When to apply for a Master's Degree in France

When should I apply for a master's degree?

Most students should apply for a master’s degree in France between 6 and 12 months before the programme starts. For courses beginning in September — the main intake in France — some schools begin accepting applications in early autumn.

Competitive programmes and business schools may close applications early, while schools using rolling admissions continue reviewing applications until spring or early summer. 

Applying early gives students more time to:

• prepare strong application documents
• apply for scholarships
• secure accommodation
• complete student visa procedures
• compare multiple offers

Whether you are applying directly after your bachelor’s degree or after gaining work experience, preparing your application early improves your chances of joining your preferred programme.

Master’s application timeline in France

Although deadlines vary between institutions, most students follow a similar preparation timeline.

12 months before the programme starts

Start researching:

• universities and business schools
• programme specialisations
• tuition fees
• career outcomes
• internship opportunities
• campus locations

This is also the right time to explore scholarship options and understand visa requirements if you are an international student.

8–10 months before the programme starts

Prepare your application materials, including:

• CV or resume
• motivation letter
• recommendation letters
• academic transcripts

If required, register for language or aptitude tests such as: IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, GRE, and TAGE MAGE.

6–8 months before the programme starts

Submit your applications. For September intakes, this often means applying between:

• November and March for competitive schools
• January and May for many universities
• as early as possible for rolling admissions

Applying early can improve access to scholarships and available seats.

3–5 months before the programme starts

After receiving admission offers, students should:

• confirm their enrolment
• apply for housing
• prepare financial documents
• begin student visa procedures

Visa processing times vary depending on the country and season.

When do master's applications open in France?

There is no single national application deadline for master’s degrees in France. Timelines vary depending on the institution, the programme, your nationality and whether admissions are rolling or round-based. Some French business schools begin accepting applications in autumn for programmes starting the following September. Many public universities open admissions later in the academic year through national or institutional platforms.

The safest approach: start preparing your application at least 12 months before your intended enrolment date.

Is it better to apply early?

Yes. Applying early is often beneficial, especially for competitive programmes and rolling admissions. Early applicants usually have:

• more programme availability
• better access to scholarships
• additional time for visa preparation
• greater flexibility for accommodation

For rolling admissions, schools evaluate applications continuously until all places are filled.

Should you apply right after your bachelor’s degree?

It depends on your academic background and career goals.

Apply immediately if:

• your target industry typically requires a master’s degree
• you already know your specialisation
• you want to continue studying without interruption

Fields such as finance, data analytics, management, and engineering often value specialised postgraduate education early in a career.

Consider waiting 1–2 years if:

• you are unsure about your career direction
• you want professional experience before specialising
• you want stronger examples for your personal statement

Even short recent work experience can help clarify your goals and strengthen your application.

Can working professionals apply for master’s degrees in France?

Yes. Many French business schools and universities welcome candidates with professional experience. Work experience can strengthen your application because it demonstrates:

• practical skills
• career progression
• clearer motivation for postgraduate study

The best time to apply as a professional is when you have a specific objective, such as:

• moving into management roles
• changing industries
• developing expertise in a specialised field
• accessing international career opportunities

Some employers also offer tuition sponsorship or study leave for employees pursuing postgraduate education.

How do you apply for a master’s degree in France?

The process varies slightly between institutions, but the core steps remain similar.

1. Research programmes

Compare:

• course content
• specialisations
• tuition fees
• internship opportunities
• career outcomes
• campus location

Many students shortlist between 5 and 8 programmes.

2. Check entry requirements

Most programmes require:

• a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• a minimum GPA or academic standing
• proof of English proficiency for English-taught programmes

3. Prepare your application documents

Typical documents include:

• CV or resume
• motivation letter or personal statement
• academic transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• passport copy
• English test scores if required

4. Complete admission tests if required

Some business schools may ask for the GMAT, GRE, TAGE MAGE or CAT (for Indian applicants). Note that requirements vary by programme.

5. Submit your application

Applications are usually submitted through:

• the university’s online portal
• Campus France (for some international students)
• national admissions platforms for French degree holders

6. Apply for your student visa

International students outside the EU generally need a student visa to study in France. Visa procedures can take several weeks, so avoid waiting until the final admission rounds.

What do I need to include in my application?

• A bachelor’s degree or international equivalent
• Academic transcripts
• A CV or resume
• A motivation letter explaining your goals
• One or two recommendation letters
• Proof of English proficiency if applicable

English-taught programmes commonly accept: IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC or Cambridge English qualifications. Some programmes may also require interviews or aptitude test scores.

Spotlight: Applying to EDHEC Business School

EDHEC Business School, with campuses in Lille, Nice and Paris, offers several internationally recognised master’s programmes in fields such as Finance, Marketing, Data Science & AI, Strategy, Sustainability, and Management. Programmes begin in early September.

Interested in the EDHEC MiM? → Discover the programme

Application deadlines at EDHEC

EDHEC uses rolling admissions for certain programmes and admission rounds for others. This means earlier applications are often reviewed first and may have a higher chance of securing scholarships or available seats. Deadlines vary by programme, so applicants should check each programme page carefully.

Entry requirements at EDHEC

• A three-year bachelor's degree (or equivalent)
• An aptitude test score — GMAT, GRE, TAGE MAGE, or CAT (for Indian students). For the Master in Management, this is mandatory. For MSc programmes, it is optional but can strengthen your application
• English language proficiency — IELTS ≥ 6.5, TOEFL iBT ≥ 92, TOEIC ≥ 850, or equivalent. Native English speakers or those who completed a degree taught entirely in English (minimum three years) may be exempt
• A CV, motivation letter, and two letters of recommendation
• Academic transcripts

French vs. non-French degree holders

The application route differs. Non-French degree holders apply directly through EDHEC's online application platform. French degree holders follow a different process depending on the programme — check the EDHEC admissions page for details.

Good to know: At EDHEC Business School, we have prepared a full guide to help students apply for an EDHEC Master's degree.

What makes a strong application?

1. Clear motivation

Admissions teams want to understand:

• why you chose this programme
• what skills you want to develop
• how the degree fits your career plans

Specific goals create stronger applications than generic statements.

2. Solid academic preparation

Good academic performance remains important, especially for competitive programmes. If your GPA is below the expected level, strong professional experience or test scores may help compensate.

3. Strong recommendations

Choose referees who know your work well and can provide detailed examples of your abilities, academic performance, or professional potential. 

For more information:

• Can you pursue a MiM after work experience?
• What are the entry requirements for a master in management?
• What are the requirements for a MiM?