International Students in France: A Significant Economic Impact
Nearly 16,000 students cross the Mediterranean each year to study in France. Tunisia stands out as the leading African country sending students to France, ranking sixth globally in terms of foreign student enrollment in French institutions. For the 2024-2025 academic year, Campus France reports 15,949 registered Tunisian students in French establishments, representing a 5% increase over the past year and a 22% rise over five years.
Student Visa Demand
Each year, between 5,000 and 5,500 new student visas are granted by French consular services to Tunisian candidates, demonstrating a steady demand. This influx of students has significant financial implications.
Financial Impact
In French public universities, a non-European student pays an average of €2,770 per year for a bachelor's degree and up to €3,770 for a master's degree, as per the rates introduced in 2019. Based on the 16,000 Tunisian students, the total enrollment fees amount to between €45 million and €60 million annually, despite exemptions granted to certain profiles.
Economic Benefits Beyond Tuition Fees
The economic impact extends far beyond tuition fees. According to Campus France estimates, each foreign student spends an average of €9,000 per year on living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation, in France. Tunisian students, who account for approximately 4% of the 443,500 foreign students recorded in 2024-2025, would inject around €200 million into the French economy.
Overall Economic Contribution
On a larger scale, the total economic contribution of all foreign students exceeds €5 billion. The net balance, after deducting public aid, remains positive, with Campus France reporting a figure of €1.35 billion.
