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Universities in Montpellier, France

Esplanade du Peyrou, Montpellier, France
Montpellier is located in the South of France and has buildings that date back to the 14th Century!

Montpellier is a fantastic place for international students who want to study abroad in Europe. The city is home to over 70,000 students, including many international students from all over the world.

Studying in France offers students the chance to experience a different culture and learn a new language, all while receiving a top-notch education. Montpellier is known for its excellent universities, making it an ideal location for students who want to pursue higher education. The city has a vibrant student life and a welcoming atmosphere, which makes it easy for international students to adjust to life in France.

Montpellier is more affordable than other major European cities like Paris or London. International students can find reasonably priced accommodation in the city, and there are also many affordable dining options available.

Studying in Montpellier provides students with the opportunity to experience French culture and meet people from all over the world. The city is known for its friendliness and welcoming atmosphere. With its rich history, vibrant student life, and welcoming atmosphere, Montpellier is perfect for international students who want to study in France.

Top Universities in Montpellier

University of Montpellier

The University of Montpellier is one of the best universities in France, ranked 301-350th by Times Higher Education. It is the oldest university in the city, with a long and rich history of academic excellence. 

The university has a large international student population, with students from over 150 countries. The University of Montpellier is home to over 50,000 students, making it one of the largest universities in France. The university is known for its strong programs in medicine, law, and science.

Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 3 

Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 3 is another university in Montpellier. The university is best-known for its strong programs in the arts and humanities, with a focus on literature, language, and culture. 

With over 20,000 students, including a significant number of international students, it is a vibrant and diverse community. The university was recently awarded the prestigious ‘Bienvenue en France’ label, recognising its excellence in welcoming and supporting international students.

MBS School of Business

MBS School of Business is a private business school located in Montpellier. The school has a large international student population, with students from over 70 countries. It has over 4,000 students, with programs in business, finance, and management. 

The school is known for its strong focus on international business, with many opportunities for students to study abroad and gain practical experience in different parts of the world.

École Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Montpellier (ENSCM)

The École Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Montpellier (ENSCM) is a leading engineering school in France, specialising in chemistry and materials science. The school has a smaller international student population than the other universities in Montpellier, but it still attracts students from around the world. In total, it only has around 400 students, with strong programs in chemical engineering and material science.

Montpellier Universities World Ranking 2023

Below are the top-ranked Montpellier universities for international students, with their ranks in two of the world’s most well-respected international university rankings, the QS 2023 University World rankings and the Times Higher Education 2023 Rankings.

UniversityQS World Ranking 2023Times Higher Education Ranking 2023QS Rank in FranceTHE Rank in France
University of Montpellier501-510301-3501410
Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 31,001-1,20025

Other Colleges and Universities in Montpellier

  • École des Mines d’Alès: This public engineering school, located about an hour from Montpellier, offers undergraduate and graduate programs in engineering, computer science, and environmental science.
  • École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole: This fine arts school, located in Montpellier, offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various art disciplines including painting, sculpture, and digital media.
  • École Polytechnique Universitaire de Montpellier: This public engineering school offers undergraduate and graduate programs in engineering.
  • Centre International d’Études Françaises: This centre offers French language courses for international students of all levels, from beginner to advanced. The school also offers cultural activities and excursions to help students immerse themselves in French culture.

Tuition Fees and Living Costs

If you’re an international student looking to study at one of Montpellier’s universities, it’s important to consider the cost of tuition and living expenses. Tuition fees at universities in Montpellier can vary depending on the program and institution, ranging from around €200 to €15,000 per year for international students.

The cost of living in Montpellier can vary depending on factors such as housing, transportation, and food. According to the University of Montpellier, the average cost of living in Montpellier for international students is around €800-€1,000 per month. This includes accommodation, food, and other miscellaneous expenses.

Many universities in Montpellier offer financial aid and scholarships to international students, which can help to offset the cost of tuition and living expenses. Additionally, some universities may offer on-campus employment opportunities such as work-study programs or part-time jobs which can provide international students with additional income.

With its affordable cost of living and vibrant student culture, Montpellier is a great choice for international students looking to study in France without breaking the bank.

Life in Montpellier for International Students

If you are an international student looking for a vibrant city to study in France, then Montpellier might be just the place for you. In addition to its great universities, Montpellier is also known for its excellent public transportation system, making it easy to explore the city and surrounding areas. You can take a tram, bus or even a bike to explore the city’s many attractions.

One of the most popular attractions in Montpellier is the Place de la Comédie, a large square that is the heart of the city. It is surrounded by cafes, shops, and restaurants, making it a popular gathering place for locals and tourists. The square is also home to the famous Opéra Comédie, which offers a wide range of performances throughout the year.

If you are looking to explore the history and culture of Montpellier, then visiting the Musée Fabre is a must. It is one of the largest museums in France, and it houses a collection of over 900 European paintings, including pieces by Rembrandt, Delacroix, and Courbet. The city also has several parks including the Parc Zoologique which is home to over 120 species of animals.

Finally, for international students looking to experience the nightlife of Montpellier, the city has a lot to offer. The Place Jean-Jaurès is a popular spot for students, with its many bars and restaurants. The city also has several nightclubs, including L’Antirouille and Le Rockstore, which offer live music and dancing.

Montpellier is a city that offers international students a unique and unforgettable study abroad experience. With its rich history, culture, and excellent universities, there is always something to explore and discover in this vibrant city. So, if you are looking to study in France, Montpellier should definitely be on your list of top destinations!

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