Study in France
Overview
France boasts a prestigious education system with world-renowned universities like Sorbonne University and École Polytechnique. Immerse yourself in French culture and history while earning a respected degree. International graduates may benefit from temporary work visa options to gain experience. Tuition fees can vary depending on the program, university, and whether you choose a public or private institution.
Quick Facts
France, a country steeped in history and brimming with culture, offers international students a unique opportunity to pursue higher education.
- Capital: Paris
- Population: 68.4 Million
- Official Language: French
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Largest city: Paris
- Universities: 80
- Weather: Varied
Why Study In France?
- Top-Ranked Education, world-renowned universities like Sorbonne University and École Polytechnique.
- Public universities in France have relatively low tuition fees.
- Explore French culture, known for its art, history, fashion, and cuisine.
- France is a leader in research across fields like aerospace, medicine, and renewable energy.
- France’s location makes it a fantastic base for exploring Europe.
- Focus on Practical Learning.
- Initiatives like the “Welcome to France” program offer assistance with visas, accommodation, and integration.
- English language options for international students.
Education System
- The Ministry of Education sets the curriculum and standards, ensuring consistency nationwide.
- Public universities offer a broad range of programs at reasonable costs. “Grandes Ecoles” are prestigious, selective institutions with specialized programs, often requiring competitive entrance exams.
- French language proficiency is essential. Depending on the program, level B1 or B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is recommended, with some requiring C1 or C2 for specific fields.
- France adheres to the Bologna Process, making qualifications comparable across Europe. Degrees are awarded at three levels: Licence (Bachelor’s equivalent), Master’s, and Doctorat (PhD).
- While French is the primary language, a growing number of Master’s programs are taught entirely in English.
Qualifications Offered
Im France Licence (Bachelor’s Degree) is a three-year undergraduate program equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree in other countries.Licence Professionnelle (Professional Bachelor’s Degree)is a three-year program with a stronger focus on professional training and practical skills. Like in other countries here master’s and doctoral programs are considered as advanced studies. A shorter university diploma, Diplôme Universitaire (DU) focusing on specialised skills or continuing education. A two-year higher technician certificate with a strong vocational orientation course also there, Brevet de Technicien Supérieur (BTS)
Test Requirement
- The French Language Proficiency Test is the most crucial requirement.
- TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français)is a widely recognized test that assesses listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills in French.
- DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) is another option, DELF offers various diploma courses at different proficiency levels.
- international students might need to take the TOEFL or IELTS exam to prove English language proficiency.
Education Cost
The cost of education in France for international students can vary depending on several factors. Public universities generally offer lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. However, even public universities can have tuition fees ranging from ₹3.24 lakhs to ₹8.10 lakhs per year. On top of that, factor in living expenses which can range from ₹7.3 lakhs to ₹10.95 lakhs annually. This includes housing, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs. So, the total cost of studying in France for an international student can range from roughly ₹10.54 lakhs to ₹19.05 lakhs per year. There are, however, scholarships and student work opportunities that can help offset these costs. Be sure to research all options available to minimise the financial burden.
Work Rights & Stay Back Post Study
Working and staying in France after graduation is possible.Upon graduation, you’ll likely need a work permit to stay and work in France. This can be obtained through a process involving finding a job that offers sponsorship.Initially, you might get a temporary resident permit called “Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour” (APS) valid for a year while seeking employment. This is available to graduates with a professional Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, or those starting a business.If you find a job, your employer can sponsor you for a work visa(Residence Permit for Employee). This allows longer stays and eventual permanent residency possibilities.
Intake
France has two main intakes for international students. Winter Intake is the primary intake for most universities in France. It typically runs from October to March and offers the widest range of courses and programs. The application deadline for the winter intake is usually in July or August. Summer Intake is the secondary intake offered by some universities in France. It typically runs from April to September and offers a smaller selection of courses and programs. The application deadline for the summer intake is usually in January.
Scholarships
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme is a prestigious scholarship awarded by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development to outstanding international students at Master’s and PhD levels. It covers monthly allowances, return airfare, and accommodation costs.
- Emile Boutmy Scholarships for Non-EU Students at Sciences Po offered by Sciences Po (Paris Institute of Political Studies), this scholarship provides financial aid to talented non-EU students enrolled in their undergraduate programs.
- Ampère Excellence Scholarships for International Students is funded by the French Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, these scholarships are awarded to high-performing international students enrolling in Master’s programs in specific fields at designated French institutions.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs):This scholarship program by the European Union supports students pursuing specific joint Master’s degree programs offered by a consortium of universities across Europe, including France. The scholarship covers tuition fees
- Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarships, offered by Université Paris-Saclay, this scholarship provides financial aid to outstanding international students enrolled in their Master’s programs. The scholarship amount covers tuition fees and living expenses.
Top Universities
Do You Have Questions?
Public universities have lower tuition fees compared to some countries. However, there is a factor in living expenses, which can be high, especially in major cities.
Yes. Scholarships like Eiffel Excellence and Emile Boutmy can significantly reduce financial burdens. Research university-specific options and those applicable to your nationality.
Many universities list English-taught Master’s programs on their websites. Search for “programmes internationaux” or “English-taught programs.”
Many programs integrate internships and work placements, providing valuable work experience alongside academics.
France offers temporary work authorization options for graduates, allowing you to gain professional experience after your studies.
While French is the primary language, it depends on the program. Master’s programs increasingly offer English-taught options. For some fields, especially at the Bachelor’s level, B2 or higher on the CEFR is needed.
Study In France Now
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of France, a country renowned for its fashion, design, and culinary scene. French universities offer a range of programs, with affordable tuition fees and scholarship opportunities available for international students.