Study in France as a second-generation immigrant: Opportunities and policy developments

As France grows more inclusive and diverse, it is important to understand what opportunities are being created for students. If you are planning to study in France, this blog discusses the immigrant student experience in France.

Education for multicultural students in France: inclusive policies and developments

As France embraces multiculturalism, inclusive education in France has become a key theme at all levels of policy and debate. Institutions increasingly present themselves as spaces of cosmopolitanism and integration. This is especially true in French business schools and grandes écoles, such as the École de Management Appliqué, which frequently celebrate diversity in French higher education as both a value and a goal.

Efforts to promote multicultural education in France include:

• Reforms in curriculum and pedagogy: programmes are increasingly designed to recognise cultural diversity, challenge stereotypes and foster intercultural competencies among students and staff.
• Support for French language acquisition: there are targeted programmes to help students who do not speak French natively, aiming to provide a strong foundation for language skills critical to academic success.
• Outreach and preparation initiatives: many institutions, including prestigious business schools, have established mentorship and preparatory programmes to identify and support talented students from underrepresented backgrounds, including second-generation immigrants.

Government support systems for immigrant students in France

Understanding the need to support immigrant students in higher education and the country’s growing diversity, the French government and schools have taken steps to help second-generation immigrants in France:

• Education Priority Zones (Zones d’Éducation Prioritaire): these school districts receive extra funding and specialised staff to tackle educational disparities. They aim to reduce class sizes, offer additional tutoring and encourage parental involvement, all in areas with high proportions of immigrant-origin families.
• Immigrant student support programmes: a variety of local, regional and national programmes exist to aid academic integration of second-generation immigrants, from language support to mentorship schemes. These range from early intervention in preschool to guidance and support for immigrant students in higher education.
• Financial assistance and scholarships: the government offers means-tested scholarships, social housing and transport subsidies for students from low-income families, which disproportionately includes those from immigrant backgrounds.
• Student support service: French universities and business schools provide counselling, psychological support and peer mentoring to ease the transition into higher and multicultural education in France. École de Management Appliqué is at the forefront of providing extended support to students. With its personalised academic support, each student gets the guidance and attention they need.
• Recognition of diversity in admissions: While French law restricts positive discrimination, institutions are encouraged to diversify their student intake by recruiting from a wide range of backgrounds. Partnerships with feeder schools and alternative admission pathways have been introduced to make access to top programmes more equitable for all, including second-generation immigrants in France.
• Awareness campaigns: National and local campaigns highlight the importance of education and diversity, aiming to counter stereotypes and promote the high academic aspirations of immigrant youth.

Tips for navigating higher education as a second-generation immigrant

Navigating higher education in France as a second-generation immigrant comes with unique opportunities. By approaching student life proactively and tapping into supportive networks and resources, you can create an enriching and successful academic journey. The following are some practical tips to help you thrive:

Opportunities for second-generation immigrant students in France

As France becomes more open to multiculturalism, higher education in France for immigrants is becoming more welcoming.

For many, studying in France is about embracing and harnessing a unique blend of backgrounds and ambitions. The diversity that second-generation immigrants bring to the classroom is a strength that French society and its universities are learning to recognise and promote. Inclusive student bodies foster a sense of community, highlight diverse voices and advocate for academic integration for second-generation immigrants.

Are you a second-generation immigrant considering your options for higher education in France? École de Management Appliqué is proud to be part of the growing movement towards diversity in French higher education, helping students like you thrive and succeed.