The decree modifying the exemption arrangements for differentiated tuition fees applied to non-European international students was published in the French Official Journal on 20 May, despite the negative vote issued by the CNESER (French National Council for Higher Education and Research). Since the introduction of the scheme in 2019, Rennes 2 has consistently refused to apply these higher tuition fees to non-European students, following a decision adopted by its Board of Directors on 4 June 2019.
The Presidency and management team of Rennes 2 consider that increasing tuition fees is counterproductive. Such measures risk becoming a major obstacle for students from outside the European Union with limited financial resources, many of whom come from countries in the global south. With the planned loss of housing aid (APL) from the next academic year, an increase of several thousand euros in tuition fees would represent a considerable financial burden. These higher fees could discourage international students from pursuing their studies in France.
International students are an essential part of university life and contribute significantly to the academic, scientific and cultural richness of French higher education institutions. They also play a key role in the internationalisation of academic programmes and, in many cases, later become ambassadors for French universities abroad.
Rennes 2 University therefore reaffirms its commitment to maintaining an open and inclusive international outlook, particularly towards countries in the global south and French-speaking Africa. Alongside France Universités and the vast majority of French universities, Rennes 2 calls for greater coherence in public policy and for respect for university autonomy.
