- Spend 24 hours immersed at CEFAM
The United States plays a central role in CEFAM’s academic programs: students can study at a partner university there to earn an American degree, specialize in Business, or complete their third year of International Relations at Siena University. This study abroad experience builds on the English-language instruction and American-inspired teaching methods students begin in Lyon, offering a complete immersion on an American campus.
Follow the track corresponding to your chosen study abroad program
For students who choose the post-baccalaureate Business track, the degree-granting study abroad program takes place after completing three years in Lyon. In International Relations, the structure is different: two years in Lyon, followed by a third year at Siena University.
Meet the partner institution’s academic requirements
All CEFAM students who wish to do so may enroll at a partner university provided they meet the required academic and language criteria.
Meet the required English proficiency level
The required level may include a TOEFL score or other proof of language proficiency accepted by the institution. Thresholds should not be generalized: accepted tests, minimum scores, and any exemptions must be confirmed on a university-by-university basis for the year of departure. Partners’ criteria may change each year.
Take Advantage of CEFAM’s Pre-Enrollment Program
CEFAM states that students who meet the academic and TOEFL requirements can enroll at a partner university without being subject to enrollment quotas and will be pre-registered for their courses. This pre-registration does not exempt students from complying with the academic and administrative requirements of the U.S. institution.
Choosing Your Courses and Major
The choice depends on the university and the degree program. Available specializations may include finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, international business, management, human resources, risk management, supply chain, management information systems, and many others. Not all of these are available at every university.
Getting Credits Earned in the Program Recognized
The transition to an American university depends on the recognition of the coursework completed at CEFAM. Detailed transfer tables and the number of credits required must be verified for each partner institution before departure.
Preparing Residence Formalities
A degree-granting study abroad program in the United States involves administrative and immigration procedures related to student status. Visa type, proof of financial resources, insurance, timeline, and support provided by CEFAM and the partner university.
Meet the requirements of the U.S. university
The U.S. degree is awarded by the partner university, not by CEFAM. Students must therefore meet the academic requirements of that institution to earn it.
Tuition varies significantly depending on the university, the length of the program, and any scholarships received. The CEFAM 2026–2027 brochure lists the following for the upcoming academic year 2027–2028 an estimated range of $30,000 to $50,000 for the fourth year of the Business program in the United States, noting that the amount varies depending on the university, scholarships, and current tuition rates.
Landmark | Things to Plan For |
Tuition for the Business Track | Approximately $30,000 to $50,000 for the 4th grade in the United States |
Tuition for the International Relations Program — Siena | €48,400 before the merit-based scholarship for the third year in Siena |
Scholarships | Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic criteria; the amounts and eligibility requirements vary by institution |
Housing | To be added if not included in tuition. Check with each partner for details and rates. |
Insurance | Health insurance and university requirements to be included in the budget |
Visas and Formalities | Fees Related to Student Visas and U.S. Administrative Procedures |
Transportation | Flights between France and the United States and local travel are not included in tuition, unless otherwise specified |
Daily Life | Food, local transportation, phone service, books, and personal expenses; costs vary widely between Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Albany, New Jersey, and California |
At age 18, I left Abidjan with a very clear dream: to study in the United States. CEFAM was the starting point of this adventure and, above all, the bridge that made this project possible. This journey led me to my junior year at Northeastern University in Boston, where I was able to deepen my interests in finance, fintech, and data through my academic projects and student involvement. I also benefited from Northeastern’s co-op program, which allowed me to put my knowledge into practice during a professional internship at Boston Consulting Group.
Today, I am extremely grateful to CEFAM and its partner university for all the opportunities, the people I’ve met, and the confidence this experience has given me. Without this dual experience in Lyon and Boston, I would not be the person I have become today.
My role at LVMH is a cross-functional position within the Finance Department that encompasses business, planning, and management control (BPC). I handle financial closings, prepare budgets and forecasts, and support each department with its financial matters. The position involves working closely with various departments. Personality is very important for success in this field: energy, boldness, a taste for challenges, and curiosity are essential qualities.
Studying International Relations at CEFAM has helped me better understand global issues, strengthen my critical thinking skills, and gain confidence in expressing my opinions. I appreciate the small class sizes, supportive professors, and the American approach to education, which encourages interactive learning. Studying in English alongside students from different countries has broadened my perspective. Next year, I will continue my studies at Siena University to gain further international experience.
CEFAM has been an important part of my journey. As a business student, I had the opportunity to learn from professors with real-world experience who came from all over the world. The business program helped me learn about all aspects of business—including finance, marketing, management, and economics—during my first year at CEFAM. Being exposed to so many subjects right away helped me quickly figure out what I wanted to do career-wise.
As an international student from Côte d’Ivoire, I chose CEFAM to pursue my dream of studying and building a career in the U.S. Through the CEFAM–Northeastern pathway, I earned a U.S. degree while receiving an international education from day one. Beyond academics, CEFAM helped me develop confidence, adaptability, and cultural intelligence in a supportive, multicultural environment. The opportunities I gained led me to Boston, where I gained professional experience—including at BCG—and paved the way for graduate studies at one of the world’s leading institutions.
I would choose CEFAM again without hesitation. The small class sizes create an engaging and personalized learning environment, supported by dedicated faculty and staff who are genuinely committed to student success. The quality of education is excellent, particularly in the finance program, which provided me with a strong academic and practical foundation. I highly recommend CEFAM to anyone seeking a rigorous and supportive university experience.
I recently graduated from CEFAM and had a great experience. The program offers extensive international exposure, practical courses, and supportive professors. The small class sizes make a big difference. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for an international business program.
Build Your International Career
