International Students: What the New Decree on Tuition Fees at UGA Changes
Press Release
May 29, 2026
Since 2019, non-EU students have been subject to tuition fees that differ from those of students from the European Union and equivalent countries. The decree of May 19, 2026, amends the rules allowing universities to grant tuition fee exemptions to international students. UGA will support this transition with a one-year transition period in 2026–2027, before implementing a program focused on supporting international students, promoting inclusion, and ensuring academic success starting in 2027–2028.
Until now, public institutions of higher education have had discretion in defining the criteria for waiving the differentiated tuition fees applicable to certain international students.
The new decree restricts the exemptions that institutions may grant:
Automatic exemptions remain in place for several categories of students, including recipients of French government scholarships, students under the care of the state, and international exchange students participating in partnerships or exchange programs (subject to reciprocity).
In other cases, fee waivers must now be granted based on the personal circumstances of the student who requested the waiver, particularly their financial resources. The decree also establishes a gradual cap on the number of fee waivers that can be granted, with a final limit set at 20 percent of all requests.
Students who were already eligible for an exemption before the decree took effect will retain this benefit until the end of their studies at UGA.
The UGA's Position
TheUniversité Grenoble Alpes is mindful of the impact these new provisions could have on the reception of international students.
True to its values of openness, inclusion, and welcoming talent from around the world, the UGA aims to implement this new regulatory framework in a way that improves the conditions for success and inclusion for the students concerned.
The university has therefore chosen to adopt a redistributive approach: all revenue generated by the program, after covering administrative costs, will be reallocated to improving living and learning conditions, as well as to providing social support for international students.
A Transition Year in 2026–2027
For the 2026–2027 academic year, students wishing to be exempt from differential tuition fees must submit an application and report their financial resources. After reviewing their individual and financial circumstances, the transitional provisions of the decree for this year will allow the UGA to decide on exemptions for applicants (excluding constituent institutions), which the UGA intends to grant broadly, within the regulatory limits.
If an exemption is granted, only national tuition fees will apply:
€178 for a license.
€254 for a master's degree.
Starting in 2027–2028
Starting with the 2027–2028 school year, the UGA will implement the provisions set forth in the decree.
Applications for exemption will be reviewed according to the criteria set forth in the new regulatory framework, with particular attention paid to students' social and financial circumstances.
The University's goal is to balance compliance with national regulations with a policy of solidarity that prioritizes support for the students who need it most.
Université Grenoble Alpes is committed to remaining a university that is open to the world and dedicated to equal opportunity, and to strengthening its support systems to help students succeed.
Published on May 29, 2026
Updated on September 11, 2026
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