Intakes in Public Universities of France
French public universities offer two primary intakes for international students each year — September (Fall) and January (Spring). While the September intake is the main entry point with the widest program availability, the January intake serves as an alternative for certain courses and circumstances.
September Intake (Fall) – The Main Entry Point
The September intake is the primary and most popular option for students beginning their studies in France.
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Program Availability: Offers the largest selection of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
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Start Date: Classes generally begin in mid-September.
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Application Deadlines: Typically between March and July or August.
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Preparation Tip: It’s advisable to start the application process 8–10 months in advance to secure a place, particularly in competitive programs.
January Intake (Spring) – A Second Opportunity
The January intake is a secondary option, ideal for students who missed the September deadlines or prefer a spring start.
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Program Availability: More limited selection compared to September.
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Start Date: Classes usually begin in January.
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Application Deadlines: Generally fall around November.
Choosing the Right Intake
Not all universities offer both intakes — some operate exclusively in September. Students should check program availability early and plan their application timeline accordingly.
