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Is France Good for Indian Students?
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
France is ranked 8th internationally and 5th in Europe among the best study destinations globally. Furthermore, with French President Emmanuel Macron’s readiness to have 30,000 students from India in France by 2030, the country is now drawing attention as an appealing destination for international students globally.
Table of contents
The top universities in France offer a wide range of courses, such as Medicine, Law, Business Management, and Business Analysis, promising excellent career prospects to students after they complete their studies. For instance, a Doctor in France can expect an average salary of INR 55,00,000, while a Lawyer typically earns around INR 70,00,000.
Why Study in France?
France is gradually becoming a top destination for international students. But what makes it ideal for so many learners? Here are some quick facts that highlight why France is an excellent choice:
- World-Class Universities: France is home to over 3,500 institutions offering diverse academic programs in various fields, including engineering, business, humanities, and arts.
- Affordable Tuition Fee: The cost of studying in France for Indian students is quite affordable, especially at public universities.
- Career and Business Prospects: The French government has announced significant investments to boost job creation, particularly in tech and innovation sectors.
- Multi-cultural Society: France’s rich culture of art and philosophy offers a unique educational experience.
- Scholarships: Numerous scholarships, such as the Charpak Scholarship Program, Eiffel Excellence Scholarships, and more, are offered by governmental and non-governmental organisations.
Top Universities in France
Key Highlights:
| Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Universities | 72 |
| Average Living Expenses | INR 60,000 to INR 1,30,000 per month |
| Popular Courses | Engineering, Management, Fashion Designing, Film Studies, Medicine |
| Permitted Working Hours | Part-time, 964 hours per year with a valid student visa |
| Intakes | January and September |
| Student Visa Application Cost | INR 4,500 |
| Primary Language | French |
| Renowned Scholarship Programs | Eiffel Excellence Scholarships, INSEAD Scholarships, Charpak Scholarship Program |
| Top Universities | Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Sorbonne University, Sciences Po |
| Average Yearly Tuition Fees | Bachelor’s: INR 2,50,000, Master’s: INR 3,50,000, PhD: INR 35,000 |
| Top Job Roles | Lawyer, Engineer, Bank Manager |
Top 10 Universities in France
Here are the top 10 universities that secured a place in the QS Rankings:
| Top Universities in France | QS Ranking 2024 | Top Courses Offered | Official Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Université PSL | 24 | Actor Training Program, Biomedical Engineering | www.psl.eu |
| Institut Polytechnique de Paris | 38 | Bachelor of Science, PhD in Data and AI | www.institutpolytechnique.fr |
| Sorbonne University | 59 | Master in Computational Mechanics | www.sorbonne-universite.fr |
| Université Paris-Saclay | 71 | Biomass Engineering for Bioeconomy | www.universite-paris-saclay.fr |
| École normale supérieure de Lyon | 184 | Master in Advanced Economics | www.ens-lyon.fr |
| École des ponts ParisTech | 192 | Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science | www.ponts.fr |
| Université Paris Cité | 236 | Master in Biomedical Engineering | www.universite-paris-cite.fr |
| Université Grenoble Alpes | 294 | Business, Management and Law | www.univ-grenoble-alpes.fr |
| Sciences Po | 319 | Master in International Security | www.sciencespo.fr |
| Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne | 328 | Master in Economics and Psychology | www.univ-paris1.fr |
Popular Courses and Tuition Fees
Top Bachelor’s Courses in France
| Popular Courses | Average Tuition Fee per year (INR) | Best Colleges |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | INR 80,000 | HEC Paris, ESSEC Business School, INSEAD |
| Engineering | INR 55,000 | Ecole Centrale de Lyon, Ecole Polytechnique, INSA Lyon |
| Fashion Designing | INR 9,00,000 | International Fashion Academy, Paris College of Art, ESMOD |
Top Master’s Courses in France
| Popular Courses | Average Tuition Fee per year (INR) | Best Colleges |
|---|---|---|
| Management/MBA | INR 90,00,000 (for 16 months) | HEC Paris, INSEAD, Grenoble Graduate School of Business |
| Film Studies | INR 15,00,000 | Paris College of Art, ESRA, Clcf School Cinema |
| Medicine | INR 40,000 | Sorbonne University, Université de Paris, Université Paris Saclay |
Popular Short-Term Courses in France
| Short Term Courses | Duration | Career Path |
|---|---|---|
| Pastry Diploma at Ecole Lenotre | 21 weeks | Pastry Chef |
| Cuisine Certification Course at Ferrières | 11 months | Culinary Professional |
| UX/UI Design Bootcamp at Ironhack School | 9 weeks full-time | UX/UI designer |
| Web Development Bootcamp at Ironhack School | 9 weeks full-time | Web Developer |
Scholarships for Indian Students
One of the most compelling reasons to study in France is the financial support students receive through scholarships. Here are some of the prominent scholarship programs available:
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarships: Funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, this scholarship is aimed at attracting top international students to French institutions.
- Charpak Scholarship Program: This program is available for undergraduate, master’s, and exchange students.
- INSEAD Scholarships: Specifically for MBA students, offering significant financial assistance.
- Emile Boutmy Scholarships: Offered by Sciences Po to students from outside the European Union.
Cost of Living
Living expenses in France can vary significantly depending on the city. Here is a breakdown of average monthly living expenses for international students:
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (INR) per Month |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 40,000 – 80,000 |
| Food | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Transport | 3,000 – 6,000 |
| Miscellaneous (entertainment, etc.) | 7,000 – 24,000 |
Average Living Expenses: INR 60,000 to INR 1,30,000 per month
Application Process
Steps to Apply for Universities in France
- Shortlist Universities and Courses: Research and choose the universities and courses that match your career goals and interests.
- Check Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you meet the academic and language requirements for your chosen program.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including transcripts, certificates, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
- Language Proficiency Tests: Most universities require proof of proficiency in French or English. Commonly accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, and DET.
- Apply Online: Submit your application through the university’s online portal. Ensure you adhere to deadlines for your chosen intake.
- Attend Interviews (if required): Some programs may require an interview as part of the admission process.
- Receive Offer Letter: Upon acceptance, you will receive an offer letter from the university.
- Confirm Admission: Pay the required fees to confirm your admission.
Documentation Requirements
- Valid passport
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of language proficiency
- CV/Resume (if required)
- Financial statements
- Passport-sized photographs
Visa Requirements
Student Visa Application Process
- Acceptance Letter: Obtain an acceptance letter from a recognized French institution.
- Online Application: Fill out the visa application form on the France-Visas website.
- Documents Submission: Gather and submit required documents, including your acceptance letter, proof of funds, and accommodation details.
- Appointment: Schedule an appointment with the nearest VFS Global office.
- Biometric Data: Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) during your appointment.
- Visa Fee: Pay the visa application fee (approximately INR 4,500).
- Interview (if required): Attend an interview at the French consulate (if requested).
Required Documents for Student Visa
- Valid passport
- Acceptance letter from a French institution
- Proof of accommodation in France
- Financial statements proving sufficient funds
- Travel insurance
- Passport-sized photographs
- Completed visa application form
Intakes in France
Universities in France generally have two main intakes:
- September Intake: This is the primary intake for most programs. Applications usually open in October of the previous year and close in January.
- January Intake: A secondary intake for select courses. Applications generally open in June and close in September.
Application Deadlines
- September Intake: January (previous year) to April
- January Intake: September to November
Conclusion
France offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, world-class education, and promising career opportunities, making it an excellent destination for Indian students. With affordable tuition fees, numerous scholarships, and a supportive multicultural environment, France provides a conducive atmosphere for academic and personal growth. By following the outlined steps and preparing meticulously, Indian students can embark on a rewarding educational journey in France.
Ready to take the next step?
At bluehawks, we understand that navigating the complexities of international education can be overwhelming. That’s why our expert team is here to support you every step of the way.
From personalized consultations to comprehensive test preparation resources, we offer a range of services designed to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you’re facing challenges with language proficiency or need guidance on selecting the right university, our team is dedicated to providing you with invaluable advice and assistance.
Don’t let language barriers or financial concerns hold you back from pursuing your dreams. Contact bluehawks today and let us help you chart your course to a brighter, more fulfilling future. Together, we can turn your aspirations of studying in the France into a reality!
Frequently Asked Questions
France is home to over 3,500 institutions offering diverse academic programs in various fields, including engineering, business, humanities, and arts. With affordable tuition fees, numerous scholarships, and a rich cultural environment, France provides a conducive atmosphere for both academic and personal growth. Additionally, the French government is investing significantly in job creation, particularly in the tech and innovation sectors, enhancing career prospects for graduates.
France hosts several top-ranked universities, including Université PSL, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, and Sorbonne University. These institutions offer world-class education in various fields such as engineering, business, and humanities. Other notable universities include Université Paris-Saclay, École normale supérieure de Lyon, and Sciences Po.
Popular courses among Indian students include Business Administration, Engineering, Fashion Designing, Management, Film Studies, and Medicine. French institutions are renowned for their excellence in these fields, providing students with top-notch education and career opportunities.
