Study in France: A Guide for Indian Students

France, with its rich cultural heritage, world-class education system, and vibrant student life, has long been a dream destination for Indian students seeking higher education. Whether you are interested in pursuing a degree in engineering, humanities, or business, France offers a diverse range of programs and opportunities that can help you achieve your academic and career goals. If you are considering studying in France, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to make an informed decision.

France is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations for international students, with over 3,500 institutions offering a wide array of programs. In 2025, the French government plans to ease visa requirements and extend the validity of student visas, making it even more accessible for Indian students to pursue their dreams. The French government aims to grant 30,000 Indian alumni a 5-year Schengen Visa by 2030, reflecting the country’s interest in Indian students. With a highly competitive acceptance rate and a graduate employability rate of 85.8%, France offers a promising future for students.

When planning to study in France, it is essential to be aware of the key highlights and requirements. France has two main intakes: the September/Fall intake and the January/Spring intake. For English language proficiency, international students are required to achieve scores ranging from IELTS 6.0-7.0, TOEFL 80-100, PTE 55-70, Duolingo 100-110, or Cambridge 2 A-Levels. For French language proficiency, DELF B2, DALF C2, and TCF B1 levels are the minimum requirements. Standardized tests such as SAT/ACT/LNAT for undergraduate programs and GRE/GMAT/GAMSAT for postgraduate programs are also accepted.

France boasts a vast network of over 3,500 public and private higher education institutions, including universities, Grandes Écoles, and specialized colleges. Some of the top-ranked universities in France for 2025 include Paris Sciences et Lettres (PSL) at #42, University Paris-Saclay at #64, Institut Polytechnique de Paris at #71, and Sorbonne University at #76. These institutions offer a wide range of programs, from humanities to engineering, ensuring that students can find a course that aligns with their interests and career aspirations.

For Indian students with budget constraints, France offers several affordable universities that provide high-quality education without breaking the bank. Some of the top affordable universities include Paris-Saclay University (INR 88.6K-6.2L/year), University of Paris (INR 23.2K/year), University of Orleans (INR 2.4L/year), and Nantes University (INR 16.3K-22.7K/year). Public universities in France are particularly popular among international students due to their low tuition fees, extensive scholarship opportunities, and government accreditation.

In addition to traditional degree programs, France offers a variety of diploma courses that are short-term and often available online. These courses provide students with specialized skills and knowledge in a shorter period. Some popular diploma courses include a Diploma in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science (1 year), Industrial Product Design Diploma (2 years), TV Content Creation and Innovation (1 year), Diploma in French for Fashion (2 weeks), Cooking Chef Diploma (7 months), and Diploma in Business and Communication Management (1 year).

One of the most common concerns for international students is whether they can study in English. The good news is that many French universities offer courses exclusively in English. To enroll in these programs, students need to demonstrate high proficiency in English or submit a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter. Some top English-taught courses include Bachelor in Nuclear Engineering at Grenoble INP, Bachelor’s (Hons) in International Hospitality Management at Institut Lyfe, BBA in Global Management at SKEMA Business School, International MBA at the University of Paris, LL.B in Business Law & Management at Catholic University of Lille, and MA in Economics at ENS-Paris-Saclay.

A master’s program in France is divided into two parts: M1 and M2. M1 is the first-year program, focusing on fundamentals, while M2 is the specialization year. International students with a three-year bachelor’s degree typically pursue a two-year M1 master’s degree. However, students with relevant work experience can directly enroll in the M2 program. The key differences between M1 and M2 are as follows:

France offers excellent career prospects for international students. According to a 2024 survey, 87% of international students found a job within a year of completing their degree, and 73% within six months. To work in France after graduation, non-EU students must have an employment contract and be paid at least one and a half times the minimum wage set by the French government. Students without a work permit can apply for an APS (Temporary Residence Permit) to seek employment in France for up to 12 months after graduation. Some top degrees with strong career prospects include MBA, M.Eng., M.Sc in Computer Science, MBBS, M.Sc in Fashion and Luxury Business, and M.Sc in Economics and Finance.

If you are interested in pursuing higher education in France, The Student Helpline can be your ultimate guide. Our expert study abroad consultants offer personalized support, helping you navigate the entire process from selecting the right university and program to securing your student visa. With a network of over 67 public universities in France, we can help you find the perfect institution that aligns with your academic and career goals.

Studying in France can be a life-changing experience, offering a blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and career opportunities. Whether you are drawn to the country’s rich history, its world-renowned universities, or the promise of a bright future, France has something to offer every student. With the support of The Student Helpline, you can embark on this exciting journey with confidence and ease. Start your journey today and make your dream of studying in France a reality.