Study in the France
Study in the France
France offers international students a vibrant cultural experience, global exposure, and an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. With over 3,500 universities to choose from, students can apply to up to three institutions at once to increase their chances of admission. Adapting to life in France is relatively smooth, and the country is rich in opportunities. While funding may be a concern for Indian students, there are several scholarships available, along with low-interest education loans to support your studies. Don’t miss the chance to study in one of the most dynamic education destinations in the world!
Basic Highlights to Study in France
One can fly closer to their dreams after receiving a study visa. Therefore, here is some general information that one should know before planning their study abroad France travels.
| Factors | Description |
|---|---|
| Average Cost of Study | INR 3,30,000 – 13,00,000 per year (varies by course, public/private institution, and level of study) |
| Average Cost of Living | INR 7,00,000 – 12,00,000 per year (depending on city and lifestyle) |
| Source of Funding | Scholarships (e.g., Eiffel Scholarship), education loans, part-time jobs, personal savings |
| Intakes | September (major intake), January/February (some programs) |
| Types of Visa | C-Type (short stay, less than 90 days), D-Type (long stay, more than 90 days) for students |
| Popular Cities to Study | Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Montpellier |
| France Study Visa Cost | Approx. INR 8,500 – 10,000 for a long-term student visa (D-Type) |
Why Study in France
France is renowned for its advanced education system and strong economy, making it a promising destination for students aiming for quality education and future employment opportunities. Academically, France shines with 11 universities ranked among the top 100 globally by QS World Rankings. It has become a popular hub for disciplines like business, fashion, engineering, and the arts.
Adding to its appeal, the French government has announced plans to issue 30,000 study visas to Indian students as part of a five-year Schengen visa initiative by 2030. This move enhances France’s reputation as a top study-abroad choice. Students also benefit from a healthy work-life balance, with the option to work up to 964 hours per year during their studies.
For those looking for affordability, cities like Toulouse offer lower living costs without compromising on quality of life. Later, students often relocate to higher-paying cities after securing their post-study work visas.
Top Universities
France has a modern education system that attracts students from around the world. Here are some universities that are popular among Indian students. You can find both public and private universities in France.
| UniversityBachelor’s degree (preferably in business or related field) | Under-Graduate Course Requirement | Post-Graduate Course Requirement | MBA Course Requirement | Some Popular Courses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorbonne University | Completion of secondary education (French Baccalauréat or equivalent) | Bachelor’s degree (preferably in a related field) | Bachelor’s degree (preferably in business or related field) | History, Literature, Philosophy, International Relations |
| Ecole Normale Superieure (ENS) | Completion of secondary education with high academic performance; admission may include entrance exams | Master’s degree (selective admission, strong academic background required) | Not specifically offered; focus on high-level academic research | Humanities, Sciences, Social Sciences, Philosophy |
| University of Lorraine | Completion of secondary education with relevant subjects; French language proficiency may be required | Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field | Bachelor’s degree; relevant experience may be necessary | Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Science |
| University of Jean Moulin Lyon 3 | Completion of secondary education (French Baccalauréat or equivalent); language proficiency may be required | Bachelor’s degree; relevant experience may be beneficial | Not typically offered; may have related programs | Law, Political Science, Humanities |
| EPITA School of Engineering and Computer Science | Completion of secondary education (preferably with a focus on science and math) | Bachelor’s degree in a related field (preferably with a strong technical background) | Not specifically offered; technical and management courses available | Computer Science, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence |
Eligibility Criteria of French
Age Requirement: Applicants must be 18 or older. There are no strict age limits for applying.
Academic Qualifications: A minimum of 50% in secondary exams for undergraduates, and at least a 2.0 GPA in bachelor’s for master’s programs, though requirements can differ by course.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): A personal essay explaining your motivation to study in France and your academic goals is typically required.
Letter of Recommendation (LOR): LORs from teachers or mentors are generally needed to assess your character and achievements.
How to Get a France Study Visa?
Passport
Photographs
Letter of Acceptance
Campus France NOC
OFII Form
Proof of Funds
Airplane Tickets
Cost of Studying in France
The average cost of living in France is around INR 90,000 per month, requiring an estimated INR 10 lakh in immediate funds, excluding tuition fees. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan your expenses for studying in France.
| Expenses | Estimated Cost (€) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| France University Fees | EUR 3,000 – 10,000 per year | Tuition fees for academic programs, with public universities being more affordable; private institutions and engineering schools tend to charge higher fees. |
| Visa Application Fee | EUR 50 – 100 | The fee for applying for a student visa (typically D-Type long stay); may vary based on processing time and nationality. |
| Health Insurance | EUR 200 – 700 per year | Mandatory health insurance coverage for international students; costs depend on the plan and provider. |
| Rent | EUR 400 – 1,500 per month | Monthly accommodation costs vary by city (e.g., Paris is more expensive) and housing type (private apartment vs. shared dorm). |
| Grocery | EUR 250 – 400 per month | Monthly food and household expenses; can vary based on personal preferences and dietary habits. |
| Electricity | EUR 50 – 120 per month | Monthly utility costs, including electricity, water, and heating, depending on usage and apartment size. |
| Travel | EUR 30 – 70 per month | Monthly public transportation costs (bus, metro, tram); students may receive discounts through passes. |
| Book & Supplies | EUR 300 – 500 per year | Annual expenses for course materials, textbooks, and other study-related supplies. |
| Internet & Phone | EUR 25 – 50 per month | Monthly costs for internet and mobile phone plans, with variation based on provider and type of contract. |
| Off-Campus Fun | EUR 100 – 250 per month | Entertainment, social activities, and dining out; Paris and other large cities may have higher expenses for leisure. |
| Miscellaneous | EUR 50 – 100 per month | Additional personal expenses, such as clothing, toiletries, or emergency costs. |
Scholarships to Study in France
Indian students can take advantage of various scholarships to support their study-abroad journey. Below are some popular scholarship options:
1. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
Benefits: €1,181 monthly (PhD students €1,800)
Eligibility: Must be recommended by a French institution
Courses: Postgraduate (PG).
Scholarship Type: Merit-based
2. Charpak Master’s Scholarship
Benefits: €860 monthly, tuition fee waiver, visa fee waiver, health insurance
Eligibility: Indian nationals under 30 with strong academic background
Courses: Postgraduate (PG).
Scholarship Type: Merit-based
3. Father Roger Guindon Student Assistance Fund
Benefits: Variable financial aid based on need
Eligibility: Students at the University of Ottawa facing financial hardship
Courses: All levels (UG, PG, PhD)
Scholarship Type: Need-based assistance
Study and Work in France
Studying in France offers an excellent opportunity to work part-time and manage your living expenses. There are various part-time job options for students, allowing you to earn while studying. However, it’s crucial to maintain good academic performance and adhere to the work-hour limits set by your visa. Explore the part-time job opportunities available while studying in France to support your finances.
How to Settle in France After Studies?
After completing your studies in France, you can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa (PSW) or a Residence Permit, which allows you to stay and work for 12 to 24 months. During this time, you can either search for a job or start your own business. Once employed, you may transition to a long-term work permit based on your job and salary. After a few years of work, you could be eligible to apply for permanent residency, providing the opportunity to settle in France.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, universities in France have the same tuition fees for international students as they do for European citizens. On average, you can expect to pay around EUR 2,850 per year for bachelor’s programs.
One of the main challenges of studying in France is the language barrier, as communicating with locals can be difficult without a good knowledge of French.
You can enroll in short-term French language courses, with organizations like BAAM offering free courses for international students.
You can begin with online courses to learn the basics of French, which will help you communicate more effectively with native speakers.
Several top universities in France cater to international students, with Paris Sciences et Lettres (PSL) Research University Paris being one of the best.
Bordeaux is a great city for studying, known for its reputable colleges and excellent job opportunities across various fields.
The cost of a master’s degree in France typically ranges from EUR 1,500 to 3,500 per academic year.
Most master’s programs in France are two years long, though research-based courses may take a few extra months to complete.
Study in the France
France offers international students a vibrant cultural experience, global exposure, and an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. With over 3,500 universities to choose from, students can apply to up to three institutions at once to increase their chances of admission. Adapting to life in France is relatively smooth, and the country is rich in opportunities. While funding may be a concern for Indian students, there are several scholarships available, along with low-interest education loans to support your studies. Don’t miss the chance to study in one of the most dynamic education destinations in the world!
Basic Highlights to Study in France
One can fly closer to their dreams after receiving a study visa. Therefore, here is some general information that one should know before planning their study abroad France travels.
| Factors | Description |
|---|---|
| Average Cost of Study | INR 3,30,000 – 13,00,000 per year (varies by course, public/private institution, and level of study) |
| Average Cost of Living | INR 7,00,000 – 12,00,000 per year (depending on city and lifestyle) |
| Source of Funding | Scholarships (e.g., Eiffel Scholarship), education loans, part-time jobs, personal savings |
| Intakes | September (major intake), January/February (some programs) |
| Types of Visa | C-Type (short stay, less than 90 days), D-Type (long stay, more than 90 days) for students |
| Popular Cities to Study | Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Montpellier |
| France Study Visa Cost | Approx. INR 8,500 – 10,000 for a long-term student visa (D-Type) |
Why Study in France
France is renowned for its advanced education system and strong economy, making it a promising destination for students aiming for quality education and future employment opportunities. Academically, France shines with 11 universities ranked among the top 100 globally by QS World Rankings. It has become a popular hub for disciplines like business, fashion, engineering, and the arts.
Adding to its appeal, the French government has announced plans to issue 30,000 study visas to Indian students as part of a five-year Schengen visa initiative by 2030. This move enhances France’s reputation as a top study-abroad choice. Students also benefit from a healthy work-life balance, with the option to work up to 964 hours per year during their studies.
For those looking for affordability, cities like Toulouse offer lower living costs without compromising on quality of life. Later, students often relocate to higher-paying cities after securing their post-study work visas.
Top Universities
France has a modern education system that attracts students from around the world. Here are some universities that are popular among Indian students. You can find both public and private universities in France.
| UniversityBachelor’s degree (preferably in business or related field) | Under-Graduate Course Requirement | Post-Graduate Course Requirement | MBA Course Requirement | Some Popular Courses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorbonne University | Completion of secondary education (French Baccalauréat or equivalent) | Bachelor’s degree (preferably in a related field) | Bachelor’s degree (preferably in business or related field) | History, Literature, Philosophy, International Relations |
| Ecole Normale Superieure (ENS) | Completion of secondary education with high academic performance; admission may include entrance exams | Master’s degree (selective admission, strong academic background required) | Not specifically offered; focus on high-level academic research | Humanities, Sciences, Social Sciences, Philosophy |
| University of Lorraine | Completion of secondary education with relevant subjects; French language proficiency may be required | Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field | Bachelor’s degree; relevant experience may be necessary | Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Science |
| University of Jean Moulin Lyon 3 | Completion of secondary education (French Baccalauréat or equivalent); language proficiency may be required | Bachelor’s degree; relevant experience may be beneficial | Not typically offered; may have related programs | Law, Political Science, Humanities |
| EPITA School of Engineering and Computer Science | Completion of secondary education (preferably with a focus on science and math) | Bachelor’s degree in a related field (preferably with a strong technical background) | Not specifically offered; technical and management courses available | Computer Science, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence |
Eligibility Criteria of French
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be 18 or older. There are no strict age limits for applying.
- Academic Qualifications: A minimum of 50% in secondary exams for undergraduates, and at least a 2.0 GPA in bachelor’s for master’s programs, though requirements can differ by course.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): A personal essay explaining your motivation to study in France and your academic goals is typically required.
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR): LORs from teachers or mentors are generally needed to assess your character and achievements.
How to Get a France Study Visa?
- Passport
- Photographs
- Letter of Acceptance
- Campus France NOC
- OFII Form
- Proof of Funds
- Airplane Tickets
Cost of Studying in France
The average cost of living in France is around INR 90,000 per month, requiring an estimated INR 10 lakh in immediate funds, excluding tuition fees. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan your expenses for studying in France.
| Expenses | Estimated Cost (€) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| France University Fees | EUR 3,000 – 10,000 per year | Tuition fees for academic programs, with public universities being more affordable; private institutions and engineering schools tend to charge higher fees. |
| Visa Application Fee | EUR 50 – 100 | The fee for applying for a student visa (typically D-Type long stay); may vary based on processing time and nationality. |
| Health Insurance | EUR 200 – 700 per year | Mandatory health insurance coverage for international students; costs depend on the plan and provider. |
| Rent | EUR 400 – 1,500 per month | Monthly accommodation costs vary by city (e.g., Paris is more expensive) and housing type (private apartment vs. shared dorm). |
| Grocery | EUR 250 – 400 per month | Monthly food and household expenses; can vary based on personal preferences and dietary habits. |
| Electricity | EUR 50 – 120 per month | Monthly utility costs, including electricity, water, and heating, depending on usage and apartment size. |
| Travel | EUR 30 – 70 per month | Monthly public transportation costs (bus, metro, tram); students may receive discounts through passes. |
| Book & Supplies | EUR 300 – 500 per year | Annual expenses for course materials, textbooks, and other study-related supplies. |
| Internet & Phone | EUR 25 – 50 per month | Monthly costs for internet and mobile phone plans, with variation based on provider and type of contract. |
| Off-Campus Fun | EUR 100 – 250 per month | Entertainment, social activities, and dining out; Paris and other large cities may have higher expenses for leisure. |
| Miscellaneous | EUR 50 – 100 per month | Additional personal expenses, such as clothing, toiletries, or emergency costs. |
Scholarships to Study in France
Indian students can take advantage of various scholarships to support their study-abroad journey. Below are some popular scholarship options:
1. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
- Benefits: €1,181 monthly (PhD students €1,800)
- Eligibility: Must be recommended by a French institution
- Courses: Postgraduate (PG).
- Scholarship Type: Merit-based
2. Charpak Master’s Scholarship
- Benefits: €860 monthly, tuition fee waiver, visa fee waiver, health insurance
- Eligibility: Indian nationals under 30 with strong academic background
- Courses: Postgraduate (PG).
- Scholarship Type: Merit-based
3. Father Roger Guindon Student Assistance Fund
- Benefits: Variable financial aid based on need
- Eligibility: Students at the University of Ottawa facing financial hardship
- Courses: All levels (UG, PG, PhD)
- Scholarship Type: Need-based assistance
Study and Work in France
Studying in France offers an excellent opportunity to work part-time and manage your living expenses. There are various part-time job options for students, allowing you to earn while studying. However, it’s crucial to maintain good academic performance and adhere to the work-hour limits set by your visa. Explore the part-time job opportunities available while studying in France to support your finances.
How to Settle in France After Studies?
After completing your studies in France, you can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa (PSW) or a Residence Permit, which allows you to stay and work for 12 to 24 months. During this time, you can either search for a job or start your own business. Once employed, you may transition to a long-term work permit based on your job and salary. After a few years of work, you could be eligible to apply for permanent residency, providing the opportunity to settle in France.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, universities in France have the same tuition fees for international students as they do for European citizens. On average, you can expect to pay around EUR 2,850 per year for bachelor’s programs.
One of the main challenges of studying in France is the language barrier, as communicating with locals can be difficult without a good knowledge of French.
You can enroll in short-term French language courses, with organizations like BAAM offering free courses for international students.
You can begin with online courses to learn the basics of French, which will help you communicate more effectively with native speakers.
Several top universities in France cater to international students, with Paris Sciences et Lettres (PSL) Research University Paris being one of the best.
Bordeaux is a great city for studying, known for its reputable colleges and excellent job opportunities across various fields.
The cost of a master’s degree in France typically ranges from EUR 1,500 to 3,500 per academic year.
Most master’s programs in France are two years long, though research-based courses may take a few extra months to complete.