The Best Schools to Study Finance in France
- Irion Dekov
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
Author: Mahira Ayeb
Finance is becoming an increasingly popular field of study. In 2025, the QS World University Rankings included nearly 400 universities in their Accounting and Finance category, featuring top institutions from all around the world. Many European countries ranked highly, with France being one of them.
Today, a large number of students are interested in the French education system. A lot of them are considering pursuing their studies there and are looking for more information about it. Studying finance in France has become a trending option, especially for international students.
In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know if you’re also interested or planning to study finance in France.
In France, there are two main options if you want to study finance : public or private schools.
Public schools are often more accessible to a wider audience : they are more affordable and the admission process is generally way easier.
Most French students choose public universities for their education. First let’s take a look at some of the top public universities in France if you want to study finance and build a successful career in banking or investment.
Top 5 Public Universities in France for Finance:
This university is very well known for its excellence in finance and management. Paris-Dauphine is considered the most prestigious public institution in its field. However, it is still semi-selective, similar to elite business schools. Admission for this university requires strong academic records. The number of available seats is also limited. This adds to its competitive status of the school.
Ranked #24 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025, PSL. This university offers a top-tier "interdisciplinary" education in finance. It has a unique status as a “Grand établissement”. This is a special designation given to elite public institutions in France, which reflects its academic excellence.
Famous for its strength in economic theory and financial history. This university is located in the heart of Paris, close to major financial institutions. It enjoys a strong reputation in France and attracts many students. There's a significant number of international applicants.
Ranked #71 globally (QS World University Rankings 2025), Paris-Saclay is recognized for its high-level education not only in finance, but also in applied mathematics and economics. It offers high quality Master’s programs that are often in collaboration with top international research institutions. This university is recommended if you're interested in data science, financial engineering, or academic research in finance.
This university is a great option if you want to go outside of Paris. It is a leader in economics and finance especially through the Toulouse School of Economics (TSE). It offers excellent Master’s programs in finance. Some of them are even available in English making it particularly interesting for international students.
Top 5 Private Business Schools in France for Finance Studies:
HEC Paris is France’s top elite business school. It is globally renowned for its excellence in finance, management, and leadership. It is located just southwest of Paris. HEC is famous for its strong alumni network, elite job placements, and high-quality academic programs. Several of its Master’s programs, including the Master in International Finance, are entirely taught in English. This makes it an attractive option for international students.
ESSEC is consistently ranked among the best business schools in Europe. It is well known for the international perpsective it offers. The school offers programs in both English and French. This caters to a diverse student body. ESSEC’s finance programs combine both academic rigor with real-world application. All of this is accompanied by strong corporate connections and global partnerships.
EDHEC stands out for its finance specialization, particularly through its internationally recognized MSc in Financial Markets. The school is also acclaimed for its research excellence, especially in risk and asset management. EDHEC’s Master in Finance is ranked #5 in the world by the Financial Times, confirming again its position as a global leader in finance education.
SKEMA offers a modern and globally oriented finance curriculum. With campuses around the whole world (including France, the U.S., Brazil, China, and South Africa). The school provides students with the opportunity to gain international exposure and prepare for global careers in finance by consulting, and business analytics. Its programs emphasize digital transformation and sustainable finance.
Emlyon is known for fostering an entrepreneurial mindset through its unique “early maker” philosophy. While it has a strong reputation for innovation and strategy, the school also offers finance programs focused on financial engineering, investment banking, and corporate finance. Its strong ties to industry make it a great choice for students aiming for dynamic careers in finance.
Career Opportunities for Graduates
French finance schools help students build strong connections with major financial firms such as : BNP Paribas, Société Générale, JP Morgan, BBVA, and Santander. Alumni networks are another strength : schools like HEC, ESSEC, and EDHEC have global alumni working in major finance hubs such as London, New York, and Paris. This helps students grow their professional networks.
Access to top employers is supported through: Job fairs, Corporate partnerships, Incubators and On-campus recruitment. This is why employability is very high for graduates of finance business schools in France. Especially those from elite institutions and Grand Établissements.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Public Universities :
Public universities in France are very affordable, especially for EU students.
● Bachelor’s (EU students): ~€170/year
● Bachelor’s (non-EU): ~€2,770/year
● Master’s (EU): ~€243/year
● Master’s (non-EU): ~€3,770/year
Scholarships are available, including: Eiffel Scholarship, Campus France funding
& regional scholarships
Private Business Schools :
Tuition at private institutions is higher and varies by program and degree level:
Typical range: €10,000 – €25,000 per year
Scholarships and financial aid are available but are usually based on merit or financial need.
Why Study Finance in France?
France is a top destination for finance studies, especially in Paris. Paris is a major European financial hub and home to institutions like BNP Paribas, Société Générale, and Euronext.
French finance programs have a strong global reputation. HEC Paris is ranked #1, and ESSEC is among the top 20 worldwide.
Many schools offer specialized programs such as MSc in Finance, Financial Engineering, and Investment Banking. Most Master’s (unlike Bachelors) programs are available in English, making them ideal for international students. Professors often hold PhDs and bring real-world experience, offering strong academic and industry connections.
France offers affordable tuition for students, especially compared to countries like the UK, without compromising on quality. With over 400,000 international students, it’s a multicultural, welcoming place to study.
Graduates often move on to careers in finance hubs like London, Frankfurt, and Geneva.
Komentar