France is known for its culture, history and excellent business, engineering and hospitality schools. Its business schools rank among the best in Europe, and its public universities charge comparatively low fees.
France actively welcomes Indian students, and the number of English-taught programs has grown quickly, especially at master’s level.
Why students choose France
- Top business schools: several French schools rank among the world’s best for management.
- Low public tuition: public universities charge regulated, comparatively low fees.
- English-taught programs: many master’s degrees and MBAs are taught in English.
- Central location: easy travel across Europe.
Popular courses
- Management, finance and luxury brand management
- Engineering and data science
- Hospitality and culinary arts
- Fashion, design and international relations
Universities and colleges
France has public universities, prestigious ‘grandes écoles’ for engineering and business, and specialised schools for fields such as hospitality and design. Grandes écoles are selective and usually charge higher fees.
Costs and funding
Fees vary from low at public universities to high at private business schools. Living costs are highest in Paris. Students may be eligible for housing assistance from the French government, which helps with rent.
Intakes and entry requirements
The main intake is September, with some programs starting in January. Indian students usually apply through the Campus France procedure, which includes an online application and an interview, before applying for a visa.
Work during and after your studies
Students can work part-time within an annual hour limit. After graduating, eligible students may get a temporary residence permit to look for work or start a business in France.
Life as a student
France offers an excellent quality of life, with rich food culture and travel opportunities. Learning basic French helps with daily life, even if your course is taught in English.
How to apply, step by step
- Shortlist courses that match your academic background and career goal, with a mix of safe and ambitious choices.
- Prepare your tests: an English test for most programs, plus GRE, GMAT or SAT where required.
- Write a statement of purpose for each course and collect transcripts, CV and recommendation letters.
- Apply before the deadlines and track your offers.
- Accept an offer, pay any deposit and arrange your funds or education loan.
- Apply for your French long-stay student visa, then book travel and accommodation.
Check before you apply
- Campus France process and timelines
- Whether the program is fully in English
- Accommodation in Paris
- Recognition and accreditation of private schools
- French language for part-time work
Who it suits best
France suits students interested in management, luxury, hospitality, engineering or culinary arts, and those who want a European degree with travel opportunities. It is a good fit for students willing to learn some French.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need French to study in France?
Not for English-taught programs, but French helps for jobs and everyday life.
What is Campus France?
The official agency that manages the application and pre-visa process for Indian students.
Can I work after studying in France?
Eligible graduates can apply for a permit to look for work or start a business.
Are French business schools expensive?
Top business schools charge high fees, while public universities are much cheaper.
How long does Campus France take?
Allow several weeks for the application and interview, then the visa stage.
How we help
Choosing a university is only the first step. Our counsellors review your academic record, test scores, budget and career plans, then suggest a realistic shortlist with safe, moderate and ambitious options. Applications are processed through our partner network of universities and admission platforms, so you get one point of contact from shortlist to offer letter.
We also help you prepare your statement of purpose, check your documents before submission, plan your education loan and get ready for the visa stage. Our guidance is free for students: tell us about your plans and a counsellor will reply personally.
Want help with university applications?
Get free guidance on courses and universities. We process applications only through our partner network of universities and authorised admission platforms.
Need an education loan?
Check your eligibility and compare education loan offers from multiple lenders through our education loan partner.
Always verify: Rules, fees and work rights change often. Confirm everything on the official government and university websites before you apply. Official sources: india.campusfrance.org and france-visas.gouv.fr.
