> I reckon that in France, you can become a doctor without capital— although studies are long and absolutely not designed to help the student work a job part time

Correct. I assume it's not specific to France, and that it's the case in many developed countries. I suspect the US are the exception.

I'd add it's uncommon for French students in demanding fields to work part time. However, it is quite easy to get a scholarship if your parents earn below a certain income.

Having money can help though, for instance to pay some external tutors which may be useful to pass the entrance examination.