If you’re dreaming of studying in France, your mind probably jumps to Paris. Maybe Lyon. But here’s something most students miss: to study in Bordeaux in 2025 means getting an incredible education without the Paris price tag, and with a lifestyle that strikes the perfect balance between academic, social, and scenic.
I’ve helped hundreds of students apply to study abroad programs in France, and Bordeaux always ends up being a favorite. Why? Because this city doesn’t just check boxes it feels like an experience. From the riverside sunset walks to its massive student base, Bordeaux is more than picturesque; it’s practical, welcoming, and wonderfully alive.
So if you’re serious about quality education in one of France’s most livable cities, this guide covers everything you need from tuition and visas to housing and real-life student insights.
Why Study in Bordeaux in 2025?
You’re probably wondering what sets Bordeaux apart. Why not just choose the big, obvious cities?
Well, here’s the thing Bordeaux is the 4th most popular student city in France (L’Étudiant rankings, 2024), with over 100,000 students and approximately 15,000 international attendees every year.
What Makes Bordeaux Worth It?
- Affordable living: 20-30% cheaper than Paris
- Access to beaches, vineyards, and nature
- Top-tier universities offering English-taught programs
- Well-connected: 2 hours to Paris by train, with regular links to Spain, Belgium, and The Netherlands
- Known globally for business, arts, politics, and – yes – winemaking
In addition, the city’s walkability, relaxed pace, and cultural diversity offer students something you don’t always get in bigger, busier cities comfort.
Top Universities to Study in Bordeaux
Once you’ve decided to study in Bordeaux, the next question is where?
You’ve got options and they’re pretty great, if we’re being honest. Most of these universities offer courses in both French and English, with different benefits depending on your area of interest.
1. Université de Bordeaux
This is the main public university and it’s massive. With 50,000+ students, it hosts everything from medicine to marine ecology.
- Most popular among international students
- Affordable tuition for public degrees
- Strong in law, computer science, political science, and biotech
- Offers French language support for foreigners
- Opens many Erasmus+ exchange spots
2. Sciences Po Bordeaux
This one’s for the thinkers. Sciences Po is a school with a strong reputation for politics, diplomacy, sociology, and public affairs.
- Selective program with high academic expectations
- Partnered with the London School of Economics and Canadian universities
- Compact campus and tight-knit international student community
3. Bordeaux Montaigne University
For creatives and communicators Montaigne is all about philosophy, media, linguistics, arts, and design.
- Very strong exchange program culture
- Weekly cultural events
- Undergraduate and Master’s degrees offered in both French and English
4. KEDGE Business School
Looking for global business? KEDGE (and INSEEC) are Bordeaux’s big private players.
- Triple-accredited B-school (AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB)
- All courses available in English
- Known for marketing, entrepreneurship & supply chain logistics
- Integrated internships available for Master’s students
Types of Study Abroad Programs in Bordeaux
Whether you’re in France for two months or two years, Bordeaux programs are flexible.
Let’s break down your main options:
Exchange Programs (1–2 semesters)
Ideal if:
- You’re currently enrolled at a university partnered with a Bordeaux institution
- You want course credit transfer without paying extra tuition
- You’re enrolled in Erasmus+ or similar schemes
These usually offer:
- Waived tuition at the host university
- Pre-arrival support & French lessons
- Guaranteed credit transfer back home
Full Bachelor’s or Master’s Programs
Perfect for students who plan to:
- Get a full European degree in Bordeaux
- Pursue work/internship in France or EU afterward
Tuition is low at public universities compared to many other countries. Better still, the degree is globally recognized.
Fields include:
- International Business
- Artificial Intelligence
- Marine Biodiversity
- Fine Arts & Cultural Programming
- Sustainable Development
Summer & Short-Term Study Abroad Programs
Running 2 to 8 weeks, these short-term programs focus on:
- Climate & sustainability
- Luxury wine trade & tourism
- Global entrepreneurship
- French language immersion
These programs are not only practical they’re culturally rich and allow just enough time to get a feel for life in France.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Bordeaux?
Fortunately, you can study in Bordeaux without wrecking your bank account which is not always the case in other cities.
Average Monthly Student Budget:
| Expense | Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| Shared Room | €400 – €600 |
| Food & Shopping | €220 – €300 |
| Transport Pass | €30 (tram+bus) |
| Health Insurance | Free for under 28s |
| Extras | €100 – €200 |
Monthly Total: ~ €850–1,100/month
Tuition Fees (Per Year)
| Student Type | Tuition Estimate |
|---|---|
| EU Students – Public | €170 – €601 |
| Non-EU Students – Public | €2,770 – €3,770 |
| Private/Business Schools | €6,000 – €12,000 |
Scholarships for Students Who Study in Bordeaux
There’s more support out there than most realize. Yes you can study in Bordeaux with funding.
Here’s where to start looking:
- Campus France Scholarships – Gov-secured grants for foreign students
- Erasmus+ Mobility Allowance – If your uni is EU-connected
- Eiffel Excellence Program – Full Master’s tuition coverage + living stipend
- Institutional Merit Scholarships – Check with your uni (like KEDGE, Montaigne)
- Country-specific options – Fulbright (US), Charpak (India), Chevening (UK), etc.
Always apply early typically in the fall or early winter (Oct–Feb) before your intake begins.
How to Apply to Study in Bordeaux
Here’s your simplified 5-step roadmap for 2025 admission.
| Step | What You Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pick your program public vs. private, field of study |
| 2 | Prepare documents passport, transcript, CV, SOP, language certs |
| 3 | Apply via Campus France or through your home university |
| 4 | Wait for your conditional offer letter or academic acceptance |
| 5 | Apply for Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS) |
Where to Live in Bordeaux as a Student
Bordeaux is big but manageable. And yes affordable housing exists here.
Top Student Areas:
| Area | Vibe |
|---|---|
| La Victoire | Lively, affordable, full of students |
| Saint-Michel | Artsy, multicultural, lots of cafés |
| Bastide | Across the river, quieter but fast-changing |
| Talence/Pessac | Closer to university clusters, quieter |
| Chartrons | Trendy, near wine museum & riverside |
Most students pay:
- €350–€500 for shared housing
- €500+ for studios in city centre
- CROUS Residence (if selected): €300–€400/month
Can I Work While I Study in Bordeaux?
100% yes. France allows international students to work 964 hours/year (approx. 20 hrs/week).
Typical Student Jobs:
- Language exchange/tutoring (great hourly rate)
- Café/bar/restaurant work
- Library or university admin
- Internships (some paid, many required for degrees)
Minimum wage in France: €11.65/hour (2025 estimate)
That means you could cover most of your rent with part-time work, even just on weekends.
Real Life: What It’s Like to Study in Bordeaux
You wake up near the Garonne River. Class at 10. Baguette at noon. Group project by 3. Literally dance down the street with new friends by 8.
That’s not an exaggeration.
Bordeaux is:
- Walkable
- Student-filled
- International
- Easygoing
- Culturally dense
Museums, jazz nights, food trucks, coastal trips. It’s got history, but it’s young at heart. If you want slow Sundays and fast Wi-Fi in the same week, you’ve found your match.
FAQs: Study in Bordeaux (2025)
A: Not necessarily. Many Bachelor’s and most Master’s programs are in English. But French helps — socially and professionally.
A: Yes. Use Campus France (Études en France platform) or apply directly to private schools.
A: October to February (ideally before March 2025)
A: Yes, with a post-study visa (APS), valid 12–24 months for job hunting.
A: Very. Mix of chill + active city life with strong student infrastructure.
Final Thoughts: Why Study in Bordeaux?
If you’re looking for world-class education, wine-country charm, and the daily joy of being a student in France you might’ve just found your city.
Forget hype. Bordeaux delivers what actually matters: affordable quality, real experiences, and a lifestyle you’ll probably want to keep living even after graduation.
So ready to apply?
