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France is a prominent study destination where Indian students receive an internationally reputed education at a relatively low tuition, where tuition fees in a public university start as low as €2770/year (?2.8 lakhs). It offers world-class study programs taught in English with more than 1,500 universities and colleges, including the highest-ranking universities such as University PSL and Sorbonne. Other advantages of the students include close connections with industry in various fields such as engineering, business, fashion, and AI. Two-year post-study employment visa and right to work anywhere in the Schengen area makes France a smart choice in terms of European career development.
Did you know?
France spends nearly 2.2% of its GDP on research and innovation, making it a hub for STEM fields.
Studying in France offers Indian students affordable, high-quality education with tuition as low as €2,770 (?2.8 lakh) in public universities. With 1,600+ English-taught programs and globally recognised degrees, it’s a hub for fields like AI, fashion, and culinary arts. Students gain exposure to French culture and language, enhancing global employability. A French visa also allows travel and post-study work across 26 Schengen countries.
French higher education system is categorised, internationally acknowledged, and built to enhance academic specialisation and research. It is mainly separated into three kinds of institutions:
France follows the LMD model (Licence, Master, Doctorate), in line with the Bologna Process:
| Program Type | Duration |
| Licence (Bachelor’s) | 3 years |
| Master’s | 2 years |
| Doctorate | 3 years |
This organisational structure is ready to offer the Indian students higher education with respect to the international standards and it is also facilitated with easy transfer of the credits throughout Europe.
There are a number of the leading universities in France and rated amongst the top schools in the world, in terms of academic excellence, employability, research. Some of the best available options of Indian students are:
| University Name | QS World Ranking 2026 | Average Annual Tuition fees (EUR/INR) |
| Université PSL, Paris | #24 | €2,770 – €4,000 (?2.80L – ?4.05L) |
| Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau | #38 | €5,000 – €10,000 (?5.07L – ?10.14L) |
| Sorbonne University, Paris | #59 | €2,770 – €3,770 (?2.80L – ?3.82L) |
| Université Paris-Saclay, Paris | #71 | €3,000 – €4,000 (?3.04L – ?4.05L) |
| École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon | #111 | €2,770 – €3,770 (?2.80L – ?3.82L) |
| Sciences Po, Paris | #242 | €10,700 – €13,000 (?10.85L – ?13.18L) |
Note: The amount may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.
The universities mentioned above are characterised by an advanced level of research, international partnerships and successful employment possibilities after graduation. They primarily teach English programs in fields such as science, technology, business and social sciences, and hence are suitable to Indian students seeking international exposure.
France has both nationally and internationally established reputation, in traditional course studies and niche and industry-specific courses. Below is a curated list of the most popular courses chosen by Indian students, along with key details:
| Course | Description | Average Annual Tuition Fees (EUR/INR) |
| Business & Management | Offered at elite institutions like HEC Paris, INSEAD, and ESCP, these programs focus on global leadership, finance, entrepreneurship, and marketing. | €10,000 – €25,000 (?10.14L – ?25.35L) |
| Engineering | Renowned for aerospace, mechanical, AI, and computer science; students gain strong theoretical grounding with practical exposure. | €3,000 – €6,000 (?3.04L – ?6.08L) |
| Fashion, Design & Luxury Management | Paris leads in global fashion education; schools like IFA Paris and Institut Français de la Mode offer hands-on learning in luxury markets. | €10,000 – €15,000 (?10.14L – ?15.21L) |
| Culinary Arts & Hospitality | Institutions like Le Cordon Bleu and Ferrandi Paris offer world-class culinary training combined with hospitality management education. | €8,000 – €15,000 (?8.11L – ?15.21L) |
| Data Science & Artificial Intelligence | Emerging tech hubs like Paris and Grenoble make France ideal for data and AI education, supported by strong research facilities. | €5,000 – €8,000 (?5.07L – ?8.11L) |
| Political Science & Intl. Relations | Led by Sciences Po, these programs are designed for careers in global governance, diplomacy, and public policy. | €10,700 – €13,000 (?10.85L – ?13.18L) |
| Architecture & Urban Planning | Focuses on sustainable design and urban innovation; institutions combine architectural creativity with environmental responsibility. | €3,000 – €6,000 (?3.04L – ?6.08L) |
Note: The amount may vary depending on the program level & currency exchange rate.
As mentioned in the table, there are great variety of academic and professional opportunities in France that are interesting to Indian students. No matter your interest, in business, technology or even arts, you will be able to find courses that integrate theory and practice. The majority of programs incorporate internship, getting you a well-developed professional network. Creativity courses, such as fashion and cuisine, are imparted in a practical model, which is difficult to access in other locations. The prices differ, yet the impact and quality justify the expense.
Universities in France have two large intakes each year, and are flexible, depending on the academic plans and students. Every intake has its distinct benefits with regard to the course offered and the intake admission schedules.
| Intake | Features |
| Fall Intake (September- October) |
|
| Spring Intake (January- February) |
|
Fall admission is the main academic semester with a greater variety of programmes and financial opportunities. The students whose applications are not met during the fall session have an opportunity to apply during the spring intake. There is however, limited availability of courses. It is advisable that one should plan at least 10 months to abide by application and visa requirements.
Applying to French institutions is organised, but a little bit different whether you apply to a public university or to a private school (such as a Grande Ecole or a business school). In the following, a step-by-step process is identified:
1. Shortlist Programs and Universities: Research programs based on your academic background, career goals, language preference, and city preference. Ensure they are recognised by the French Ministry of Higher Education or Campus France.
2. Prepare and Submit Application: Most public university applications are submitted through the Études en France portal, managed by Campus France. Private institutions usually require direct applications via their official websites.
You will need to submit academic transcripts, resume/CV, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letter(s) of Recommendation (LOR), proof of language proficiency, and a passport copy.
3. Attend Campus France Interview: All Indian applicants applying via Études en France must complete a short interview with Campus France after submitting documents. This step validates your academic intent and ensures you're aware of the next stages.
4. Receive Offer Letter and Confirm Admission: Once shortlisted, you’ll receive an offer letter. Accept it, pay the initial fee (if required), and collect all documents for visa submission.
5. Apply for Visa: With your confirmed admission, you can begin the long-stay visa (VLS-TS) process via VFS France.
Being organised with your timelines, SOP, and finances is crucial as admission cycles in France are strict and not as flexible as other countries.
The admission criteria for Indian students depend on the university and program. Below is a general guideline:
Most French universities require proof of language proficiency:
| Test | Minimum Score Required |
| IELTS | 6.0 - 6.5 |
| TOEFL | 80 - 100 |
| PTE | 60+ |
| DELF/DALF | B2 or higher (for French-taught programs) |
Mastering the language can improve academic performance and enhance job opportunities in France.
France offers one of the most cost-effective education systems among major Western countries, especially in public universities. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
| Expense Type | Estimated Annual Cost (EUR/INR) |
| Tuition (Public Universities) | €2,770 – €3,770 (?2.80L – ?3.82L) |
| Tuition (Private Universities) | €8,000 – €20,000 (?8.11L – ?20.28L) |
| Living Expenses (avg.) | €9,000 – €12,000 (?9.12L – ?12.17L) |
| Health Insurance (compulsory) | €300 – €500 (?30,425 – ?50,710) |
| Transportation (Student passes) | €20 – €70/month (?2,028 – ?7,100/month) |
Note: The amount may vary depending on the courses, location & currency exchange rate.
With the high level of government subsidies, international students enjoy much lower tuition fees in the public institutions and then cost of studying in France is also a high value decision with quality education being offered at a fraction of the cost in other western countries.
The living costs will vary according to the city which the students can expect and Paris falls on the higher side. Nevertheless, cheaper cost of living in France can be offered in cities like Toulouse and Nantes. It is not a difficult life being a student in France they have state benefits such as housing aid (CAF), part-time jobs and heavily subsidised transport among others.
Indian students pursuing long-term courses (more than 3 months) in France must apply for a VLS-TS visa (Long-Stay Student Visa). This visa acts as both a residence permit and study visa.
Documents required for Indian Students Studying in France:
Once you reach France, you must validate your visa within 3 months. The visa allows you to work part-time for up to 964 hours per year (approx. 20 hours/week).
France offers a wide array of scholarships to attract international talent. Many of these are funded by the government, while others are offered by universities or European Union programs.
These scholarships greatly ease the financial pressure of studying in France for Indian students. With options for merit, need, and program-specific aid, they open doors to world-class education. You can explore more options on scholarships in France to find what fits you best.
Many Indian students fund their French education through education loans from banks and NBFCs. Major lenders like SBI, HDFC Credila, Axis Bank, Avanse, and ICICI Bank offer secured and unsecured loans for amounts up to ?50 lakhs.
Loan Features:
Having an admission letter from a recognised French institution improves loan approval chances. Many lenders also partner with LeapScholar to offer better rates, quick approvals, and no hidden charges.
Student life in France is diverse, culturally rich, and filled with academic and social opportunities. Whether you're studying in Paris or Lyon, students can enjoy a mix of historical heritage and modern lifestyle.
What Makes Student Life Unique:
France promotes work–life balance, which reflects in its education style—students are encouraged to explore research, internships, and extracurriculars beyond academics.
International students in France are allowed to work part-time during their studies, up to 964 hours/year (approximately 20 hours/week). This enables students to gain valuable work experience and partially fund their living expenses.
France is home to global employers like Airbus, L'Oréal, Dassault Systems, Capgemini, BNP Paribas, and Michelin, offering global roles with European exposure. Indian students can also find jobs in France across diverse sectors after graduation, boosting their international career prospects.
Those who transition from student to work permit status in high-demand fields find it easier to secure long-term stay or PR. With a post study work visa France offers international graduates the opportunity to gain professional experience and build a career in the country.
Although Paris is the most well-known city that a student may study in, there is also a good academic setting, reasonable living standards, and industry contacts in other French cities:
Paris: Capital of Academic and cultural, most leading universities are located here, particularly good in humanities, arts, business and political science. Paris is ranked #7 best student cities in the world.
Lyon: A large city with student population, which is characterized by engineering, science and business courses and smaller living expenses. Lyon is ranked #47 best student cities in the world.
Toulouse: The nerve center of aeronautics and aviation in France, perfect university city to study engineering and technology.
Grenoble: Featured with research-based STEM and international collaborations in such fields as IT and data science.
Lille: Provides high level of business and law studies, multicultural student community and it is cheaper than Paris. Both cities have a semblance of academic excellence, student amenities and access of job opportunities after studies.
France offers Indian students a rare combination of quality, affordability, and global opportunity. From low tuition fees in public universities to scholarships and CAF housing benefits, the country supports a wide range of learners. With globally ranked institutions, over 1,500 English-taught courses, and strong post-study work prospects, France is more than just a cultural hub, it’s a gateway to Europe and a springboard for global careers.