This article covers the master's programs offered in public institutions under the French Ministry for Higher Education, as well as the MBA, mastère spécialisé, and Master en Sciences certifications.
Note: The Philippines isn't covered by the EEF - Études en France procedure, more commonly known as the Campus France online application. Master's level admissions originating from the Philippines must undergo the specific procedures detailed below.
THE MASTER'S DEGREE UNDER THE LMD SYSTEM
A master's in France is a state-controlled, 2-year study program that succeeds three years of undergraduate study (bac+3) or equivalent. Master's programs are conducted in universities and are more specialized than the licence. Students who are in their final year of college/university or have completed a licence (bac+3) or undergraduate studies (Bachelor's degree) from the Philippines may apply for admission to Master's programs in France.
There are integrated programs that seamlessly combine a licence and a master, sometimes extending as far as the doctorate track. These programs require admission into the first year of study only.
APPLYING FOR A MASTER
OPTION 1: VIA MONMASTER
The MonMaster platform is a national portal created in 2022 to centralize the procedure of applying for master's degrees. The entirety of the procedure, from selecting a master's program, to putting together and submitting an application, all the way up to the communication of results from chosen universities may be done via MonMaster.
Given that MonMaster is in its infancy, the portal is not available in English. This can be circumvented by using browser plugins to translate pages directly into English.
It is also currently impossible to filter search results based on language of instruction. To determine whether a master's program on MonMaster is taught in English, students will have to consult the program's fiche formation (or course page) and verify whether the master is taught in English.
Campus France Philippines offers a guide on the usage of the MonMaster platform in addition to accompaniment services in online and on-site consultations.
TIMELINE
| Date | Procedure |
|---|---|
| January 29 | Publication of master's degree offers for 2024 intake |
| February 26 to March 24 | Period of application to desired master's programs |
| April 2 to May 28 | Evaluation of applications, including invitation to entrance exam (if applicable) |
| June 4 to 24 | Main admission phase |
| June 25 to July 31 | Complementary evaluation phase (waitlist, etc.) |
OPTION 2: INDIVIDUAL APPLICATION
Should applying for your chosen master's program not be feasible on MonMaster, or if you wish to gain entry into the 2nd year of your master's, admission may be done by directly approaching the school's international relations/admissions department.
In addition to the traditional, university-taught master's programs, students may choose to apply for an MBA, a mastère spécialisé, or a Master in Science. These programs are offered by private institutions, and are more catered to an international student base, with programs being abundantly available in English.
The MBA
An MBA, or Master in Business Administration, is an internationally recognized certification catering to individuals who wish to be more adept in handling businesses or taking up management positions. Students are immersed in work settings and perform real case studies.
Admission procedures may vary, with some options being readily available to undergraduate diploma (bac+3) holders, while others require at least an undergraduate diploma supplemented by several years of work experience.
There is no singular authority certifying MBA programs. Exercise caution in choosing MBA programs to pursue.
The Mastère Spécialisé
The mastère spécialisé is a certification created by the CGE - Conférence des Grandes Écoles in response to a need for industry-ready individuals in often niche fields. It's worth noting that the mastère spécialisé isn't recognized by the state. Rather, it bears the CGE label attesting that certified programs have course contents that are up to their standard.
Given the professionally-oriented orientation of the mastère spécialisé, admission may require a master's degree, or an undergraduate degree (bac+3) supplemented by several years of work experience.
The Master in Science (MSc)
Not to be confused with MSc programs commonly offered under Erasmus Mundus joint programs, the French Master in Science is likewise accorded by the CGE. As such, the MSc isn't recognized by the state but sports the CGE label as a mark of recognition. The MSc also prepares students to occupy specialized, technical roles. During the program, students must complete an industry internship for at least 4 months.
Another noteworthy difference setting the MSc apart is its accessibility. Students with an undergraduate diploma (bac+3) may directly apply for admission into an MSc.
APPLYING FOR ADMISSION TO AN MBA, Mastère Spécialisé, or an MSc
Given the particularity and exclusivity of these programs, any application is to be done by directly contacting the school's admissions department. The procedures may vary between private schools, with some requiring competitive entrance exams, aptitude tests, and jury interviews.
GETTING STARTED
Take the first step and choose the master's program for you by consulting Campus France's course search engines.
