Top courses in France for Indian students are rapidly diversifying. While France remains celebrated for fashion and design, in 2026 Indian students are opting for STEM, business, policy, and sustainability. They’re breaking stereotypes and choosing Top 5 Courses Indian Students Are Choosing in 2026 that ensure global careers.
In fact, official reports indicate that France is expected to host around 10,000 Indian students in 2025, marking a rising confidence in French universities.
This growing number includes more students enrolling in STEM, AI, data science, and environmental programs; emphasising that France study abroad programs are now about much more than fashion.
Course 1 – Engineering & Aerospace
One of the most sought-after Top 5 Courses Indian Students Are Choosing in 2026 is engineering & aerospace. Toulouse – Europe’s aerospace capital – houses Airbus, major research labs, and premier institutions like ISAE-SUPAERO, École Centrale, and Institut Polytechnique de Paris.
Indian students in these programs benefit from hands-on training and opportunities in aviation, robotics, and aerospace R&D. With companies such as Airbus, Safran, and Dassault Aviation recruiting globally, graduates of these programs are well-positioned for international engineering careers beyond the realm of fashion.
Course 2 – Computer Science & AI
Among the Top 5 Courses Indian Students Are Choosing in 2026, computer science & AI are becoming increasingly popular. With institutions like Paris-Saclay, INRIA, and École Polytechnique leading Europe’s AI revolution, Indian students find strong French study abroad programs offering specialisations in machine learning, cybersecurity, and data science.
State and EU-funded initiatives are also increasing investment in French AI research, contributing to rising job opportunities, startup ecosystems, and innovation labs for graduates.
Course 3 – Business & Management
If you’re exploring study in France for Indian students in 2025 and beyond, business & management stand out among the Top 5 Courses Indian Students Are Choosing in 2026. France’s top business schools like HEC Paris, ESSEC, INSEAD, and NEOMA are among the best in the world.
These programs include international MBA, Master in Management (MiM), and specialised courses in global finance, luxury brand management, and entrepreneurship. Graduates often land roles in multinational companies (L’Oréal, Danone, BNP Paribas), consulting firms, or even launch new ventures – clearly demonstrating that France study abroad programs provide more than just aesthetic appeal.
Course 4 – Public Policy & International Relations
Public policy and international relations also feature in the Top 5 Courses Indian Students Are Choosing in 2026, drawing growing attention. Sciences Po and other leading institutions offer policy programs, governance, EU affairs, and diplomatic studies.
For Indian students wanting careers in global policy, NGOs, or international agencies (UNESCO, OECD), these programs offer real-world exposure, internships, and a platform to impact global governance.
Course 5 – Sustainability & Environmental Sciences
Sustainability & environmental sciences are rapidly rising within the Top 5 Courses Indian Students Are Choosing in 2026. Universities like Grenoble Alpes, Sorbonne, and Paris-Saclay are leading in renewable energy, climate policy, green tech, and environmental engineering.
With the world focused on climate action and France’s commitment to the Paris Agreement, these France study abroad programs offer Indian students not just a degree but a chance to work on global challenges.
Why More Indian Students Are Choosing France in 2026
- France aims to host 10,000 Indian students in 2026 with plans to reach 30,000 by 2030, supported by initiatives like Classes Internationales.
- Many of these students are choosing STEM, AI, business & sustainability instead of fashion.
- Tuition in public French universities is significantly lower than in the USA or UK.
- Generous scholarships like Charpak, Eiffel Excellence, and programs under Classes Internationales are helping Indian students reduce costs.
- Post-study work options and EU access through France gives graduates a broader global scope.
Real-Data & Impact
- Approximately 70% of Indian students choosing to study abroad are enrolling in STEM fields, according to recent reports; and France is increasingly among their preferred destinations.
- Current enrolment in France from India stands at about 8,000–10,000 students in 2025, showing this shift is already in motion.
What Should You Do Next?
If you’re serious about going beyond fashion and choosing a course with global impact:
- Explore your interests: Consider whether engineering, AI & tech, business, or sustainability excite you more.
- Shortlist universities: Use resources to compare programs in France, factoring in internships, labs, and global rankings.
- Apply early for scholarships: Charpak, Eiffel, Classes Internationales all have deadlines and merit criteria.
- Speak to counsellors: Eleevate Overseas can help you identify the top courses in France for Indian students, build your profile, get SOPs right, and plan your visa.
Don’t wait; study in France for Indian students in 2026 is going to be very competitive. Make your move now.
Final Thoughts
Is France Just for Fashion? The evidence says no. In 2026, the Top 5 Courses Indian Students Are Choosing in 2026 highlight how France has become a serious hub for engineering, AI, business, policy, and sustainability.
With rising enrolments, attractive scholarships, and programs built around solving real global challenges, France study abroad programs are now about careers, impact, and future readiness — not just aesthetics.
If you’d like help navigating the application process or selecting the right program from the Top 5 Courses Indian Students Are Choosing in 2026, Eleevate Overseas is here to guide you every step of the way.
