French universities are grappling with severe financial challenges, as highlighted by recent mobilizations across the country.

The University of Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC) exemplifies the crisis, with significant budget deficits impacting student conditions, such as freezing classrooms and collapsing infrastructure.

This situation is not isolated, as 60 out of 75 universities are projected to end the year in deficit, according to France Universités.

The financial strain is exacerbated by the 2025 budget proposal, which increases financial burdens without adequate state compensation.

Universities are forced to consider drastic measures that could degrade the quality of education.

Despite having reserves, these funds are often tied to specific projects, leaving little flexibility to cover rising operational costs.

The academic community is calling for urgent government intervention to prevent further deterioration of higher education in France.