Most international students who want a business degree in France picture Paris — then discover the rents. Lyon offers the alternative: a major business city, a huge student population, two hours from Paris and ninety minutes from the Alps, at a fraction of the capital's cost. And at LIBS, the entire program is taught in English.
Why Lyon for business studies
Lyon is France's second-largest economic hub: a dense fabric of corporate headquarters, industry, trade and services where business students find internships, part-time jobs and their first professional network. It is also one of Europe's great student cities — lively, walkable, and far more affordable than Paris.
Studying business here means studying inside a real business ecosystem, not next to one. LIBS's campus is at 84 rue de la Charité, in the heart of the 2nd arrondissement, between Place Bellecour and the Rhône.
The English-taught programs
| Program | Duration | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor in International Business | 3 years | Management, international marketing & trade, digital business, intercultural communication |
| Mastère in International Management | 2 years | Global strategy & leadership, international marketing, entrepreneurship, cross-cultural management |
Both programs are taught entirely in English — lectures, coursework and exams — and are open to international and French students alike. Students are enrolled at École de Commerce de Lyon and receive the school's diploma, with a LIBS international specialisation; exact terms are confirmed in writing before enrolment. Looking specifically at the three-year option? See the English-taught BBA-style bachelor in detail →
Learn French while you study
You don't need French to start — but you'll want it to work in Europe. That's why free French as a Foreign Language (FLE) classes run alongside the program. You study business in English and pick up professional French as you go, graduating with both.
The Concierge Desk: from admission to arrival
What makes the difference for international students isn't only the language of instruction — it's whether the school helps you actually get to Lyon and settle in. LIBS's Concierge Desk supports you with the student-visa process, finding housing before you arrive, opening a bank account and onboarding into city life. Visa decisions always rest with the French authorities — no serious school can promise a visa — but you will never face the paperwork alone.
Want the full admission roadmap?
Every step from first message to your first day in Lyon.
Cost of living in Lyon
Most international students budget roughly €800–€1,100 per month for rent, food and transport, depending on housing:
| Item | Typical monthly range |
|---|---|
| Rent (student housing / shared) | €450 – €700 |
| Food | €200 – €300 |
| Transport (city pass) | €35 – €70 |
| Everyday life | €100 – €150 |
Already living in Europe on a valid permit? Joining from Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, Luxembourg or Germany is often simpler than you think — see applying from within Europe, or the complete France guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I study business in Lyon entirely in English?
Yes. LIBS teaches its Bachelor in International Business and its Mastère in International Management entirely in English — lectures, coursework and exams. No prior French is required to start.
Why Lyon rather than Paris?
Lyon is France's second-largest economic hub with a large student population and a cost of living significantly lower than Paris — a major business city at a fraction of the capital's cost.
Will I learn French while studying?
Yes. Free French as a Foreign Language (FLE) classes run alongside the English-taught program, so you graduate with professional French on top of your degree.
Does LIBS help with visa, housing and arrival?
Yes, through the Concierge Desk: guidance through the student-visa process, housing before you arrive, a bank account and onboarding. Visa decisions always remain with the French authorities.
What diploma will I receive?
Students are enrolled at École de Commerce de Lyon and receive the school's diploma, with a LIBS international specialisation. Exact terms are confirmed in writing before enrolment.
Ready to study business in Lyon, in English?
Tell us where you are today — an advisor will map out your path and the next intake.