Study in France

France is one of the most popular study destinations for international students, especially from India, thanks to its combination of world-class education, cultural richness, affordability, and growing Indo-French partnerships. This article covers every essential aspect of studying in France: reasons to choose France, costs, intakes, top universities, accommodation, and why it is especially appealing for Indian students.

Get Free Visa Consultation

News

Blogs

CRS Point Calculator

Get A Call In 10 minutes

Why Study in France?

Key reasons to study in France:

  • Affordable, subsidized tuition fees, especially in public universities, compared to the US or UK.
  • A diverse and dynamic student community, making cultural immersion part of the experience.
  • Access to leading global corporations and innovation hubs (Airbus, LVMH, etc.) for internships and employment.
  • More than 1,000 English-taught programs for international students.
  • Paris is ranked as a top student city globally.

Indo-French Collaboration & Appeal for Indian Students

Indian students are a key focus: France aims to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, strengthening educational and immigration ties. French universities actively collaborate with Indian institutions (e.g., TISS, Mumbai University), offer dual-degree programs, and hold country-specific education fairs.

France is also gaining popularity among Indians due to:

– Favorable student visa policies: Fast processing, limited paperwork, and a post-study Schengen visa (up to five years after graduation for master’s students).

– Wide recognition of French qualifications by employers, especially in French companies operating in India.

– Increasing support services and scholarships for Indian students.

Cost of Studying in France

Expense TypePublic UniversityGrande Écoles / Private / Living/OtherINR Equivalent (2025)
Tuition Fees€2,770–€3,770€8,000–€20,000₹2.9–₹20.8 lakh
Health Insurance€300–€500€300–€500₹31,000–₹52,000
Living Expenses€9,600–€12,000€9,600–€12,000₹10–₹12.5 lakh
Transport€300–€600€300–€600₹31,000–₹62,000
Miscellaneous€1,000–€1,500€1,000–€1,500₹1–₹1.5 lakh
Total€13,000–€16,000Up to €30,000+₹13.5–₹27 lakh

Cities like Lyon, Lille and Toulouse are 30–40% cheaper than Paris for rent and daily living.

Intakes & Application Timeline

France has two main academic intakes:

Fall Intake (September): This is the primary intake for most programs. Application deadlines typically run from March to July each year. Students should begin preparations 12–18 months earlier: researching courses, preparing documents, taking standardized tests, and applying for visas.

Spring Intake (January): Available in select institutions and programs.

Application Roadmap:

  1. January–April: Research programs, prepare supporting documents, take language tests (IELTS/TOEFL for English, DELF/DALF for French).
  2. March–July: Submit applications, respond to university queries.
  3. July–August: Confirm admission, arrange visas and accommodation.
  4. September: Classes commence.

Top Universities in France

France boasts 50 universities in global rankings, with Paris institutions dominating the top spots.

Rank University Name City Global Rank (2025)
1 PSL Research University Paris Paris 42
2 Université Paris-Saclay Paris 64
3 Institut Polytechnique de Paris Paris 71
4 Sorbonne University Paris 76
5 Université Paris Cité Paris 183
6 École Normale Supérieure de Lyon Lyon 251–300
7 IMT Atlantique Nantes 351–400
8 Institut Agro Nice 351–400
9 Montpellier University Montpellier 351–400
10 Université Grenoble Alpes Grenoble 351–400

Popular study areas: Business, Engineering, Sciences, Arts, Culinary, Fashion, and Hospitality.

Accommodation: Key Information

  1. Student accommodation in France varies from subsidized university housing (CROUS) to private residences and apartments. Most international students prefer

    CROUS Residences: Run by the French government, they are affordable and close to campus (rent €150–€450 per month). Priority is given to scholarship holders and early applicants.

    Private Student Residences: Costlier (often €500–€800+ per month), usually modern and come with amenities like laundry, gym, WiFi.

    Shared Housing/Studios: Shared apartments and studios range €300–€600 for shared, €500–€1,000 for private studio (in Paris, expect higher rates).

    Tips for securing a student room:

    • Apply for CROUS housing early, especially after receiving your admission letter.
    • Explore housing platforms and negotiate rental terms.
    • Consider living outside Paris for cost savings.

    Student Life and Cultural Experiences
    Studying in France means joining a vibrant student community, enjoying world-famous cuisine, historic cities, and a strong cultural and artistic atmosphere.

    • Students can learn French (third-most spoken business language) while having courses in English.
    • France boasts a robust transportation system, including discounted student passes.
    • University cities are filled with museums, festivals, and student events, creating a memorable experience.

    Post-Study Work and Career Prospects

    • International students in France can work during studies (up to 964 hours per year, or ~20 hours per week). Master’s graduates are eligible for a two-year post-study work visa, and may apply for a five-year Schengen visa, useful for gaining experience in France and other EU countries.

    Career benefits include:

    • Exposure to key sectors like luxury goods, engineering, tourism, and finance.
    • Employers value international experience and cross-cultural skills.
    • Indian students are increasingly hired by French corporations operating in India.

How to Get Started

Step-by-step guide:

    • Step-by-step guide:
    • Shortlist universities and courses based on rankings, interests, and intake timings.
    • Prepare academic documents, including transcripts, language proficiency scores, SOPs, and reference letters.
    • Apply to universities, ideally by March–April for September intake.
    • After receiving your admission, apply for your French student visa. Indian students benefit from simplified procedures and fast processing.
    • Arrange accommodation—apply early for CROUS or research private/student housing options.
    • Plan your arrival—flights, insurance, vaccinations, transport passes, and initial living expenses.

Visa Categories

0 +

Team Members

0 +

Visa Process

0 k

Our Success Rates

0 %

What Our Clients Say

Your trust is our greatest reward. Here’s what people from around the world have to say about their experience with our visa consultation services. 

Real Stories. Real Journeys.

Every visa we process is more than just paperwork — it’s a step toward someone’s dream. Whether it’s for studying abroad, exploring new destinations, or starting a new life overseas, our clients trust us to make it happen smoothly. Hear directly from those who’ve made it — and made memories along the way.

Immigration Made Easy: Country-by-Country Facts & Guides

Every visa we process is more than just paperwork — it’s a step toward someone’s dream. Whether it’s for studying abroad, exploring new destinations, or starting a new life overseas, our clients trust us to make it happen smoothly. Hear directly from those who’ve made it — and made memories along the way.

CANADA

Success Stories

Ready to Start Your Visa Journey?

Hodophiles Xplore Visas is here to guide you with trusted expertise and personal care, ensuring smooth journeys, timely approvals, and stress-free travel experiences tailored just for you.

Why Choose Hodophiles?

Hodophiles Xplore Visas stands out with personalized guidance, expert consultants, and a proven success rate in immigration services. We simplify complex visa processes, ensuring hassle-free experiences.

Expert Guidance

Our immigration solutions are affordable without compromising on quality. Our transparent pricing, expert guidance, and efficient services make your dreams a reality.

Visa Assistance

Hodophiles Xplore Visas offers expert guidance, seamless documentation, personalized support, timely updates, and comprehensive solutions for stress-free immigration success.

Faster Processing

Experience quick, efficient immigration services with streamlined processes, support, faster approvals, transparent communication and reliable outcomes.

Tailored Solutions

We provide personalized visa and immigration services, ensuring every client's unique needs are met with precision, care, efficiency, clarity, and expertise.

Get in Touch

Please fill out the form below, and our team will get back to you within 24 hours. Whether you are seeking guidance on immigration, student visas, work permits, or permanent residency, our experienced consultants are here to assist you every step of the way. Kindly provide accurate information so we can better understand your needs and offer the right support.

 

Get Free Visa Consultation

Growth Together

Frequency Ask Questions

We understand that the visa and immigration process can be complex. To help you get started, we’ve answered some of the most common questions our clients ask.

Public university education (including living costs) typically ranges from ₹13.5 to ₹16.6 lakh per year; private schools are higher.

Scroll to Top

Get Free Consultation