Study in France
3500+
Universities to choose from
With/Without IELTS
You can apply With/Without IELTS
2 Yrs PSWV
Affordable Budget
Uncompromised High-Quality Education at an Affordable Budget
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Why France
France has one of the most beneficial, accessible and internationally renowned systems of higher education, making study abroad in France an attractive option for students seeking quality education at an affordable cost. With excellent global rankings, exceptional French researchers, 62 Nobel Prize winners, France is the destination to pursue high-quality education at an affordable budget.
France has over 3,500 public and private institutes offering quality higher education developed with a colossal budget with a focus on inspiring excellence. Their long term and continuous political visions have helped establish themselves as a leading benefactor of quality education.
Public institutes, financed by the State, offer a wide choice of programs, covering all areas of learning and research. The Grandes Ecoles also offer excellent programs, ranging from subjects such as political science to veterinary courses. Moreover, the French specialised schools offer a host of programs to choose from.
Top Universities & Colleges in France
France is not just about fashion, art, and the Eiffel Tower—it is also home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities and colleges, which is why study abroad in France continues to gain popularity among international students. Ranked among the global leaders in higher education, French institutions are known for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, affordable tuition, and vibrant student life. Whether you dream of becoming a tech innovator, a business leader, a fashion icon, or a researcher, France has the right university waiting for you.
Top Universities in France for Indian Students
| University/College | Specialization/Strength | City | Tuition Fees (Approx.) | Why Choose It? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Université PSL | Research, Interdisciplinary | Paris | €2,770 – €3,770 (Public) | Ranked among the top in the world, strong innovation focus |
| Sorbonne University | Arts, Humanities, Sciences | Paris | €2,770 – €3,770 (Public) | Iconic university with global recognition |
| INSEAD | MBA, Business | Fontainebleau | €50,000+ | Globally top-ranked MBA program |
Russell Group Universities
Russell Group Universities at a Glance
| University | Global & National Strengths |
|---|---|
| University of Cambridge & Oxford | Consistently in top 10 globally (QS, THE, ARWU) — unmatched prestige and academic legacy. |
| Imperial College London | STEM powerhouse; top rankings and exceptional employability. |
| UCL & LSE | Innovation hub, diverse student body, and leadership in social sciences. |
| Edinburgh, Manchester, Bristol | Strong research, vibrant cities, favourable for international students and graduate outcomes. |
Transform Aspirations into Achievements
Top Courses to Study in France
France: More Than Fashion, A Hub for Innovation & Knowledge
When you think of France, you may imagine the Eiffel Tower, art, and haute couture. But beyond its cultural charm, France is also a global hub for higher education—offering cutting-edge programs in STEM, business, healthcare, hospitality, and creative industries. French universities are renowned not only for their world-class faculty and research facilities but also for affordable tuition fees and globally recognized degrees.
And here’s the best part: the number of English-taught courses in France is rapidly increasing, making it easier than ever for Indian students to pursue their dream programs without language barriers.
- Fashion & Arts
- Luxury Brand Management
- Finance
- Engineering
- Big Data & Data Science
- Economics
- International Business
- Law & Social Sciences
Top Cities to Study in France
Beyond Paris: Explore the Student Cities of France
When students think of France, Paris usually comes first to mind. And while the capital is truly iconic, France has so much more to offer! Each city comes with its own academic strengths, lifestyle vibe, affordability, and career opportunities. From the bustling streets of Lyon to the research-driven Grenoble or the Mediterranean charm of Marseille, there’s a French city perfect for every student.
Studying in France is not just about the classroom—it’s about finding a place where you can learn, grow, and feel at home.
Best Student Cities in France
1. Paris – Education + Fashion + Finance Capital
- Home to world-famous institutions like Sorbonne University, HEC Paris, Sciences Po, and PSL.
- A global hub for business, fashion, finance, and culture.
- Rich student life with museums, events, and career networking opportunities.
- Cost of living: Higher than other French cities (~€1,200–€1,800/month).
2. Lyon – Tech, Biotech, and Business Hub
- Known as France’s second student city with universities like Université de Lyon and EM Lyon Business School.
- Strong in engineering, biotech, and international business.
- More affordable than Paris (~€900–€1,200/month).
- Lively nightlife and cultural festivals make Lyon very student-friendly.
3. Grenoble – The Research & Innovation City
- Nicknamed the “Capital of the Alps”, Grenoble is famous for engineering, IT, and research programs.
- Surrounded by mountains—perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
- Affordable lifestyle compared to big cities (~€800–€1,000/month).
- Hosts some of Europe’s most advanced research labs.
To make that choice easier, here’s a compact, student-focused guide to the UK’s best study destinations — covering the city vibe, top universities, average monthly budget, and one insider tip you’ll wish you knew before moving.
Cost of Studying in France
If you’ve always dreamed of studying in Europe but worried about the costs—France is a breath of fresh air, as study abroad in France offers world-class education without the heavy financial burden seen in other destinations. Unlike the UK or USA, France offers world-class education at surprisingly affordable tuition fees, especially at public universities. And with smart budgeting, student discounts, and part-time work, your study abroad journey in France can be lighter on the pocket than you think.
Tuition Fees in France
France keeps education accessible with subsidized tuition at public universities. Here’s what you can expect:
| Type of Institution | Average Fees (per year) | Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Public Universities | ~€2,770 (Bachelor’s) / ~€3,770 (Master’s) | Wide range of STEM, business, and humanities |
| Grandes Écoles & Private Universities | €8,000 – €30,000 | MBA, Engineering, Fashion, Business, Luxury Management |
France Student Visa for International Students
Get your VLS-TS and start your French journey with confidence.
Studying in France usually requires a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS) — a national visa that acts as your residence permit for studies between 4 months and 1 year and must be validated after arrival. This visa also lets students work part-time (up to ~20 hrs/week).
| Requirement | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Visa type | Long-stay visa valid as residence permit — VLS-TS (étudiant) |
| Who needs it | International students (programs > 90 days) — follow the Études en France / Campus France route if required. |
| Core documents | Admission letter, proof of funds (€615/month guideline), accommodation proof, valid passport, health insurance, Campus France/EEF confirmation (if applicable). |
| Apply via | France-Visas portal → local VFS Global centre (India) / French Consulate as directed. |
| Processing time (typical) | Allow 3–8 weeks (official guideline: processing often 15 days but can extend up to 45 days – plan ahead). |
| After arrival | Validate your VLS-TS online / OFII formalities within the first 3 months. |
| Post-study option | APS (Temporary Resident Permit / job-seeker) — official APS allows graduates to stay to look for work or create a business (see post-study section). |
Scholarships in France
French scholarships are offered to Indian students based on their academic merits and test scores. These scholarships aim to support Indian students in pursuing their studies in France. Among the numerous scholarships available, several stand out due to their reputation and the opportunities they provide for Indian students to advance their education in France.
- Charpak Scholarship
- Raman-Charpak Fellowship
- LA FÉMIS
- EIT International Excellence Scholarship
- Technical Fellowship-UICClk x 1
- The Erasmus Scholarship
- The Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation grant
Exam Prep for Studying in France
Your roadmap to admission success: tests, timelines, and smart prep
France offers thousands of English- and French-taught programs—so the right exam plan depends on your track. Below is a clear, student-friendly guide with exactly what to take, why it matters, and how to prepare.
Student Life & Culture in France
Live the French experience — classroom by day, croissant-and-café by evening
Studying in France isn’t just an education — it’s a full-on cultural immersion. From world-class museums and iconic festivals to buzzy student clubs and cosy neighbourhood cafés, student life here blends serious learning with a joie de vivre you’ll actually want to wake up for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is France good for Indian students?
Yes, France is a good choice for Indian students due to affordable education and post-study work options, with Eleevate Overseas supporting the process.
Is IELTS compulsory for France?
No, IELTS is not always compulsory for France, as many universities accept MOI or other English tests depending on the course, and Eleevate Overseas helps students choose the right option.
Why do international students choose France for higher education?
France combines globally ranked universities, affordable tuition, and cultural exposure, making study abroad in France a strong academic and lifestyle choice.
Are English-taught programs widely available in French universities?
Yes, France offers a growing range of English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs across business, STEM, and social sciences.
Is France suitable for Indian students planning long-term careers in Europe?
Absolutely, study abroad in France provides access to EU job markets, post-study stay options, and industry-focused education.
What kind of student visa is required to study in France?
International students typically need a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS) that allows part-time work during studies.
How affordable is student life in France compared to other European countries?
With subsidized public universities and student benefits, France is more budget-friendly than many Western European destinations.
Do French degrees hold global recognition?
Yes, degrees from French universities are internationally recognized and valued by employers worldwide.
