The University of Lyon (Université de Lyon) is a prestigious academic consortium located in Lyon, France. It brings together several leading higher education institutions and research organizations, forming a vibrant hub for education, research, and innovation. Known for its strong interdisciplinary approach, the University of Lyon excels in a wide range of disciplines, including sciences, engineering, humanities, social sciences, law, business, and health.
Early Foundations: Lyon has a long history of higher education, with the first university in Lyon being established in 1809.
Formation of the Consortium: The University of Lyon as it exists today was formed in 2007, bringing together multiple institutions to enhance collaboration and create a unified identity.
Growth and Development: Over the years, the University of Lyon has expanded its academic programs, research initiatives, and international partnerships, establishing itself as a major center for higher education and research in France.
Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1: Focuses on science, technology, health, and sport.
Université Lumière Lyon 2: Specializes in humanities, social sciences, and arts.
Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3: Offers programs in law, business, languages, and humanities.
École Normale Supérieure de Lyon (ENS de Lyon): Known for elite training in sciences and humanities.
INSA Lyon: National Institute of Applied Sciences, specializing in engineering and technology.
Université Jean Monnet Saint-Étienne: Located in nearby Saint-Étienne, offering a variety of programs.
Centrale Lyon: An engineering school known for high-quality education and research in engineering.
The University of Lyon is renowned for its contributions to research and innovation across various fields. Its research activities are supported by numerous laboratories, research centers, and interdisciplinary projects.
Biotechnology and Life Sciences: Research in genomics, molecular biology, and biotechnology.
Nanotechnology and Materials Science: Innovations in nanomaterials, nanodevices, and advanced materials.
Information Technology: Research in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and computer science.
Environmental Sciences: Studies on climate change, sustainable development, and environmental engineering.
Humanities and Social Sciences: Research in history, sociology, psychology, and cultural studies.
Advanced Research Facilities: State-of-the-art laboratories and research centers equipped with cutting-edge technology.
Innovation and Technology Transfer: Dedicated facilities for fostering startups and facilitating technology transfer to industry.
Collaborative Projects: Numerous interdisciplinary projects that bring together experts from different fields to address complex societal challenges.
Global Partnerships: Extensive collaborations with universities and research institutions worldwide.
European Research Projects: Active participation in European Union research programs and projects.
International Exchange Programs: Numerous exchange programs and dual degree opportunities with partner institutions around the globe.
Nobel Laureates and Awards: Researchers from the University of Lyon have received prestigious awards, including Nobel Prizes.
Publications and Patents: High-impact scientific publications and numerous patents in various fields.
Societal Impact: Research that addresses critical global issues such as health, environment, and technology.
Sciences and Technology
Bachelor's Programs: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Earth Sciences
Master's Programs: Applied Mathematics, Biomedical Engineering, Data Science, Environmental Sciences, Nanotechnology
Ph.D. Programs: Various specializations in natural sciences and engineering fields
Health Sciences
Medicine: General Medicine, Specialized Medicine
Pharmacy: Pharmacology, Toxicology
Dentistry
Allied Health Programs: Physiotherapy, Nursing, Medical Imaging
Engineering
Specializations: Biotechnology, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (USD/year) |
---|---|---|
Biology |
3 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
Chemistry |
3 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
Computer Science |
3 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
Mathematics |
3 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
Physics |
3 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
Earth Sciences |
3 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
Medicine |
6 years |
$450 - $1,000 (special rates for EU/EEA students) |
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (USD/year) |
---|---|---|
Applied Mathematics |
2 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
Biomedical Engineering |
2 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
Data Science |
2 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
Environmental Sciences |
2 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
Nanotechnology |
2 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (USD/year) |
---|---|---|
Biology |
3-4 years |
$400 - $800 |
Chemistry |
3-4 years |
$400 - $800 |
Computer Science |
3-4 years |
$400 - $800 |
Mathematics |
3-4 years |
$400 - $800 |
Physics |
3-4 years |
$400 - $800 |
Earth Sciences |
3-4 years |
$400 - $800 |
Biomedical Engineering |
3-4 years |
$400 - $800 |
The University of Lyon is a prestigious academic institution known for its high-quality education and research. It is composed of multiple universities and specialized institutions that offer a wide range of programs across various disciplines. The university emphasizes innovative teaching methods, cutting-edge research, and strong industry connections. Here are some key points about academic excellence at the University of Lyon:
Highly Ranked Programs: Programs in engineering, business, health sciences, and humanities are highly ranked and internationally recognized.
Research Opportunities: The University of Lyon is a hub for research, hosting numerous research laboratories and centers that focus on a wide array of scientific, technological, and social disciplines.
Experienced Faculty: The university boasts a diverse and experienced faculty, many of whom are leaders in their respective fields.
The University of Lyon offers a welcoming environment for international students, fostering a multicultural atmosphere conducive to global learning and collaboration.
Diverse Student Body: The university attracts students from all over the world, creating a vibrant international community.
English-Taught Programs: Many Master's and Ph.D. programs are offered in English, making it accessible for non-French-speaking students.
Exchange Programs: The university has partnerships with numerous universities globally, providing opportunities for student exchanges and international collaborations.
Support Services: Comprehensive support services are available for international students, including orientation sessions, language courses, and assistance with administrative procedures.
Student life at the University of Lyon is dynamic and offers a range of extracurricular activities that enhance the overall educational experience.
Student Organizations: There are numerous student organizations and clubs covering interests from sports and arts to technology and entrepreneurship.
Sports Facilities: The university provides excellent sports facilities, including gyms, sports fields, and courts for various sports activities.
Events and Festivals: Regular events, cultural festivals, and academic conferences are organized, offering students opportunities to engage and network.
Lyon is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene, providing an enriching cultural experience for students.
Historic City: As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lyon offers a plethora of historic sites, museums, and architecture to explore.
Culinary Capital: Lyon is renowned for its gastronomy, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and food markets offering exquisite French cuisine.
Cultural Activities: The city hosts various cultural activities, including music festivals, theater performances, and art exhibitions.
Language Learning: While many programs are available in English, studying in Lyon provides an excellent opportunity to learn or improve French language skills through immersion.
Identify the program: Research and select the program you are interested in. Each university within the University of Lyon consortium offers various programs, so check the specific institution's website for detailed information.
Check the language of instruction: Ensure you meet the language requirements (French or English) for your chosen program.
Academic Requirements: Ensure you meet the academic prerequisites for your chosen program (high school diploma for undergraduate, bachelor's degree for master's, and master's degree for PhD programs).
Language Proficiency: Provide proof of language proficiency if required. This typically means a TOEFL/IELTS score for English-taught programs or a DELF/DALF score for French-taught programs.
Documents: Gather necessary documents, which generally include:
Academic transcripts and diplomas
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter
Letters of Recommendation
Proof of language proficiency
Passport copy
Online Application Portal: Apply through the respective university's online application portal. Some universities use national platforms such as Campus France.
Application Fees: Pay the application fee if required. The fee varies depending on the institution and program.
Check Deadlines: Application deadlines vary by program and institution. Typically, deadlines for the fall intake (September) are between January and April, and for the spring intake (January), between September and November of the previous year.
Early Applications: It is advisable to apply early to allow time for visa processing and other preparations.
Notification: After submitting your application, you will receive a notification of admission decision. This can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the program and institution.
Acceptance: If accepted, you may need to confirm your acceptance and pay a deposit.
Student Visa: Apply for a student visa (VLS-TS) at the French consulate or embassy in your home country. Required documents typically include:
Proof of admission from the university
Proof of sufficient financial resources
Passport
Accommodation proof in France
Health insurance
Visa application form and fee
The University of Lyon has two main intake periods for most programs:
Fall Intake (September):
Most popular intake period.
Application deadlines typically range from January to April.
Spring Intake (January):
Available for certain programs.
Application deadlines typically range from September to November of the previous year.
Specific intake periods and deadlines may vary depending on the institution and program. It is important to check the exact dates on the official websites of the respective universities.
Eligibility criteria can vary significantly depending on the level of study (Bachelor's, Master's, PhD), the specific program, and the institution within the University of Lyon consortium. Below is a general overview of the common eligibility requirements for each level of study.
General Requirements:
High School Diploma: Equivalent to the French Baccalauréat.
Language Proficiency:
French-taught programs: Proof of proficiency in French (usually DELF/DALF).
English-taught programs: Proof of proficiency in English (usually TOEFL/IELTS).
Additional Requirements:
Specific Prerequisites: Some programs may have specific subject requirements or prerequisites.
Entrance Exams/Interviews: Certain programs might require entrance exams or interviews.
General Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree: In a relevant field from a recognized institution.
Language Proficiency:
French-taught programs: Proof of proficiency in French (usually DELF/DALF).
English-taught programs: Proof of proficiency in English (usually TOEFL/IELTS).
Additional Requirements:
Academic Transcripts: Detailed academic records.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically 2-3 letters.
Statement of Purpose/Motivation Letter: Explaining your interest in the program and career goals.
CV/Resume: Detailing academic and professional experience.
Specific Prerequisites: Certain programs may require specific undergraduate coursework or experience.
Entrance Exams/Interviews: Some programs might have additional requirements.
General Requirements:
Master’s Degree: In a relevant field from a recognized institution.
Research Proposal: A detailed proposal outlining your intended research topic.
Language Proficiency:
French-taught programs: Proof of proficiency in French (usually DELF/DALF).
English-taught programs: Proof of proficiency in English (usually TOEFL/IELTS).
Additional Requirements:
Academic Transcripts: Comprehensive academic records from undergraduate and graduate studies.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically 2-3 letters, often from academic supervisors.
CV/Resume: Highlighting academic and research experience.
Statement of Purpose/Motivation Letter: Explaining your research interests and why you are applying to the program.
Interview: Some programs may require an interview with the potential supervisor or admission committee.
Publication Record: Not mandatory, but having published research can be an advantage.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Coverage |
Duration |
Application Deadline |
---|---|---|---|---|
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship |
International Master's and PhD students with excellent academic records |
Monthly stipend (€1,181 for Master's, €1,400 for PhD), travel expenses, health insurance, cultural activities |
Up to 12 months for Master's, Up to 36 months for PhD |
January (by institution) |
Ampère Excellence Scholarship |
International students applying to Master's programs at ENS Lyon |
Monthly stipend of €1,000 |
Up to 2 years |
January |
LabEx IMU Scholarships |
Master's students in urban planning, architecture, or related fields |
Monthly stipend (€1,000), tuition fees |
Up to 2 years |
May |
Université de Lyon Masters Scholarships |
International students enrolled in Master's programs at Université de Lyon |
Monthly stipend (€800) |
10 months |
March |
Region Rhône-Alpes Scholarships |
International students enrolled in universities in the Rhône-Alpes region |
Monthly stipend (€610 to €760) |
10 months |
April |
Charpak Scholarship |
Indian students pursuing Bachelor's or Master's degrees in France |
Monthly stipend, tuition fee waiver, visa fee waiver, medical insurance, travel allowance |
Up to 3 years for Bachelor's, Up to 2 years for Master's |
February |
Bourses du CROUS |
International students with financial need |
Partial tuition fee waiver, monthly stipend |
N/A |
N/A |
Marie Skodowska-Curie Actions |
PhD students and postdoctoral researchers in specific projects |
Living allowance, mobility allowance, family allowance |
N/A |
(project-specific) |
ENS Lyon Milyon Scholarships |
Master's students in mathematics and computer science at ENS Lyon |
Monthly stipend (€1,000) |
Up to 2 years |
January |
IDEXLYON Scholarships |
International students enrolling in Master's and PhD programs |
Monthly stipend, tuition fee waiver |
Up to 2 years for Master's, Up to 3 years for PhD |
N/A |
Campus/Institution |
Accommodation Type |
Facilities |
Cost (USD/month) |
---|---|---|---|
Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 |
University Residences |
Single rooms, studios, shared apartments; laundry, internet, study rooms, common areas |
$300 - $600 |
|
Private Residences |
Studios, one-bedroom apartments; private kitchens, bathrooms, internet |
$500 - $800 |
|
Homestay |
Living with a local family; meals included in some cases |
$400 - $700 |
Université Lumière Lyon 2 |
University Residences |
Single rooms, studios; internet, common kitchens, study rooms, laundry facilities |
$300 - $550 |
|
Private Residences |
Studios, one-bedroom apartments; private kitchens, bathrooms, internet |
$500 - $800 |
|
Homestay |
Living with a local family; meals included in some cases |
$400 - $700 |
Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3 |
University Residences |
Single rooms, studios; internet, common kitchens, laundry facilities, study areas |
$300 - $550 |
|
Private Residences |
Studios, one-bedroom apartments; private kitchens, bathrooms, internet |
$500 - $800 |
|
Homestay |
Living with a local family; meals included in some cases |
$400 - $700 |
INSA Lyon |
University Residences |
Single rooms, shared apartments; internet, common kitchens, laundry, study rooms, sports facilities |
$300 - $600 |
|
Private Residences |
Studios, one-bedroom apartments; private kitchens, bathrooms, internet |
$500 - $800 |
|
Homestay |
Living with a local family; meals included in some cases |
$400 - $700 |
EM Lyon Business School |
University Residences |
Single rooms, studios; internet, common kitchens, study rooms, laundry facilities |
$400 - $700 |
|
Private Residences |
Studios, one-bedroom apartments; private kitchens, bathrooms, internet |
$600 - $900 |
|
Homestay |
Living with a local family; meals included in some cases |
$500 - $800 |
ENS Lyon |
University Residences |
Single rooms, studios; internet, common kitchens, study rooms, laundry facilities |
$350 - $600 |
|
Private Residences |
Studios, one-bedroom apartments; private kitchens, bathrooms, internet |
$500 - $800 |
|
Homestay |
Living with a local family; meals included in some cases |
$400 - $700 |
CPE Lyon |
University Residences |
Single rooms, studios; internet, common kitchens, study rooms, laundry facilities |
$300 - $600 |
|
Private Residences |
Studios, one-bedroom apartments; private kitchens, bathrooms, internet |
$500 - $800 |
|
Homestay |
Living with a local family; meals included in some cases |
$400 - $700 |
Université Catholique de Lyon (UCLy) |
University Residences |
Single rooms, studios; internet, common kitchens, study rooms, laundry facilities |
$300 - $550 |
|
Private Residences |
Studios, one-bedroom apartments; private kitchens, bathrooms, internet |
$500 - $800 |
|
Homestay |
Living with a local family; meals included in some cases |
$400 - $700 |
Innovative Teaching Methods: The University of Lyon emphasizes a combination of traditional and modern teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical sessions.
Research Opportunities: Numerous research centers and labs provide students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research across various fields.
Support Services: Academic advising, tutoring, and career services are available to help students succeed academically and prepare for their future careers.
Student Associations: A wide range of student-run organizations and clubs cater to diverse interests, including academic societies, cultural clubs, sports teams, and hobby groups.
Sports Facilities: State-of-the-art sports facilities, including gyms, swimming pools, and sports fields, are available for students. There are also many sports teams and intramural leagues.
Cultural Events: The university hosts numerous cultural events such as music concerts, theater performances, film screenings, and art exhibitions.
Volunteering and Community Service: Students can engage in community service and volunteer work through various programs and associations, promoting social responsibility and community engagement.
Diverse Student Body: The University of Lyon attracts students from all over the world, creating a multicultural environment that enriches the learning experience.
International Student Support: Dedicated support services for international students include orientation programs, language courses, and assistance with administrative tasks.
Exchange Programs: The university has partnerships with many institutions worldwide, offering numerous opportunities for study abroad and international exchange programs.
University Residences: Affordable on-campus housing options provide convenience and a sense of community. These residences typically include essential amenities and common areas.
Private Accommodation: Off-campus housing options, including apartments and shared houses, offer more independence and are available in various parts of the city.
Living Costs: The cost of living in Lyon is moderate compared to other major French cities. Students can manage expenses through budgeting and taking advantage of student discounts.
Nightlife and Entertainment: Lyon has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city is also known for its cafes and restaurants, offering a range of culinary experiences.
Events and Festivals: Lyon hosts several renowned events and festivals, such as the Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights), Nuits Sonores (music festival), and Biennale de Lyon (art festival).
Networking Opportunities: Regular academic and professional networking events allow students to connect with industry professionals, alumni, and peers.
Historic City: As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lyon offers a rich history and numerous cultural landmarks, including museums, theaters, and historical sites.
Gastronomy: Known as the culinary capital of France, Lyon offers an exceptional food culture with many local specialties, markets, and gourmet restaurants.
Language Learning: Immersion in French culture provides an excellent opportunity for students to learn or improve their French language skills.
Health Services: On-campus health centers provide medical and psychological services. Students also have access to public healthcare services.
Counseling and Support: Counseling services are available to support students' mental health and well-being.
Fitness and Recreation: Various fitness programs, recreational activities, and wellness workshops are available to promote a healthy lifestyle.
Career Centers: Each university within the University of Lyon consortium has a dedicated career center offering a range of services to help students prepare for their careers.
Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops and seminars on resume writing, interview skills, job search strategies, and career planning.
Career Counseling: Personalized career counseling sessions to help students identify their career goals and develop a plan to achieve them.
Networking Events: Events such as career fairs, industry meetups, and alumni networking events where students can connect with potential employers and industry professionals.
Mandatory Internships: Many programs at the University of Lyon include mandatory internships as part of the curriculum, providing practical experience and industry exposure.
Internship Fairs: Regularly organized fairs where students can meet representatives from various companies offering internships.
Partnerships with Companies: Strong partnerships with local, national, and international companies that facilitate internship and job placements.
Internship Platforms: Access to online platforms where students can find and apply for internship opportunities.
Alumni Associations: Active alumni associations that provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and career support to current students and recent graduates.
Alumni Events: Regular events organized by alumni associations, such as talks by successful alumni, networking nights, and industry panels.
Job Fairs: Annual job fairs that bring together employers from various sectors looking to hire graduates from the University of Lyon.
On-Campus Recruitment: Many companies visit the campus for recruitment drives, offering students opportunities to interview for positions directly.
Online Job Portals: Access to university-specific job portals where students can search for job openings, upload their resumes, and apply for positions.
Engineering and Technology: Partnerships with tech companies and engineering firms for placements in fields like information technology, mechanical engineering, and environmental engineering.
Business and Management: Strong connections with financial institutions, consulting firms, and multinational corporations offering roles in management, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
Health Sciences: Collaboration with hospitals, research institutions, and healthcare companies providing placements in medicine, pharmacy, and biomedical research.
Humanities and Social Sciences: Opportunities in education, public administration, cultural organizations, and non-profits.
Global Partnerships: The University of Lyon has numerous international partnerships that provide opportunities for internships and job placements abroad.
Exchange Programs: Students participating in exchange programs can leverage the career services of partner universities for international job opportunities.
High Employment Rates: Graduates from the University of Lyon generally have high employment rates within six months of graduation, thanks to the comprehensive placement support.
Diverse Sectors: Alumni have successfully secured positions in a wide range of sectors, including technology, finance, healthcare, education, and government.
Top Employers: Many graduates are employed by top companies and organizations such as L'Oréal, BNP Paribas, Sanofi, Michelin, EDF, and Capgemini.
Institution |
Approximate Acceptance Rate |
---|---|
Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 |
20-30% |
Université Lumière Lyon 2 |
25-35% |
Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3 |
30-40% |
INSA Lyon |
15-25% |
EM Lyon Business School |
20-30% |
ENS Lyon |
10-20% |
CPE Lyon |
20-30% |
Université Catholique de Lyon (UCLy) |
30-40% |
Main Campus: La Doua, Villeurbanne
Address: 43 Boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, 69100 Villeurbanne
Description: This campus hosts faculties of science and technology, including engineering, computer science, biology, chemistry, and physics.
Health Campus: Rockefeller, Lyon
Address: 8 Avenue Rockefeller, 69008 Lyon
Description: This campus focuses on health sciences, including medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry.
Main Campus: Porte des Alpes, Bron
Address: 5 Avenue Pierre Mendès-France, 69500 Bron
Description: This campus includes faculties of law, economics, social sciences, and education.
Secondary Campus: Berges du Rhône, Lyon
Address: 18 Quai Claude Bernard, 69007 Lyon
Description: This campus houses faculties of arts, languages, literature, and communication.
Main Campus: Manufacture des Tabacs, Lyon
Address: 6 Cours Albert Thomas, 69008 Lyon
Description: This campus includes the faculties of law, business administration, and philosophy.
Secondary Campus: Les Quais, Lyon
Address: 15 Quai Claude Bernard, 69007 Lyon
Description: This campus houses the faculties of languages and humanities.
Main Campus: La Doua, Villeurbanne
Address: 20 Avenue Albert Einstein, 69621 Villeurbanne
Description: Located in the same area as UCBL's La Doua campus, it focuses on engineering, science, and technology programs.
Main Campus: Écully
Address: 23 Avenue Guy de Collongue, 69130 Écully
Description: This campus is dedicated to business and management programs and includes state-of-the-art facilities for entrepreneurial and business studies.
Main Campus: Monod and Descartes, Lyon
Address: 15 Parvis René Descartes, 69342 Lyon
Description: Located in the Gerland area, this campus focuses on sciences and humanities with extensive research facilities.
Main Campus: La Doua, Villeurbanne
Address: 43 Boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, 69100 Villeurbanne
Description: Shares location with UCBL’s La Doua campus, focusing on chemical, physical, and electronic engineering.
Main Campus: Saint-Paul, Lyon
Address: 10 Place des Archives, 69002 Lyon
Description: This campus is located in the heart of Lyon, offering programs in theology, philosophy, law, and social sciences.
Secondary Campus: Carnot, Lyon
Address: 23 Place Carnot, 69002 Lyon
Description: Houses additional programs and facilities.
Main Campus: Marcy-l'Étoile
Address: 1 Avenue Bourgelat, 69280 Marcy-l'Étoile
Description: Located in a suburb of Lyon, it focuses on veterinary and agricultural sciences.