Study in France : Full Guide for International Students

Study in France for International Students: Complete 2026 Guide

Study in France for international students is one of the best opportunities to get a globally recognized degree at affordable tuition fees. France offers high-quality education, strong career prospects, and access to the entire Schengen region. If you are planning to study abroad in Europe, this detailed guide covers tuition fees, visa process, scholarships, and admission requirements.

Study in France for International Students is becoming one of the most popular study abroad options in Europe in 2026. With affordable tuition fees, world-ranked universities, scholarships, and strong post-study work opportunities, France offers everything international students need for academic and career success.

Table of Contents
1. Why Study in France for International Students
2. Tuition Fees in France
3. Cost of Living
4. Admission Requirements
5. Student Visa Process
6. Scholarships
7. Work & Post-Study Options
8. FAQs

Why Study in France for International Students?

France is the fourth most popular study destination in the world. Here’s why thousands of students choose France every year:

• Affordable public university fees

• 1,500+ English-taught programs

• Work while studying (20 hours per week)

• 1-year post-study work permit

• Strong job market in AI, business, engineering & hospitality

• Safe and student-friendly cities

Whether you choose Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, or Lille, France provides excellent academic and cultural exposure.

Top Universities to Study in France

Some of the best universities for international students include:

• Sorbonne University

• Université PSL

• École Polytechnique

• HEC Paris

These institutions offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in business, engineering, medicine, arts, AI, and data science.

Tuition Fees in France for International Students

One major reason to study in France for international students is affordable tuition.

Public Universities (Approximate Annual Fees)

• Bachelor’s: €2,770 – €2,895

• Master’s: €3,770 – €3,941

• PhD: €380 – €400

Private universities and Grandes Écoles may charge €8,000–€20,000 per year.

Cost of Living in France

Living costs depend on the city:

• Paris: €1,200–€1,500 per month

• Other cities: €700–€1,000 per month

Expenses include accommodation, food, transport, insurance, and personal expenses.

Admission Requirements to Study in France

For Bachelor’s Degree

• 12th completion certificate

• Minimum 60%+ academic score

• IELTS 6.0 (if English-taught)

For Master’s Degree

• Relevant Bachelor’s degree

• IELTS 6.0–6.5

• SOP (Statement of Purpose)

• Updated CV

• Recommendation letters

Some programs may require portfolio or entrance exams.

How to Apply to Study in France for International Students

Most students apply through Campus France.

Application Process:

1. Select program and university

2. Create profile on Campus France

3. Submit documents

4. Attend interview (if required)

5. Receive admission letter

6. Apply for visa

You can also apply directly via university portals in some cases.

For official details, visit:
https://www.campusfrance.org (DoFollow external link)

France Student Visa Process

To study in France for international students, you need a VLS-TS Student Visa.

Apply through France-Visas.

Required Documents:

• Admission letter

• Proof of financial support

• Accommodation proof

• Academic documents

• Health insurance

Official visa website:
https://france-visas.gouv.fr (DoFollow external link)

After arriving in France, validate your visa within 3 months.

Scholarships to Study in France

France provides excellent scholarship options:

• Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme

• University-specific scholarships

• Regional funding

Scholarships may cover tuition, monthly allowance, travel, and insurance.

Work & Post-Study Opportunities

International students can work 964 hours per year (around 20 hours per week).

After completing a Master’s degree, students can apply for a temporary residence permit to search for jobs or start a business in France.

Industries with strong demand:

• Artificial Intelligence

• Engineering

• Luxury & Fashion

• Hospitality

• Business & Finance

Is France Good for Indian Students?

Yes. Study in France for international students, especially Indian students, is becoming more popular due to:

• Affordable tuition

• English-taught programs

• Strong Indo-French relations

• Growing job market

France aims to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, making it an excellent destination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is study in France for international students affordable?

Yes, study in France for international students is considered affordable compared to countries like the USA, UK, or Australia. Public university tuition fees range from approximately €2,770 to €3,941 per year for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. Living costs depend on the city, but smaller cities are budget-friendly.

2. Can international students study in France in English?

Yes, study in France for international students is possible entirely in English. France offers more than 1,500 English-taught programs, especially at the Master’s level in business, engineering, data science, hospitality, and international relations.

3. What are the IELTS requirements to study in France?

For study in France for international students, most universities require:

• IELTS 6.0 for Bachelor’s programs

• IELTS 6.0–6.5 for Master’s programs

Some institutions may accept MOI (Medium of Instruction), depending on the course.

4. How much bank balance is required for a France student visa?

For study in France for international students, you must show proof of financial support. Typically, students need to demonstrate approximately €7,000–€8,000 per year to cover living expenses. Exact requirements may vary, so always check official visa guidelines.

5. Can international students work while studying in France?

Yes. Study in France for international students allows part-time work up to 964 hours per year (around 20 hours per week). This helps students manage living expenses and gain international work experience.

6. Is there a post-study work permit in France?

Yes. After completing a Master’s degree, students who choose study in France for international students can apply for a temporary residence permit (APS) to search for a job or start a business in France.

7. Do I need Campus France for admission?

In many countries, study in France for international students requires completing the Campus France procedure before applying for a student visa. Some programs also allow direct university applications.

8. What are the best courses to study in France?

Popular courses for study in France for international students include:

• Artificial Intelligence

• Business & Management

• Engineering

• Fashion & Luxury Management

• Hospitality & Culinary Arts

• International Relations

France is especially strong in business, luxury brands, and engineering.

Study in France for International Students: Career Opportunities After Graduation

After completing your degree, study in France for international students provides strong career prospects in sectors such as artificial intelligence, engineering, business management, hospitality, fashion, and finance. France is home to global companies like Airbus, L’Oréal, BNP Paribas, and Capgemini, offering excellent job opportunities for international graduates.

Moreover, France’s location in the European Union allows graduates to explore opportunities across Europe, increasing long-term career growth and PR pathways.

Conclusion: Is Study in France for International Students Worth It?

Absolutely yes.

Study in France for international students offers affordable education, globally ranked universities, scholarships, work opportunities, and excellent post-study career options.

With proper planning, documentation, and guidance, France can be your gateway to a successful European career.

Start early, prepare smartly, and choose the right university for your profile.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to study in France for international students is a smart investment in your future. With affordable tuition fees, scholarship opportunities, work rights, and global career prospects, France remains one of the best European countries for higher education.

Start your application early, prepare your documents carefully, and select the right program for your career goals.

👉 Check our France Student Visa Assistance
https://clearmyudaan.com/france-student-visa/