France is one of the most sought-after study destinations, attracting thousands of international students each year. With a globally recognized education system, diverse career opportunities, and a vibrant lifestyle, it offers everything a student could ask for. If you’re considering to study in France for higher studies, here’s everything you need to know.
Why Study in France?
Before diving into the details, let’s explore why France stands out as a top study destination for international students:
✅ Globally Recognised Universities – Home to prestigious institutions like HEC Paris, Sorbonne University, and École Polytechnic, France consistently ranks among the best education systems worldwide.
✅ Affordable Education – Compared to other popular destinations, students who study in France benefit from significantly lower tuition fees, especially in public universities, along with scholarships and government funding options that make education even more accessible.
✅ Diverse & High-Demand Courses – From business and engineering to fashion and culinary arts, France offers cutting-edge programs tailored to global industry demands.
✅ Work While Studying – International students who study in France can work up to 20 hours per week, gaining experience while managing their living expenses.
✅ Pathways to PR – Post-study work visas allow graduates to gain employment experience, which can later lead to permanent residency opportunities.
✅ Rich Cultural & Professional Exposure – Studying in France means immersing yourself in a vibrant culture while building strong professional networks with leading global companies.
👉 Now, let’s break down everything you need to know about study in France and what makes it an excellent choice for international students.
1. Education System
France has a well-structured education system that includes public universities, private institutions, and Grandes Écoles (elite schools).
- Public Universities: Offer affordable, high-quality education in a variety of disciplines.
- Grandes Écoles: Highly competitive institutions offering specialized degrees in engineering, business, and public administration.
- Private Institutions: Focus on fields like business, fashion, and hospitality with a more industry-oriented approach.
- Language of Instruction: Many courses are available in English, but knowing French can be beneficial for daily life and career opportunities.
2. Top Courses to Study in France
France is known for its excellence in various fields of study. Here are some of the most popular courses:
- Business & Management – HEC Paris, INSEAD
- Engineering & Technology – École Polytechnique, CentraleSupélec
- Fashion & Luxury Management – Institut Français de la Mode, ESSEC Business School
- Hospitality & Tourism – Vatel, Ferrandi Paris
- Artificial Intelligence & Data Science – Université PSL, Grenoble INP
- Aerospace Engineering – ISAE-SUPAERO, École Nationale de l’Aviation Civile (ENAC)
3. Affordability: Cost of Studying
France is relatively affordable compared to other popular study destinations like the USA and UK.
Tuition Fees (per year)
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Public Universities: ₹1.5 lakh – ₹5 lakh
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Grandes Écoles & Private Institutions: ₹8 lakh – ₹30 lakh
Living Expenses (per month)
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Paris: ₹80,000 – ₹1,20,000
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Other Cities (Lyon, Toulouse, Montpellier): ₹50,000 – ₹80,000
Scholarships for International Students
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Eiffel Excellence Scholarship – Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel.
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Campus France Scholarships – Various scholarships funded by the French government.
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Charpak Scholarship – Exclusively for Indian students, covering tuition and living expenses.
4. Work Opportunities for International Students
During Studies
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Students can work up to 20 hours per week.
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The average part-time salary is ₹800 – ₹1,200 per hour.
After Graduation
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France offers a post-study work visa for up to 2 years.
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In-demand sectors include business, IT, engineering, and hospitality.
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Many global companies like Airbus, L’Oréal, and BNP Paribas actively hire international graduates.
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5. Lifestyle in France
France offers an exciting and multicultural student life.
- Diverse Student Community – Students from over 150 countries.
- Excellent Public Transport – Affordable metro, buses, and student discounts.
- Cultural Attractions – Museums, historical sites, and festivals throughout the year.
- Food & Dining – Experience authentic French cuisine beyond just croissants and baguettes!
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6. Visa Process to Study in France
Types of Student Visas
a. Short-Stay Visa (Less than 3 months) – For short courses or exchange programs.
b. Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS) – For degree programs; allows students to work part-time and extend their stay.
Visa Application Process
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Apply through Campus France and get an NOC (No Objection Certificate).
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Submit documents including university acceptance letter, financial proof, and accommodation details.
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Attend the visa interview and submit biometrics.
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Get your visa within 3-4 weeks.
- And you’re set to study in France.
7. Permanent Residency (PR) Options
After completing studies, students have options to stay and eventually apply for PR.
a. Post-Study Work Visa – Stay up to 2 years to find a job.
b. Talent Passport Visa – For skilled workers and professionals in high-demand fields.
c. French Citizenship – After 5 years of living and working in France, you can apply for PR or even citizenship.
8. Best Cities for Students
France has several student-friendly cities, each with its unique appeal.
Top Picks for Students
- Paris – Best for business, fashion, and research.
- Lyon – Affordable and great for engineering and business students.
- Toulouse – Known for aerospace and technology courses.
- Montpellier – A budget-friendly city with a lively student population.
- Grenoble – A hub for innovation, IT, and science programs.
Get more information on Study in France here
Final Thoughts
France offers top-quality education, excellent job opportunities, and a rich cultural experience. It’s an ideal destination for affordable studies, career growth, and a vibrant student life. Get expert guidance on study in France—call 9717859050 or visit Abroadera.
