STUDY IN FRANCE

Over the years, France has emerged as a favored destination for international students seeking higher education. The country offers the opportunity to immerse in a vibrant culture and develop personally while studying at prestigious universities, all at a relatively affordable cost. According to Statista, in 2023, French universities had an enrollment of 2.9 million students. In an exciting development, France plans to welcome 20,000 Indian students by 2025, with a goal to increase this number to 30,000 by 2030, thereby boosting opportunities for business, innovation, and startups.

Why Choose France for Higher Studies?

France is becoming an increasingly popular study destination for international students due to several compelling reasons:

1. Renowned Universities: France boasts some of the world’s top academic institutions, ensuring high-quality education combined with practical training. A degree from a French university is globally recognized and enhances job prospects both within France and internationally.
2. Multicultural Experience: Studying in France gives students the chance to experience a diverse, open society that is rich in history and culture.
3. Affordable Education: Compared to countries like the UK or the USA, France offers a more affordable education, especially in public universities. In 2024, the annual tuition fee for a bachelor’s degree is €2,850, while for a master’s degree, it’s €3,879. Private institutions, particularly business schools, have higher tuition fees ranging from €6,000 to €18,000.
4. Elegant Lifestyle: Known for its sophisticated fashion, France has something for everyone—from designer boutiques to international shopping outlets.
5. Economic Strength: As one of the world’s leading economies, France is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and is home to global giants like Airbus, L’Oréal, Orange, Danone, and Sanofi.

Study in France: Key Facts

• Number of Universities: Over 3,500 public and private institutions
• Living Costs: Approximately €1,000 per month in Paris and €800 in other cities
• Popular Fields of Study: Engineering, Business Administration (MBA), Hotel Management, Fashion Design, Finance, and Luxury Brand Management
• Part-Time Work: International students are allowed to work up to 964 hours annually
• Visa Cost: €50

Overview of the French Education System

France offers a variety of higher education programs, many of which are accessible to international students, even if they don’t speak French. According to Campus France, of the 2.5 million students in French higher education, 12% are international. There are over 3,500 higher education institutions, including public and private universities.

Popular Courses to Study in France

France is known for its affordable education and top programs in various fields, including:

• MBA
• Engineering
• Luxury Brand Management
• Film Studies
• Hotel Management
• Fashion Design
• Computer Science
• Finance
• Data Science
• Medicine

Admission Requirements

Most undergraduate programs require a 10+2 certificate and proof of English proficiency. If courses are taught in French, students may need to pass a French language proficiency test. For postgraduate courses, students generally need an undergraduate degree, GMAT/GRE scores, English proficiency, and work experience where relevant. PhD programs require a master’s degree or equivalent qualifications.

Top Cities for Students

Paris, ranked 7th in the QS Best Student Cities 2025, is a top choice for students. Other popular student cities include Lyon, Montpellier, Toulouse, Grenoble, Lille, Nice, and Nantes.

Scholarships for International Students

Numerous scholarships, both merit- and need-based, are available for students with strong academic achievements, standardized test scores, and extracurricular success. Scholarships are offered by institutions like Rennes Business School, EDHEC Business School, and Science Po’s Emile-Boutmy program. The French government also provides over 500 scholarships for Indian students.

Education Loans

Students can apply for education loans to cover tuition, living expenses, and additional costs like books, equipment, and project fees. Having all required documents and meeting eligibility criteria can speed up the approval process.

Part-Time Work Opportunities

International students are allowed to work in France with a student resident permit. The legal limit is 964 working hours per year, with a minimum wage of €11.65 per hour (gross) or €9.22 per hour (net, post-tax).

Post-Study Work Options

Non-EU graduates need a job offer or work contract to remain in France, earning at least 1.5 times the minimum wage. Those without an immediate job offer can apply for a 12-month Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS) while searching for employment. This temporary resident permit is non-renewable. In a recent boost to Indo-French relations, Indian students pursuing a master’s degree can now apply for a five-year post-study work visa, an increase from the previous two-year duration.

FAQs

• Can students work in France? Yes, international students are permitted to work up to 964 hours per year and earn a minimum wage of €11.65 per hour (before taxes).
• Is France suitable for international students? Absolutely. France is known for its welcoming culture, diversity, and globally recognized academic institutions, including leading business and fashion schools.
• Is studying in France costly? No, studying in France is relatively affordable due to government-subsidized tuition fees. However, private institutions are more expensive, with fees ranging from €6,000 to €18,000 per year.
• Can I live in France without knowing French? While it is possible to live in France without speaking French, having some basic language skills is helpful for daily life. Many courses are available in English, but knowing French is beneficial for practical matters.
• What are some popular courses in France? Courses like Economics, Business, Fashion, Hospitality, Technology, and Tourism are highly sought after by international students.