France, known for its art, history, and innovation, is fast becoming a top destination for international students. With over 3,500 public and private institutions offering world-class education, a diverse range of programs taught in English, and globally recognized degrees, studying in France offers both academic and personal growth.
Why Study in France?
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High-Quality Education:
France boasts top-tier universities and Grandes Écoles with strong global rankings in fields like business, engineering, fashion, culinary arts, and political science. -
Affordable Tuition Fees:
Public universities offer low tuition (as low as €2,770 per year for undergraduate courses), and students also benefit from government-subsidized housing and healthcare. -
Programs in English:
Many bachelor’s and master’s programs are now taught entirely in English, especially in fields like Management, Science, Technology, and International Relations. -
Cultural Experience:
France is rich in heritage and offers students a chance to explore history, fashion, architecture, and cuisine, all while learning or improving French language skills. -
Career Opportunities:
With a post-study work visa option of up to 2 years, students can gain international work experience in Europe’s third-largest economy. -
Work Opportunities
Another reason why as an Indian student, you should pick France to study abroad is because there are great working opportunities. Whether it is part-time work options or post-graduation working opportunities, Indian students will get benefits at every step of their study abroad journey. To help students with their everyday finances and gain relatable experience in their field of study, there are several part-time and internship opportunities.
Non-EU students can work for 20 hours per week in a part-time job to gain practical experience and improve their skills Furthermore, for students who wants to pursue working in France, the French government allow them to post-study work visa that gives the liberty to stay in the country for up to 2 years after graduation. The post-study work visa in France for Indian students is the ultimate gateway to global exposure, thanks to the easy visa process.
Requirements to Study in France for Indian Students
With the above-mentioned benefits, you must have got to know why you should study in France. However, now, in order to study in France, there is a list of requirements that Indian students have to fulfil. So, let’s give a quick look at the requirements to study in France for Indian students.
- Eligibility Requirements: For a graduate degree in France, Indian students must have cleared their 12th from a renowned board and good academic standing. For postgraduate degree in France, Indian students must have a bachelor’s degree in the relevant field from a well-recognised university. Along with that, it would be better to have relevant experience in the field of study.
- Language Proficiency: If applying for a course that is taught in French then Indian students must take French language proficiency tests like DELF, DALF, or TCF. If enrolling for an English-taught course, Indian students must take the English proficiency exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, with a band score of 6.0-7.0 or 80-100 respectively.
- Admission Process: Select a course and university as per your choice and budget. Then gather required documents like; academic transcripts, language proficiency certificates, SOP or LOR, a resume, passport size photographs, and a valid passport, along with financial proof.
- Student Visa: After getting accepted in a French university, the next step is to apply for student visa. The critical requirement for an Indian student includes; applying for a VLS-TS visa, along with a valid passport, financial proof, accommodation proof, passport-sized photos, and visa fee payment receipt.
- Financial Requirements: Even though the cost of study in France for Indian students is very low, hardly €200 to €800 per year for most of the courses, the cost of living might vary depending on the cities. In major cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, the cost of living may range from €800 to €1,500 per month.
Having these requirements fulfilled will really help Indian students to get admission in their preferred university in France along with having a comfortable stay there.
Top Universities in France
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Sorbonne University
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École Polytechnique
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HEC Paris
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Sciences Po
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INSEAD
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Université PSL (Paris Sciences et Lettres)
These institutions offer cutting-edge research facilities and maintain partnerships with global industries.
Popular Courses
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Business & Management
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Fashion & Luxury Brand Management
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Computer Science
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International Law
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Culinary Arts & Hospitality
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Engineering & Technology
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Arts & Humanities
Admission Requirements
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Academic transcripts
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Valid passport
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Language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL for English programs; TCF/DELF for French)
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SOP/Statement of Purpose
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Letters of Recommendation
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Resume/CV (for master’s programs)
France Student Visa
International students require a VLS-TS, long-stay student visa to study in France. Once admitted, students must apply through Campus France, followed by an interview and visa submission to the French consulate.
Final Thoughts
Choosing to study in France is more than just earning a degree—it’s about becoming part of a globally connected, culturally rich academic environment. Whether you’re aiming for the Eiffel Tower or elite classrooms, France provides the perfect blend of opportunity and experience.
Need help applying to top French universities?
MetaApply IE is your trusted partner for study abroad guidance, from application to visa and beyond. Let’s make your France dream a reality.
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