Some French programmes offer English-language study, but there is no single language rule that applies to every course. Check the current programme page for the language of required modules, assessments and placements, and ask which tests and scores the institution accepts. A useful example is MBS’s 2026 BIBA listing: it describes a route taught 100% in English as well as a French-English bilingual option, while also listing French at B2 as an entry requirement. That is a school- and cohort-specific rule, not a national requirement.
What the MBS example shows
The official 2026 Parcoursup listing describes the Bachelor in International Business Administration at MBS in Montpellier as a three-year programme. It says applicants need French at B2. For the English-language pathway, it lists a minimum English score on the school’s own MBS English Test; the page describes 85/160 as the minimum, alongside a separate 12/20 formulation in its candidate advice. Because this is an institution-specific test and the current listing contains both forms, applicants should ask MBS which threshold and test format govern their route before applying. Do not substitute IELTS or another test unless MBS confirms it accepts that evidence.
The same listing describes instruction as French-English bilingual or 100% English. That wording does not tell you whether every optional module, placement or later cohort has identical language arrangements. Request a module-level plan and written confirmation for the intake you want.
Four language questions to ask any school
- What language is used in every compulsory module, exam, thesis and presentation?
- Are internships, labs or client projects also conducted in English?
- Which test versions, total scores, component minimums and validity periods are accepted?
- Is French required for admission, progression, placements or student administration?
If a school offers a waiver based on prior English-medium education, ask what documents it accepts and obtain written approval. An English-taught label does not prove that an institution accepts a particular test or that every activity is English-only.
French-taught routes have their own rules
The Ministry’s 2027–28 DAP white-file notice describes a French test requirement for that specific application route, including the TCF TP with written-expression component unless the applicant qualifies for an exemption. Do not turn this into a rule for all universities or programmes: DAP covers a defined first-year application path and other institutions publish their own requirements.
French can also matter beyond admission. Housing, healthcare, municipal services and some internships may require practical French. Ask the institution what language support is available and plan to build the level you need for your daily routine and career goals.
Do I need IELTS to study in France? There is no universal IELTS rule. Each programme names the evidence it accepts. The MBS example uses its own English-test route; confirm whether that is still current for your intake.
Can I study fully in English and still need French? Yes. MBS’s 2026 listing is one example that combines an English pathway with a B2 French entry condition. Other programmes set different rules.
Does English instruction mean the degree is recognised? No. Language of instruction and formal award status are separate checks.
Verify language beyond the programme label
A 100% English route can still involve French administration, a bilingual campus, local placement communication or elective choices with different delivery. Ask for the current course list and identify the language of lectures, exams, group work, thesis supervision and internships. If the programme’s page uses a general label, request a written answer for the exact intake and campus. A school’s admission minimum does not necessarily equal the language needed to succeed in a placement or deal with housing and public services.
The MBS BIBA listing demonstrates why applicants should read the detail: it names a fully English and a French-English route but also gives a B2 French condition, and describes its own English test threshold. Resolve the apparent relationship between these requirements with admissions rather than assuming the English option waives French or that an IELTS score is accepted. Keep the written response with your application file. If the school accepts prior English-medium education, ask what official evidence is needed and whether the waiver covers every campus activity.
Plan for language in a French-speaking environment
French can reduce friction when arranging an apartment, speaking with a doctor, contacting a transport provider or undertaking an internship. A student need not be fluent before arrival to begin, but should make a realistic plan for learning relevant vocabulary and practising conversation. Ask whether the institution offers a language centre, tandem exchange, placement preparation or academic writing support and whether those services are included or separately priced.
For applications through DAP, read the current Ministry notice because its language evidence applies to that specific process. Applicants to other routes should use the programme call, not copy the DAP rule. Likewise, a degree’s English instruction says nothing by itself about the academic status of the award or whether another country recognises it. Treat language, admission and credential recognition as three separate checks.
Prepare for language needs in the application and classroom
Language evidence is tied to a programme and procedure. A score accepted for admission may have a validity period, component minimum or test-format requirement. Ask whether the institution accepts a test taken online, prior English-medium education, an internal test or an interview. Save the response and compare it with the current call. If the application uses Études en France or DAP, check those instructions separately from the institution’s language page.
For MBS, the 2026 listing describes two language routes and gives French and English evidence details. Clarify how the B2 French condition relates to the fully English option and whether the school accepts alternatives to its named test. The listing’s threshold wording should be confirmed directly if the separate candidate advice appears inconsistent. Applicants should not infer that IELTS is accepted—or required—without current confirmation from MBS.
Consider placements and practical communication
An English-taught degree can still include a French-speaking placement, local administration or housing process. Ask whether internships are compulsory, how employers are sourced and what language they use with clients. A student may want to build French vocabulary for safety, scheduling and workplace interaction even where admission does not require a French certificate. Language centres, tandem groups and conversation clubs can help; confirm availability and any fee with the campus.
For future study or work, language proficiency and degree recognition remain separate issues. A strong English score does not establish professional equivalence, and a French-language credential does not itself guarantee a job. Match language preparation to the actual programme and destination rather than a broad national assumption.
Primary sources
Editorial note
Requirements can change and may differ by institution, programme and applicant. Recheck current university and government guidance before paying or travelling.
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