Pursue Your Medical Degree in English at a French University

How many years is Med School in France?

To study medicine in France, one must understand that the place is structured differently from many other countries, encompassing several stages that span over a longer period compared to some other educational systems.

1. First Stage – Premedical Studies (PACES)

   In France, the path to becoming a doctor begins with Premedical Studies (PACES – Première Année Commune aux Études de Santé). This stage typically lasts for one year. During PACES, students undertake rigorous coursework in subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy. The purpose of PACES is to prepare students for entrance examinations to medical schools and other health-related disciplines.

2. Second Stage – Medical Studies (Second Cycle)

   After successfully completing PACES and passing the entrance examinations, students progress to the second stage of medical studies. This stage is divided into three cycles:

   • Second Cycle (DFGSM – Diplôme de Formation Générale en Sciences Médicales): The second cycle generally spans over four years. During this period, students focus on theoretical and practical medical training. They study disciplines such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, and more. Clinical rotations are an essential component of this cycle, allowing students to gain hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced physicians.
   • Third Cycle (DFASM – Diplôme de Formation Approfondie en Sciences Médicales): The third cycle also lasts for four years and is dedicated to specialization. Students choose a specific medical specialty to pursue, such as cardiology, neurology, dermatology, etc. This cycle includes advanced clinical training and research, preparing students for their chosen medical career paths.
   • Internship (Internat): Following the third cycle, students undertake an internship (internat) that typically lasts for three to five years, depending on the specialty. During the internship, students work in hospitals and healthcare settings, gaining practical experience and further refining their skills under supervision.

3. Final Stage – Residency and Specialty Training

   After completing the internship, medical graduates must pass the National Ranking Exam (ECN – Épreuve Classante Nationale) to enter residency programs (Internat de Spécialité). Residency training varies in duration depending on the chosen specialty and typically lasts from three to five years or more. During residency, doctors work under supervision to gain expertise in their chosen specialty.

Is medicine study Free in France?

In France, higher education, including medical studies, is heavily subsidized by the government, making it significantly more affordable compared to many other countries. However, it is not entirely free of charge.

1. Tuition Fees

   • Public Universities: Tuition fees at public medical schools in France are relatively low compared to those in private institutions. For EU/EEA students, tuition fees for medical studies are around 170-450 euros per year, depending on the university and specific program. For non-EU/EEA students, tuition fees are higher, typically ranging from 2,770 to 3,770 euros per year.
   • Private Institutions: Private medical schools in France may have higher tuition fees compared to public universities. The fees vary significantly depending on the institution and can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of euros per year.

2. Additional Costs

   • Social Security and Health Insurance: All students in France, including medical students, must enroll in the French social security system. The cost of social security and health insurance varies but is mandatory for accessing healthcare services during studies.
   • Living Expenses: While tuition fees are relatively low, students must budget for living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses. The cost of living varies depending on the city or region where the student resides.

3. Scholarships and Financial Aid

   • French and EU/EEA students may be eligible for scholarships and financial aid provided by the government, universities, or other organizations. These scholarships can help offset tuition fees and living expenses.
   • Non-EU/EEA students may have fewer options for financial aid and scholarships, making it important for them to plan and budget accordingly before starting their studies in France.

In conclusion, while medical studies in France are not entirely free, they are highly subsidized by the government, making them more accessible and affordable compared to many other countries. The low tuition fees at public universities and availability of scholarships contribute to making medical education in France an attractive option for both domestic and international students seeking quality education in healthcare.

Is it hard to get to medical school in France?

Admission to medical school in France is highly competitive and rigorous, requiring students to meet stringent academic and non-academic criteria.

1. Academic Requirements

   • PACES: The first hurdle for prospective medical students is to successfully pass the PACES entrance examinations. These exams assess students’ knowledge in subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy. The competition for places in medical schools is fierce, with a limited number of spots available each year.
   • Entrance Examinations: In addition to PACES, some universities may require applicants to pass specific entrance examinations or tests, depending on the institution and program. These exams assess applicants’ academic aptitude and suitability for medical studies.

2. Non-Academic Requirements

   • Motivation and Commitment: Medical schools in France also evaluate applicants based on their motivation, commitment to the medical profession, and personal qualities such as empathy and communication skills. Interviews and personal statements may be part of the selection process to assess these attributes.
   • Character Assessment: Applicants must demonstrate good character and suitability for medical practice, as healthcare professions require ethical conduct, responsibility, and empathy towards patients.

3. Competitive Nature

   • Due to the limited number of places available in medical schools and the high number of applicants, admission to medical school in France is highly competitive. Applicants must excel academically, perform well in entrance examinations, and demonstrate their passion and suitability for a career in medicine.

4. Alternative Routes

   • In addition to the traditional pathway through PACES, some universities in France offer alternative routes or international programs for medical studies. These programs may have different admission criteria and requirements, providing flexibility for prospective students.

In conclusion, while admission to medical school in France is challenging due to its competitive nature and rigorous selection process, it is achievable for motivated and qualified candidates who meet the academic and non-academic criteria. The structured and comprehensive medical education system in France ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the healthcare profession and contribute to improving public health and well-being.