Do I need to know French to study in France?
Not for English-taught programs (most MBA/MSc at top schools). For French-taught programs, B2-level French (DELF) is required.
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For Indian students
Step-by-step process to get your Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS)
The typical France student visa processing window is 2-6 weeks. Students should still prepare documents 8-12 weeks before the intake because university CAS/CoE/I-20 steps, financial proof, biometrics, and medical checks can add extra time before the visa file is ready.
A practical timeline is to secure your offer first, confirm fee payment or enrollment documentation, prepare funds in the accepted format, complete English/medical requirements where applicable, and then submit the visa application. NexStudy treats 2-6 weeks as the visa decision window, not the full admission-to-flight timeline.
| Step | Recommended Buffer |
|---|---|
| University offer and acceptance | 4-8 weeks before visa filing |
| Financial documents and fee receipts | 2-4 weeks before visa filing |
| Visa application decision | 2-6 weeks |
| Travel booking and accommodation | After visa grant, unless refundable |
Funds must be traceable, sufficient, and consistent with tuition plus living cost requirements.
Your SOP should explain course choice, academic progression, career goals, and India ties.
Names, dates, marksheets, bank letters, and offer details must match across the file.
Students should be able to explain the university, course, budget, and post-study plan clearly.
Average salaries for international graduates in France
| Role | Average Salary | Growth Signal |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | EUR 48,000 | +12% |
| Business Analyst | EUR 42,000 | +8% |
| Luxury Brand Manager | EUR 55,000 | +6% |
| Aerospace Engineer | EUR 52,000 | +7% |
| Data Scientist | EUR 50,000 | +18% |
In most cases, Indian students can work part-time in France if their student visa permits it. Common student jobs include campus assistant roles, hospitality, retail, tutoring, delivery support, and entry-level tech or admin roles. Students should always follow the work-hour rules printed on their visa conditions.
Part-time work should be treated as support income, not the main funding source. The stronger plan is to show full financial capacity first, then use part-time income for living flexibility, local experience, and networking.
Strong fit for students who combine relevant coursework, internships, portfolio projects, and local networking while studying.
Strong fit for students who combine relevant coursework, internships, portfolio projects, and local networking while studying.
Strong fit for students who combine relevant coursework, internships, portfolio projects, and local networking while studying.
Strong fit for students who combine relevant coursework, internships, portfolio projects, and local networking while studying.
Studying in France can support long-term settlement only when the student chooses an eligible course, maintains visa compliance, gains relevant work experience, and meets immigration criteria at the time of application. A degree alone should not be treated as a guaranteed PR pathway.
APS (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour) gives graduates time to gain local work exposure. Students targeting settlement should compare occupation demand, salary thresholds, regional rules, language scores, and work visa conversion routes before choosing a university or city.
Monthly expenses breakdown for international students
| Expense | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR Paris) | EUR 800-1,500/mo |
| Rent (1BR Outside Paris) | EUR 400-700/mo |
| Groceries | EUR 200-300/mo |
| Transport | EUR 30-75/mo |
| Dining Out | EUR 10-18/meal |
| Health Insurance (CVEC) | EUR 100/yr |
| City | Average Rent | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Paris | EUR 1,200/mo | Business, Fashion, Arts |
| Lyon | EUR 650/mo | Engineering, Pharma, Food |
| Toulouse | EUR 550/mo | Aerospace, IT |
| Montpellier | EUR 500/mo | Sciences, Medicine |
Scholarship listings are syncing for France
Browse the scholarship hub or open the finder below for live matches.
Open scholarship hub →INSEAD is a leading international business school located in France, with campuses in Fontainebleau, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi. Founded in 1957, INSEAD is known for its interdisciplinary approach to business education and its focus on global leadership. The school offers a wide range of undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs, as well as executive education and open enrollment courses. INSEAD's strong emphasis on research and innovation has earned it a reputation as one of the world's top business schools.
The Institut Polytechnique de Paris (IP Paris) is a prestigious French research university and a leading institution in science and technology, formed as a merger of five prestigious engineering schools: École Polytechnique, ENSTA Paris, ENSTA Bretagne, ENSAE Paris, and Télécom Paris. IP Paris is recognized for its strong focus on engineering, mathematics, economics, and computer science, offering both undergraduate and graduate programs. The university collaborates closely with industry and research centers, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, and is part of France’s elite Grandes Écoles system.

Atelier De Sèvres is a private university located in Sèvres, France. It was founded in 1990 and is known for its focus on arts, design, and technology. The university offers a wide range of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including engineering, business, and liberal arts. Atelier De Sèvres is also renowned for its research facilities and collaborations with industry partners.

📍 Rennes, France
EHESP (École des Hautes Études en Sciences Sociales) is a public research university located in Paris, France. It is renowned for its programs in social sciences, humanities, and political science. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as research opportunities. EHESP is known for its interdisciplinary approach and its focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of social sciences.

The University of Paris, officially known as Université de Paris, is a public research university located in Paris, France. It is one of the most prestigious and historic universities in the world, with a rich academic tradition dating back to the 12th century. The university is composed of 13 constituent universities, each with its own distinct identity and specialties. The University of Paris is renowned for its excellence in research and teaching across a wide range of disciplines, including humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
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I do not have web browsing capability, and I cannot verify 'ECOLE 89 (THROUGH GA EDUCATION)' as a recognized, accredited university in France. This name does not correspond to any institution I can identify in the French higher education system (e.g., universities, grandes écoles, or institutions listed in the Ministry of Higher Education's official directories). I strongly recommend verifying any such institution's accreditation through official French sources, such as the Base des établissements d'enseignement supérieur or France's national recognition frameworks, before applying or paying fees.
GA Education, also known as Groupe ESC Amiens or Amiens Business School, is located in Amiens, France, however there is limited information about 'GA Education' as a university in France. It may be a part of a larger institution or an educational program. Further research is needed to provide a comprehensive overview.

📍 Saint-Étienne, France
Jean Monnet University (Université Jean Monnet Saint-Étienne) is a public university located in Saint-Étienne, France. Named after Jean Monnet, one of the founding fathers of European unity, the university was originally established in 1969 and renamed in his honor in 1989. It is a constituent member of the University of Lyon (Université de Lyon) system. The university offers a broad range of academic programs across disciplines including arts, humanities, law, economics, management, sciences, health, and technology. It is known for its strong research output and international collaborations, with partnerships across Europe and beyond. The university hosts several research laboratories and is particularly recognized for its work in optics, health sciences, and European studies. With a commitment to European integration and internationalization, Jean Monnet University attracts students from around the world and participates actively in Erasmus+ and other exchange programs. Its campuses are spread across Saint-Étienne, providing modern facilities for teaching and research.
📍 Paris, France
The Paris School of Business (PSB) is a private business school located in Paris, France. It is part of the Paris Campus network and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in business administration. The school is known for its strong industry connections and focus on practical learning. PSB is accredited by the French Ministry of Education and is a member of the Conférence des Grandes Écoles (CGE).
The International School of Management (ISM) is a prestigious business school located in Paris, France. Established in 1990, ISM offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in management, finance, marketing, and international business. The school is known for its strong industry connections, innovative teaching methods, and focus on developing global business leaders. ISM is part of the prestigious University of Paris, which enhances its academic reputation and resources.
📍 Lille, France
EDHEC Business School is one of France's leading private business schools and a prestigious grande école. Founded in 1906, it offers a wide range of programs including Bachelor in Business Administration, Master in Management, MBA, MSc, and doctoral programs. The school is particularly renowned for its strengths in finance, entrepreneurship, and innovation, and consistently ranks among the top European business schools in international rankings. EDHEC is accredited by AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, and is known for its strong corporate connections and career-oriented approach to education.

École normale supérieure (ENS) is one of France's most prestigious higher education and research institutions, commonly referred to as a grande école. It is particularly renowned for its rigorous selection process, small student body, and strong emphasis on research across the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Students typically receive competitive scholarships and are expected to pursue academic or research careers. The institution has produced numerous Fields Medalists, Nobel laureates, and leading French intellectuals. The main ENS campus is located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, near the Latin Quarter, and is now part of the Paris Sciences & Lettres (PSL) University alliance. The school operates several research laboratories in partnership with CNRS and other major French research institutions. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, with a strong focus on preparing students for careers in academia, research, and public service.
📍 Toulouse, France
Toulouse Business School, also known as TBS, is a leading European business school located in Toulouse, France. It was founded in 1900 and is part of the Toulouse University system. The school offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in business and management, with a strong focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.
📍 Paris, France
École Supérieure de Publicité (ESCP) is a private business school in France, known for its programs in management, marketing, and communication. It is part of the ESCP Europe network, which includes campuses in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The school is renowned for its international student body and its emphasis on practical, hands-on learning.
📍 Paris, France
HETIC (Hautes Études des Technologies de l'Information et de la Communication) is a French private higher education institution specializing in digital technologies, web development, internet professions, and entrepreneurship. Founded in 1990, it offers bachelor's and master's level programs in areas such as web development, digital project management, UX/UI design, digital communication, and e-business. It is part of Galileo Global Education, a major international private education group that operates institutions across Europe and other regions. HETIC is known for its strong industry connections, project-based learning approach, and focus on preparing students for careers in the digital and technology sectors.
INSEAD is a private, international graduate business school founded in France in 1957. Its Singapore campus, opened in 2000, is INSEAD's Asia hub and offers MBA, Executive MBA, and executive education programs. Located in Singapore's one-north business district, the campus serves a highly diverse, global student body and faculty.
📍 PARIS, France
AD EDUCATION is a prestigious university located in Paris, France. It is known for its strong focus on education and research in various fields. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, attracting students from all over the world. AD EDUCATION is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment, where students can thrive and achieve their academic and personal goals.
📍 Paris, France
The American Graduate School in Paris (AGS) is a private, non-profit institution offering graduate and undergraduate programs in various fields such as business, education, and the arts. Established in 1990, AGS is committed to providing a high-quality education in a unique international setting. The school's curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, cultural awareness, and professional development, preparing students for global careers.
📍 PARIS, France
Association Nouvelle EDC, also known as EDC Paris Business School, is a private business school located in Paris, France. It is part of the EDC Group, which also includes EDC Paris School of Business and EDC Paris School of Management. The school offers a range of programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and executive education programs. It is known for its strong focus on international business and its partnerships with universities and companies around the world.
Estimate your admission tier for France. This is guidance, not an admission guarantee.
Explore top student-friendly cities and their living costs
Compare costs, career fit, and student lifestyle before shortlisting a campus city.
| Average rent | EUR 1,200/mo | EUR 650/mo |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Business, Fashion, Arts | Engineering, Pharma, Food |
| Part-time job availability | Medium to high in student areas | Medium to high in student areas |
| Indian community | Check campus societies and neighborhoods | Check campus societies and neighborhoods |
| PR/job opportunity index | Course-dependent | Course-dependent |
Some universities in France may waive IELTS when the student has strong English-medium education proof, alternate tests such as PTE/TOEFL/Duolingo, or university-specific English assessments. Waivers are university-specific, so students should not assume every programme accepts a no-IELTS route.
The safest strategy is to shortlist universities by course first, then verify English waiver rules, visa acceptability, and scholarship impact. A low English score can sometimes be offset by a pathway or pre-sessional English programme, but it may increase visa or admission complexity.
MBBS in France should be evaluated carefully against recognition, licensing pathway, clinical exposure, total cost, language of instruction, and the student’s plan to practise in India or abroad. Students must verify current NMC and local medical council requirements before applying.
For medical applicants, NexStudy recommends a separate licensing checklist before deposits are paid: degree recognition, internship rules, exam pathway, hospital rotations, language requirements, and total living cost over the full programme duration.
MS in Computer Science in France is usually strongest for students with a solid quantitative background, coding portfolio, internship experience, and interest in software, AI, data, cybersecurity, or cloud roles. ROI depends heavily on university tier, city, tuition, and job-search execution.
Students should compare curriculum depth, co-op/internship access, alumni hiring, local tech clusters, and post-study work rules. A lower-cost university with strong employability can outperform a high-fee option with weak career support.
An MBA in France is best suited for students with clear career goals, leadership evidence, strong communication skills, and preferably work experience. Freshers should compare specialised business master’s degrees before choosing a general MBA.
The best MBA outcomes usually come from schools with strong employer networks, internships, career coaching, alumni access, and location advantage. Applicants should calculate ROI using tuition, living cost, opportunity cost, and realistic post-MBA salary ranges.
Engineering in France can be a strong pathway when the student chooses a discipline linked to local industry demand, such as computer, mechanical, civil, electrical, renewable energy, robotics, or biomedical engineering. Accreditation and internship access matter as much as rankings.
Students should compare lab facilities, capstone projects, industry placement, co-op options, and post-study work eligibility. For regulated engineering roles, verify local professional registration requirements before finalising the course.
Compare student residences, shared apartments, commute time, and lease rules before paying deposits.
Look for campus Indian societies, grocery access, festivals, temples/community groups, and peer networks.
Start LinkedIn, internships, faculty networking, and portfolio work in the first semester, not after graduation.
Calculate your return on investment for studying in France
Check off items you've completed to see your visa readiness score
Difficulty: Moderate
Outcome: High salary potential
Budget: Good fit
Difficulty: High
Outcome: High salary potential
Budget: Good fit
Difficulty: Moderate
Outcome: High salary potential
Budget: Good fit
Amount: Partial tuition
Deadline: Varies
Level: UG/PG
Amount: Need/merit based
Deadline: Before intake
Level: PG
Yes, Indian students can pursue undergraduate programmes in France after completing their 12th standard. Most universities require a minimum of 60% marks in 12th, English proficiency (IELTS 6.0+), and valid financial documentation.
Popular undergraduate programmes include Engineering, Business, Computer Science, and Nursing. Some universities offer foundation year programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Application deadlines vary by intake — check specific university pages on NexStudy for detailed eligibility.
Indian students typically need €EUR 800–€1,500 per year for tuition and living expenses, depending on the university, course, and city.
| Expense Category | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR Paris) | EUR 800-1,500/mo |
| Rent (1BR Outside Paris) | EUR 400-700/mo |
| Groceries | EUR 200-300/mo |
| Transport | EUR 30-75/mo |
| Dining Out | EUR 10-18/meal |
| Health Insurance (CVEC) | EUR 100/yr |
France offers strong ROI for Indian students, especially in STEM and business fields. The APS (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour) (1 year (renewable)) provides valuable work experience after graduation. Use the ROI Calculator above to calculate your personal return on investment.
| Expectation | Reality Check |
|---|---|
| Part-time job will cover everything | Part-time work can support expenses, but visa compliance and academic performance come first. |
| Any university will give the same outcome | Course quality, city, internships, alumni network, and career services change outcomes. |
| Visa is automatic after admission | Admission helps, but financial proof, intent, documentation, and compliance still decide the case. |
| PR is guaranteed after study | Settlement depends on changing immigration rules, occupation demand, salary, work experience, and language scores. |
Get a free profile evaluation, personalized university shortlist, and expert visa guidance from our counselors.
Not for English-taught programs (most MBA/MSc at top schools). For French-taught programs, B2-level French (DELF) is required.
There are 325 active university profiles in France on NexStudy. Browse, filter and compare programs, fees, scholarships and admission requirements.
Most universities in France require IELTS 6.0–6.5 for undergraduate programs and 6.5–7.0 for master's programs. Top-tier universities may require 7.0+ overall.
Yes — universities in France offer merit-based and need-based scholarships, plus government-funded awards. NexStudy's scholarship finder matches you to relevant scholarships based on your profile.
Monthly living costs in France vary by city. Rent (1BR Paris): EUR 800-1,500/mo. Rent (1BR Outside Paris): EUR 400-700/mo. Groceries: EUR 200-300/mo. Transport: EUR 30-75/mo. Dining Out: EUR 10-18/meal. Health Insurance (CVEC): EUR 100/yr.
France offers the APS (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour) with a duration of 1 year (renewable). Completed master's or equivalent in France.
You need the Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS). Application fee is EUR 99 with processing time of 2-6 weeks. Key documents include: Valid passport, Proof of admission (Campus France), Proof of accommodation, and more.