Université de Montpellier
France
Université de Montpellier
Montpellier, France
Founded
1220
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
50,000+
Global Ranking (Shanghai)
151–200
Discover the Université de Montpellier: A Legacy of Excellence Since 1220
Discover the Université de Montpellier: A Legacy of Excellence Since 1220
The Université de Montpellier is a public research university located in Montpellier, in the south-east of France. Established in 1220 with roots in its famous Faculty of Medicine, it is one of the oldest universities in the world and has played a pivotal role in European intellectual history for over eight centuries.
Today's university was formed on January 1, 2015, through the merger of the former Université Montpellier 1 and Université Montpellier 2, reuniting disciplines that had been separated since 1970. It is a multidisciplinary institution with nine faculties, three Institutes of Technology, and specialized schools including Polytech Montpellier Engineering School, making it France's sixth largest university.
The university is a member of the Coimbra Group, the Mediterranean Universities Union, and the European University alliance CHARM-EU. It is internationally recognized for research excellence, particularly in ecology, environmental sciences, health, and agriculture, and attracts students from over 150 countries worldwide.
Key Milestones
- 1220: Faculty of Medicine founded, establishing one of the oldest medical schools in the Western world.
- 1289: Pope Nicholas IV issued a papal bull formally combining the schools of Medicine, Arts, and Law into the University of Montpellier.
- 1593: Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier founded, becoming the oldest botanical garden in France.
- 2015: Université Montpellier 1 and 2 merged to recreate the unified Université de Montpellier after 45 years of separation.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
The Université de Montpellier is a multidisciplinary institution organized into 17 schools across two main complementary fields of study. It offers approximately 657 national and international diplomas, with a strong emphasis on research-driven education in sciences, health, law, and economics.
Faculty of Medicine
One of the oldest medical faculties in the world, offering comprehensive training in general and specialized medicine, with close ties to the Montpellier Regional University Hospital Centre (CHRU).
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Master in Biomedical Sciences
- Public Health and Epidemiology
Faculty of Science
A leading faculty in natural sciences and technology, renowned for research in ecology, biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and environmental sciences.
- Master in Environmental Sciences
- Bachelor in Biology
- Master in Chemistry and Materials
Faculty of Law and Political Science
With origins tracing back to medieval legal studies, this faculty provides rigorous training in law, political science, and public administration at all degree levels.
- Bachelor in Law
- Master in International and European Law
- Master in Political Science
Faculty of Economics (Montpellier Management)
Offers programs in economics, management, and business administration with a strong international outlook and partnerships with regional industries.
- Bachelor in Economics
- Master in Finance
- Master in Marketing, Business and Strategy
Faculty of Pharmacy
One of France's historic pharmacy schools, training future pharmacists and pharmaceutical researchers with access to advanced laboratories and clinical partnerships.
- Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
- Master in Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Research in Drug Discovery and Development
Faculty of Sports Science (STAPS)
A distinctive faculty focusing on sports science, human movement studies, and physical education, supported by the Euromov research facility for integrated human movement studies.
- Bachelor in Sports Science
- Master in Exercise Physiology
- Master in Sports Management
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Application PlatformCampus France (Etudes en France) for non-EU students; Parcoursup for EU students
- Academic RequirementSecondary school diploma equivalent to the French Baccalauréat
- French ProficiencyB2 level (TCF, DELF, or DALF) for French-taught programs
- English ProficiencyIELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL equivalent for English-taught programs
- Additional DocumentsTranscripts, CV, motivation letter, and passport copy
Graduate Admission
- Application PlatformCampus France (Etudes en France) or Mon Master portal depending on nationality
- Academic RequirementBachelor's degree (Licence) or equivalent in a relevant field
- French ProficiencyB2 level minimum for French-taught master's programs
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL equivalent for English-taught master's programs
- Additional DocumentsResearch proposal (for PhD), letters of recommendation, transcripts, and CV
Non-EU international students must submit applications through the Etudes en France platform before the deadline set by their local Campus France office.
European students apply for master's programs through the Mon Master website starting in February.
General application deadline for programs starting in September. Early application is recommended due to visa processing times.
Some programs offer a January start. Check specific program pages for availability and deadlines.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Université de Montpellier
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Université de Montpellier
As a public French university, the Université de Montpellier offers highly affordable tuition fees, especially for EU/EEA students. Non-EU international students may be subject to differentiated fees, though many exemptions and scholarships are available.
| Fee Category | EU/EEA Students | Non-EU International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's (Licence) Tuition | EUR 170 / year | EUR 2,770 / year |
| Master's Tuition | EUR 243 / year | EUR 3,770 / year |
| Engineering Program Tuition | EUR 601 / year | Contact university for current data |
| Student and Campus Life Fee (CVEC) | EUR 103 / year | EUR 103 / year |
| Total | EUR 273 – EUR 346 / year (typical) | EUR 2,873 – EUR 3,873 / year (typical) |
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
A prestigious French government scholarship for outstanding international students pursuing master's or doctoral studies in France, covering living allowance and various benefits.
- Coverage: Monthly stipend of approximately EUR 1,181 (Master's) or EUR 1,700 (PhD)
- Eligibility: Non-French international students with excellent academic records
- Duration: 12 to 36 months depending on program level
University of Montpellier Merit Scholarships
The university offers merit-based financial support and fee exemptions for international students, including partial or full tuition waivers for non-EU students with strong academic profiles.
- Type: Tuition fee exemption and/or living stipend
- Eligibility: International students with outstanding academic achievement
- Application: Contact the International Relations Office for current opportunities
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The Université de Montpellier is a multi-site university with campuses spread across the city of Montpellier, all connected by tramway line 1. From the historic Faculty of Medicine in the city center to the modern Richter and Triolet campuses, students enjoy a true urban campus network in the heart of a vibrant Mediterranean city.
One of the oldest medical schools in the world, housed in a former bishop's palace since 1795, located in the heart of Montpellier's city center.
Home to the School of Economics, Montpellier Management, and the Student House, situated in the modern Port-Marianne district.
Founded in 1593, it is the oldest botanical garden in France and remains part of the university's living heritage and research infrastructure.
Housing and Student Services
Accommodation Options
Students can access affordable housing through CROUS public dormitories, private student residences, or shared apartments in the city. The university's Welcome Center assists international students with finding accommodation.
- CROUS university residence halls
- Private student residences near campus
- Shared apartments in city center and Port Marianne
Campus Amenities
The university provides comprehensive facilities including sports centers, libraries, research platforms, and student centers (Maisons des Étudiants) on the Richter and Triolet campuses.
- University libraries and digital resource centers
- Sports facilities including gyms, pools, and playing fields
- Student centers (MdE) and the (S)pace co-working areas
Student Life at Université de Montpellier
Student Life at Université de Montpellier
Student life at the Université de Montpellier is rich and diverse, with around 140 active student associations covering humanitarian, sports, cultural, and academic interests. The Student Life Office (SLO) coordinates activities across campuses, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive community for the university's international student body.
Montpellier: A Dynamic Mediterranean Student City
Montpellier: A Dynamic Mediterranean Student City
Life in Montpellier
Montpellier is one of France's fastest-growing and youngest cities, with one in five inhabitants being a student. Located on the Mediterranean coast in the Occitanie region, it offers 300 days of sunshine per year, easy access to beaches just 15 minutes away, and France's largest pedestrian city center. The city is more affordable than Paris while offering a rich cultural scene, excellent cuisine, and a welcoming international atmosphere.
Place de la Comédie
The vibrant heart of Montpellier, this grand square is surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and the opera house, serving as the main gathering point for locals and students alike.
Musée Fabre
One of the largest and most important art museums in France, housing European art from the 15th century to the present day, including works by Courbet and Soulages.
Mediterranean Beaches
Sandy beaches along the Mediterranean coast are easily accessible by public transport, offering students opportunities for surfing, sailing, and relaxation year-round.
Pic Saint-Loup and Cévennes Mountains
Dramatic natural landscapes just north of the city provide hiking, climbing, and outdoor adventure opportunities amidst vineyards, garrigue, and stunning panoramic views.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Notable Employers and Research Partners
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Student and Researcher Services Office assists with visas, residence permits, health insurance, accommodation, and administrative procedures before and after arrival in Montpellier.
French language courses are available to help international students improve their proficiency for both academic and everyday use. Language exchange programs are also offered.
The Université de Montpellier has been awarded the Bienvenue en France label, recognizing the quality of its support services and welcome programs for international students.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Université de Montpellier: Worldwide University Rankings
Université de Montpellier: Worldwide University Rankings
The Université de Montpellier consistently ranks among the top universities in France and the world, with particular strength in ecology, environmental sciences, agriculture, and health. It is recognized across all major global ranking systems for its research output and scientific impact.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Ecology | Shanghai Subject Rankings | #14 worldwide |
| Agriculture and Forestry | QS Subject Rankings | #75 worldwide |
| Biological Sciences | QS Subject Rankings | #94 worldwide |
| Environmental Sciences | QS Subject Rankings | #119 worldwide |
Features
The University of Montpellier is an experimental public establishment (EPE), enjoying legal personality, pedagogical, scientific, administrative and financial autonomy.\n\nLed by a president elected from its Board of Directors, it is made up of governance bodies, components, directorates and central services.

Accommodation
Accommodation service is available\n

Work While Studying
Students can work while studying\n

Co-op/Internship Participation
There is an internship service\n
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
October - March
Location
Route de Saclay\n91120 Palaiseau, France
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