Study in France

Over the years, France has become one of the favourite destinations to study abroad for international students. Some of the benefits of studying in France include witnessing a different culture and society and allowing one to become the best version of oneself from within, studying at top-class universities, and the affordable cost of studying. According to reports by Statista, as many as 2.9 million students were enrolled in universities in France in 2023. In other news, France is all set to welcome 20,000 Indian students by 2025 and reach 30,000 by 2030, therefore, creating opportunities for new businesses, start-ups and innovation. 

Why Study in France?

France is gradually becoming a top destination for international students who want to pursue their higher education. Some of the reasons to study in France are:

• World-class universities: France is home to some of the top colleges and universities in the world. While deciding to study in a French university, students are assuring themselves of quality education coupled with practical training. Furthermore, a globally recognised degree after graduating from France will lead to higher job prospects in France.
• A chance to witness multicultural society: By choosing to study in France, students shall have a chance to discover a society that is multicultural, open, and proud of its history.
• Cost of studying: The cost of studying in France is relatively low when compared with other study-abroad destinations like the UK and the USA. To study at public universities in France in 2024, students applying for the bachelor’s courses would have to shell out €2,850 per year and €3,879 at the master’s level. However, the tuition costs in private institutes, particularly in private business schools, are relatively higher, i.e. €6,000 to €18,000 than in public institutions.
• A country of elegance: France is known to display its high and off-the-rack fashion. Be it Designer boutiques, department stores, or international stores, there is something for everyone in France.
• Economic powerhouse: France is one of the major economies in the world. As a country, it is traditional, with very high-quality craftsmanship. It is home to international corporations like Airbus, L’Oreal, Orange, Danone, Sanofi, etc.

Study in France: Key Highlights

Education System in France

When it comes to higher education in France, there are various programmes available for foreign students, whether they speak French or not. As per Campus France, French higher education involves 2.5 million students. Out of this, 12% of students are from abroad. In France, there are more than 3,500 public and private institutes of higher education. 

Top Courses in France

Studying in France is an affordable option for international students. While France is the perfect destination for a few business courses, there are some other courses that have become very popular in recent years. Some of the best courses to study in France are:

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

Admission Requirements to Study in French Universities

In many universities and colleges of French, the medium of instruction is French. Hence, it is advised to appear for some of the French language tests. For undergraduate programs, a 10+2 certificate from a recognized board is required and a proof of English language proficiency test score.

On the other hand, to study a postgraduate course in France, students must have an undergraduate degree, scores of GMAT / GRE, English language proficiency test scores, and work experience (if applicable). In case, students want to take admission into PhD courses, they must have a master’s degree or equivalent.

Opting for French language taught courses? Read "How to Learn French Language to Study Abroad?"

Top Cities in France Preferred by Students

Every year, the number of students from across the world coming to study at French higher education institutes increases. But, they often remain confused as to which city to choose in order to reside in France. Undoubtedly, Paris is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, and apart from this, it is one of the top student cities. In the QS Best Student Cities 2025 rankings, Paris is placed in the 7^th position. Besides, Paris, some of the other top cities in France for students are Lyon, Montpellier, Toulouse, Grenoble, Lille, Nice, Nantes, etc.

Scholarships to Study in France

Merit and need-based scholarships to study in France are available for international students. Students with strong academic records, good scores in standardized exams and extra-curricular achievements will be eligible for scholarship awards and financial assistance. In order to make the perfect use of these opportunities, make sure to apply before the deadline.

Students can apply for the scholarships that are offered by French higher education institutes such as Rennes Business School, EDHEC Business School, Emile-Boutmy Scholarships by Science Po. Apart from this, as per Campus France, more than 500 French Government scholarships are provided to meritorious Indian students who want to pursue higher education in France.

Education Loan for Studying in France

In order to cover the tuition fees, cost of living, and other expenses in France, students can apply for an educational loan. As a result, the banks provide educational loan to study in France.

In order to get quick approval for a student loan, it is advised to keep all the documents ready beforehand and meet all the eligibility conditions. Some of the expenses that an educational loan covers are fees payable, accommodation charges, exam, laboratory and library fees, expenses like books, equipment like computer, uniforms, caution deposit, other expenses need to complete the course such as project work, study tours, or thesis. 

Part-Time Work Options for International Students in France

Every foreign student has the right to work while studying in France. Note that the students who are not European Union nationals must have a student resident permit. According to French Law, foreign students can work up to 964 hours per year. While working in France, whether a student or not, a minimum wage is guaranteed by law. At present, the minimum wage is €11.65 per hour (before taxes) which becomes €9.22 per hour after the deduction of taxes.

Post-Study Work Permit in France

Non-European students after graduating need to be holding an employment offer or work contract in order to stay in France. They should also be paid or about to be paid a minimum of 1.5 times the minimum wage. In case you do not have an offer in hand, you should ask for an Autorisation Povisoire de Sejour (APS - temporary resident permit) which you can use till the time you're finding a job. The validity for the same is 12 months and it cannot be renewed. In order to be considered eligible for this you need to have a bachelor's or a master's level degree or should be about to start your own venture.

As a measure to strengthen ties between India and France, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced the extension of the French Post-Study work visa for Indian students. Those who have moved to France in order to pursue a master’s degree from India will now be able to obtain a five-year long-term post-study visa. Earlier they could obtain only a two-year work visa before this decision was taken.  

Study in France FAQs

Q. Can students work in France?

A. Every foreign student has the right to work in France while studying. French law allows students to work up to 964 hours per year. With this, students are also given a minimum wage. The minimum wage is €11.65 per hour (before taxes) as of January 01, 2024. 

Q. Is France good for international students?

A. France, as a study-abroad destination, is an excellent choice for any international student. This is because it is a welcoming country with an interesting and diverse culture. It also has many schools that are internationally renowned, like business and fashion schools. 

Q. Is studying in France expensive?

A. The cost of studying in France is among the lowest in the world. The government subsidizes the tuition fees in higher public institutions. The tuition fees for international students enrolled in public higher education institutes is €2,850 per year at the bachelor’s level and €3,879 per year at the master’s level. However, the cost of studying in private French institutes may be higher, i.e. from €6000 to €18,000 per year. 

Q. Can I live in France without knowing French?

A. France is one of the friendliest, most open and most welcoming countries in the world. However, it is advised to know some basic French language terminologies to survive better. But, there are some courses that are available in English. It is better to have a knowledge of the language as this will help you with practical matters like buying groceries, paying bills, understanding directions and instructions, etc. 

Q. List some of the courses that are popular in France. 

A. Some of the most popular courses in France for international students include Economics and Business, Fashion, Hospitality, Technology and Tourism.