Best Universities in France for International Students
- Last Updated on: May 28, 2025 by
- Sridhar Kongara
France is renowned for sophisticated etiquettes and historical landmarks. It also offers high standards of education for international students. The academic program offers a blend of cultural richness and cutting-edge technology.
Moreover, the robust industry presence facilitates rewarding careers to most of the graduates. The ECTS system facilitates swift transfer of qualification within Europe. Public universities in France for International Students are affordable, while Grandes Ècoles emphasize career-centric approach.
French qualifications are divided into three parts, Licence, Master and Doctorat. The academic year is split into two semesters, it starts in September and ends in June.
Read MoreLess
Salient Features
- By embracing ECTS system, academic mobility gets streamlined.
- France is fourth largest academic destination in the world.
- The LMD system simplifies academic growth.
- Public universities and Grandes Ècoles have their own distinctive features.
- Most of the French institutions are placed in top of the QS ratings.
Top 3 Reasons to choose France
France is hub of education in Europe, offering top-quality programs in different disciplines. State-of-the-art technology is aptly combined tradition to provide unique academic programs. Ample number of English-taught programs makes it easy for overseas students.
Top-Notch Education
French institutions are the best as per global rankings, esteemed institutions alongside Grandes Ècoles emphasize career boost for international students. Internships placements at top-tiered companies provide real-world experience.
Read MoreLess
- English-taught programs are curated for international students.
- Most of the French universities are placed in top 200 globally.
- Sorbonne and PSL are actively engaged to provide innovative programs and research resources.
Affordability
- Public institutions charge a meagre tuition fee ranging between €200 – €4,000 yearly. Although private institutions are expensive, charging up to €20,000 per year, but provide career-oriented programs to students.
Vibrant Culture
France boasts rich natural landscapes, from alpines to Mediterranean beaches, you’ll get to explore all this, moreover it is home various UNESCO sites. International students enjoy diverse French culinary.
- It prioritizes health, thereby mandates health insurance cover to all students.
- France ranks impressive in Global Peace Index, present standing 87 globally.
- Famous events such as, Paris Fashion Week and Cannes Film Festival is organized annually in France.
- France guarantee both academic and personal development of international students.
Take first step towards your Study Abroad Journey
Best 5 Universities in France for International Students
Here is the best universities list of Best Universities in France for international students.
Universitè Paris-Saclay
French institutions have reputation of providing world-class programs, ranging from business to quantum physics. Every program offers a combination of academic excellence and strengths.
Read MoreLess
Paris Sciences et Lettres University (PSL)
An academic powerhouse nurtured numerous Nobel laureates in the past. It boasts 09 institutions and offers dual degrees in collaboration with MIT or Cambridge. Ranked 24th globally.
Sorbonne University
This university is a pioneer in medicine and literature; it came into existence after a merger of two institutions. Moreover, centralized location in Paris is ideal for students to build network.
HEC Paris
Hailed as a top institution for MBA in France, it boasts impressive employability rate, as graduates find an appropriate employment within no time. Many former students have bagged C-Suite roles in leading MNCs globally.
École Normale Supérieure de Lyon
With specialization in science, it needs students to opt for preparatory courses for an entry. Distinctive feature of the institution, 1:8 classrooms ratio, the best in France.
France offers unconditional support for visa assistance and French language enhancement. 80% employability rate denotes high standards of academic approach.
AOEC India can help you with gaining admission into these prominent institutions.
Course Finder
Search from 1500+ English taught programs offered by French Institutions.
its easy, search by program name of by stream, specialization & Education level
Top Courses for International Students
MBA & Business-Related Programs
Business discipline programs, including fast track MBA program at INSEAD assure swift employment at leading MNCs. Other business schools include –
- ESSEC – Targets Asia-European Corporate ties.
- ESCP – Comes with prestigious triple accreditation (AMBA, AACSB & EQUIS).
- HEC Paris – Fast track programs of mere 16 months.
Read MoreLess
Engineering & Technology
International students get enriched programs in aerospace and automotive engineering with partnership of Renault and Airbus. Data science and Robotics programs have a schedule of 02 years & 18 months respectively. It also facilitates mandatory internships.
French education enables students to innovate new things during the course pursuance.
International Relations & Political Science
These disciplines are well taught in Sciences PO Paris; it offers dual degree option in collaboration with leading universities. Additionally, ERASMUS+ enhances the social science program.
Humanities & Arts
Institutions like Ècole Bouelle and Le Fresnoy fosters complete development of artisans and film making students. Portfolios are prioritized for admissions.
Admission Requirement for International Students
The admission requirements are straightforward and simplified for international students. Submission of language proficiency and academic records are clearly systemized.
Academic Requirements
French institutions check the academic background to award admissions. Generally, Indian students need at least 60% for undergraduate programs, while postgraduate programs demand bachelor’s degree with standardized percentage and transcripts.
Read MoreLess
Appropriate attestation of educational documents by concerned education board is mandatory. Few elite schools may conduct interviews and exams for assessment.
Language Requirements
DELF B2 or DALF Is necessary for programs in French language. While English language programs need 90 in TOEFL iBT or 6.5 in IELTS.
International students can access preparatory courses if they fail to achieve desired scores.
Visa Requirements
We recommend, Indian students must initiate process for visa application well in advance. Once you confirm pay the admission fee, €615 per month as financial proof is the benchmark. Validate the visa via OFII within three months.
Preliminary Admission Request (DAP) is mandatory for first year bachelor’s applicants.
Comparsion of Costs
Tuition Fees
Public universities have fixed tuition fee structure, while private institutions regulate their own fees. You need €200 – €4,000 to study in public universities. While Grandes Ècoles charge €5000 – €20,000. Arts and design schools demand €10,000 – €15,000 yearly.
Read MoreLess
Living Expenses
The monthly expenses differ as per city. Paris is the most expensive of all, you need at least €1200 – €1800 per month. While Lyon and Toulouse require €900 – €1100, smaller cities need up to €850 per month, as CROUS housing reduces the overall expenditure.
We advise Indian students to opt for CAF housing subsidy, dine at student restaurants and utilize discounted transportation to reduce overall monthly expenditure.
Scholarships and institution-based grants can significantly offset academic costs, early application is the key to claim these privileges.
Student life in France for International Students
France has lot to offer for international students, both academically and culturally. French cities offer student-friendly approach and festivals. Whether you are skiing at alps or visiting museum, you learn something new every day
Securing Accommodation
Prioritize shared residences, Colocation – an affordable housing option comes for 50% reduced rent. Online platforms help in seeking appropriate housing, in-person negotiations for accommodation are recommended.
Read MoreLess
CROUS housing comes for €200 – €400 monthly, private apartment demand €500 – €900 monthly in cities like Lyon. Homestay is another option, which often includes meals.
Culture & Connections
France boasts multiple student association, catering to different interest and hobbies. These associations and organizations help in fostering global friendships.
Your college ID card is the ticket for free access to various museums and Louvre.
Watch-Out for These Events
- Nice Carnival in February.
- Fête de la Musique in June.
- Bordeaux Wine festival in June.
Life Beyond Academics
The Navigo Pass allows access to all public transport systems in Paris, priced at €75 per month. While SCNF offers 59% discount on trains only on weekends and BlaBla Cars offers discounted rides in regional areas.
Go for Skiing at Grenoble, the Gear costs €25 per day. Moreover, students can visit Germany and Spain under Schengen visa.
Career Opportunities after Graduation in France
Recent graduates are entitled to get 2 years APS visa post-study for seeking employment in French thriving industrial scene. The process is structured for hassle-free job-hunt.
Opportunities in France
France boasts thriving economy with stable job market, graduates can seek roles such as, biotechnology and engineering jobs in Lyon. Paris offers finance and consulting specialty. Toulouse is renowned for the aerospace industry.
Many Indian graduates opt for Data Science and IT roles, they start with internships, often shifting to permanent roles.
Read MoreLess
Visa & Work Permit Requirements
APS work permit is available to international students post-study, it offers 24 months of stay. You need valid requirements such as evidence of graduation and valid health insurance. Once you get stable employment, you can go for salarié permits. VIE programs often facilitate internships for up to 24 months in MNCs without any work permit.
Career Resources & Networking
Here is the list of resources for Indian students –
- HEC Paris alumni have over 60,000 members.
- Access government roles via Polê Emploi.
- For executive level jobs visit APEC portal.
French language proficiency elevates your interview chances. Schools like EDHEC often recommended students to employers internally.
The salary comparison of different sectors is as follows –
- €40,000 – €50,000 yearly in consulting.
- €38,000 – €48,000 yearly in luxury brands.
- €35,000 – €45,000 yearly in Tech.
Industry partnerships of the institution enhance your job prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Best Institutions in France for Indian Students
As an Indian student, go for PSL, HEC Paris or Sorbonne, as they are highly ranked with specialization in engineering, humanities and business.
Why France is a Top Destination for Education?
Three main reasons make France an academic hub – Affordable tuition fees, highly ranked institutions and cultural richness. It offers strong prospects for graduates.
How much does it costs to study in public universities in France
Public Institutions charge €200 – €4,000 per year for most of the programs, as far as living expenses are considered, you need €800 – €1200 per month outside Paris
Sridhar Kongara
