Study in France

Earn eligibility for up to 5 years of post-study work rights by pursuing your education in France. With a community of 250,000 international students, the country is renowned for its innovative programs offered at some of the world’s top universities. Explore comprehensive details on admissions, scholarships, and opportunities for your future in France.

100+

Universities

€3K to €10K/Annually

Average Tuition Fee

Intakes

September and February

14+

Scholarships

About Study in France: Highlights

France provides a multicultural and inclusive environment for students, with international students making up 12% of its student population. Despite being a non-English speaking country, it remains a top choice for global learners by offering over 1,500 courses taught in English. This accessibility, combined with the nation’s diverse academic and cultural offerings, makes France a highly attractive destination for international students.

Key Highlights

No of Universities  72
No of Universities Ranking in QS 2025 35
No of International Students 400,000+
Part-Time Working Hours Up to 964 hours a year
Post-Study Work Visa Validity 1 year (Extendable up to 4 years depending on type of visa)
Average Annual Tuition Fees €2,850 – €3,879
Minimum IELTS Requirement  6.5 (Only for English-taught courses)
Number of Intakes  1-2
Popular Streams of Study Engineering,Fashion, Hospitality, MBA, Data Analytics, Marketing and Art

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How Does the Education System Work in France

The French education system offers a wide range of opportunities for Indian students. Public universities often provide free education or charge minimal fees for EU students. For non-EU students, including Indian students, tuition fees are higher; however, scholarships can significantly offset these costs. Indian students benefit from France’s diverse culture, world-class universities, and the ability to pursue internships or part-time jobs while studying. The structured system includes undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, with a strong emphasis on practical skills, making France a highly desirable destination for those looking to study abroad.

How Does the Credit System Work in France

France follows the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), a standardized system for comparing academic credits across the European Union. ECTS credits are based on student workload, measuring the time required to complete a course, including class hours, independent study, and assignments.

One ECTS credit typically corresponds to 25-30 hours of student workload. Most courses in France are worth 3-6 ECTS credits, with students usually earning 30 credits per semester or 60 credits annually. The system facilitates student mobility, enabling credit transfer between institutions within the EU. ECTS credits also assess academic progress and determine if students meet degree requirements.

What is the Application Process to Study in France

Most applications to French universities are processed through the centralized “Études en France” platform, specifically designed for international students. This system enables students to track and manage applications to multiple universities.

Indian students applying for undergraduate courses in France typically apply directly to universities or through Campus France. Requirements include a high school diploma and proof of language proficiency (French or English). For postgraduate programs, applicants must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree and submit academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and sometimes evidence of work experience or an interview.

What Documents Are Required to Study in France

The specific requirements to study in France depend on the course and university, but the essential documents generally include:

  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Valid passport
  • Proof of language proficiency (French or English)
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
  • CV/Resume
  • Proof of financial stability
  • Passport-sized photographs

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What Are the Top Universities to Study in France

France is home to some of the best universities in Europe, offering top-ranked programs for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. studies. Here are some of the leading universities in France for international students:

  • University of Paris
  • École Polytechnique
  • Sorbonne University
  • HEC Paris
  • Sciences Po
  • INSEAD
  • Université PSL (Paris Sciences & Lettres)
  • Université de Lyon

These universities are renowned for their academic excellence and diverse programs, making France a top choice for international students.

 

Institution Name

QS Ranking 2025

Université PSL

#24

Institut Polytechnique de Paris

#46

Sorbonne University

#=63

Université Paris-Saclay

#73

École Normale Supérieure de Lyon

#187

Ecole des Ponts ParisTech

#205

Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne

#283

Université Paris Cité

#=302

Université Grenoble Alpes

#334

Sciences Po

#=350

What Are the Best Courses to Study in France

France is renowned for offering top-notch courses across diverse disciplines. Here are some of the most popular and highly regarded courses in France:

  • Engineering
  • Fashion
  • Hospitality
  • Dessert Making
  • MBA
  • Data Analytics
  • Marketing
  • Art

What Scholarships Are Available in France for Students

France provides a variety of scholarships to make education accessible for international students, including Indian students. These range from fully funded opportunities to partial funding, covering tuition fees and living expenses. Scholarships in France are highly competitive, with merit-based options being common. Fully funded scholarships significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.

Notable scholarships include:

  • Eiffel Excellence Scholarship: Funded by the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, this scholarship supports students pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D., covering tuition fees, a monthly stipend, and additional costs like travel.
  • Charpak Scholarship: Available to Indian students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate programs, it provides a monthly stipend, visa fee waiver, and medical insurance.
  • Émile Boutmy Scholarship: For non-EU students applying to Sciences Po, offering financial support ranging from €3,000 to €12,300.
  • Erasmus+ Program: Covers tuition fees and provides a stipend for living expenses for students participating in study exchanges within European universities.

What Intakes Are Available to Study in France

France offers two primary intakes for international students, providing flexibility in choosing when to begin studies:

  • Fall Intake: Starting in September, this is the primary intake offering the widest range of course options and is the most popular among international students.
  • Spring Intake: Starting in January, this secondary intake has fewer program options but is ideal for students who miss the fall deadline or prefer a mid-academic year start.

What Is the Study Cost in France

Tuition fees in France are lower compared to many countries, as they are subsidized by the government.

  • EU Residents: Tuition fees range from €175 to €618 per year.
  • Non-EU Residents: Registration fees are approximately €2,850 to €3,879 annually, as opposed to traditional tuition fees.

What Are the Living Expenses in France

Living in France as a student is relatively affordable, with average monthly expenses ranging from €600 to €800. Here is a breakdown of expected costs:

  • Accommodation: €150 – €1,200 per month
  • Food: €300 per month
  • Transport: €350 per month
  • Phone Bill: €10 per month
  • Internet: €20 – €50 per month
  • Insurance: €20 per month
  • Personal Expenses: €100 per month
  • CVEC (Student Life Contribution): €92 per year

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What Is the Student Visa Process & Fee for France

International students need a France Student Visa (Visa long séjour valant titre de séjour – VLS-TS) for the duration of their studies. The process includes:

  1. Admission Offer: Obtain admission from a recognized French university.
  2. Campus France Registration: Register with Campus France to initiate the visa process.
  3. Gather Documents: Required documents include an admission letter, proof of financial means (around €615/month), health insurance, and accommodation proof.
  4. Visa Interview: Schedule and attend an interview at the French consulate.
  5. Pay the Fee: Visa application fee is approximately €99.
  6. Visa Processing Time: Takes 2 to 4 weeks. Students must validate their visa online within 3 months of arriving in France.

What Is the Post-Study Work Visa for France

After completing their studies, international students can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour – APS). This visa allows graduates to remain in France for up to 24 months to seek employment related to their field of study. Once a job is secured, the employer can sponsor a work visa, facilitating a transition to a long-term work permit.

How Can You Obtain Permanent Residence (PR) for France

While France does not offer direct PR pathways for international graduates, students can work towards obtaining PR or French citizenship by meeting specific criteria. Indian students may qualify for French citizenship after working in the country for at least five years.

What Are the Best Cities to Study and Live in France

According to L’Étudiant, a French educational news platform, the 2022-2023 ranking of the best cities in France for students was based on five key criteria: education, student life, attractiveness, living environment, and employment. The study compared 45 cities with over 8,000 students, representing more than 2.5 million students nationwide.

 

Name of the City

Rank

Score (out of 151)

Toulouse

1

120

Reindeer

2

117

Montpellier

3

116

Strasbourg

3

116

Grenoble

5

115

Lyons

5

115

Bordeaux

7

114

Nantes

8

112

Paris

9

111

Poitiers

10

107

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Job Opportunities for International Students in France

France offers numerous part-time job opportunities for international students, enabling them to earn while gaining valuable experience. Students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during their studies. Some common part-time job roles and their average hourly wages include:

  • English Tutor: €20.11 per hour
  • Research Assistant: €14 per hour
  • Babysitter: €12.24 per hour
  • Bartender: €11 per hour
  • Retail Worker: €12.55 per hour

Why Choose Abroad for Studying in France

Abroad provides expert support to students aspiring to study in France, offering:

  • University Applications: Simplified application processes for top institutions.
  • Visa Assistance: Guidance through the visa process, ensuring compliance and timely approvals.
  • Scholarship Guidance: Help in identifying and applying for scholarships to reduce education costs.
  • Personalized Career Counseling: Tailored advice to match educational choices with career aspirations.
  • Exclusive Services: Comprehensive support to make your study-abroad journey seamless.

With Abroad, you can confidently navigate the complexities of studying in France while focusing on your academic and professional goals.

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Why Study in France?

  • Top-Notch Education:
    France is home to some of the world’s best universities and colleges, offering diverse academic programs in fields like arts, sciences, engineering, business, and more.
  • Opportunity to Learn French:
    Studying in France allows students to learn French, a widely spoken language across Europe and the globe. Proficiency in French opens doors to numerous job opportunities in various industries.
  • International Exposure:
    France provides international students with exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives, enhancing adaptability, flexibility, and cross-cultural communication skills—valuable traits in the global job market.
  • Vibrant Community:
    France boasts a lively student community, offering year-round events and activities. Students can engage in sports, music, theater, and other cultural pursuits to enhance their extracurricular skills.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can you get a full scholarship in France?

    Full scholarships are rarer, particularly since the country subsidizes higher education at public universities. However, several scholarships offer coverage for tuition and living costs.

  • How can I study in France for free?

    It is only possible if you enroll at a public university in the country which offers free tuition and a nominal registration charge for the course. You can also consider finding and applying for a full scholarship.

  • How to get a scholarship to study abroad for Indian students in France?

    You should look at available scholarships at your chosen universities/institutions along with options like the French Foreign Ministry Awards, French Excellence Charpak Scholarship, Eiffel Scholarship Program of Excellence, and others.

  • How much scholarship can I get in France?

    There are varying amounts of scholarships offered by different institutions and universities. Many of them cover tuition fees, living costs, and other expenses.

  • Is there a 100% scholarship in the France?

    100% scholarships are rare in France although you will find quite a few options available. There are various scholarships that offer coverage for living and study costs.

  • How much percentage is required for France scholarship?

    This differs across scholarships, although around 50-60% is recommended.

  • What visa is required to study in France?

    A temporary long-stay student visa is required for higher education in France if the course duration exceeds three or six months.

  • Is it easy to get a study visa for France?

    Obtaining a study visa for France is relatively straightforward, as long as you meet the requirements and submit your application accurately.

  • How much does a study visa for France cost?

    A study visa for France costs approximately €99, which is around INR 8,951.

  • Can I get permanent residency in France after studying?

    Yes, students who have lived in France for a minimum of five years for education or employment purposes are eligible to apply for permanent residency (PR).

  • Can I study in France without a visa?

    No, it is not possible to study in France without a visa.

  • How can I apply for a student visa for France?

    To apply for a student visa for France, you need to create an account and register online at Campus France. After registering, submit your application with all required documents. Once your application is reviewed, you will be given an appointment date, and an interview process may also be part of the application.

  • What are the admission requirements for studying in France?

    The admission requirements for studying in France include high school or undergraduate degree transcripts, proof of English language proficiency, evidence of sufficient funds, letters of recommendation, and other relevant documents.

  • Is IELTS compulsory to study in France?

    English language proficiency is required for studying English-taught programs in France. You can submit scores from tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or other recognized exams.

  • How can I apply to study in France?

    You can apply to study in France through Parcoursup by completing your registration and uploading the necessary documents as part of the application process.

  • Is it easy to get admission to universities in France?

    No, it is not overly difficult to gain admission in France, as long as you follow the guidelines, submit the required documents, and ensure your application is error-free.

  • What qualifications are required to study in France?

    To study in France, you will need qualifications such as a high school diploma or undergraduate degree, proof of English or French language proficiency, and other relevant documents.

  • What are the eligibility requirements for studying in France?

    Eligibility for studying in France includes proof of sufficient funds, language proficiency (in English or French), academic qualifications (such as a high school or undergraduate degree), and other necessary documents.

  • How much does it cost to study in France?

    Education in France is heavily subsidized by the government, even for non-EU nationals. The registration fees for bachelor’s and master’s programs typically range from €2,850 to €3,879 (approximately INR 2.57 lakh to INR 3.50 lakh). However, private institutions charge between €6,000 and €18,000 per year (INR 5.42 lakh to INR 16.27 lakh).

  • Is 10 lakhs enough to study in France?

    Yes, 10 lakhs may be sufficient to study in public universities in France, as the government subsidizes education for international students. This amount can typically cover your tuition fees, with some left over for living expenses.

  • Is France expensive for Indian students?

    France is not considered very expensive for Indian students, especially when studying at public institutions with lower tuition fees. However, it’s important to keep track of living costs to manage your budget effectively.

  • Is studying in France worth it for Indian students?

    Yes, studying in France is worth it for Indian students due to its top-ranked universities, excellent quality of life, reasonable tuition fees, and a diverse, welcoming population.

  • How much money does a student need in France per month?

    To cover living costs in France, a student will typically need between €120 and €800 (INR 10,850 – 72,332) per month for accommodation, €60 (INR 5,425) for utilities and internet, €70 (INR 6,329) for transportation, €20-30 (INR 1,808-2,712) for mobile phone expenses, and around €300 (INR 27,124) for food and other miscellaneous costs.

  • What are the average tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate courses in France?

    The average tuition fees at private institutions range from €6,000 to €18,000 (INR 5.42 lakh to 16.27 lakh), while public universities charge between €2,850 and €3,879 (INR 2.57 lakh to 3.50 lakh) for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

  • Is studying in France cheaper than in Germany?

    While France has slightly higher living costs than Germany, both countries offer affordable education. Germany provides free education at public universities, while France subsidizes tuition fees at its public institutions. Therefore, both countries are comparable in terms of education costs.

  • How many intakes are there in France?

    France has two main intakes: January (spring) and September (fall).

  • Which intake is better for studying in France?

    The September (fall) intake is generally considered a better option due to the wider availability of courses and universities during this period.

  • In which intake do most students go to France?

    Most students apply for the September (fall) intake, as it offers a broader selection of courses and programs.

  • Is there a January intake in France?

    Yes, France has a spring intake, typically in January.

  • Are there any differences in course duration between the intakes in France?

    No, the course duration remains the same regardless of the intake in France.

  • Is it possible to defer my admission to the next intake in France?

    Yes, it is possible to request a deferral of admission to the next intake, but it is subject to specific terms and conditions set by the university.

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