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Study in France: A Comprehensive Guide for International Students

Are you looking to study abroad in a country known for its world-class education, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant student life? Your quest ends here – welcome to France! Home to the world's fashion capital, France boasts a rich and decorated past and hosts some of the most distinguished universities globally. In recent years, it has become a premier study-abroad destination for international students worldwide. Campus France said international students surged 8% in 2021-22, exceeding 400,000.

Join the rising tide of students choosing France for their studies and discover why this beautiful country continues to attract ambitious learners from around the world. This guide will explore the French education system, top universities, popular courses, cost of living, visa processes, scholarships, and career opportunities. Let’s expand our horizons and embark on a life-changing educational journey in France!

 

Why Study in France?

  • World-Renowned Universities
    France is home to some of the world’s top universities, like Sorbonne University and PSL Research University, which are consistently ranked among the best globally. These institutions offer exceptional academic programs across various disciplines, ensuring a high-quality education.
  • Global Recognition
    A degree from an esteemed French university is globally recognized and highly respected, opening doors to international career opportunities.
  • Rich Cultural Experience
    Studying in France immerses students in the rich cultural tapestry of French history, art, and cuisine, providing a unique and enriching experience.
  • Affordability
    Tuition fees at French universities are generally more affordable than in many other countries, with numerous scholarships available to support international students.
  • Diverse Course Offerings
    French universities offer various programs across disciplines, allowing students to pursue their academic interests.
  • Quality of Life
    France is known for its high standard of living, excellent healthcare, efficient transportation, and vibrant social scene, which makes it an exceptional student environment.

 

Top universities in France: 

  • Sorbonne University (Paris) – Known for humanities and sciences.
  • PSL Research University (Paris) – Renowned for innovative research.
  • HEC Paris – One of the world’s top business schools.
  • INSEAD – A global leader in business education.
  • École Polytechnique – Famous for engineering and science programs.

 

Top Courses in France

France offers a comprehensive selection of courses across a variety of disciplines. Below are some of the top courses that international students favour:

  • Business and Management
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Fashion and Luxury Brand Management
  • Art, Design, and Film Studies
  • Hospitality and Tourism Management

 

Documents required for the admission application process

If you are applying to any university in France, you must meet specific requirements. You need to submit some of the essential documents while applying. These documents prove their skills, abilities, nationality, and identity. Universities ask for documents depending on the student's study level and course. However, to study in France, you will need the following documents:

  • Application form - The form is the entry form you must fill out accurately to get admission to your chosen university. You can fill out the application forms online or offline, depending on the availability of application forms. 
  • A valid passport - Copy your passport(mandatory first and last page).
  • Please send an updated resume/CV with personal details such as your educational background and skill sets, and your Skype ID, email ID, and contact number.  
  • Academic documents and Certificates  - You must send the academic certificates supporting your educational qualifications. If you are applying for undergraduate studies, you must send the SSC and higher secondary certificate to the university. You must share your certificate and mark sheets if you have completed a bachelor’s degree. The Academic Certificates include:-
    • Latest Joining Letter.
    • Latest Salary Slip.
    • Employment Certificates from all Previous Employers.
    • 10th Grade Transcripts & Certificate.
    • 12th Grade Transcripts & Certificate.
    • Bachelor’s Transcripts & Degree (for Master's/PG Programs Only). 
    • Master’s Transcripts & Degree (if available). 
    • Diploma Transcripts & Certificate (if available). 
    • Other Diplomas/Certificates (if available.
  • Language Proficiency Test Scores - For admission to any University in France, you must take the English or French language tests to prove your language proficiency. According to the medium of instruction, you should take your language exams and present scores to the universities.
  • Two letters of recommendation—A Recommendation letter is requested to be written about us by someone. The university wants to know what others think about you and assess your qualities and capabilities to perform a particular task that the universities ask for in the Letter of Recommendation form. 
  • Statement of Purpose - A Statement of Purpose reflects your personality in front of the admission committee when enrolling in universities abroad. It is the chance of impressing the admission officer by presenting a profile through an essay that describes your personality traits, which are not portrayed in academic documents. It should also include your goals, the career path you have taken so far, and your academic progress. 
  • Passport-size Photograph—You need to concentrate on these photos and arrange the correct-sized and latest photographs to apply. Your application may be rejected if you do not attach the correct-sized photographs.
  • Experience letters (If any) - If you are applying for any business program, you must have experience in the relevant field to be admitted to any business school in France. If you are applying for an undergraduate course, you don’t need any experience. The primary documents you can present as proof of work experience include

 

Language requirements for Universities in France

Most degrees are taught in French in Universities in France, but you will find various study programs taught in English. Specifically at master's and Ph.D. levels. Universities in France accept the following language tests:

For French proficiency

  • DELF or DALF
  • TCF

For English proficiency

  • IELTS Academic(International English Language Testing System)
  • TOEFL iBT ( Test of English as a Foreign Language)
  • PTE Academic(Pearson Test of English)

 

Intakes in France 

The word intake means the beginning of the university's academic year and the period when students register for their courses. As the French intake is twice, many universities in the country follow this and open admissions for their courses. Even though intakes are the same, each university course's timelines and dates can differ. So here are the further details of each intake in France for international students.

  • Fall Intake in France (September) – The September intake is the primary intake for French universities. As the semester begins in September, it is called the September intake. For the fall intake, the admission application timelines will be from May to June. Many Indian students prefer to apply for the September intake in France as this aligns with the admission period of the Indian education system. Universities often receive many applications, and the competition for this intake in France for international students is also relatively high.
  •  Spring Intake in France (January) – The course start date for the spring intake will be in January. Many universities in France open admissions during this intake. Some universities that offer the January intake in France also participate in the fall intake. Usually, the admissions timeline for this spring intake is from July to August in French universities.

 

Cost of Studying in France

France offers education in some of the top universities and affordability, making it a popular choice for international students. With universities like PSL, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, and Sorbonne University, the cost of studying in France for Indian students is relatively low compared to other European countries. 

In the 2024 academic year, 7,344 Indian students enrolled, which is expected to grow by 200% by 2030. With subsidized tuition fees and low living costs for international students in France, it’s an accessible option for many.

Here is a breakdown of the cost of studying in France for Indian students based on different program types.

  • Undergraduate : €3000 - €12000 per year
  • Masters: €3000 - €20000 per year
  • MBA: €31000 - €98000 per year
  • PHd: €380 - €30000 per year

 

Cost of Living in France

France has emerged as a sought-after destination for students seeking high-quality education and globally recognized degrees. Before embarking on this academic journey, students must understand the cost of living in their chosen city. This financial awareness will enable effective budgeting, ensuring a comfortable and focused study experience in France.

Expense TypeAverage Monthly Cost
Accommodation€400 - €800
Food and Groceries€200 - €300
Transportation€30 - €70
Utilities€80 - €120
Mobile Phone Plan€20 - €30
Health Insurance€50 - €100
Study Materials€30 - €50
Entertainment€100 - €150

 

Study in France Scholarships:

For students aspiring to pursue their education in France but facing financial constraints, many scholarship options are available to support their academic journey. These scholarships include university-specific, merit-based, need-based, government-funded, privately funded, and country-specific awards, each designed to attract talented students from diverse backgrounds.

To be considered for these scholarships, applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record, notable extracurricular achievements, and competitive standardized test scores. It is crucial to carefully assess the specific eligibility criteria for each scholarship, as some may target particular fields of study or prioritize students from specific countries or backgrounds.

Here are some of the most sought-after scholarships for international students in France:

  • The Sophie Germain Scholarship: Supports international students pursuing postgraduate degrees in mathematics.
  • The French Government MOPGA Scholarship: Awarded to researchers focusing on environmental issues.
  • The Eiffel Scholarship Programme of Excellence: Provides support to graduate and PhD students in various disciplines. 
  • Government-funded programs: Erasmus+ is awarded to students and staff for study, training, and work opportunities in European countries
  • Non-government scholarships: The Chateaubriand Fellowship and Alexandre Yersin Scholarships.
  • University-specific scholarships: Stephen M. Kellen Scholarship, Emile Boutmy Scholarship, and ENS International Selection Scholarships
  • Other scholarships: Scholarships offered by the American Association of Teachers of French, Campus France, Fulbright Scholarship, and AIFS Study Abroad Scholarships.

 

Student Visa Requirements

International students planning to study in France need a valid student visa. The type of visa depends on the program duration:

  • Schengen Short-Stay Visa: This is also known as a temporary student visa in France. If you want to go for a maximum of 3 months, you must take this visa, i.e. students taking courses of less than 3 months. They are not renewable visas. Remember that they are not renewable before applying for a Schengen visa for France.
  • Temporary Long-Stay Visa: For courses lasting more than three months and less than six months, the candidate must apply for a Temporary long-stay visa (visa de long séjour temporaire pour études). This visa does not require a separate residence permit. The Temporary Long-Stay Student Visa in France is non-renewable.
  • Long-Stay Visa: Okay, so this is the longest-stay visa. You can apply for this visa if you want to stay more than six months. It includes a Residency permit and the study period.

You might have come across the word “Campus France”. Campus France is an organization that helps students who want to go to France. It works under the observation of the Ministry of Higher Education and Research. It also helps French students who wish to go to other countries to pursue higher education. It is a stepping stone where every student has to undergo a specific process, such as registering and scheduling an interview date. In return, Campus France provides details about scholarships in France, the application procedure, details about various colleges, interview procedures, etc.

 

Documents Required for Student Visa in France 

You will require a student visa to enter France to attend your classes. You must submit some essential documents to apply for a student visa. You must make an account with Campus France and book an appointment. You must also pay the visa application fees and upload the visa documents. The list of documents required is mentioned below:

  • Fill out the Student Visa Application form. You can download it from the Campus France website and take a printout of the form.
  • An official acceptance letter for the study program at a French university.
  • Language test score results
  • 2 photographs must be connected
  • You must have a passport with at least two legitimate blank pages for at least three months beyond the return date and copies of your past visas.
  • Health/Medical Insurance of €30,000 minimum. You can find details here: Student visa for France.
  • You will also need a cover letter explaining your visit to France, an agenda, and confirmation of your return to your home country after you complete your studies in France.
  • Provide evidence of your status, i.e., marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.
  • Proof of adequate funds to survive in France during your studies. 

 

Working While Studying in France

Working while studying in France: International students can work up to 20 hours per week while enrolled at a higher education institution. After graduation, they can apply for a work visa to continue working in France.

 

Types of Student Jobs in France for International Students

International students in France have various job opportunities depending on their skills, interests, and experience. Here are some of the most common types of student jobs in France:

  • Part-Time Jobs: Many international students work part-time while studying in France. Part-time jobs include positions in retail, hospitality, and food service industries, as well as tutoring, babysitting, and pet-sitting.
  • Internships: Internships are popular for international students seeking practical experience in their chosen field. Internships are available in various industries, including finance, marketing, technology, and engineering.
  • Teaching English: English is widely spoken in France, and many international students find work as English language teachers. Teaching English can be a flexible and rewarding job, and it can be a full-time or part-time position.
  • Research Positions: Research positions can be an excellent way for international students pursuing a research-focused degree to gain practical experience and make valuable contributions to their field.
  • Freelance Work: Freelance work is another option for international students who have skills in areas such as writing, graphic design, photography, or web development. Freelance work can be done flexibly, allowing international students to balance their studies with work.
  • On-Campus Jobs: Universities in France often offer on-campus jobs, such as administrative positions, library work, and positions in student services. These jobs are convenient for international students as they do not require extensive commuting and often offer flexible working hours.

 

Conclusion

France is a top choice for students seeking a world-class education, diverse cultural experiences, and global career opportunities. It's an ideal destination for ambitious learners worldwide with numerous scholarships, affordable tuition, and a rich academic tradition. Choose France for your study abroad journey and unlock a world of possibilities.

 

FAQs:

  1. Is France a good choice for international students?
    France is a popular choice for international students due to its world-renowned universities, diverse academic programs, rich cultural heritage, affordable tuition fees, and vibrant student life.
  2. What are the admission requirements for studying in France?
    Typically, you'll need academic transcripts, a valid passport, language proficiency test scores (English or French), a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a resume/CV. Requirements may vary depending on the course and university.
  3. Do I need to know French to study in France?
    Not necessarily. Many French universities offer programs in English, especially at the master’s and doctoral levels. However, learning French can significantly enhance your academic experience and career prospects.
  4. How much does it cost to study in France as an international student?
    Tuition fees range from €3,000 to €12,000 per year for undergraduate programs, €3,000 to €20,000 for master's programs, and up to €98,000 for MBA programs. Living costs vary but generally range from €700 to €1,200 per month.
  5. Are there scholarships available for international students in France?
    Yes, France offers numerous scholarships, such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, Emile Boutmy Scholarship, and Erasmus+, to support talented international students based on merit and need.
  6. Can I work while studying in France?
    Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays. With the right visa, post-graduation work opportunities are also available.