
France has quickly become a top destination for international students, thanks to a focused effort by its government and academic institutions. Its reputation is supported by its academic strength, with more than 29 French universities listed in the 2025 QS World Rankings.Beyond its academic prestige, France is one of Europe's oldest and largest nations, having maintained its current form since the 15th century. It is a global leader in academia, the arts, and gastronomy, and ranks as the world's fourth-wealthiest country. The country's appeal to Indian students has been significantly strengthened by a landmark 2018 intergovernmental agreement on the mutual recognition of academic qualifications. This historic accord, a first for India, ensures that degrees from government-approved institutions in both countries are officially recognised by the other. This facilitates a smoother educational journey and enhances the career prospects of graduates returning to India. Additionally, recent bilateral agreements are fostering closer ties in education and research, making it even easier for Indian students to pursue their studies in France.


Studying in France offers a multitude of benefits, including access to renowned research laboratories, experienced professors dedicated to your academic success, and globally recognised institutions with exceptional learning resources and infrastructure. The capital, Paris, stands as a leading educational centre and a hub for innovation, business, Wine Industry, fashion, and technology. It is a city where Europe’s most astute entrepreneurs are pioneering exciting ventures to address some of the world’s most significant challenges. Furthermore, France provides an outstanding multicultural learning environment, bringing together students from across the globe to create a rich and diverse academic community.
68 Nobel Laureates and 13 Fields Medals
France is home to 3,500+ higher education institutions
4 French universities in top 100 in the world (QS World Rankings 2024)
French is a popular language used all around the world
Paris – one among top 10 student cities globally
Affordable and Subsidised Education
Growing Opportunities in a Global Hub
Mutual Recognition of Degrees
Exceptional Post-Study Career Prospects

September / January

France offers a top-notch education at a comparatively lower cost, with many state-funded universities having subsidised tuition fees. It has globally recognised universities, numerous programmes taught in English, and a rich, diverse culture.
Public universities are heavily subsidised by the French government, with tuition fees ranging from approximately €2,800 to €3,800 per year. Private universities and business schools have higher fees, typically ranging from €8,000 to €27,000 annually.
The average monthly living cost is estimated to be around €650, but this can vary significantly depending on whether the cities like Lyon, Nantes, and Bordeaux are more affordable.
Popular courses include Business and Management (especially MBA and Luxury Brand Management), Engineering and Technology (aerospace, mechanical, and computer science), Data Science and AI, Logistic and supply chain, Hospitality and Culinary Arts.
No, all programmes, especially those taught in English, many universities and business schools offer programmes entirely in English.
For Indian students, many French business schools offer flexibility by accepting applications without mandatory English proficiency tests. Few top ranked public universities require proof of English proficiency IELTS, GMAT or GRE
The main types are the short-stay visa (Schengen, for up to 90 days), the temporary long-stay visa (for 3-6 months), and the long-stay visa (VLS-TS, for more than 6 months), which is required for full degree programmes.
Essential documents include a valid passport, an admission letter from a French institution, proof of financial resources, proof of health insurance, and all academic documents.
Campus France is the official French agency for the promotion of higher education. Indian students attend a mandatory academic interview before applying for their visa.
Yes, there are several scholarships, (500) including the French Government's Eiffel Excellence Scholarship and the Charpak Scholarship programme, as well as scholarships offered by individual French institutions and joint scholarships with the French Embassy.
The Charpak Scholarship Programme is a French government scholarship for Indian students at the Bachelor's, Master's, and research levels. It can offer monthly stipends, a student visa fee waiver, and assistance with accommodation.
Yes, international students are allowed to work part-time for up to 964 hours per year, which is equivalent to about 20 hours per week. During vacation 40 hours this can help supplement living costs.
Students can look for jobs in hospitality, retail, tutoring, logistics, delivery jobs, restaurants, supermarkets, or on-campus jobs.
After completing a Master's degree, Indian students can apply for a two-year temporary residence permit called the Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS). This allows them to stay and look for a job.
Highly-ranked and popular institutions include Université PSL, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Sorbonne University, and business schools like HEC Paris and INSEAD.
Yes, the process is straightforward if you follow the procedure and provide all the required documents accurately. Timely application and a well-prepared visa file are key.
The visa application fee is typically around €50, and the Campus France processing fee is approximately ₹18,500.
No, A student's spouse can only visit on a visitor visa, which is a short-stay visa. A long-term stay is generally not possible until the student secures a work permit after their studies, at which point they can apply to bring their spouse to France through a formal family reunion process.
No. You will get your France visa if you submit correct academic documents, provide sufficient proof of funds, and present a clear study plan with a well-defined future plan.
Yes, the Campus France interview is a required step for Indian students applying for a long-stay student visa. During the interview, a Campus France Manager will ask you about your reasons for choosing France, Institution, course and your study plan. It's a simple way for them to check your application and your motivation. You just need to be prepared with your documents and be ready to explain your study and career goals clearly