Study in Marseille, France
by Dayana MartÃnez
| Marseille, France | |
|---|---|
| Population: | 850,000 |
| Listed universities: | 2 |
|
Largest universities: |
|
Think sunny skies, a Mediterranean coastline, and a rich mix of cultures. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, historic port, and buzzing street life, Marseille is fast becoming a popular student destination.
France’s second-largest city is home to several major universities and institutions offering programmes in everything from marine sciences to business and the arts. Thanks to its growing international community, you’ll find more English-taught degrees and student-friendly services than ever before.
Whether you’re exploring the Calanques, enjoying fresh seafood by the Old Port, or soaking up the local art scene, Marseille is a great place to balance your studies with an unbeatable lifestyle.
Study in Marseille: Find Bachelors and Masters
Marseille is one of the most affordable big cities in France, especially when compared to Paris or Lyon. Rent for a student apartment usually ranges from €400 to €800 per month, and the cost of food and entertainment is generally lower too.
The city’s Mediterranean lifestyle means things move at a more relaxed pace, and there's always something happening: from music festivals and street markets to impromptu beach gatherings. Marseille might not be as polished as other French cities, but it’s real, lively, and full of character.
50¶È»Ò Tip: Many students underestimate Marseille’s charm until they get here. But once you arrive, give yourself time to settle in. Just be sure to start your housing search early, especially if you want to live close to campus or the beach!
Marseille hosts several well-known universities and higher education institutions, offering programmes in both French and English. Whether you’re into science, business, the arts, or medicine, you’ll find quite a few options here:
Tuition fees in France are relatively affordable. EU/EEA students typically pay between €180 and €650 per year, while non-EU students pay around €3,000 for Bachelor's and €4,000 for Master's degrees. Private institutions can charge between €5,000 and €20,000 per year depending on the programme.
Marseille offers a variety of part-time job options that can help international students cover these fees and earn extra income. With a valid student visa, you can work roughly 20 hours per week during term time.
Many students find jobs in retail, cafés, and restaurants - especially in popular or touristy neighborhoods. If you speak English, tutoring and babysitting roles are also in demand. Some universities and startups also offer part-time roles in administration or research support. To find a job, check with your university’s career center, browse listings on platforms like LinkedIn or Erasmusu, or keep an eye on local Facebook groups. Knowing some basic French will definitely give you an edge when applying.
Getting around is easy with the city’s metro, tram, and bus network. And with a student transport pass, it’s also budget-friendly. Plus, when the sun’s out (which is often), you can skip the commute and walk or bike along the sea.
Marseille is connected by air, train, and road, making it comfortable for international students to arrive and settle in. Most fly into Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), which is about 25 km from the city center. From the airport, shuttle buses and trains can get you into town in about 25–30 minutes.
If you're arriving from within France or neighboring countries, the city is also a major stop on the high-speed TGV network. You can get to Marseille from Paris in just over 3 hours by train.
