Study in France for Indian Students

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:

• Public Universities: They are fully financed by the state and available to every deserving student. They also provide bachelors, masters and even doctoral programs.
• Grandes Écoles: Competitive and elite institutions that provide specialised education in engineering, business and public administration among others. These are very selective and frequently result in desirable employment opportunities in France and Europe.
• Specialised Schools: These cover fashion schools, hospitality schools, culinary arts schools, film schools, and design schools many of which are internationally recognised and industry focused.

France follows the LMD model (Licence, Master, Doctorate), in line with the Bologna Process:

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:

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:

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.

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:

Undergraduate Programs

• Academic Qualification: Completing Class XII with at least 65-75% marks.
• Application Fee: Varies by university (typically EUR 30–150).
• Additional Materials: Some programs may require a portfolio (art & design) or an entrance exam (medicine, engineering).

Postgraduate Programs

• Bachelor’s Degree: A 3–4-year degree in a relevant field with a minimum GPA of 2.5–3.0 (70%). Competitive programs may require a 3.5+ GPA.
• Work Experience: Some courses, like MBA or executive programs, prefer 2–3 years of experience.
• Standardised Tests: Certain programs require GMAT (650+) or GRE scores.
• Additional Materials: Some universities request research proposals, publications, or portfolios for creative fields.

General Requirements (for both levels)

• Application Form: Apply via Parcoursup (undergraduate) or directly to universities for postgraduate programs.
• Academic Transcripts: Provide official records of high school or bachelor's degree qualifications.
• English/French Proficiency: Depending on the program’s language of instruction.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): An essay outlining academic interests, goals, and motivation for studying in France.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): From teachers, professors, or employers supporting your application.
• Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements or scholarship confirmation.
• Optional Materials: Awards, published work, or certificates can strengthen your application.

English & French Language Proficiency

Most French universities require proof of language proficiency:

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:

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.

Cost of Living in France in 2026-2027

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:

• Proof of admission to a recognised French institution
• Proof of sufficient financial resources (€7,380/year or ~₹7.5L minimum)
• Valid passport
• Proof of accommodation in France
• Health insurance for the duration of stay
• Campus France NOC and completed interview
• Passport-size photographs (as per visa specs)
• Visa application fee (approx. €50 – €99 or ₹5,070 – ₹10,040)

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.

Major Scholarships for Indian Students in 2026-2027:

• Charpak Scholarship (by Campus France India)
  Offers tuition fee waivers, monthly stipend, and travel assistance. Available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and exchange students.
• Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
  Funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. Covers full tuition, monthly stipend (~€1,181 or ₹1.19L/month), travel, insurance, and cultural activities.
• Émile Boutmy Scholarship (Sciences Po)
  Up to €13,000/year (~₹13.18L) for international students based on merit and financial need.
• Erasmus+
  Offered for selected Master’s programs in EU-affiliated institutions. Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel.
• INSEAD & HEC Scholarships
  Prestigious French business schools offer merit- and need-based aid up to €25,000 (~₹25.35L) for MBA and MIM 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.

Education Loan Options for Indian Students

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:

• Coverage: Tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and insurance
• Interest rates: 9%–13% depending on collateral and applicant profile
• Moratorium: Up to course duration 6–12 months
• Repayment tenure: Up to 15 years

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:

• Affordable meals: CROUS university cafeterias offer full meals for as low as €3.3 (~₹335)
• Housing: Options range from university residences to private studios; students can get rental assistance through CAF
• Student discounts: On transport, museums, concerts, theatres, and even mobile plans
• Cultural access: Free or discounted entry to national museums and events for students
• International student communities: Strong Indian student networks, especially in Paris, Lille, Grenoble, and Toulouse

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.

Part-Time Work Opportunities:

• On-campus jobs: Library, cafeteria, or administrative support roles
• Off-campus jobs: Internships, tutoring, retail, hospitality, or tech support
• Minimum wage: ~€11.65/hour (₹1,045/hour approx.)

Post-Study Employment:

• Graduates can stay back for up to 2 years (Master’s level) to look for jobs under the APS (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour) scheme
• Popular sectors: 
  • IT
  • AI
  • Data Science
  • Business Analytics
  • Finance
  • Luxury Management
  • Sustainability
• Proficiency in French can significantly boost job prospects and increase access to domestic companies

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.

Post-Study Work (PSW) Options:

• Master’s graduates from recognised French institutions are eligible for a 2-year post-study work visa
• Bachelor's graduates can apply for a 1-year APS visa
• During this stay, students can convert the visa into a work permit if employed full-time

Permanent Residency (PR) Pathway:

• After 5 years of continuous residence, students can apply for a long-term residence card or PR
• Time spent on a student visa counts partially toward the residency requirement (typically 50%)
• PR applicants must show integration into French society, basic proficiency in French (A2 level or higher), and stable employment

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.

How can Leap Scholar help you in your Study abroad journey?

Leap Scholar offers end-to-end support, from finding the right course to securing your visa. Our experts help craft winning SOPs, access scholarships, and simplify education loans. You get personalised guidance built around your goals, not one-size-fits-all advice. With IELTS prep, mock interviews, and pre-departure sessions, you're fully prepared. We don’t just guide you, we walk the journey with you every step of the way.