France is a highly desirable destination for studying abroad, attracting many students from around the world each year. Studying in France offers Indian students excellent career opportunities internationally after graduation. Known for its advanced technology, rich culture, and strong education system, France draws many young aspirants every academic year. The French government often provides financial assistance for accommodation, covering up to one-third of the costs for eligible students. For those who do not speak French, it is usually included as part of the curriculum during their studies. France, with its deep cultural heritage and artistic tradition, ranks second in Europe and fourth in the world in the Information Technology sector. The country is a leader in technological advancements across various fields.
Why Study in France
Top Courses
France is a top choice for education, offering world-class opportunities. Education in France is highly esteemed, and students who choose to study there can expect excellent academic experiences.
Popular fields of study in France include Nuclear, Space, and Aviation. France also excels in Teaching, Languages, Art, History, Medicine, and Law.
For those aspiring to become teachers, France offers strong programs. However, degrees earned in France are typically valid only within the country. French language courses are widely available, along with courses in German, Italian, Spanish, and English.
France is renowned for its Law degrees, although the legal systems differ from those in other countries like England and Wales. International Law courses in France are highly regarded. Economics is another popular field of study for both local and international students.
Science programs in France are challenging and designed for dedicated students. Some popular courses for Indian students studying in France include:
- Medicine
- Geography
- Pharmacology
- Art History
- Linguistics
- Sociology
- European and Mediterranean Cultures
- Communication Technology
- Information Technology
- French Studies
- International Business Administration
- Film Studies
- Global Communications
- Finance
- International Finance
- Literary Studies
- Creative Arts
- Psychology
- International Economics
- International and Comparative Politics
Career Opportunities
Working in France During Your Studies:
Indian students studying in France can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week off-campus. The minimum salary for part-time work is €9.61 gross per hour.
Working in France After Your Studies:
Students who have completed at least a Master’s Degree or its equivalent can apply for a one-time, non-renewable temporary residency authorization (APS, Authorisation Provisoire de Séjour). This authorization is valid for 12 months beyond the expiration of the student’s residency permit and allows the student to work up to 60% of the official work week (approximately half-time).
If a student finds a job related to their academic program that pays at least 1.5 times the national minimum wage, they can request a change in status from student to employee at their prefecture to start full-time employment.
Additionally, upon completing their studies, students can be recruited by a company in France even if they are not an EU national.
For Indian students who plan to return to India after their studies, their French degree will enable them to obtain a circulation visa to France and Europe for 5 years, which can be extended indefinitely.
Education Cost
Tuition Expenses:
Programmes | France Currency | Indian Currency |
|---|---|---|
Masters | 10,000 – 16,500 Euro | Rs 718,600 – 1,185,690 |
MBA | 23,000 – 25,000 Euro | Rs 1,527,800 – 1,796,500 |
(1 Euro = Rs 90)
Living Expenses:
To study in France, a budget of around €600 – €1,000 per month will cover accommodation, food, transport, and other activities.
Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
Accommodation | €300 – €600 per month |
Food | €350 – €500 |
Health Insurance | €40 |
Transport | €50 – €130 |
Utilities | €50 – €100 |
Personal Expenses | €100 – €300 |
An international student enrolled in a French institution for 1 year or more is eligible for a student residency permit and can apply for government assistance for housing (CAF). This process takes around 1 month and covers up to 1/3rd of housing costs.
Health Insurance:
Indian students under the age of 28 who are enrolled in a program of at least 3 months are covered by the student segment of the National Health Insurance Plan. Those above 28 follow a similar process. Students must also obtain additional coverage through the social security system. Annual costs range from €150 to €550, and social security typically covers about 70% of medical expenses.
Accommodation:
University Residences:
Located on campus or in town and run by CROUS (Centre Régional des Œuvres Universitaires et Sociales), these rooms are well-equipped with necessary facilities, with rents between €250 to €400.
Private Student Residences:
These are common in major cities in France, including Paris. Rent ranges from €800-€1,000 in Paris and €500-€800 in other cities. Flat sharing is less common, and landlords may require a guarantor.
Scholarships
France, the world’s fifth-largest economy, is also the fourth most popular destination for international students. The country allocates nearly 20% of its annual national budget to education, with many of its elite schools ranking highly on international lists.
As study in France consultants, we provide information on the types of scholarships available:
Financial Aids and Grants:
The French government funds approximately 22,000 students annually. Most of this aid is managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Ministry’s Programs Are of Two Types:
- Bilateral Assistance Programs: These scholarships are provided through agreements between France and foreign governments.
- Annual Scholarship Programs: Over 80% of French government scholarships fall into this category.
Scholarship programs are designed to help French institutions of higher education attract top international students.
Application Procedure
Applicants must submit certified true copies of relevant documents along with the application form. We advise students to bring the originals to our offices as well.
The school to which you apply will determine the recognition of your academic background and the level at which you qualify to enter.
If your application is successful, you will receive a conditional or confirmation offer letter. This letter can be used for a long-stay student residence visa.
You need to complete the registration process, pay the first installment of fees, and send this information to the school. The school will then provide details on how to apply for accommodation.
Indian students must schedule an appointment with the French embassy for a visa interview and to verify financial documents along with other visa-related documents at the Embassy of France or the consulates in Mumbai.
Applicants must complete the online procedure. The French Embassy typically processes and approves applications within 48 hours. After visa approval, students can book their tickets.
Intakes:
- The major intakes for studying in France are September and February.
Entry Requirements for Masters:
- MBA: A good Bachelor’s degree, 2 to 3 years of work experience, and GMAT.
- Master’s: A good Bachelor’s degree.
English Requirement and Eligibility:
- An IELTS score of band 6 is mandatory to study in France.
Education System
The French Educational System
The French educational system is highly centralized, well-organized, and structured. It is divided into three stages:
- Primary Education
- Secondary Education
- Higher Education
Primary Education:
In France, children start school at a very early age, typically at 3 years old. They spend 3 years in kindergarten. Education in France is compulsory until the age of 16.
Secondary Education:
Secondary education in France is divided into two stages: BEPC and Baccalaureate. The BEPC (Brevet des Collèges) is equivalent to the 10th grade in India and covers education for students aged 11 to 15 years.
Higher Education:
Higher education for students aged 15 to 18 culminates in a Diploma known as the Baccalaureate, which is similar to the 12th grade in India. The Baccalaureate is also known as the Lycée diploma.
Universities:
In France, Indian students can attend 90 public universities across the country. These universities offer a wide range of academic disciplines, including Sciences (Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology), Technology (Computer Science, Engineering, Material Science, Electrical Engineering), Literature, Languages, Arts, Social Sciences, Law, Economics, Management, Health, Sports, and more.
Grande Ecoles:
Grande Ecoles are prestigious French institutions established in the early 19th century alongside the university system. They are highly selective and provide top-quality education. There are over 300 Grande Ecoles in France, each specializing in different fields. Although the fees can be higher, students benefit from smaller class sizes, better support systems, and excellent networks with alumni and international partners. These institutions can be public or private.
Visa
France has a straightforward visa process. Indian students who wish to study in France must submit their visa documents through an online application with Campus France.
An interview will be conducted by Campus France, and the documents will be submitted to the consulate. Students will receive their visa after this process.
Process
- How many days prior should a student apply for the student visa?
We recommend that visa appointments at a French consulate should be made no more than 90 days before your departure to France.
Document Checklist
Documents are divided into three sets:
SET 1
- Passport copy
- Complete the Campus France application procedures (in the PASTEL system) before starting the visa application on their website.
- Request a student visa at your assigned French consulate.
- Go to the consulate for a visa interview. Your appointment at the consulate should occur at least two weeks before your planned departure to France.
SET 2
- Proof of resources to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of your stay in France.
SET 3
- Copies of your degrees, diplomas, or certificates, attested and notarized.
Visa Application Fee
- Deposit Rs. 8,500/- (in favor of NEF GLOBAL, at a BNP Paribas branch) by filling out a deposit slip available at the bank.
Processing Time
It typically takes at least five to seven business days to process a visa, though this may vary depending on the situation.
English Ability Requirements
A minimum IELTS score of 6.0 bands is required for admission to French institutions. Most institutes are comfortable with this level of English and do not necessarily require TOEFL or IELTS, although some exceptions might occur, especially if the student’s English proficiency cannot be confirmed through a telephonic interview.
FAQ’s
Is It Compulsory to Know the French Language to Study In France?
No, many French universities now use English as the language of instruction, especially in fields like Management, Engineering, and Political Science, to attract international students. However, learning some French is advisable to better integrate with local students.
Does Education in France for Indian Students Include Work Opportunities?
International students may work part-time if their schedule allows, provided they are registered at an institution approved by the French social security system. Even first-year students can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week.
What Visa Status Will I Have as a Student?
International students from non-EU countries studying programs longer than 6 months must obtain a long-term student visa from the French Consulate.
How Can I Find Housing in France?
Several housing options are available for international students enrolling in French universities and institutions. These housing plans assist students in finding accommodation.