Best Cities in France for International Students: A Comprehensive Guide

France is known for its high fashion, exquisite cuisine, and contributions to art. What does not get so much attention is that France is a global powerhouse in higher education. 

The facts speak for themselves: 

In the 2023-2024 academic year, France welcomed a record 430,466 international students.

This was a 4.5% rise from the previous year. It has cemented its status as the world’s sixth most popular study destination. 

If you wish to pursue your higher education in France, selecting the right city is just as crucial as picking the right university or program. This guide is written for students considering France as their study destination in 2025. 

Note: France offers fantastic education options, but the city you choose matters just as much as the university. Cities differ in tuition fees, living costs, part-time job availability, and post-study work networks.

That’s why it’s not enough to choose a program based on rank alone. You need to look at the full picture—ROI, affordability, and job prospects—city by city.

This is where GradRight’s university search platform can really help. It considers not just your academic background, but also your budget, preferences, and goals to help you shortlist programs in the right cities—from Paris to Lille to Grenoble—each offering different opportunities.

And once you’ve chosen a city and program, use GradRight’s loan-search platform to compare real education loan offers from 15+ lenders. Whether you’re heading to a public grande école or a top private B-school, GradRight helps you fund it smartly—often without collateral, and always with transparency.

Why France is a top choice for international students

France consistently ranks among the world’s most popular destinations for international students. The appeal lies in a blend of high-quality education and the opportunity to immerse oneself in a rich culture and language. 

Here’s a more detailed look at the benefits of studying in France:

Quality Education

France has a strong reputation for academic excellence, with several prestigious universities. Over 70 universities and Grandes Écoles feature in various rankings. The top universities in France, such as Université PSL and Institut Polytechnique de Paris, rank in the top 50 globally. 

Affordable Tuition

Compared to other European countries, tuition fees in France are relatively low. This is particularly true for public universities. For example, tuition fees for master’s programs in France for international students at public universities are around €3,800 per year. 

Rich Cultural Heritage

France has a cultural heritage that is second to none. Immersing yourself in French culture and language can be a rewarding experience. 

Career Opportunities

France’s strong economy and job market require a large number of skilled personnel each year. Numerous French MNCs, such as BNP Paribas, Alstom, and Airbus, provide valuable career prospects for those who develop strong French language skills.

Strategic Location

France’s central location in Europe makes it easy to travel to other countries and explore the continent. Paris is well connected to Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai with numerous weekly flights. 

Factors to consider when choosing a city to study in France

The main university cities in France are Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse. Other notable university cities include Montpellier, Strasbourg, Marseille, Grenoble, Bordeaux, Nice, and Lille.

Paris stands out with several top-ranked universities. These include Université PSL, Sorbonne University, and Université Paris Cité, among others.

Here are some considerations to keep in mind when choosing a city to study in France:

University and Program

This is the most important factor. Does the city host universities or Grandes Écoles renowned for your specific field of study? Check rankings, faculty profiles, and research opportunities.

Cost of Living

The cost of living varies considerably throughout France. Paris is significantly pricier than most other cities. Toulouse, Lille, and Nantes offer more affordable options to those on a tight budget. This is especially true regarding accommodation. Research average costs for rent, food, and transportation before you make a decision. 

Lifestyle and Culture

Each French city has its unique character. Paris is known for being the center of arts, culture, and stimulating nightlife.  Bordeaux, the wine region, and Lyon, the center of French cuisine, offer a blend of history and cultural experiences. Grenoble is located in the French Alps and offers plenty of outdoor activities. Where you want to live depends on what kind of lifestyle you want to experience. 

International Student Community

A completely new culture can come as a shock. It helps if there are a large number of international students. Paris has about 100,000 international students. Lyon and Toulouse have about 50,000 each. Strasbourg, Bordeaux, and Grenoble have a few thousand. A larger expatriate student community can feel comforting. 

Language and Communication

Many French people speak English, but it’s not the primary language of France. As you move away from Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse, it is less and less likely you will encounter someone who can understand English. Also, keep in mind that the French living in the countryside are often reluctant to speak English. If you feel nervous communicating in French, stay in Paris or Lyon. 

Best cities in France for international students

The best cities in France for international students include Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Montpellier, Strasbourg, Marseille, Grenoble, Bordeaux, Nice, and Lille.

Following is a list of the top universities in France based on QS World University Rankings 2025 and the cities where they are located: 

Here is a short description of the best cities in France for students:

Paris

Paris is exquisite and expensive. The city offers a world-class academic environment, a diverse cultural scene, and numerous student activities.

Lyon

Lyon is home to numerous prestigious universities and schools, including the Centrale Lyon, INP-ENSA Lyon, and IUT Lyon. The city is known for its blend of tradition and innovation. Lyon provides a good balance of affordability and quality of life.

Toulouse

If costs worry you, Toulouse is the best option. It is a large city with excellent universities, but far more affable than Paris and Lyon. 

Bordeaux

The city and the region are known the world over for their finest wineries. Otherwise, Bordeaux is also a popular city for students taking part in the Erasmus Mundus Program.

Other French cities you might consider include: 

• Grenoble
• Montpellier
• Strasbourg
• Lille 
• Gif-sur-Yvette
• Marseille

and others. 

Study in Paris: Opportunities and lifestyle

For over 200 years, Paris has been a global hub for art, fashion, and culture. It is also a favoured destination for international students seeking a rich academic and cultural experience. According to Campus France, there were over 125,000 international students in Paris in 2024. Here are a few reasons why Paris is so popular among international students:

Academic Excellence

The top-ranked university in Paris is generally considered to be Université PSL (QS #24). Other prominent Paris universities include Sorbonne University (QS #63), Université Paris-Saclay (QS #73), and Institut Polytechnique de Paris (QS #46). Another university, Université Paris Cité (QS #302), is very new and bound to rise to the top 100 of the QS World University Rankings in the next few years. 

Rich Cultural Scene

Paris is synonymous with culture. The city is a living museum filled with iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. There are numerous art exhibitions, theater performances, and music festivals that occur year-round.

Vibrant Student Life

Paris’ diverse international student population includes students from various regions, including Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, and Asia. If you study in Paris, you will get a full exposure to cultural vibes and values from across the world. This is indeed a plus when joining a multinational where you might have to work in Mexico City, followed by a stint in Singapore.=

Location

Paris’s strategic location in Europe makes it an ideal base for exploring neighboring countries during academic breaks. Paris is directly connected to other parts of Europe by a robust high-speed rail network. This includes routes to major cities like London, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Barcelona. North African nations such as Morocco are also close. 

Some other factors that make Paris an attractive study destination include:

• Paris offers a more affordable higher education experience when you compare it to cities in the US and the UK.
• Paris has a well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to navigate the city and the suburbs. 
• Paris is a great place to build professional networks. There are numerous events and conferences held in the city. 

Other top student-friendly cities in France

Several French cities are highly popular among students. Beyond Paris, these cities offer great value and community. The best cities in France besides Paris are:

Toulouse: It has been dubbed the “Pink City” for its terracotta brick buildings. Université Toulouse 1 Capitole is one of the top public universities in France.

Montpellier: Located in balmy southern France, it is near the Mediterranean coast.  It is known for lovely architecture, a relaxed pace of life, and the University of Montpellier.

Bordeaux: Formerly known as the wine capital of the world, the city has turned into a tech hub. The University of Bordeaux has campuses across Bordeaux, Dax, Gradignan, Périgueux, Pessac, and Talence.

Strasbourg: Strasbourg is the home of the European Parliament and is located on the border with Germany. The University of Strasbourg is a public research university with over 52,000 students and 3,300 researchers.

Cost of studying and living in France as a student

Studying in France, particularly at public universities, can be relatively affordable. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Tuition Fees

• Public Universities: €2,900 per year for UG programs and €4,200 per year for PG programs. 
• Private Universities: €6,500 to €20,000 per year, or even higher in some cases.

Living Expenses

Here is a comparison table of living expenses across different cities in France. 

Student visa requirements and process for France

Before you proceed further, you need to know about Campus France. Campus France is a one-stop resource for international students. It helps you with admission, scholarships, and the visa process. 

The first step is to register with Campus France via the “Études en France” platform. You need to register online and pay ₹18,500. 

Here are the next steps: 

Find a program

Research universities and higher education institutions in France that offer suitable programs.

Apply and Get Accepted

Submit your application to the institution and ensure you are accepted into their program.

Visa Application

You need to apply for the VLS-TS visa online through Campus France.

Submit Required Documents

This includes:

• Valid passport. 
• Passport-size photographs. 
• Acceptance letter from the French institution. 
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses (minimum of 615 euros per month). 
• Proof of accommodation (e.g., a lease or university housing confirmation). 
• Health insurance coverage valid in France. 
• Proof of financial means to support yourself during your studies. 
• A certificate of criminal record (showing no criminal history). 
• Other documents as required by the French consulate or embassy in your country.

Pay Visa Fees

You’ll need to pay the visa application fee, which is typically around €99.

Wait for Processing

From application to universities via Campus France to visa processing takes about 8-10 weeks

Student life and cultural experience in France

France offers a potent blend of academics and cultural immersion. The country’s rich history provides excellent opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

Here’s a deeper look at what France offers international students: 

• French universities are known for their vibrant campus life. The French are not only cultural buffs but also enjoy sports such as soccer, tennis, judo, and motor racing. Every university has numerous student clubs, sports teams, and cultural events.
• While employers in India want employees to work at least six days of the week, France is slowly moving towards a four-day work week. The same balance can be found in French educational institutions. French universities prioritize a balance between hard work and relaxation. 
• Programs like Erasmus facilitate student exchanges and allow for broader cultural experiences and academic collaboration across Europe.
• France is likely the most liberal nation in the world. Its national motto is “Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité” (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity). It is a largely classless society with great emphasis on secularism, or “laïcité,” in its educational environment.

In summary, studying abroad in France offers an unforgettable life experience alongside quality education. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Which is the best city in France for international students?

Without any doubt, Paris, the capital city, is the best city in France for international students. It has several top-notch institutions and an enriching environment that promotes diversity. 

2. Is Paris a good city for studying in France?

Paris is home to numerous prestigious universities and institutions. This includes some of the top-ranked universities in the world, like the Sorbonne University. It is a desirable destination for students from around the world.

3. What is the cost of living for students in France?

Living expenses in France vary widely by city. Paris is the most expensive, while cities like Lille and Grenoble are much more affordable. Rent, food, transport, and other costs can be significantly lower in smaller cities. It can cost a student between €1,400–€2,000 to live in Paris and half that in a smaller town. 

4. How do I apply for a student visa to study in France?

To apply for a student visa in France, you need to first register on the Campus France India website. Complete the online application form and attend the interview. Thereafter, the visa is approved in 15-30 days. 

5. What are the best places to study in France apart from Paris?

The best cities in France, other than Paris, that have excellent opportunities and facilities for international students include Lyon, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Montpellier, and Grenoble.