Étudiants

Étudiants is the French term for individuals enrolled in higher education. It typically refers to those pursuing tertiary studies at universities, grandes écoles, or other institutes, and is distinguished from élèves who study at primary or secondary levels. The term covers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral candidates, including exchange and preparatory students.

In France and many Francophone countries, higher education is composed of public universities and selective grandes écoles, with funding and admission rules varying by institution. In France, admission to universities is typically after the baccalauréat, while grandes écoles require competitive exams. International students study under student visa programs and may participate in exchanges.

Campus life includes academic programs, student unions, housing, and social services. In France, student housing is often provided by CROUS; campuses offer subsidized meals, health insurance, and financial aid such as scholarships (bourses) and loans (prêts). Many étudiants work part-time or participate in internships and study abroad programs.

Challenges and trends include affordability, housing shortages, mental health support, and employment prospects after graduation. Across the Francophone world, étudiants also contribute to civic life through associations and, at times, activism, reflecting regional education policies and social movements.