Smart Start International

Why Study in France?

France, home to over 60 million people, is one of Europe’s largest and most influential countries. It is renowned as the world’s most popular tourist destination, celebrated for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, museums, art galleries, cuisine, and fashion. France offers a rich educational experience, attracting students from around the world with its high-quality universities and diverse academic programs.

With 22 regions, each further divided into departments, France provides a dynamic and multicultural environment for international students.

Academic Excellence in France

France is a leading destination for academic success, offering a vast array of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Many of its universities are among the most prestigious in the world, welcoming international students through streamlined application processes. Indian students, for instance, can apply to over 20 French universities with a single application form.

Struggling to prepare for SAT

    France is home to over 3,500 higher education institutions, including:

    • Publicly funded universities
    • Grandes Écoles (elite institutions offering specialized courses)
    • Schools of architecture
    • Institutions specializing in hotel management, tourism, culinary arts, and more

    Top Universities in France

    French universities consistently rank among the best globally, offering world-class education in various fields. Some of the top universities include:

    • IDRAC Business School
    • QS Quacquarelli Symonds Limited
    • Istituto Marangoni
    • 42 French universities featured in the QS World University Rankings, with 10 in the global top 300

    Popular Courses in France

    French universities excel in fields such as:

    • Data Analytics & Big Data
    • International Law
    • Business Studies (MiM, MSc, MBA)
    • Hospitality & Tourism Management
    • IT & Computer Science
    • Aerospace Engineering
    • Life & Biomedical Sciences

    Additionally, France is recognized for its expertise in nuclear, space, and aviation studies. Many international students also pursue courses in language, art, medicine, and law.

    Language Courses

    Apart from French, students can learn Italian, Spanish, German, and English, enhancing their global career prospects.

    Job Opportunities in France

    International students, including Indian graduates, must secure employment with a minimum monthly salary of EUR 2,220 to stay in France post-graduation. Those without job offers can apply for the Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS), a non-renewable, 12-month temporary residence permit.

    Working While Studying

    Indian students in France can work up to 964 hours per year (or 472 hours for a six-month program) under these conditions:

    • A valid residency permit
    • University approval for employment

    On-Campus Employment: Students can work on campus for a maximum of 670 hours part-time or 300 hours full-time under a one-year contract.

    Earnings: Students can earn approximately EUR 9.76 per hour (EUR 7.61 after deductions).

    Scholarships for Indian Students

    Indian students can benefit from scholarships provided by the French government and educational institutions, including:

    • French Government Scholarship (for master’s and doctoral students)
    • Charpak Scholarship (offered by the French Embassy in India for bachelor’s and master’s programs)
    • Franco-Indian Education Trust Scholarships
    • UGAM Legrand Scholarships (for students from families earning under INR 10,00,000 per year, offering up to EUR 10,000 fee waivers)
    • Amba-Dalmia Scholarship (for Indian women in arts, music, sports, and related fields)
    • Erasmus+ (for outstanding international students)
    • Early Bird Scholarships (for students applying 6-7 months before course commencement)
    • Eiffel Scholarship Program of Excellence (for students from developing countries up to 25 years for master’s and 30 years for PhD programs)

    Cost of Studying in France

    France makes higher education affordable, even for international students. Tuition fees at public universities (as of 2019) are:

    • Bachelor’s Programs: EUR 2,770 per year
    • Master’s Programs: EUR 3,770 per year
    • Doctorate (PhD) Programs: EUR 380 per year (same for EU and non-EU students)

    Tuition fees for private institutions range from EUR 3,000 to EUR 10,000 per year.

    Education System in France

    Secondary Education

    • Collège (Middle School): A four-year program culminating in the brevet des collèges.
    • Lycée (High School): A four-year program leading to the baccalauréat (high school diploma).

    Higher Education Pathways

    Students can choose between vocational and academic institutions:

    • Vocational Diplomas:
      • BTS (Brevet de Technicien Supérieur): A two-year diploma.
      • DUT (Diplôme Universitaire de Technologie): A two-year program awarded by universities.
      • Licence Professionnelle: One additional year after DUT or BTS.
    • Academic Diplomas:
      • Universities: Offer Licence (Bachelor), Master, and Doctorate degrees.
      • Grandes Écoles: Provide specialized courses in business, engineering, and administration, requiring competitive entrance exams.
      • Specialized Schools: Focus on music, art, architecture, tourism, and social work.

    LMD Framework (Licence, Master, Doctorate)

    • Licence (Bachelor’s Degree): A three-year undergraduate degree.
    • Master’s Degree: A two-year program, either professional (Master Professionnel) or research-based (Master Recherche).
    • Doctorate: A three-year program leading to a PhD.

    Visa Application Process

    • Short-Stay Visa: For programs lasting up to three months.
    • Long-Stay Visa: For courses between three to six months.
    • Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit: For programs over six months.

    Post-Study Work Permit

    Indian students with postgraduate or higher degrees can stay and work in France for up to two years under a post-study work visa.