How are Business Schools financed in France?

Historically the schools created under the impulse of the Chambers of Commerce were largely financed by them. However - since 2009 - this public funding has been drastically reduced forcing these schools to find other sources of funding.

Many schools have had to reinvent their business model and diversify their funding sources in order to reduce the financial burden on their students. 

At EM Normandie student tuition fees represent only 60% of the school's operating budget (2021) and this percentage has not changed since 2009.

Financing through work-study programmes

The School is working to solicit external sources of funding particularly through work-study programmes - which represent 28% of its budget (2021) and are growing.

By joining a work-study programme over 1 or 2 years (under certain conditions for international students) your training is being paid for by your company. With the creation of its integrated CFA EM Normandie has an unlimited number of places for work-study programmes - whereas other schools are subject to quotas. Work-study has become the "classic route" for the majority of students who join the School.

Other external sources of funding

In addition the apprenticeship tax - European funds - research chairs - the Foundation - continuing education constitute new sources of funding that complement the work-study course. In addition EM Normandie has benefited for many years from the financial support of public and private players: the Region - Le Havre Seine Métropole - the CCIs - etc. which constitutes valuable assistance for the creation of new campuses and the modernisation of existing infrastructures.