The first thoughts of studying abroad in France may include you strolling through charming Parisian streets, croissants safely held in a brown paper bag, after you’ve just attended all your classes. But how do you start this journey? We’ve put together a guide to help you do that.
In this guide, you’ll find answers to the most important questions students have about studying in France. Let’s begin.
Student requirements for France
Let’s explore the student requirements for studying in France as an Indian student.
- Age requirement
You must be over 18 years old to study in France.
This means Indian students should ideally start preparing to study in France after their 12th grade exams.
- Course Selection
Visit Campus France for comprehensive information on available courses.
- Acceptance by a Higher Education Institution
Before you can apply for a student visa, a French higher education institution must accept you.
The process for enrolling in a French higher education institution depends on your nationality. As an Indian student, you are included in the online enrollment scheme. This can be done through two platforms:
This platform lets students manage their application to French higher-ed institutes electronically. It lets you apply to multiple programs and institutions, track the status of your applications, and handle administrative procedures. India is one of the 69 countries whose students can use this platform to manage their applications.
- Campus France
Campus France offers guidance on choosing programs, living in France, and navigating the application process.
Note: Students applying to an undergraduate programs will need to follow the “Parcoursup” procedure.
Parcoursup is an online admission platform for nearly all higher education institutions in France. Through Parcoursup, you can submit applications, receive offers, and confirm your acceptance.
If you are applying beyond the first year of university or for graduate programs, you may not need to use Parcoursup. Instead, you will apply directly through the university or through the Études en France platform.
- Visa Types
It depends on the duration of your course:
- For a training course not exceeding three months: You’ll receive a short-stay visa.
- For a training course exceeding three or six months: You’ll receive a temporary long-stay visa.
- For training or a course exceeding six months: You’ll receive a long-stay visa equivalent to a residence permit.
Visa fees vary based on the country or territory you’re applying from.
- Essential Documents for Visa Application
- Certificate of Enrolment in a French institution
- Proof of financial means
- Airline tickets
- Medical Insurance (Costs around €500 to €800 per year)
- Documents indicating your place of accommodation upon arrival in France
Note: Apart from the above, you also need to be academically sound. So, find out which tests you need to clear, and how much percentage is required to study in France.
Also read: Top 5 Countries to Study in Europe: Universities, Cost of Living
Benefits of Studying in France for Indian students
Studying in France is a lucrative opportunity for international students because of the following reasons:
- Top-Tier Education
France boasts world-class universities with a strong focus on research and practical application. Some of the most respected French universities are:
- Université PSL
- Institut Polytechnique de Paris
- Sorbonne University
- Université Paris-Saclay
- École Normale Supérieure de Lyon
- Multilingual Opportunities
Many programs in French universities are offered in English. However, students ought to consider courses delivered in the French language, as they enforce a discipline that helps students learn the French language quicker and better.
- Scholarships and Funding
Numerous scholarships and education loans are available for Indian students to ease the financial burden.
Some examples include:
- Charpak Master’s Programme
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme
- INSEAD Deepak and Sunita Gupta Endowed Scholarship for Leadership
- Emile Boutmy Scholarships
- Culturally Rich Environment
Immerse yourself in French history, art, cuisine, and fashion. France is very chic and offers a vibrant environment.
- Internationally Recognized Degree
A French degree is valued by employers worldwide and boosts your career prospects.
Admission Process
Campus France is a government agency that operates under the French Ministry of External Affairs. Its mission is to make it easy for international students to study in France.
“Etudes en France” (Studying in France) is managed by Campus France.
The “Études en France” procedure offers prospective students guidance and support at every step in the admission process.
The Études en France (EE) procedure is given below:
Create Your Account
- Visit the Études en France website and create your account by clicking on ‘Register’.
- Fill in the account creation form and choose a password.
- Note your Campus France Registration Number
Login and Apply
- Go to the Campus France website and log in using your chosen username and password.
- Click on ‘Applicant’ to apply to French institutions.
- Fill in your personal information, academic records, language skills, CV, and statement of purpose (SOP).
- Upload required documents (resume, photograph, passport, academic records).
Academic Interview
- The Campus France office will contact you for an appointment.
- Attend an academic interview with the Campus France Manager.
- Explain your reasons for choosing France and the institution where you’ve been admitted.
- Carry all mandatory documents and the Campus France fee payment receipt.
- You will receive an interview completion certificate from the Campus France advisor.
Confirmation and Visa Procedure
After your file is verified by a Campus France Manager, you’ll start receiving responses from universities.
Check the calendar and the portal for acceptance.
Also read: Steps to Study Abroad After 12th For Indian Students
Top courses to study in France
Your choice of the best course to study in France depends on your academic interests.
However, some courses are particularly popular and highly regarded in France.
These are some options to explore:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
France is home to some of the world’s top-ranked business schools.
Institutions like INSEAD, HEC Paris, and ESSEC Business School provide MBA programs with a focus on management, leadership, and international business.
- Master of Science (MSc) in Engineering
France is known for its strong engineering programs. Many institutes teach top-notch courses in fields such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and aerospace engineering.
École Polytechnique, CentraleSupélec, and École des Ponts ParisTech offer highly regarded MSc programs in engineering.
- Master of Science (MSc) in Computer Science
France is at the forefront of technology and innovation. This makes it an ideal location for studying computer science.
Universities such as Paris-Sud University, École Polytechnique, and Grenoble Alpes University offer MSc programs with specializations in artificial intelligence, and data science.
- Master of Arts (MA) in International Relations
With its rich history, France is an excellent destination for studying international relations.
Sciences Po Paris, Paris-Sud University, and Sorbonne University offer MA programs with a focus on diplomacy, conflict resolution, and global governance.
Besides these, France is well known for its culinary arts and wine culture. This makes it a mecca for students of gastronomy.
Le Cordon Bleu and Institut Paul Bocuse offer programs that teach wine production, and gastronomy.
Top universities to study in France
France is home to several prestigious universities and institutions. They are globally renowned for their academic excellence and research contributions.
Here are some of the best places to study in France:
- IÉSEG School of Management
Established in 1964, IÉSEG School of Management is one of the top business schools in France. It is part of the Université Catholique de Lille. The USP of this institute is that it holds the prestigious Triple Crown accreditation (EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA). This distinction is shared by less than 1% of business schools worldwide, and IÉSEG is one of them. Quite a few other French institutes are a part of this exclusive club.
- EM Lyon Business School https://em-lyon.com/en
EM Lyon Business School was founded in 1872. The institute’s focus is on making students skilled enough to shape their own future. The school operates multiple campuses in France and abroad and offers a variety of programs that integrate entrepreneurship and innovation. EM Lyon is recognized for its strong research output and has also earned Triple Crown accreditation.
- Edhec Business School https://www.edhec.edu/en
Edhec Business School has campuses in Lille, Nice, Paris, London, and Singapore. This B-school is known for its academic excellence and real-world business research. It too boasts the Triple Crown accreditation. Edhec’s mission centers around training entrepreneurs for the world. The institute lays special emphasis on research that drives business education.
- ESSEC Business School https://www.essec.edu/en/
ESSEC Business School was founded in 1907 and is another distinguished member of the small group of business schools with Triple Crown accreditation. It has campuses in France, Singapore, and Morocco. The ESSEC offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and executive programs.
- Grenoble Ecole de Management https://www.grenoble-em.com/en
Founded in 1984, Grenoble Ecole de Management (GEM) is known for its focus on the management of technology and innovation. GEM operates campuses in Grenoble, Paris, and Berlin. The institute enjoys a strong reputation for engaging deeply with its regional ecosystem to drive innovation and societal impact
- Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University is a public research university in Paris, France. It was founded in 1257, making it one of the oldest universities in the world. Sorbonne University is ranked #59 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2024.
- École Normale Supérieure (ENS Paris)
École Normale Supérieure (ENS Paris) is a public research university in Paris, France.
It was founded in 1794 and is one of the most prestigious universities in France. ENS Paris is ranked #184 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2024.
- Paris Sciences et Lettres University (PSL)
Paris Sciences et Lettres University (PSL) is another public research university in Paris, France.
It was founded in 2010 and is a merger of several reputed institutions, including École Normale Supérieure (ENS Paris). PSL is ranked #24 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2024.
- École Polytechnique (L’X)
École Polytechnique (L’X) is a private research university in Palaiseau, France.
It was founded in 1794 and is a highly regarded university in France. École Polytechnique is ranked #61 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2024.
- HEC Paris
HEC Paris is a private business school in Paris, France.
It was founded in 1881 and is one of the best business schools in the world. HEC Paris is ranked #5 in the world by QS World University Rankings (MBA schools).
- Paris-Sud University (Université Paris-Sud)
Paris-Sud University (Université Paris-Sud) is a public research university in Orsay, France.
It was founded in 1970 and is one of the largest universities in France. Paris-Sud University is ranked #358 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2024.
There are many more institutes and universities to choose from.
As a student, you no doubt find it difficult to choose between these reputed universities.
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Cost of studying in France
The cost of studying in France varies greatly depending on the type of institution and the course you choose.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Public Universities
Public universities in France are known for their low tuition fees due to government subsidies.
Expect to pay around €2,800 per year for a Bachelor’s degree and €3,800 per year for a Master’s degree (these figures can vary).
Private Universities
Tuition fees at private universities are significantly higher with costs ranging from €3,000 to €10,000 per year.
Business schools are expensive and can cost €30,000 for some business programs.
That being said, it depends entirely on the institution. A PG degree from École Polytechnique can cost €14,900 annually.
Also read: Affordable Universities In France For International Students: Costs, FAQs, and more
Scholarships to study in France
There are multiple scholarships, fellowships, and grants that you can avail to study in France after the 12th grade. Here is a condensed list:
You can get funding for your Master’s degrees in various fields via this scholarship. It offers a monthly living allowance of €860 (approx. ₹77,389).
This is a prestigious scholarship for Master’s and PhD students, with the following benefits:
- A monthly allowance of €1,181 for master’s students and €1,800 for doctoral students to cover living expenses.
- Coverage of the cost of a one-way flight from the student’s home country to France, as well as domestic travel costs to the city of study within France.
- Enrollment of the student in the French national health insurance scheme (Sécurité Sociale) and a supplemental insurance plan that offers comprehensive health coverage during their stay.
- An option for the student to stay in student dormitories managed by CROUS (Centre régional des œuvres universitaires et scolaires) or private housing, though housing costs are not directly covered by the scholarship.
- Weekend trips, city tours, and cultural events for recipients to explore France
This scholarship offers amounts up to €25,000 to candidates from emerging countries (India included). Each year, one or two candidates are granted this scholarship, so the competition is tough.
This scholarship supports students with outstanding academic performance, for their admission in undergraduate or Master’s programs offered by Science Po, a leading university. This university specializes in the humanities and social sciences. The scholarship is available to students outside the EU. The benefits include partial or full tuition fee waivers, with amounts ranging from €6,500 to €14,720 per year for bachelor’s students, and €13,100 per year for master’s students.
Other scholarships include:
- Ambassade de France en Inde Scholarship
- Campus France Scholarships
- IMT Scholarships for International Students
- ESCP Business School Scholarships for Indian Students
- École Normale Supérieure (ENS) International Selection Scholarship
- French Government Scholarship for Indian Students
Education Loans for Studying in France
Are you worried about the cost of studying in France? Education loans can be an option for you.
Many banks and financial institutions offer loans for studying abroad. These cover expenses such as tuition fees, living costs, travel, and other related expenses.
Some of the top banks and NBFCs that offer educational loans for studying in France after the 12th grade are:
- State Bank of India
- Punjab National Bank
- Bank of Baroda
- ICICI Bank
- Bank of India
- Bank of Maharashtra
- Central Bank of India
- Axis Bank
- Kotak Mahindra Bank
- Canara Bank
- Mpower Finance (NBFC)
- Prodigy Finance (NBFC)
The interest rates are highly competitive and range from 8.5% to 14% depending on your loan amount and creditworthiness.
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Job prospects in France
France’s job market is vibrant and diverse. It offers plenty of opportunities across various sectors.
From technology and healthcare to fashion and hospitality, there’s a wide array of career paths to explore.
But you need to know fluent French to land a job in France.
Post-Study work permit in France
A student can stay in France after graduation only if they have a paid job.
If you find a job that pays at least 1.5 times the minimum wage, you can ask the local government to alter your status from student to employee.
This will allow you to work full-time and get a work permit after studying in France.
Cost of living in France
What will be your living costs while you study in France?
In the city center, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment typically ranges from €700 to €1,500 per month,
It’s notably lower in the suburbs.
For food, expect a monthly grocery bill for one person to hover around €400.
As for transportation, a monthly public transportation pass covering metro, bus, and tram services ranges from €50 to €80.
These costs provide a framework for estimating monthly expenses for living in France.
FAQs
How to study MD in France?
To study MD in France as an Indian student:
- Ensure strong academic performance in science
- Clear the NEET exam, and
- Achieve French language proficiency (B2 level)
- Research universities
- Understand admission requirements, and
- Secure financial support for tuition and living costs
Do I need to learn French to study in France?
It depends! Many universities offer programs in English. But, learning French enhances your experience and might be required for some programs. It is easier to study in France if you know at least basic French.
What is the structure of the French education system?
The system is divided into stages: preschool, primary school, secondary school (collège and lycée), and higher education (universities, Grandes Ecoles).
What is a baccalaureate?
The baccalaureate is a diploma awarded at the end of secondary school, required for entry into higher education.
What is Parcoursup?
Parcoursup is a centralized online platform for applying to higher education programs in France. Some specialized schools are using it in place of EE.
What is per capita income in France?
The per capita income in France is generally lower than that of the United States. In 2020, France’s per capita income was approximately $44,400, while the United States’ per capita income was around $63,500.
