GRE for France Universities: Complete Guide 2026 (Scores, Universities, Courses & Careers)

GRE for France Universities

France has rapidly emerged as one of the top study-abroad destinations in Europe for 2026, thanks to its globally ranked universities, strong focus on research and innovation, affordable public education, and excellent post-study career opportunities. For international students planning to pursue master’s, MBA, or PhD programs, one common question is whether the GRE for France universities is required or beneficial.

The answer is nuanced. While the GRE is not mandatory for all French universities, many top Grandes Écoles, business schools, and competitive STEM programs accept or recommend GRE scores, especially for English-taught programs.

This complete 2026 guide is carefully researched, accurate, and student-friendly. It covers :

• Whether GRE is accepted in France

• GRE score expectations for 2026

• Top GRE-accepting universities in France

• Courses, tuition fees, and scholarships

• Career opportunities and post-study stay options

Is GRE Accepted by France Universities in 2026?

Yes, the GRE for France universities is accepted by many institutions, particularly:

• Top business schools (MBA, MiM, MSc)

• Engineering and STEM programs

• Economics, data science, and analytics degrees

• Research-oriented master’s and PhD tracks

However, unlike the US, GRE is usually optional in France. A strong GRE score:

• Strengthens competitive applications

• Compensates for lower GPA

• Improves scholarship chances

• Helps with admission to selective Grandes Écoles

Why Take the GRE for Studying in France?

Choosing the GRE can provide a strategic edge for international students in 2026.

Key Benefits of GRE for France Universities

• Globally recognised by top French and international institutions

• Accepted for business, e

• ngineering, economics, and data science programs

• Demonstrates quantitative, verbal, and analytical skills

• Enhances scholarship and funding opportunities

• Useful for dual-degree and exchange programs

For students targeting elite institutions, GRE acts as a profile differentiator.

GRE Score Expectations in France (2026)

There is no single GRE cut-off for France universities. Requirements vary by institution and program.

Typical GRE Score Expectations (2026)

Program Type	Competitive GRE Score	Notes
Master’s (MSc/MS)	300+ overall	Top schools prefer 310–320+
MBA / Management	310–325+	Strong Quant & Verbal
Engineering / STEM	300–315+	Quant 160+ preferred
Economics / Analytics	315+	Quant & AWA important
PhD / Research	Case-specific	High scores strengthen profile

Tip: For technical and quantitative programs, a GRE Quant score of 160+ is highly recommended.

Top GRE-Accepting Universities in France (2026)

1. HEC Paris

• GRE Requirement: Accepted (GMAT/GRE)

• Popular Programs: MBA, MiM, MSc in Finance, Management

• Average Tuition Fee: €25,000–€72,000 (program-dependent)

• Career Prospects: Consulting, finance, global management roles

HEC Paris is one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions where GRE for France universities plays a significant role.

2. ESSEC Business School

• GRE Requirement: Accepted and encouraged

• Popular Programs: MSc in Management, Data Sciences, Finance

• Average Tuition Fee: €18,000–€50,000

• Career Prospects: Consulting, analytics, multinational firms

3. INSEAD

• GRE Requirement: Mandatory (or GMAT)

• Popular Programs: Global MBA

• Average Tuition Fee: ~€92,000

• Career Prospects: Global leadership, strategy, consulting

INSEAD is among the strongest supporters of GRE for France universities, especially for MBA aspirants.

4. École Polytechnique

• GRE Requirement: Recommended for international STEM students

• Popular Programs: Engineering, AI, Data Science

• Average Tuition Fee: €14,900/year

• Career Prospects: R&D, engineering, tech innovation

5. Sorbonne University

• GRE Requirement: Program-dependent (recommended for science & economics)

• Popular Programs: Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Economics

• Average Tuition Fee: €243–€3,770/year

• Career Prospects: Research, academia, industry roles

6. CentraleSupélec

• GRE Requirement: Considered for technical programs

• Popular Programs: Engineering, AI, Energy Systems

• Average Tuition Fee: €6,000–€15,000/year

• Career Prospects: Engineering, consulting, innovation labs

7. Université Paris-Saclay

• GRE Requirement: Recommended for competitive STEM tracks

• Popular Programs: Data Science, Physics, Life Sciences

• Average Tuition Fee: €243–€3,770/year

• Career Prospects: Research, high-tech industries

Courses Offered Where GRE Is Accepted in France

Business & Management

• MBA, MiM, MSc in Finance

• Strategy, Consulting, International Business

  
  

Engineering & Technology

• Computer Science, AI, Robotics

• Electrical, Mechanical, Sustainable Engineering

  
  

Economics & Data Sciences

• Economics, Business Analytics

• Data Science, Machine Learning

Natural & Social Sciences

• Physics, Mathematics, Life Sciences

• Public Policy, International Relations

Scholarships for Students Applying with GRE in France

Major Funding Options

• Eiffel Excellence Scholarship – €1,181/month (Master’s)

• French Government Scholarships

• University-specific merit scholarships

• Business school tuition waivers (GRE-based)

A strong GRE score significantly improves eligibility for merit-based scholarships.

Career Opportunities After Studying in France

Post-Study Stay (2026)

• 12–24 months post-study job search visa

• Transition to work permit or EU Blue Card

Average Graduate Salaries

Field	Salary Range
Engineering & IT	€40,000–60,000
Business & Consulting	€38,000–55,000
Data Science	€45,000–65,000
Research & Academia	€35,000–50,000

PR & Long-Term Settlement in France

• Temporary residence → Work permit

• EU Blue Card for skilled professionals

• Permanent residency after 5 years

• Citizenship possible after 5–7 years

FAQs: GRE for France Universities (2026)

Is GRE for France universities mandatory in 2026?

No, GRE for France universities is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended for competitive business, STEM, and analytics programs.

What is a good GRE score for France universities?

A score of 300–315 is sufficient for many programs, while 310–325+ is competitive for top business schools and scholarships.

Can I study in France without GRE?

Yes, many programs do not require GRE, but submitting a strong score improves admission chances significantly.

Conclusion

In 2026, the GRE for France universities serves as a powerful academic credential for international students targeting top business schools, engineering institutions, and research universities. While not mandatory everywhere, the GRE can significantly boost your profile, scholarship chances, and long-term career prospects in France.

Call to Action (CTA)

🎯 Planning to Study in France in 2026

👉 Official GRE Website: https://www.ets.org/gre

👉 Campus France (Official Portal): https://www.campusfrance.org

👉 Eiffel Scholarship Info: https://www.campusfrance.org/en/eiffel-scholarship-program

📌 Next Steps

• Set your GRE target score (Quant 160+ recommended)

• Shortlist GRE-accepting universities in France

• Start structured GRE preparation today

🚀 Plan smart, prepare early, and build a successful academic future in France!