Top 5 Universities in France 2025
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France, a land renowned for its rich history, culture, and art, is also a global leader in education. Home to some of the world's most prestigious universities, France attracts students from across the globe seeking a world-class education. This article covers the top 5 universities in France for international students.
France is home to some of the best universities in the world. With its renowned courses like the business and luxury management, the universities in France offer several more such courses like engineering and STEM subject courses which are accepted widely across the world. In this article, we will learn about the top 5 universities in France and the reasons to choose French universities as your study abroad destination.
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Why Study in France?
International students must opt to study in France for the following benefits:
- Affordable tuition fee: Most public universities in France only charge a minimal tuition fees. However, even the private universities in France charge lower than the universities in most other major destinations. This is because the French governmnet subsidises the cost of tuition for all students.
- Diverse Programs: A wide range of programs are available, from engineering and sciences to humanities and arts, catering to various academic interests.
- Prestigious Universities: France boasts renowned universities like HEC Paris, Sorbonne University, PSL Research University Paris, and École Polytechnique, consistently ranking high in global university rankings.
- Rich History and Culture: France offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a rich cultural heritage, from historical landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum to vibrant arts and culinary scenes.
- Language Learning: Learning French, a global language, enhances communication skills and opens doors to career opportunities in various fields.
- Strong Economy: France has a strong economy and offers excellent job prospects for graduates, particularly in sectors like engineering, technology, and finance.
- Post-Study Work Opportunities: Work permit options are available for international students after graduation, allowing them to gain valuable work experience in France.
- Global Recognition: A French degree is highly regarded internationally, enhancing career prospects worldwide.
Top 5 Universities in France for International Students
Check out the list of top 5 universities in France with their QS and THE World University Rankings 2025.
| Best Universities in Farnce 2025 |
||
|---|---|---|
| University |
QS World University Rankings 2025 |
THE World University Rankings 2025 |
| 24 |
42 |
|
| 46 |
71 |
|
| =63 |
76 |
|
| Université Paris-Saclay |
73 |
64 |
| 187 |
251-300 |
|
Details on the Top 5 Universities in France
Check out the details of the best colleges and universities in France below.
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1,. PSL Research University Paris
PSL Research University Paris, often referred to simply as PSL, is a prestigious institution formed by a consortium of leading French universities and research institutions. PSL is known for its exceptional research facilities and a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies.the university is renowned for its Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, engineering, and social science subjects. The cost of studying at the PSL University is quite very low with the average annual tuition fee for postgraduate studies being INR 22.09 K.
2,. Institut Polytechnique de Paris
École Polytechnique, often referred to as "l'X," is a highly selective Grande École specialising in engineering, mathematics, and computer science. It is renowned for its rigorous academic program and its strong ties to the French government and industry. It offers a unique five-year curriculum with a focus on fundamental sciences and engineering applications. École Polytechnique pose a higher tuition fee for international students with the average annual tuition fee for UG courses being around INR 16.61 L and that of PG courses ranging from INR 5.3 L to 21.22 L. The university's MIM and Business & Management Studies courses constantly rank high in the global rankings.
3,. Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University, a historic institution dating back to the 13th century, is a leading public research university in France. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and sciences. The university offers a diverse range of programs, including dual degrees and international exchange programs. There is literally no tuition fee to study at the Sorbonne University even after securing a god rank globally each consecutive year.
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4,. Université Paris-Saclay
Université Paris-Saclay is a major research university formed by a merger of several leading French institutions. It is known for its strong research output and its focus on innovation in science, technology, and engineering. It is renowned for its science, technology, engineering, and medicine courses and offers a wide range of doctoral programs and research opportunities.
5,. École Normale Supérieure de Lyon
École Normale Supérieure de Lyon (ENS Lyon) is a highly selective public university known for its excellence in teaching and research. It offers a wide range of programs in humanities, social sciences, and sciences. The university offers a competitive selection process and a rigorous academic curriculum. The university charges no tuition fee from its students.
This was all about the top universities in France for international students. If you wish to study abroad, then you can get assistance from Shiksha Counselling Services for free. You can also drop your queries in the comments section below.
Q: Why Indian students choose to study at ESSEC Business School - France?
Q: How expensive is it to live at ESSEC Business School - France?
According to the ESSEC Business School's official website, the estimated cost of living in France for a student is between €7,000 and €11,000 per year, with an average of €8,000. This includes housing (which includes utilities, charges, and insurance), meals, local transport, telephone, health insurance for the year, and miscellaneous expenses (excluding leisure). The cost of accommodation varies depending on whether you choose to live on or off-campus, with one-bedroom apartments in Paris starting at €800 per month.
Q: Is getting part-time jobs easy while studying at ESSEC Business School - France?
It is possible to get part-time jobs while studying at ESSEC Business School in France. ESSEC has an active job board with more than 40,000 offers and 5,000 profiles. You can visit the job board to find part-time job opportunities suitable for students. ESSEC Business School also has job postings on LinkedIn. You may browse through those postings to find part-time jobs that match your skills and interests. You can always reach out to ESSEC Business School's Career Services for guidance on finding part-time jobs.
Q: Is getting part-time jobs easy while studying at Istituto Marangoni - France?
Getting part-time jobs while studying at Istituto Marangoni in France is possible, but it can be challenging due to the busy schedule of students. The school recommends seeking a job after completing studies, although students may have opportunities to work on projects developed by the school's teams, such as working as a dresser during Fashion Week. Additionally, international students in France can find part-time jobs both on and off-campus, with wages varying depending on the job, such as translators earning EUR 21 - 27 per hour.
Q: Why do Indian students choose to study at Istituto Marangoni - France?
Indian students choose to study at Istituto Marangoni in France for various reasons. The school offers a unique blend of international exposure, high-quality education, and a strong focus on practical skills that are highly valued in the fashion industry. Additionally, the school's strong industry connections and its reputation for producing successful alumni, such as Rahul Mishra, Dhruv Kapoor, and Anvita Sharma, make it an attractive choice for students seeking to launch their careers in fashion.
Q: What do student reviews say about Istituto Marangoni - France?
Student reviews about Istituto Marangoni France highlight the institute's prestigious reputation, multicultural environment, and the quality of education it offers in the fields of design, style, and fashion. The institute is praised for its global network, where students from around the sector come together to share their ardor for fashion. The college composed of expert style consultants, designers, and stylists, is identified for imparting students with first-hand know-how and enjoyment in the enterprise.
Q: Is Paris School of Business, France a better option than IIM Lucknow, India for doing MBA?
Comparing the Paris School of Business (PSB) in France and the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow in India for an MBA depends on various factors. IIM Lucknow holds a strong academic standing nationally and globally, being a top-tier institute in India. On the other hand, while PSB is esteemed in France, its overall reputation might not match that of IIM Lucknow. Opting for PSB offers exposure to an international setting and a different educational approach, beneficial for those eyeing an international career or intrigued by the European business landscape. Meanwhile, IIM Lucknow also facilitates global opportunities through partnerships, exchange programs, and internships.
Q: What scores do I need to have to get a scholarship at ESSEC Business School - France?
The minimum GMAT score for the Global MBA programme is 585, but exceptions can be made if other elements of your application stand out. The ESSEC Academic Excellence scholarship is offered to all international candidates and can cover up to 40% of total tuition fees. You also have to demonstrate academic excellence in your file and in the required tests and obtain a minimum GPA requirement of 2.0 out of 4.0 for the BBA program. More than 25% of international students are awarded scholarships for undergraduate programs at ESSEC Business School France.
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Indian students choose to study at ESSEC Business School in France because: