- World-Renowned Universities and GrandesÉcoles
- Affordable Tuition Fees (especially at public institutions)
- Diverse English-Taught Programs
- Multicultural Environment
- Strong Support for International Students
- Gateway to Europe (Schengen Visa holders can travel freely in 26 countries)
- Post-study Work Opportunities
- Cultural and Culinary Experience
france
France, located in Western Europe, is globally renowned for its cultural richness, historic landmarks, world-class education system, and influential contributions to art, science, philosophy, and politics. It is home to some of the world’s top universities and “GrandesÉcoles,” offering high-quality education at an affordable cost, especially in public institutions.
As a founding member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, France provides international students with opportunities to explore Europe while studying. The country also boasts a high quality of life, modern infrastructure, and a diverse, multicultural environment.
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Quick Facts About France
Category | Details |
Capital | Paris |
Official Language | French (Many programs available in English) |
Currency | Euro (€) |
Population | ~67 million |
International Students | 350,000+ (4th most popular destination globally) |
Time Zone | Central European Time (CET) |
Top Student Cities | Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Montpellier, Grenoble, Bordeaux |
Climate | Temperate – Mild winters and warm summers |
Popular Industries | Fashion, Aerospace, Luxury Goods, Tourism, Engineering, Tech |
Work During Study | Up to 964 hours/year (~20 hrs/week) |
Post-Study Stay Back | Up to 2 years for Master’s graduates |
Average Tuition Fee | €170 to €650/year at public universities (EU); Higher for non-EU students |
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Why Study in France?
Benefits
- Low Tuition at Public Universities: Bachelor’s: €170-€650/year; Master’s: €243-€1,000/year.
- Globally Recognized Degrees
- Access to Scholarships from Government and Universities
- Internship Opportunities with Top Companies like L’Oréal, Airbus, Renault, BNP Paribas
- Opportunity to Learn French (adds value globally)
- Post-study stay back period up to 2 years
France Education System for International Students
France’s higher education system is among the most prestigious in the world, structured to provide academic, research, and professional excellence. The system comprises:
Types of Institutions
- Public Universities
- State-funded institutions offering a broad range of disciplines.
- Affordable tuition, especially for EU students.
- Degrees awarded: Licence (Bachelor), Master, Doctorat (PhD).
- GrandesÉcoles
- Highly selective elite institutions.
- Specialized in engineering, business, political science, etc.
- Known for academic rigor and strong industry links.
- Examples: HEC Paris, ÉcolePolytechnique, Sciences Po.
- Private Institutions
- Includes business schools, engineering schools, and art schools.
- Higher tuition fees.
- Often offer English-taught programs and international exposure.
- Technological Institutes (IUTs)
- Offer two-year technical diplomas (DUT).
- Can be followed by further university studies.
Degree Structure (LMD System)
France follows the Bologna Process and uses the LMD system:
Degree | Duration | Credits (ECTS) | Equivalent |
Licence (Bachelor’s) | 3 years | 180 ECTS | UG Degree |
Master | 2 years | 120 ECTS | PG Degree |
Doctorat (PhD) | 3 years | – | Doctoral Degree |
- 60 ECTS = 1 academic year
- Degrees are recognized across the EU and most countries worldwide
Medium of Instruction
- Many programs, especially at the Master’s level, are offered in English
- French language proficiency may be required for certain undergraduate or public university programs (DELF/DALF)
- Learning basic French is encouraged to ease daily life and integration
Academic Year
- Starts: September/October
- Ends: June/July
- Semesters: Two (Fall and Spring)
- Breaks: Winter, Spring, and Summer holidays
France’s higher education system is among the most prestigious in the world, structured to provide academic, research, and professional excellence. The system comprises:
Types of Institutions
- Public Universities
- State-funded institutions offering a broad range of disciplines.
- Affordable tuition, especially for EU students.
- Degrees awarded: Licence (Bachelor), Master, Doctorat (PhD).
- GrandesÉcoles
- Highly selective elite institutions.
- Specialized in engineering, business, political science, etc.
- Known for academic rigor and strong industry links.
- Examples: HEC Paris, ÉcolePolytechnique, Sciences Po.
- Private Institutions
- Includes business schools, engineering schools, and art schools.
- Higher tuition fees.
- Often offer English-taught programs and international exposure.
- Technological Institutes (IUTs)
- Offer two-year technical diplomas (DUT).
- Can be followed by further university studies.
Degree Structure (LMD System)
France follows the Bologna Process and uses the LMD system:
Degree
Duration
Credits (ECTS)
Equivalent
Licence (Bachelor’s)
3 years
180 ECTS
UG Degree
Master
2 years
120 ECTS
PG Degree
Doctorat (PhD)
3 years
–
Doctoral Degree
- 60 ECTS = 1 academic year
- Degrees are recognized across the EU and most countries worldwide
Medium of Instruction
- Many programs, especially at the Master’s level, are offered in English
- French language proficiency may be required for certain undergraduate or public university programs (DELF/DALF)
- Learning basic French is encouraged to ease daily life and integration
Academic Year
- Starts: September/October
- Ends: June/July
- Semesters: Two (Fall and Spring)
- Breaks: Winter, Spring, and Summer holidays
- Public Universities
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Intakes in France for International Students
France typically offers two major intakes for international students each academic year. However, the primary intake is in September, and it is recommended for most students as the widest variety of programs and scholarships are available during this period.
1. Fall Intake (Primary Intake)
- Starts: September/October
- Application Period: October to March/April (previous year)
- Best for: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs
- Available Programs: All courses across public universities, GrandesÉcoles, and private institutions
- Scholarships: Majority of government and university scholarships are available
- Visa Processing: Apply by May–June after receiving admission
Why choose Fall intake?
- Maximum course availability
- All top universities admit students during this period
- Better chances for scholarships and accommodation
- Ample time for visa processing and pre-departure arrangements
2. Spring Intake (Secondary Intake)
- Starts: January/February
- Application Period: May to September (previous year)
- Best for: Limited Master’s and a few Bachelor’s programs
- Available Programs: Mostly business, engineering, and management courses in private and select public institutions
- Scholarships: Fewer options compared to Fall intake
Why choose Spring intake?
- A good option if you missed the Fall intake
- Smaller class sizes and less competition
- More attention from faculty in some cases
General Application Timeline
Stage | Fall Intake | Spring Intake |
Research & Shortlisting | Oct – Dec (previous year) | Apr – Jun (previous year) |
Applications Open | Nov – Mar | May – Sep |
Admission Results | Mar – May | Sep – Oct |
Visa Application & Documents | May – Jul | Oct – Dec |
Orientation & Travel | Aug – Sep | Dec – Jan |
Classes Begin | Sep – Oct | Jan – Feb |
Rolling Intakes (Some Private Institutions)
Some private universities and business schools in France offer rolling admissions with flexible start dates, typically in:
- March
- June
- November
These are more common for short-term diplomas, MBA programs, and some English-taught Master’s courses.
Tips for International Applicants
- Apply early to maximize chances for scholarships and to meet Campus France deadlines.
- Check individual university websites for program-specific deadlines, as some may close earlier.
- Keep your documents ready at least 6–8 months before your preferred intake.
- Coordinate with Campus France (mandatory for most students, especially from countries like India).
Application Process
- Shortlist Programs and Universities
- Check Entry Requirements (language, GPA, etc.)
- Prepare Required Documents
- Apply via Campus France Portal or Direct University
- Receive Offer Letter
- Apply for Student Visa
Documents Required:
- Academic transcripts
- Passport
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
- Proof of English/French proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or DELF/DALF)
- CV/Resume (for Master’s or PhD)
- Passport-sized photos
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Post-Study Work Opportunities in France
- Stay Back Option: 2 years for Master’s graduates (with APS – AutorisationProvisoire de Séjour)
- Work Rights: Up to 964 hours/year during studies (~20 hrs/week)
- Job Sectors in Demand:
- IT & Engineering
- Business & Finance
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Aerospace & Automobile
- Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
- Fashion & Luxury Management
Top 30 Universities in France for International Students
University | World Rank (QS 2025) | Tuition Fees (Approx.) | Popular Programs |
PSL Research University | 24 | €2,770–€4,000/year | Physics, Math, Humanities |
InstitutPolytechnique de Paris | 38 | €5,000–€12,000/year | Engineering, CS |
Sorbonne University | 59 | €2,770–€4,000/year | Arts, Medicine, Sciences |
University of Paris-Saclay | 71 | €243–€600/year | Physics, Life Sciences |
ÉcoleNormaleSupérieure (ENS) | 84 | €250–€600/year | Humanities, Sciences |
École des PontsParisTech | 110 | €5,000–€15,000/year | Civil Engg, Transport |
Sciences Po | 130 | €10,000–€13,000/year | Politics, IR, Law |
Grenoble Alpes University | 292 | €243–€3,770/year | Engineering, Health |
Université de Strasbourg | 319 | €243–€600/year | Chemistry, Law |
Aix-Marseille University | 328 | €243–€600/year | Economics, Law |
Université de Bordeaux | 335 | €243–€3,770/year | Wine Science, Biotech |
Université de Montpellier | 382 | €243–€600/year | Medicine, Ecology |
Université de Lille | 396 | €243–€600/year | IT, Social Sciences |
Université de Lorraine | 408 | €243–€600/year | Material Sciences |
Université de Nantes | 423 | €243–€600/year | Marine Biology |
Université de Rennes | 441 | €243–€600/year | Data Science, Law |
Université de Clermont Auvergne | 489 | €243–€600/year | AgriTech, Geology |
Université de Côte d’Azur | 501–510 | €243–€600/year | AI, Tourism |
CY Cergy Paris University | 511–520 | €243–€600/year | Business, Data |
Université Paris-EstCréteil | 541–550 | €243–€600/year | Public Health |
Université de Caen Normandie | 601–610 | €243–€600/year | Marine Sciences |
Université de Poitiers | 631–640 | €243–€600/year | Medicine, Literature |
Université de Tours | 651–660 | €243–€600/year | Law, History |
INSA Lyon | 661–670 | €5,500–€8,000/year | Engineering |
Toulouse INP | 671–680 | €5,000–€8,000/year | Aerospace, Engg |
IMT Atlantique | 681–690 | €6,000–€12,000/year | Telecommunications |
Université Paris Nanterre | 691–700 | €243–€600/year | Law, Philosophy |
Université de Franche-Comté | 701–710 | €243–€600/year | Health, Science |
Université de Haute-Alsace | 751–760 | €243–€600/year | Chemistry, Tech |
Universitéd’Angers | 801–850 | €243–€600/year | Health, Agri |
Note: Tuition fees vary for non-EU students and based on the program (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD).
Scholarships in France for International Students
France offers a wide variety of scholarships to help international students finance their studies. These scholarships are provided by:
- The French government
- Universities and GrandesÉcoles
- European Union (Erasmus+)
- Regional authorities
- Private and public organizations
️ 1. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program (by French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs)
Level: Master’s & PhD
Fields: Engineering, Law, Economics, Management, Political Science
Target Group: Non-EU students from emerging countries
Benefits:
- Master’s: €1,181/month
- PhD: €1,700/month
- Health insurance
- Return airfare
- Cultural activities
Eligibility:
- Age limit: 25 for Master’s, 30 for PhD
- Academic excellence
- Nominated by a French institution
- Enrolled in a recognized program in France
How to Apply:
- Apply through the French institution of choice; they submit your application to Campus France
2. ÉmileBoutmy Scholarship (Sciences Po University)
Level: Bachelor’s and Master’s
For: Non-EU international students
Institution: Sciences Po, Paris
Benefits:
- Undergraduate: €3,000–€13,000/year
- Master’s: Up to €12,200/year
- Tuition fee support
Eligibility:
- First-time applicants
- Based on academic excellence and financial need
- Must not be from EU countries
How to Apply:
- While applying to Sciences Po, indicate that you wish to apply for this scholarship
3. Charpak Scholarships (Exclusively for Indian Students)
Offered by the French Embassy in India through Campus France.
Types:
Scholarship | Level | Benefits |
Charpak Master’s | Master’s | Monthly stipend (€860), tuition waiver, visa, insurance |
Charpak Research Internship | UG/PG students | Monthly stipend (€700), airfare, insurance |
Charpak Exchange Program | UG/PG (1-semester) | Monthly stipend (€700), visa fee waiver |
Eligibility:
- Indian citizen residing in India
- Academic excellence
- Admission in a French institution or exchange program
- Strong motivation and alignment with career goals
How to Apply:
- Apply online through Campus France India portal
- Submit documents like SOP, resume, transcripts, etc.
4. Erasmus+ Scholarship Program
Level: Joint Master’s Degrees
For: Students studying across multiple European countries, including France
Benefits:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend (€1,000–€1,200)
- Travel and insurance coverage
Eligibility:
- Apply to an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Program that includes a French university
- Selection based on merit
How to Apply:
- Apply directly to the EMJMD program listed on the Erasmus+ website
5. French Government Scholarships via Campus France
Campus France also offers other scholarships such as:
- Major Excellence Scholarship (For foreign high school graduates in French lycées abroad)
- MOPGA (Make Our Planet Great Again) – for students in climate and environmental science
Eligibility and benefits vary – details can be found on Campus Bourses
6. University-Specific Scholarships
Many French universities and business schools offer their own scholarships:
Examples:
Institution | Scholarship | Benefits |
HEC Paris | HEC Excellence, Eiffel | Partial/full tuition |
INSEAD | Need-based, Diversity, Women in Business | Up to €25,000 |
Université Paris-Saclay | IDEX Scholarships | €10,000/year + travel allowance |
ESSEC Business School | Merit-based scholarships | Up to 50% fee reduction |
ÉcolePolytechnique | International Academic Scholarship | €4,000–€12,000/year |
Always check the university’s financial aid section during application.
️ 7. Regional Scholarships by French Local Governments
Some French regions offer support for international students studying at local universities.
Examples:
- Île-de-France Master’s Scholarship – up to €10,500
- Occitanie& Rhône-Alpes – partial fee waivers and mobility grants
Eligibility:
- Enrolled in a university within the region
- Merit-based and/or need-based
- Apply via the regional education office or university
Tips to Maximize Scholarship Chances
- Apply early, especially for Eiffel or Erasmus+
- Maintain a strong academic record and standardized test scores
- Write a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Get strong recommendation letters
- Demonstrate financial need where required
- Learn basic French (some scholarships prefer this)
Career Growth in France for International Students and Permanent Residency (PR) Process in France
France is one of Europe’s economic powerhouses and offers diverse employment opportunities across key sectors. International graduates from French institutions are highly regarded in the global job market. France also allows students to stay back after graduation to explore work opportunities.
Top Sectors with Career Growth in France
1. Information Technology (IT) & Software Development
- In-demand Roles: Software Engineer, Data Analyst, Cybersecurity Specialist, AI/ML Engineer
- Average Salary: €35,000–€55,000 for freshers
- Major Employers:Capgemini, DassaultSystèmes, Atos, Orange
- Growth Outlook: High, with a focus on AI, data science, and digital transformation
2. Engineering & Manufacturing
- In-demand Roles: Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Automation Specialist
- Average Salary: €32,000–€50,000 for entry-level
- Major Employers: Renault, Airbus, Schneider Electric, Valeo
- Growth Outlook: Strong demand in aerospace, energy, automotive, and robotics sectors
3. Biotechnology, Health & Pharmaceuticals
- In-demand Roles: Biomedical Researcher, Pharmacologist, Clinical Data Manager
- Average Salary: €35,000–€60,000
- Major Employers:Sanofi, Servier, Novartis, Pasteur Institute
- Growth Outlook: Growing due to focus on innovation and research
4. Business, Management & Finance
- In-demand Roles: Financial Analyst, Project Manager, Business Analyst, Auditors
- Average Salary: €35,000–€55,000
- Major Employers: BNP Paribas, SociétéGénérale, EY, KPMG, PwC
- Growth Outlook: Excellent opportunities, especially for graduates from GrandesÉcoles
5. Education & Research
- In-demand Roles: Research Assistant, Lecturer, PhD Researchers
- Average Salary: €25,000–€45,000
- Major Employers: CNRS, Public Universities, Research Labs
- Growth Outlook: High in specialized fields like physics, environment, and health sciences
️ 6. Fashion, Design & Luxury Management
- In-demand Roles: Brand Manager, Fashion Designer, Visual Merchandiser
- Average Salary: €30,000–€50,000
- Major Employers: LVMH, Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton
- Growth Outlook: France is the global fashion hub—strong career potential in luxury & retail
7. Tourism & Hospitality
- In-demand Roles: Hotel Manager, Tour Manager, Event Coordinator
- Average Salary: €25,000–€40,000
- Major Employers: Accor, Club Med, Marriott France
- Growth Outlook: High post-pandemic recovery and tourism revival
8. Supply Chain, Logistics & Transportation
- In-demand Roles: Logistics Manager, Procurement Officer, Supply Chain Analyst
- Average Salary: €30,000–€45,000
- Major Employers: CMA CGM, Geodis, SNCF, RATP
- Growth Outlook: Expanding due to e-commerce and international trade
9. Green Technology & Environmental Sciences
- In-demand Roles: Environmental Consultant, Energy Analyst, Sustainability Officer
- Average Salary: €30,000–€50,000
- Growth Outlook: High due to France’s commitment to climate goals and green transition
Can International Students Get PR in France?
Yes! International students can apply for Permanent Residency (Carte de Résident) after fulfilling certain conditions, primarily focused on years of stay, employment, and integration into French society.
Types of Residence Permits Leading to PR:
- Student Visa (VLS-TS)
- Valid during studies
- Renewable annually
- Allows part-time work
- APS (AutorisationProvisoire de Séjour)
- 12-month temporary visa post-graduation
- Allows time to search for employment
- Can be extended by 12 more months in some cases
- Salaried Work Permit (Titre de séjoursalarié)
- Granted once a graduate secures a full-time job
- Renewable, and counts towards PR eligibility
️ Eligibility for French PR (Carte de Résident – 10 years):
Requirement | Details |
Minimum Stay | 5 continuous years in France (including student years in many cases) |
Employment | Stable and legal full-time employment |
Income Proof | Sufficient and stable income (as per French standards) |
Integration | Knowledge of French language (A2 level or higher) |
No Criminal Record | Clean background check |
Social Contributions | Proof of tax payments and social contributions |
Documents Required for PR Application:
- Valid residence permit
- Passport and past visas
- Employment contract and salary slips
- Tax returns and proof of social contributions
- Proof of residence (rental agreement, utility bills)
- French language certificate (DELF A2 or higher)
Processing Time:
Approximately 2–6 months after application submission at the local Préfecture.
Pro Tips for PR Aspirants:
- Learn and improve French language early
- Retain all student and work-related documents
- File taxes and pay social security on time
- Maintain a stable job and legal status in France
- Participate in social and cultural life (helps integration)
Types of French Visas for International Students
France offers various types of student visas depending on the duration and nature of study. Below are the main categories:
1. Short-Stay Student Visa (Visa de court séjour pour études)
Duration: Up to 90 days (3 months)
Best For:
- Language courses
- Short-term certifications
- Summer schools
- Exchange programs under 3 months
Eligibility:
- Enrolled in a course/program under 90 days
- No intention to work or extend stay
Documents Required:
- Valid passport
- Proof of course enrollment
- Travel itinerary and return ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Travel insurance (Schengen-compliant)
- Proof of funds (minimum €65 per day)
Note: This visa is non-renewable and non-extendable
2. Temporary Long-Stay Visa (Visa de long séjourtemporaire pour études)
Duration: 3 to 6 months
Best For:
- Short study programs
- Certificate/diploma courses not exceeding 6 months
Eligibility:
- Acceptance letter from a French institution for a short-term course
- Adequate financial resources
Documents Required:
- University admission letter
- Valid passport
- Proof of accommodation
- Financial documents (approx. €615/month)
- Travel insurance for entire stay
- Flight bookings
Note: This visa cannot be extended or converted to a residence permit.
3. Long-Stay Student Visa (Visa de long séjourvalant titre de séjour – VLS-TS)
Duration: More than 6 months (usually 1 year)
Best For:
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD programs
- Full-time degrees in France
Eligibility:
- Enrolled in a full-time academic program at a recognized French institution
- Sufficient funds to support living (€7,380/year minimum)
- Valid health insurance
Documents Required:
- Campus France registration
- Offer/Admission letter from a French university
- Valid passport (at least 12 months)
- Proof of accommodation in France
- Proof of financial means (€615/month)
- Birth certificate (with French translation)
- Health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
- Visa application form + fees
- Two passport-size photographs
After Arrival in France:
- Must validate visa online via OFII (French Immigration Office) within 3 months
- VLS-TS acts as a residence permit
Renewal: Can be extended yearly for the duration of the study program
4. Post-Study Work Visa (AutorisationProvisoire de Séjour – APS)
Duration: 12 months (can be extended to 24 months in some cases)
Best For:
- Graduates seeking employment or planning to start a business in France
Eligibility:
- Non-EU/EEA students who completed a Master’s degree or higher
- Holder of VLS-TS who has completed studies in France
- Actively seeking employment or in the process of launching a startup
Documents Required:
- Degree completion certificate
- Valid VLS-TS or residence permit
- Proof of financial resources
- Proof of residence in France
- Passport and visa pages
Rights:
- Can work full-time
- Once employed, the graduate can transition to a work permit and later apply for PR
5. Researcher Visa (Passeport Talent – Chercheur)
Duration: 1–4 years
Best For:
- Researchers and PhD candidates invited by a French academic or research institution
Eligibility:
- Research agreement with a recognized French institution
- Adequate financial support during stay
Documents Required:
- Hosting agreement (Convention d’accueil)
- Academic qualifications
- Passport and visa application
- Financial documents
- Proof of accommodation
- Travel/medical insurance
Benefits:
- Immediate family members can accompany the researcher
- Renewable and convertible to PR later
Additional Visa Options for Family/Spouse
Accompanying Family Visa
- For students bringing spouses or children (typically for PhD and researcher-level visas)
- Spouses can apply for “Passeport Talent – Famille”
- Allows the spouse to work and children to attend school
French Student Visa Application Process
- Register on Campus France (for countries like India, China, etc.)
- Submit academic and personal documents
- Schedule an interview at the French Embassy/VFS
- Receive acceptance letter from institution
- Apply for visa online or through the French consulate
- Pay visa fees (€99 for long-stay)
- Receive visa decision (2–4 weeks)
- Validate visa with OFII upon arrival
Important Notes for Students
- Always apply 3–4 months in advance of your intended intake.
- Ensure all documents are translated into French or English if originally in another language.
- Keep copies of all academic, financial, and legal documents.
- Most students must register with Campus France before applying for a visa.
