Cost of Studying in France: Fees, Living Costs, Visa Cost & More

France is a top-notch study destination for students worldwide. 

According to the QS ranking reports, in 2024, France had 35 universities ranked globally, with 4 universities reaching the top 100. 

But there’s more to France than just academic excellence and rich culture.

What if we told you that studying in France is affordable? This might be surprising, given France’s reputation, but it’s true. 

It’s a magnet for Indian students looking for quality education on a budget. 

This guide will explain in detail the total cost of studying in France, including tuition fees, transportation, living expenses, and visa costs. 

Let’s uncover how financially accessible world-class education in France can be.

Cost of studying in France

France is a top destination for students from around the world.  

In the academic year 2022/23, France welcomed 412,087 international students to its higher education institutions. 

That’s a 3% increase from the previous year and a 17% rise over the past five years. 

Source 

In 2023, more than 400,000 students  were studying in France’s higher education institutions. If we consider that since 2016, the number of Indian students in France had almost doubled by 2021 (increasing from 6,400 to around 12,000), it’s a fair estimate that in 2023, there would have been close to 15,000 Indian students in France. The numbers are likely to increase even further, as the French government’s aim is to welcome 30,000 Indian students per year by 2030. 

This huge surge is due to the lower cost of living, top-quality and affordable undergraduate/graduate programs, and enticing scholarships. 

It is possible to limit your annual costs of living in France to around ₹7,84,000 (i.e., €8,742), which includes student housing, food, cultural and social activities, and transportation. 

The cost is nearly 4x less than other European countries where just the living costs exceed ₹13,76,000 (€ 16,000) in the UK to ₹17,54,400 (€ 20,400) in Switzerland.

Let us understand how much money is required to study top courses in France. 

Tuition fees in France

The government of France is dedicated to providing accessible and quality higher education. 

But exactly how much does it cost to study in France? Let’s try to find the answer.

An average undergraduate program costs ₹2.5 to 12 lakhs per year in a private university, which is still less than in countries like the USA or the UK. 

Master’s programs in Engineering, Business, and Sciences typically range from about ₹2.5 to ₹18 lakhs per academic year. 

However, public universities, known for their affordability, often charge lower fees—approximately ₹2.5 to ₹4 lakhs annually. 

This makes public universities a particularly appealing option for international students seeking quality education at a lower cost.

Scholarships and financial aids

France offers multiple scholarship programs that cover up to 100% of tuition fees. 

You can find scholarships on official platforms like Campus Bourses and choose scholarships like the Charpak Scholarship Program to fund both bachelor’s and master’s degrees individually. 

Source

There are many such scholarships and financial aids financed directly by the French Government for Indian students in France. 

Also Read: Study Abroad Guide for Indian Students 2024

Cost of Studying in France for Indian Students in 2024

What is the cost of studying in France in 2024? Here’s a breakdown of all the expenses besides the tuition we already discussed. 

These costs are a major component of the total cost of studying in France; they include:

• Living Expenses: Accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses can cost up to ₹7,50,000 per year, which varies as per cities. Paris, being more expensive, could push your costs higher.

• Health Insurance: It has zero costs because the French Social Security system covers a large portion of medical costs, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescribed medications. However, you must first sign up for a Social Security number that covers 60% of your bill and subscribe to complementary health insurance to cover the remaining amount. 

• Administrative Fees: These are often overlooked but can include visa processing and university administrative fees respectively.

To mitigate these costs, numerous scholarships and financial aid options are available to Indian students.

Also Read: Cost of Masters in France For Indian Students: Visa Costs, Tuition Fees

Requirements for studying in France

Before you start studying in France, there are some requirements you must meet:

• You must be above 18 years of age.
• You must present the visa fee payment receipt as part of your application.
• A letter of acceptance from a French university is crucial to confirm your enrollment.
• You must have financial status to support yourself in France; covering expenses such as accommodation, food, and tuition is required.
• You must show your air ticketing details.

• You must have medical insurance coverage of up to ₹80,000 per year.
• You must provide proof of accommodation for the duration of your study. It could be a rental agreement or a university housing service letter.

• You’re required to show TOEFL scores to pursue coursework in English.
• If you choose to study in a program taught in French, a proficiency certificate for the French language is necessary. 
• Proof of civil status, such as past history, may be required. 

Cost of studying course-wise fees

Whether you’re interested in an MBA or exploring the dynamic fields of Data Science and Engineering, France offers competitive pricing for quality education.

The table below provides a concise overview of the average cost of studying in France across various fields. 

Cost of living in France

For students wondering how much money is required to study in France, here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for accommodation, food, transportation, and more.

Note: These numbers are estimates; the actual costs will depend on several factors linked to individual preferences. 

Student living costs in various French cities

The cost of living in France largely depends on where you choose to live:

• Paris: You can expect an expense of between ₹1 to 1.5 lakhs per month, including residence, food, transportation, and daily expenses.
• Nice: The monthly living expenses range from ₹50,000 to ₹70,000.
• Lyon, Nantes, Bordeaux, Toulouse: These are more affordable cities, with monthly costs typically falling in the ₹20,000 to ₹35,000 range.  

Accommodation costs

Accommodation varies widely in cost:

• Student Halls of Residence: About ₹13,000 to 48,000 per month, except in Paris, where the cost doubles ₹36,000 to ₹58,000.
• Private Rentals: A private apartment can cost ₹30,000 to 60,000 monthly, with Paris at the higher end (around ₹70,000 to 1,00,000). Smaller cities offer lower rates, around ₹17,000 per month for a small apartment.

Food expenses

While French cuisine is renowned for its sophistication, daily food expenses are quite reasonable:

• Groceries: Typically, you’ll spend about ₹20,000 to ₹30,000 per month on groceries in Paris, with lower costs in other regions.
• Eating Out: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs between ₹800 and ₹1,300, but for a lighter, more budget-friendly option, try bistros or crepe stands where meals range from ₹400 to ₹700.

Transportation

Getting around in France is fairly priced:

• Public Transit: Monthly passes for buses, metros, or trams cost between ₹2,500 and ₹6,500.
• Taxis: In Paris, taxi fares start at around ₹130 per kilometer, with short trips costing ₹600 to ₹900.
• Bike Rentals: Programs like Vélib make cycling affordable, especially in bike-friendly cities like Bordeaux.

Additional costs

• Health Insurance: Essential for all students, with monthly premiums ranging from ₹1,700 to ₹4,500.
• Educational Materials: Budget around ₹4,500 per month for books and other supplies.
• Travel and Leisure: You can get an international youth travel card for travel and cultural site discounts.

Visa application costs

• Student Visa Fee: Applying for a French student visa typically involves a fee. As of the latest updates, the cost is around ₹9,000 – but it’s advisable to check the current rate on the official French visa website or consult the French consulate/embassy in your home country for the most accurate information.
• Campus France Registration: Campus France is an official government agency under the French Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Higher Education. Campus France is responsible for promoting higher education in France and assists students around the world find and apply to French institutes most suitable for them. When you register with Campus France, you create an online profile where you can submit your academic records and personal information. Your application will then be evaluated, and you will manage your entire admission process on the portal. Throughout this process, you may have to spend additional fees ranging between ₹4,500 to 9,000.

Residency permit costs

• Titre de Séjour (Residency Permit): Once in France, non-EU students must obtain a residency permit. The application fee for the first issuance of the residency permit is approximately ₹7,000. This permit must be renewed annually, so factor this into your long-term budget.

Health Insurance

• Social Security Enrollment: While health insurance costs were briefly mentioned earlier, it’s important to note that enrolling in the French social security system (Sécurité Sociale) for health coverage is mandatory for students and usually free. 
• You may choose to have additional private health insurance, which can cost between ₹1,700 and ₹4,500 per month, depending on the extent of coverage desired.

Administrative fees for university enrollment

Apart from tuition, universities in France may charge administrative fees for student services, library access, and other campus facilities. These fees vary widely but generally range from ₹13,000 to ₹45,000 annually, depending on the institution.

Accommodation guarantor services

Securing a guarantor can be challenging for international students renting an apartment. The VISALE service acts as a free guarantor for eligible students, which can be a significant financial relief. It avoids the need to pay private companies for costly guarantor services.

Miscellaneous costs

You’ll need officially certified translations if your documents (birth certificates and previous academic transcripts) are not in French. The cost for these services varies depending on the document type and length, but typically, you can expect to pay ₹2,500 to ₹6,500 per document.

Why choose France for higher studies?

Studying in France is not just about attaining a degree; it’s about experiencing the whole educational journey in one of the world’s most admired cultural and academic landscapes.

Let’s learn about some compelling reasons why students choose to study in France.

World-class educational institutions

Firstly, France houses some of the world’s most prestigious universities and Grandes Écoles, like Sorbonne University, École Normale Supérieure, HEC Paris, and INSEAD. 

These universities are highly respected for their rigorous academics, which attract faculty and students from around the world.

Wide range of programs taught in English

Although French is the primary language, many French universities offer prestigious programs taught entirely in English. 

This makes it easier for international students who may not be fluent in French to pursue their studies without a language barrier.

Affordable education

One of the most significant draws is its affordable education. 

Students are often surprised to find out how much it costs to study an MS in countries like the USA and Canada. However, the same courses cost much less in France. Thanks to government subsidies, France offers significantly lower tuition fees, which reduces the overall expense of studying here. 

Internship and employment opportunities

France’s strong connections between industry and academia open up numerous opportunities for internships and jobs after graduation. These connections help students pursue international careers, particularly in business, fashion, and engineering. 

Focus on innovation and research

Most of France’s education preaches innovation and research.

The government invests substantially in technology, science, and various other sectors. 

This commitment is reflected in the state-of-the-art research facilities and the emphasis on developing new technologies and solutions, providing an excellent foundation for research students.

Supportive environment for international students

The French government and educational institutions offer various welcome programs, French language courses, and assistance with accommodation and visa applications, ensuring a smooth transition for newcomers.

Quality of life

France consistently ranks highly for its quality of life. The healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and the country offers a good balance between work and life. 

Students benefit from this during their studies and beyond, leading to a fulfilling educational experience.

Scholarships and financial aid for studying in France

Whether you’re exploring how to afford a Master’s program or any other higher education degree, these financial aids play a crucial role in easing the cost of studying in France.

 Also Read: Scholarships to Study in France For Indian Students: How To Apply? [2024]

Top universities to study in France 

France is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, attracting students globally with their high academic standards and vibrant campus life. 

Here are some of the top universities in France that are renowned for their quality of education and research:

Finding the right university is crucial whether you’re considering an undergraduate or a postgraduate program. 

Note: With 72 universities, 25 multi-institute campuses, 271 doctoral schools, 227 engineering schools, and 220 business and management schools, France gives students a problem of choice. To bring order to this chaos, we built SelectRight. 

Over 60,000 students have used SelectRight to find their best university. Here’s how you can use it. 

• Set Up Your Profile: Provide your personal details and educational history.

• Outline Your Needs:  What kind of program, field of study, and university location are you seeking?

• Get AI-Powered Matches: SelectRight will suggest programs in France that fit your criteria.

• Compare and Choose: Review the matches, consider costs, rankings, and what matters most to you.

• Talk to an Advisor: Get personalized advice and help with your applications.

So, take the first step towards finding your massive RoI university. Register on SelectRight.   

Education loans for studying in France

While the prospect of studying in France is exciting, it’s no secret that it can get expensive. 

Whether you’re pondering the cost of studying engineering or an MBA in France, FundRight is here to help. 

FundRight simplifies how you secure an education loan for your studies abroad.

Here’s why 60,000 students have already trusted FundRight to secure their education loan for studying abroad. 

• FundRight offers you a DIY mechanism to compare loan offers from 15 of the top lenders (Indian and international)
• Lenders compete to offer you the best loan terms, so you get the best offers, unmatched anywhere else
• You can expect your loan offers within just two days, and loan approval within 10 days. 
• Using FundRight you could save you up to 23 lakhs over the life of your loan.
• FundRight also connects you with a financial expert who will help you negotiate for even better terms with the lender of your choice. 

  Whether seeking a full scholarship to study in France or exploring loan options, FundRight supports your journey. Register today. 

By securing the right funding, you can focus more on your studies and less on financial worries.

Also Read: How to Find the Best Student Loans for Study Abroad

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