open applications between October and January for programs starting the following September. Working backward from deadlines helps you avoid last-minute stress and score delays.
Here is an ideal exam timeline to prepare everything for seamless study in France.
- 12–15 months before intake: Research universities and exam requirements.
- 10–12 months before intake: Begin exam preparation.
- 8–10 months before intake: as per the university and course requirements, take your first attempt at exams (IELTS/TOEFL/GMAT, etc.).
- 6–8 months before intake: Retake exam if needed.
- 4–6 months before intake: Submit applications.
Taking exams at least 8–10 months before intake gives you time for retakes and ensures scores arrive before deadlines.
Conclusion
Applying to study in France requires careful planning, especially when it comes to exams. Depending on your chosen program, you may need English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL, French language certifications such as DELF, DALF, or TCF, and academic entrance exams like the GMAT for MBA programs. Competitive fields such as engineering and Grandes Écoles may also have additional assessments.
Since requirements vary by university and course for studying in France, always check the official website of your chosen institution for the most accurate and updated information.
Need personalized guidance? Contact a study abroad counselor to assess your profile, choose the right exams, and build a strong application strategy for France.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prepare for the required exams from India to Study in France?
In India, you can find many IELTS training centres to learn English proficiency and achieve a good band score. There are many online programs, too, that will prepare you for IELTS/TOEFL/French with practice tests and mock papers.
Do language test certificates expire?
Yes. Generally, language test certificates expire in 2 years. After that, you need to retake the test.
Do I need both French and English tests?
Not always. Language-based tests are generally based on the course you want to study. For studying French-taught programs, you need to submit a French test degree or a certificate. But with the English-taught programs, you need to pass the English test and submit the certificate. However, based on the program, some universities might ask you for both. So you need to read all the requirements clearly on the official portal.