Welcome to Letzstudy
France is one of Europe’s most established destinations for international education, combining globally recognised universities, selective Grandes Écoles, strong research institutions and specialised schools in business, engineering, fashion, hospitality, arts and design. For Indian students, France has become increasingly relevant because of competitive public-university tuition, a growing range of English-taught programmes, strong India–France academic cooperation and access to major European industries.
Whether you are planning an undergraduate degree after Class 12, a specialised master’s programme, MBA, engineering qualification, research degree or an industry-focused course, France offers pathways across technology, business, data, aerospace, energy, healthcare, luxury, design and sustainability. Programmes may combine academic study with internships, laboratory research, company projects, apprenticeships or professional placements depending on the institution and degree.
At LetzStudy, we understand that choosing the right French institution is more complex than simply comparing rankings. Public universities, Grandes Écoles, engineering schools and business schools can have very different admissions systems, tuition structures, application platforms and career outcomes. Our counsellors help students compare programme fit, entry requirements, language of instruction, fees, scholarships, Campus France procedures and long-term career plans before making a decision.
France and India are also expanding higher-education cooperation. In the February 2026 India–France joint statement, both countries reaffirmed the goal of welcoming 30,000 Indian students to France by 2030, up from around 10,000 currently. This growing relationship is supporting student mobility, joint programmes, research links and initiatives that make French higher education more accessible to Indian students.
✔ Globally recognised universities, Grandes Écoles and specialist schools
✔ Competitive tuition at many public higher-education institutions
✔ More than 1,600 programmes available partly or fully in English through Campus France listings
✔ Strong programmes in business, engineering, AI, data, aerospace, energy, fashion and hospitality
✔ Access to major European companies, research laboratories and innovation ecosystems
✔ Internationally recognised Licence, Master and Doctorate degree structure
✔ Eligible foreign students can work part-time while studying
✔ Scholarships including France Excellence Charpak and France Excellence Eiffel
✔ Special post-study arrangements for eligible Indian graduates under the India–France mobility agreement
✔ Opportunity to learn French while studying and strengthen employability in France and Europe
France combines academic tradition with strong links to contemporary industries. Students can study at comprehensive public universities, research-intensive institutions, engineering schools, business schools and specialist academies. Learning French is not compulsory for every programme, especially at master’s level where many courses are taught in English, but developing French language ability can significantly improve daily life, internship access and long-term career opportunities.
French higher-education institutions offer programmes across almost every discipline. Current interest among international and Indian applicants is particularly strong in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, engineering, aerospace, renewable energy, business, luxury management, finance, design and hospitality. France’s 2026 digital and industrial strategies also continue to emphasise AI, cyber talent, advanced manufacturing and ecological transition.
Business & Management
Engineering
Information Technology
Health & Life Sciences
Other Popular Fields
Indian students who have completed Class 12 can apply for undergraduate study in France. The most common public-university route is the three-year Licence, which follows the European LMD structure. Students can also consider bachelor’s programmes at business schools, engineering pathways, Bachelor Universitaire de Technologie (BUT) programmes, design and art schools, or integrated preparatory and engineering routes. Admission rules vary by programme, and some first-year applications may involve the Études en France platform and/or Parcoursup depending on the institution and course.
For programmes taught in French, universities commonly expect evidence of French proficiency, often around B2 level, although exact requirements vary. English-taught bachelor’s programmes are available in business, engineering, technology, arts and other areas, but they are less numerous than English-taught master’s programmes. Students should verify the exact language requirement rather than assuming every French university offers an English undergraduate route.
A standard Licence normally takes three years. Engineering qualifications often follow a five-year pathway, while specialised schools may use different structures. Students should check the degree awarded, accreditation, language of instruction, internship requirements and whether the qualification is a national degree, a recognised school diploma or another credential.
France has a diverse higher-education landscape. It includes public universities, university groupings, Grandes Écoles, engineering schools, political-science institutes and internationally recognised business schools. For Indian students, the best institution depends on the course, budget, preferred city, language, internship model and long-term career direction rather than one overall ranking.
|
University / Institution |
Location |
Popular Courses |
Institution Category |
|
Université PSL |
Paris |
AI, Data Science, Economics, Physics, Humanities |
Research-intensive university group |
|
Institut Polytechnique de Paris |
Palaiseau / Paris-Saclay |
Engineering, AI, Data, Mathematics, Cybersecurity |
Engineering and technology institute |
|
Université Paris-Saclay |
Paris-Saclay |
Science, Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Life Sciences |
Research-intensive public university |
|
Sorbonne Université |
Paris |
Science, Engineering, Humanities, Medicine-related research |
Public research university |
|
Université Paris Cité |
Paris |
Data Science, Health, Life Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences |
Public research university |
|
Université Grenoble Alpes |
Grenoble |
Engineering, Computer Science, AI, Physics, Environment |
Public research university |
|
Aix-Marseille Université |
Aix-en-Provence / Marseille |
Life Sciences, Law, Economics, Engineering, Marine Science |
Public university |
|
Université de Strasbourg |
Strasbourg |
Life Sciences, Chemistry, Law, European Studies |
Public research university |
|
Sciences Po |
Paris and regional campuses |
Political Science, International Relations, Economics, Public Policy |
Grande École / specialised institution |
|
HEC Paris |
Jouy-en-Josas |
Management, Finance, MBA, Entrepreneurship |
Grande École business school |
|
ESSEC Business School |
Cergy / Paris region |
Management, Finance, Business Analytics, Luxury |
Grande École business school |
|
ESCP Business School |
Paris |
Management, Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship |
Grande École business school |
|
CentraleSupélec |
Paris-Saclay |
Engineering, AI, Data Science, Energy, Systems |
Grande École engineering school |
|
École Polytechnique |
Palaiseau |
Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics |
Grande École engineering school |
|
INSA Lyon |
Lyon |
Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical, Civil, Materials |
Public engineering school |
French public universities are broad institutions offering nationally recognised Licence, Master and Doctorate degrees across multiple disciplines. Grandes Écoles are generally smaller and more selective institutions, often specialising in engineering, business, public affairs or other professional fields. Many Grandes Écoles have competitive admissions, strong employer links and distinctive degree structures.
Engineering schools accredited by the Commission des Titres d’Ingénieur award the Diplôme d’Ingénieur, a five-year qualification recognised at master’s level. Business schools may offer the Grande École Master in Management, specialised MSc programmes, MBAs and bachelor’s degrees. Students should check whether the chosen programme carries recognised accreditation and the exact degree title awarded.
For students planning to study in France for Indian students, understanding the institution type is important because tuition, application platforms, language requirements and employability support can differ substantially. A lower-cost public university may be excellent for research-oriented study, while a specialised school may provide smaller cohorts, stronger company projects or a more structured career-service model.
The right French institution depends on your academic background, preferred subject, budget, career goals, language skills and learning style. Compare programme modules, faculty strengths, internship or apprenticeship opportunities, research laboratories, company partnerships, accreditation, tuition fees, city costs and alumni outcomes. For English-taught programmes, also check how much of the course is genuinely delivered in English and whether French-language support is included.
Foreign students in France are generally allowed to work up to 964 hours per year, which corresponds to around 60% of normal annual working time. This can include part-time jobs during the academic year and additional work during breaks, subject to the conditions of the student’s immigration status and employment rules.
Part-time work can help students gain experience and contribute towards day-to-day expenses, but France-Visas explicitly warns that student employment should be treated as supplementary income rather than a way to finance the entire cost of study. Common student jobs include hospitality, retail, tutoring, campus support, customer service, administration, language assistance and internships connected with the degree.
France offers different post-study routes depending on nationality, qualification and employment situation. In general, non-EU graduates of a qualifying French master’s-level or equivalent programme may be able to obtain a residence status for job search or company creation. The standard job-search/company-creation permit is normally valid for one year and is not renewable.
Indian graduates have a specific advantage under the France–India bilateral agreement on migration and mobility. Eligible Indian students who obtain a French qualification at least equivalent to a master’s degree may qualify for an Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS) “Master” for 12 months, renewable once for another 12 months. This can provide up to 24 months to seek qualifying employment or build a professional pathway, subject to the current eligibility and prefecture rules.
During the applicable job-search period, graduates should focus on roles connected with their qualification and on meeting the salary and immigration conditions required for transition to an employee, temporary-worker, talent or other appropriate residence status. Rules and salary thresholds can change, so students should verify the latest official requirements before graduation.
France has major employers and research ecosystems in technology, aerospace, transport, energy, banking, consulting, pharmaceuticals, luxury, hospitality and creative industries. In 2026, the French government is actively expanding AI adoption and cybersecurity capability, while France 2030 continues to invest in areas such as ecological transition, aviation, space, energy and industrial technology.
Job availability depends on the student’s qualification, technical ability, internship experience, French language level, employer needs and immigration eligibility. English can be sufficient for some international companies and technical teams, but French language ability often expands the range of opportunities available, particularly in customer-facing, public-sector and locally integrated roles.
Internships are an important feature of many French programmes, especially at engineering schools, business schools and professionally oriented master’s programmes. Depending on the course, students may complete a mandatory stage, apprenticeship, company consulting project, laboratory placement, final-year project or research internship.
A well-chosen internship can be particularly valuable for international students because it provides French workplace experience, professional references and a stronger understanding of employer expectations before graduation.
Students interested in future-focused careers should consider fields where France is investing heavily in research, digital capability and industrial transformation. The national cybersecurity strategy for 2026–2030 aims to expand cyber talent, while the Osez l’IA plan and France 2030 initiatives support wider AI adoption and technology innovation.
Students should select a field based on aptitude, academic foundations and long-term skill development rather than a short-lived trend. Combining technical skills with French language ability, internships and strong project work can improve employability across several sectors.
The main academic intake in France is the autumn intake, with most university programmes beginning between September and October. Selected business schools, engineering schools and private institutions may also offer January or spring starts. Application deadlines can be many months before classes begin, particularly where Études en France, Parcoursup, competitive admissions or scholarship nominations are involved.
|
Intake |
Typical Months |
Availability |
|
Main Autumn Intake |
September / October |
Largest intake for public universities, Grandes Écoles and most degree programmes |
|
Selected Spring Intake |
January / February |
Available for selected business, engineering and private-school programmes |
|
Research / PhD Starts |
Various months |
Timing depends on doctoral school, research funding and supervisor agreement |
|
Short Courses / Summer Schools |
May – August |
Selected language, exchange, executive and summer programmes |
France’s leading institutions include public research universities, engineering Grandes Écoles and business schools with strong international profiles. Indian applicants should compare the exact programme rather than relying only on institutional brand or league tables, because strengths vary significantly by discipline.
|
University |
Location |
Popular Courses |
|
Université PSL |
Paris |
AI, Mathematics, Economics, Physics, Humanities |
|
Institut Polytechnique de Paris |
Palaiseau |
Engineering, AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity |
|
Université Paris-Saclay |
Paris-Saclay |
Science, Engineering, Computing, Mathematics, Life Sciences |
|
Sorbonne Université |
Paris |
Science, Engineering, Humanities, Research |
|
Université Paris Cité |
Paris |
Health, Data Science, Life Sciences, Social Sciences |
|
Université Grenoble Alpes |
Grenoble |
Engineering, Computer Science, AI, Physics, Environment |
|
Aix-Marseille Université |
Aix / Marseille |
Law, Economics, Sciences, Health, Marine Studies |
|
Université de Strasbourg |
Strasbourg |
Life Sciences, Chemistry, Law, European Studies |
|
Sciences Po |
Paris |
Political Science, Public Policy, Economics, International Relations |
|
HEC Paris |
Paris region |
Management, Finance, MBA, Entrepreneurship |
|
CentraleSupélec |
Paris-Saclay |
Engineering, AI, Energy, Systems, Data Science |
|
École Polytechnique |
Palaiseau |
Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics |
1. Université PSL
Location: Paris
Université PSL brings together a group of highly selective schools and research institutions in Paris. It is known for research-intensive education across science, engineering, economics, humanities, arts and data-driven disciplines. Students benefit from a dense academic ecosystem and close links with laboratories, cultural institutions and companies.
Popular Courses
Why Choose PSL?
2. Institut Polytechnique de Paris
Location: Palaiseau, Paris-Saclay
Institut Polytechnique de Paris is a leading science and technology institution bringing together major engineering schools. It is particularly relevant for students interested in advanced engineering, mathematics, artificial intelligence, data, economics, cybersecurity and deep-tech innovation.
Popular Courses
Why Students Choose Institut Polytechnique de Paris
3. Université Paris-Saclay
Location: Paris-Saclay region
Université Paris-Saclay is a major public research university with recognised strengths in mathematics, computer science, engineering, physics, life sciences and interdisciplinary research. The surrounding Paris-Saclay innovation cluster brings together universities, engineering schools, laboratories, startups and major companies.
Popular Courses
Highlights
4. Sorbonne Université
Location: Paris
Sorbonne Université is a comprehensive public research university with strengths in science, engineering, medicine-related research, humanities and multidisciplinary study. Its Paris location provides access to research institutes, hospitals, cultural organisations and international academic networks.
Popular Courses
Key Advantages
5. Université Paris Cité
Location: Paris
Université Paris Cité is a large multidisciplinary public university with major strengths in health, life sciences, data, humanities and social sciences. It is particularly attractive to students looking for interdisciplinary programmes linking digital technologies, health research and human sciences.
Popular Courses
Highlights
6. Université Grenoble Alpes
Location: Grenoble
Université Grenoble Alpes is located in one of France’s major science and technology clusters. Grenoble has strong ecosystems in microelectronics, energy, AI, physics and engineering, making the university a practical choice for students seeking research and industry exposure outside Paris.
Popular Courses
Why Study in Grenoble?
7. Sciences Po
Location: Paris and regional campuses
Sciences Po is a selective institution specialising in social sciences, public policy, economics, political science, international relations and law-related study. It attracts a highly international student body and is particularly relevant for students interested in government, policy, diplomacy, consulting and global affairs.
Popular Courses
Key Features
8. HEC Paris
Location: Jouy-en-Josas, Paris region
HEC Paris is one of France’s best-known business schools and is primarily relevant to students targeting management, finance, consulting, entrepreneurship and executive careers. Admissions are competitive and tuition is significantly higher than at public universities, so applicants should compare return on investment, scholarship options and career outcomes carefully.
Popular Courses
Who Should Consider HEC Paris?
Other Popular French Universities and Schools
France has many strong institutions beyond the eight profiled above. Students should check accreditation, language, tuition, admission route, city costs and programme-specific career outcomes before applying.
Selecting a French university or school should involve more than comparing ranking positions. The strongest choice is usually the institution whose curriculum, teaching language, industry connections and cost structure match your profile and long-term plans.
Consider the Following
At LetzStudy, we compare these factors with the student’s academic profile, budget and career goals before recommending a shortlist.
Tuition in France varies sharply by institution type. Public universities receive significant state funding, while Grandes Écoles, private business schools and specialist institutions can charge much higher programme fees. For 2026–2027, Campus France lists differentiated public-university tuition for non-EU students of €2,902 per year for a bachelor’s degree and €3,950 per year for a master’s degree. Doctoral registration is listed at €398 per year. Some students may receive exemptions, but exemption rules changed in 2026 and should never be assumed.
Engineering schools, business schools, architecture schools and private institutions may use different fee schedules. Students should always check the specific programme page and include application fees, CVEC, insurance, housing deposits and other academic charges in the total budget.
|
Course / Institution Type |
Estimated Tuition Fee (EUR) |
|
Public university Bachelor / Licence |
€2,902 per year for non-EU students under 2026–27 differentiated fees, unless exempt |
|
Public university Master |
€3,950 per year for non-EU students under 2026–27 differentiated fees, unless exempt |
|
Public Doctoral / PhD registration |
€398 per year under the 2026–27 national fee schedule |
|
Engineering schools / Grandes Écoles |
Approximately €3,000 – €20,000+ per year; school and programme specific |
|
Private / international Bachelor |
Approximately €8,000 – €20,000+ per year |
|
Specialised Master / MSc / business school |
Approximately €10,000 – €30,000+ total or per year depending on programme |
|
MBA / premium management programmes |
Approximately €35,000 – €100,000+ total depending on school |
Students in initial higher education may also need to pay the Contribution Vie Étudiante et de Campus (CVEC). The official 2026–2027 CVEC amount is €105 unless the student qualifies for an exemption.
Living costs depend heavily on the city and accommodation type. Campus France notes that a student may need roughly €600–€800 per month for basic housing, food and transport, but the updated France-Visas financial-resource requirement for long-stay student applications submitted from 1 August 2026 is at least €877.50 per month. In Paris and other large cities, a realistic budget can be substantially higher, especially for private accommodation.
|
Expense |
Estimated Cost (EUR / month) |
|
Accommodation |
€300 – €1,100+ |
|
Food & Groceries |
€200 – €350 |
|
Public Transport |
€25 – €90 |
|
Utilities / Internet contribution |
€40 – €120 |
|
Mobile Phone |
€10 – €30 |
|
Health / Mutuelle / Personal insurance |
€20 – €60+ |
|
Personal & Study Expenses |
€120 – €300 |
|
Lifestyle / Housing Type |
Estimated Monthly Cost (EUR) |
|
Budget student with CROUS / lower-cost housing |
About €700 – €950 |
|
Typical student outside Paris |
About €850 – €1,250 |
|
Typical student in Paris / expensive city |
About €1,200 – €1,800+ |
|
Private studio / higher-comfort lifestyle |
€1,600+ depending on city |
These are planning estimates rather than guaranteed budgets. Housing has the greatest impact on total cost. Students who obtain CROUS accommodation, share an apartment, use university restaurants and take student transport passes may spend considerably less than students renting private studios in central Paris.
|
Study Level |
Estimated Tuition Fee (EUR) |
|
Bachelor / Licence at public university |
€2,902 per year for many non-EU students under differentiated fees |
|
Master at public university |
€3,950 per year for many non-EU students under differentiated fees |
|
Engineering / Grande École |
Approx. €3,000 – €20,000+ per year |
|
Private Bachelor / specialised school |
Approx. €8,000 – €20,000+ per year |
|
Master / MSc / business school |
Approx. €10,000 – €30,000+ depending on programme |
|
MBA |
Approx. €35,000 – €100,000+ total |
|
City |
Planning Monthly Budget |
Planning Note |
|
Paris |
Approx. €1,200 – €1,800+ per month |
Highest accommodation costs; strongest concentration of institutions and employers |
|
Lyon |
Approx. €850 – €1,250 per month |
Major student city with engineering, business, biotech and industry links |
|
Grenoble |
Approx. €750 – €1,100 per month |
Strong technology and research ecosystem |
|
Toulouse |
Approx. €750 – €1,100 per month |
Excellent for aerospace, engineering and technology |
|
Lille |
Approx. €750 – €1,100 per month |
Large student population and good links to Belgium and northern Europe |
|
Bordeaux |
Approx. €850 – €1,250 per month |
Business, life sciences, digital, wine and tourism sectors |
|
Strasbourg |
Approx. €800 – €1,200 per month |
European institutions, science, law and international environment |
|
Expense |
Estimated Cost (EUR) |
|
Shared / CROUS Accommodation |
€300 – €650+ |
|
Private Student Residence / Studio |
€550 – €1,100+ |
|
Food |
€200 – €350 |
|
Utilities |
€40 – €100 |
|
Transport |
€25 – €90 |
|
Mobile & Internet |
€20 – €50 |
|
Personal / Study Expenses |
€120 – €300 |
France offers scholarships through the French government, Embassy of France in India, Campus France-managed programmes, universities, Grandes Écoles, regional authorities and external organisations. Scholarship competition is high, so students should apply early and confirm whether an award covers tuition, living costs or both.
Indian students should pay particular attention to the France Excellence Charpak programme administered through Campus France India. The programme includes different categories for bachelor’s, master’s, exchange and short research or training mobility. Availability changes by year, and not every category opens in every cycle.
1. France Excellence Charpak Master Scholarship
The Charpak Master scholarship is designed for Indian students admitted to one or two years of master’s study in France across a wide range of fields. For the 2026 session, Campus France India listed a monthly living allowance of €860, exemption from visa and Campus France procedure fees for applications from India, health-insurance benefits and assistance in finding affordable student accommodation subject to availability. The 2026 results have already been finalised, so future applicants should monitor the next cycle rather than treating the 2026 award as still open.
2. France Excellence Charpak Bachelor Scholarship
The Charpak Bachelor category has supported Indian students admitted to full-time bachelor’s programmes in France. Campus France India currently states that applications for the 2026 session will not be accepted. Students considering undergraduate study should therefore check whether the scholarship reopens in a future cycle and also explore university-specific merit aid and other funding options.
3. France Excellence Charpak Exchange Scholarship
The Charpak Exchange scholarship supports Indian students enrolled at an Indian higher-education institution who undertake a semester exchange in France through an institutional partnership. Campus France India lists a monthly stipend of €860, social-security support, visa and Campus France fee benefits, and accommodation assistance subject to availability. Spring and autumn sessions may have separate application calendars.
4. France Excellence Charpak Summer Training Scholarship
This programme supports eligible Indian bachelor’s and master’s students undertaking a short research project or internship in a French laboratory or institution during the academic break. The current programme information lists a monthly stipend of €700 for a maximum of two months, plus selected visa and Campus France fee benefits. Travel, medical costs and accommodation are not fully covered, so students should plan the remaining budget separately.
5. France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship
The France Excellence Eiffel programme is a prestigious French government scholarship for international students at master’s and doctoral levels in priority disciplines. Applications are submitted by French higher-education institutions, not directly by students. The 2026 campaign covered fields including biology and health, ecological transition, mathematics and digital sciences, engineering, law and political science, economics and management, and French language and civilisation.
For the 2026 campaign, the main Campus France programme page lists a monthly allowance of €1,200 at master’s level together with services such as international and national transportation, insurance, housing assistance and cultural activities. The Eiffel programme does not simply function as a standard tuition-payment scholarship, so applicants should read the official rules and institution-specific fee treatment carefully.
6. University and School Scholarships
French universities, engineering schools and business schools may offer tuition waivers or merit scholarships based on academic performance, professional potential, diversity, nationality or programme-specific criteria. Awards can range from modest fee reductions to substantial tuition support. Private business schools often publish separate scholarship schemes alongside admission applications.
In addition to Charpak and Eiffel, students can explore the CampusBourses database, Erasmus Mundus Joint Master scholarships, doctoral contracts, research assistantships and institution-specific French government or regional funding. Scholarship eligibility depends on nationality, level of study, field and academic profile.
Scholarships offered directly by universities and schools can be important for students applying to higher-fee programmes. Business schools, engineering schools and specialised institutions may award merit reductions based on academic results, GMAT/GRE scores where relevant, professional experience, essays, interviews, leadership and early application timing.
Common Scholarship Categories
Each scholarship has its own rules, but applicants are commonly assessed on academic performance, programme admission, motivation, leadership, consistency of the study plan and evidence that the course fits long-term goals.
Students should follow the official scholarship checklist. A scholarship application may have different documentation and deadlines from the university application itself.
Our Recommendations
Myth: Public universities in France are completely free for every international student.
Reality: France heavily subsidises public higher education, but non-EU students are subject to differentiated fees for many national bachelor’s and master’s programmes in 2026–2027 unless they qualify for an exemption.
Myth: Every Indian student can receive a Charpak scholarship.
Reality: Charpak awards are competitive and each category has its own eligibility and annual application cycle. Some categories may not open in a particular year.
Myth: The Eiffel Scholarship can be submitted directly by the student.
Reality: French higher-education institutions submit Eiffel applications for candidates they choose to support.
Scholarships can reduce the financial pressure of studying abroad and make higher-fee business, engineering or specialised programmes more accessible. They can also provide recognition, housing assistance, research opportunities and access to scholar communities.
Undergraduate Programs
Typical requirements include:
Postgraduate Programs
Applicants generally require:
Competitive programmes can require stronger academic results, prerequisite coursework, interviews, standardised tests or relevant professional experience.
Language requirements depend on the programme and institution. France offers a large number of English-taught programmes, particularly at master’s level, but students should verify the exact accepted test and minimum score. Some institutions may accept previous English-medium education instead of IELTS, but this is not universal and should never be assumed.
|
Test |
Typical Planning Range / Requirement* |
|
IELTS Academic |
Often around 6.0 – 7.0 overall depending on programme |
|
TOEFL iBT |
Often around 80 – 100+ depending on programme |
|
PTE Academic |
Accepted by selected institutions; score is programme specific |
|
Cambridge English / other tests |
Accepted by selected institutions; verify exact programme rules |
|
DELF / DALF / TCF / TEF for French-taught study |
Commonly B2 or higher depending on programme and institution |
*These are planning ranges only, not universal admission requirements. Students should verify the exact language requirement on the institution and programme page before booking a test.
Students can choose accommodation based on city, budget and availability. Paris has the greatest housing pressure, while cities such as Grenoble, Toulouse and Lille may offer lower private-rental costs. Applications for university and CROUS housing should begin as early as possible.
Common Choices
Before paying a private deposit, verify the landlord or residence provider, tenancy terms, guarantor requirements, commute, utilities and total monthly cost. Some students may be eligible for French housing support such as CAF depending on their circumstances, but eligibility and amount are not guaranteed and should not be included as certain income in the initial budget.
The documents commonly required for admission, Études en France and visa preparation include:
Translations, notarisation or specific document formats may be required depending on the institution and visa checklist. Students should follow the latest Campus France India and France-Visas instructions rather than relying on an old checklist.
Applying to France becomes much easier when the university, Campus France and visa steps are planned together. Indian residents are covered by the Études en France procedure, although the exact application route can vary by programme.
Step 1: Career Counselling
Review your academic background, interests, career goals, preferred study level, language ability and budget.
Step 2: University & Course Selection
Shortlist French programmes based on subject fit, accreditation, teaching language, tuition, city, internship model and long-term career relevance.
Step 3: Check the Application Route
Confirm whether your programme is handled through Études en France, Parcoursup, direct university application or a combination of procedures. Follow the institution’s official instructions.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Collect academic transcripts, passport, language scores where required, CV, motivation letters, recommendations and programme-specific material such as a portfolio.
Step 5: Submit Applications
Complete applications accurately and before university, Campus France and scholarship deadlines.
Step 6: Complete Campus France Requirements
For India, complete the Études en France file, required payment and Campus France assessment or interview steps according to the current instructions.
Step 7: Receive and Accept the Offer
Review tuition fees, scholarship conditions, payment deadlines and any academic conditions before accepting the offer.
Step 8: Apply for the France Student Visa
Create the France-Visas application, prepare financial and accommodation evidence, book the required appointment and submit documents through the official process.
Step 9: Pre-Departure Preparation
Arrange housing, travel, insurance, foreign exchange, document copies, CVEC where applicable and arrival formalities.
Step 10: Begin Your France Journey
Travel to France, complete university registration, validate the VLS-TS when required, attend orientation and begin your academic programme.
For long-term study in France, Indian students generally need admission to an eligible higher-education programme and must meet the current France-Visas and Campus France requirements.
From 1 August 2026, France-Visas states that long-stay student visa applications must show resources of at least €877.50 per month. Applicants should verify the live France-Visas checklist because financial thresholds and documentation can change.
For higher-education study lasting more than three months, students are generally issued a long-stay student visa that acts as a residence permit, known as a VLS-TS, subject to the conditions of the case. India is part of the Études en France procedure.
Common Requirements
France-Visas currently lists an indicative €50 visa fee for applicants from Études en France countries, subject to individual circumstances. Campus France India has also announced that the Études en France procedure fee is INR 20,000 from 1 August 2026. Students should pay only through official links after the file is validated.
The France study process for Indian applicants usually involves both Campus France and France-Visas. Students should ensure that the study plan, finances, academic history and documents are consistent across every stage.
Be Prepared to Explain
All information should be truthful, specific and supported by documents. Avoid generic statements and claims that cannot be verified.
The VLS-TS allows an eligible international student to remain in France for the authorised study period and must generally be validated after arrival. France-Visas states that VLS-TS holders should complete online validation within three months of arrival when the visa requires it.
Key Benefits
The student visa is not a guarantee of permanent residence or employment. Any move from study to work requires the appropriate residence status and compliance with current immigration rules.
Submitting an accurate application early can reduce avoidable delays, but processing times and visa outcomes are never guaranteed.
September / October Intake
January / February Intake
Research / PhD Start Dates
Students should always verify the current intake and deadline for the exact programme rather than assuming a university follows one national calendar.
LetzStudy supports Indian students planning to study in France with personalised counselling, transparent programme comparison and structured application guidance. Our goal is to help students choose an institution that fits their academic profile, financial plan and career direction rather than simply recommending the most famous university or school.
How We Support You
Our counsellors compare French universities and schools based on course structure, accreditation, tuition fees, city costs, internship opportunities, scholarships and career relevance. We also help students understand the difference between public-university fees and higher private-school tuition so that the final shortlist is financially realistic.
Counselling → University Shortlisting → Application → Campus France → Offer Review → Scholarship Guidance → Visa Support → Accommodation → Pre-Departure
Sending a student abroad is a major family decision. Parents often want clarity on tuition, accommodation, finances, safety, visa requirements, language, part-time work and career options. At LetzStudy, we explain each stage clearly, help families build a realistic budget and organise the application process before travel.
Whether you plan to study in France after Class 12, pursue a master’s degree, MBA, engineering programme or research qualification, LetzStudy can support you from initial course comparison through enrolment preparation.
Book your free counselling session today and take the first informed step towards studying in France with LetzStudy.
Planning early and checking current official sources can prevent expensive mistakes.
International students studying in France may need to register for the French social-security system depending on their status and programme. Additional complementary health insurance, known as a mutuelle, can be useful because social security may not reimburse every expense in full. Students should also arrange appropriate travel or temporary insurance for the period before full coverage becomes active.
Before travelling, confirm the university’s health-registration process, required documents and whether any private insurance is required for the visa or initial stay.
1. Is France a good study destination for Indian students?
Yes. France offers a combination of globally recognised public universities, selective Grandes Écoles, strong engineering and business schools, relatively competitive public tuition and a growing number of English-taught programmes. India and France are also expanding student mobility, with a bilateral target of welcoming 30,000 Indian students to France by 2030. The best choice still depends on the student’s course, budget, language plans and career goals.
2. Can Indian students study in France after Class 12?
Yes. Indian students can apply for undergraduate programmes after Class 12, including three-year Licence degrees, bachelor’s programmes, business-school degrees, engineering pathways, design programmes and selected BUT courses. Entry requirements, application platforms and language expectations vary, so students must check whether their programme uses Études en France, Parcoursup or a direct application route.
3. How much does it cost to study in France for Indian students?
For 2026–2027, Campus France lists differentiated public-university tuition of €2,902 per year for a bachelor’s degree and €3,950 per year for a master’s degree for many non-EU students, unless an exemption applies. Private schools and Grandes Écoles can cost much more. Living costs may range from roughly €750 to more than €1,800 per month depending on city and housing, with Paris generally the most expensive.
4. Can international students work part-time in France?
Eligible foreign students are generally permitted to work up to 964 hours per year, around 60% of normal annual working time. Part-time work can provide experience and supplementary income, but official France-Visas guidance advises students not to rely on employment to cover all study and living expenses.
5. Is IELTS compulsory to study in France?
Not always. The exact requirement depends on the institution and programme. Many English-taught programmes accept IELTS, TOEFL or another approved test, while some institutions may accept previous English-medium education. French-taught programmes generally require French proficiency. Students should verify the exact programme requirement rather than relying on claims that France universally allows study without IELTS.
6. How long can Indian students stay in France after graduation?
Eligible Indian graduates with a French qualification at least equivalent to a master’s degree may benefit from the bilateral India–France APS “Master” arrangement. The French Ministry of the Interior lists the Indian APS as valid for 12 months and renewable once, potentially allowing up to 24 months for a first professional experience or job search, subject to the current eligibility and prefecture rules.
Whether you are planning a bachelor’s degree after Class 12, a master’s programme, MBA, engineering course, specialised business programme or research qualification, LetzStudy can help you compare French institutions with clarity.
Our counsellors can help you shortlist courses, prepare applications, understand public and private tuition, explore scholarships, complete Campus France steps, organise visa documents and plan the practical requirements before departure.
Book your free counselling session today and take the first step toward studying in France with LetzStudy.
LetzStudy – Your Trusted Partner for Global Education
Helping students discover the right course, the right university and the right future through personalised guidance, careful research and complete study-abroad support.