Best Cities to Study in France
- Last Updated on: November 20, 2025 by
- Sridhar Kongara
Indian students who are ambitious to seek higher education in France and be a part of 430,000 international students at France. Selecting an appropriate city is an intrinsic part of your dream. Whether it is a cosmopolitan like Paris with high living costs or any other tier-two French city with comparatively lower living costs.
When searching for the best city to study in France, it’s important to consider that each city offers unique advantages for international students, from vibrant cultural scenes to academic opportunities.
AOEC India expert France Consultants will help Indian students in choosing the best cities to Study in France for pursuing high quality education, whilst enjoying Desi delicacies like Maggi noodles and sizzling spicy samosas in France.
There are many advantages to studying in France, such as cultural diversity, academic excellence, and strong career opportunities. Every year, students from around the world visit France for higher education, drawn by its global reputation. When choosing a city, factors like cost of living, lifestyle, and employment prospects are crucial. Academic accreditations also play a major role in ensuring the quality and credibility of French universities.
Comprehensive details about best French cities, based upon on living expenditure, lifestyle, academic quality, cultural richness and employment opportunities. An all-inclusive guide that help local students to pick budget-friendly French cities as per individual financial capacity.
How we analyze the Best French Cities
In the process of ranking best French cities for Indian students, we adopt five crucial parameters to assess and analyze the cities, including data and QS Best Student Cities Index. Our analysis covers France located cities across different regions, ensuring a wide representation of the country’s educational landscape. Each city offers a unique combination of academic, cultural, and lifestyle benefits, making them attractive destinations for students.
| Criterion | Weight | What We Evaluate |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Quality & Strength | 30% | University rankings; number of English‑taught programs |
| Affordability | 25% | Living‑cost benchmarks for students; annual tuition fees for postgraduate degrees |
| Employability Aspect | 20% | Availability of part‑time work and graduate jobs; depth and quality of industry internships |
| Quality of Life | 15% | Lifestyle factors (recreation, culture); personal safety and overall city vibrancy |
| Convenience & Connectivity | 10% | Air, rail, and local transport links to other European hubs; internet availability and reliability |
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10 Best Cities to Study in France for Indian Students
Paris – A Global City: The French capital, Paris, is the fashion capital of Europe and offers a sophisticated lifestyle, serving as home to renowned institutions like HEC, ESSEC, PSL, and Sorbonne, all recognized for their academic accreditations. It accommodates 350,000 students (20% overseas students).
But the cost of living is relatively on the higher side, an Indian student needs £1350 – £1800 to manage expenses in the city. Many Indian students in the past have secured prestigious internships at LVMH, Station F, and BNP Paribas. Paris, being the hub of industries, offers lucrative career prospects for international students post studies.
Indian students can apply for scholarships such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship and Charpak Scholarship in all institutions of Paris. Although Paris has world-class restaurants and exceptional cuisine, we recommend Indian students dine at CROUS canteens for budget-friendly food. Students can also enjoy studying on the bank of the River Seine.
Toulouse – Aerospace Hub & Scenic Modern Buildings: Toulouse is renowned worldwide for pink buildings, a rare architectural style that glows during sunset. Indian students can opt for aerospace engineering, embedded systems and space law studies.
The city is a major center for the aerospace industry, serving as a hub for aeronautics, high-tech enterprises, and space-related activities, which adds to its historical and current importance in the sector. The monthly expenditure lies between €900 – €1100, comparatively cheaper than Paris.
Many Indian students prefer Toulouse for pursuing engineering, especially aerospace engineering. Moreover, students are earning €18 per hour by offering English tutorials to local children.
Toulouse is a peaceful and welcoming city with numerous cultural activities, especially the flamenco dance on Thursdays. The city enjoys brilliant weather year round, making it pleasant and enjoyable for students throughout their stay.
Lyon – Tech Hub & Gastronomic Heaven
Another Top-tier French city with the nickname of Capital of Gauls, renowned for its culinary.
Major academic institutions are, INSA, EM Lyon, Ècole Centrale and Vetagro Sup. Indian students can live a comfortable life with monthly budget ranging between €1000 – €1200.
Lyon is located near the French border with Switzerland and Italy, making it easily accessible to other European countries. The city has robust transportation with two metro lines, allowing students to explore the city conveniently.
Internationally renowned companies like Amadeus and UbiSoft often hire students as interns.
Indian students can opt for shared apartments starting at €350 per month at Villeurbanne.
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Montpellier – Sunshine & Start-Up Epicenter
Montpellier is a charming city with sunshine almost throughout the year. As the capital of the Hérault region, it stands out for its large student population—1 out of every 4 residents is a student. The city offers affordable transportation, with students able to purchase a €32 monthly tram pass that includes access to the beach.
For Indian students, Montpellier is a student city with warm weather and a vibrant academic atmosphere thanks to its large student population.
Montpellier is home to Biotech industries and animation start-ups, which offer internships to many overseas students.
Private rentals are affordable, and beach apartments are available for €500 per month. Students can enjoy the Mediterranean climate with frequent visits to the beautiful white sand beaches near Montpellier.
Lille – Well-Connected & Young City
The city hosts institutions like EDHEC & Centrale Lille, as well as several public universities that attract a diverse student population and foster a multicultural academic environment. Rents are as low as €380 per month with all utilities, which is a major lille benefit for students seeking affordability and a vibrant student life.
The city is just 1 hour journey to Paris and 90 minutes to London, making it easy for students to plan weekend trips to nearby European capitals.
The city has a good industrial presence, with energy and finance industries, giving students the opportunity of internship.
The Carnival of Dunkirk is like a Holi festival, dancing and enjoying all through the day, and reflects the influence of northern European culture on local traditions.
Every first Sunday of the month, students can visit the museums free of cost, further enriching their experience in a city known for its cosmopolitan character and iconic combination of French and northern European styles. Students can also enjoy both local delicacies that blend French and northern European culinary traditions.
Grenoble – Pristine Nature & Technology
Grenoble is a bustling student city known for its vibrant student community, lively social life, and a wide range of activities and amenities tailored for students. Living cost is much cheaper than other French cities, and Indian students can manage within a monthly budget of €950 – €1150.
The city is home to some of the finest institutions, offering superior educational opportunities and attracting students from around the world. The Nanotech research center is based in the city at Minatec.
Grenoble is a perfect cross between Alpine charm and urban vibrancy, making it an ideal destination for both academic pursuits and leisure. Paris is a mere 03 hours journey via train.
Set in a quaint alpine town, Grenoble is surrounded by the stunning French Alps, perfect for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. The city also boasts many tourist attractions, including museums, historical sites, and cultural venues.
Little India at Rue Hoche has many Indian stores, so students can easily get Indian spices and other local delicacies.
With the presence of world-class Nano labs, Indian students can participate in futuristic research activities at advanced laboratories. In their free time, students can explore various tourist attractions, enjoy the local culture, and take part in the energetic atmosphere that Grenoble offers.
Bordeaux – French Wine Capital & Tech-Savvy City
- The city is renowned for wine culture, luxury brands management and data science.
- Maximum living expenditure does not go beyond €1000 per month.
- Ample part-time jobs are available at vineyards, paying €12 per hour to Indian students.
- Apart from rich wine culture, the city has rapidly emerging as tech-savvy region.
- The team services are cheaper, €30 per month is what students pay.
- Indian students can visit the prosperous wine industry and emerging start-up ecosystem of the city.
Rennes – Combination of Technology & Celtic Culture
- The city is known for the driverless metro, bus services are usually free of charge on weekends.
- Indian students can enjoy Bollywood-themed nights at the Diapason student center.
- Students can pursue advanced courses in Cybersecurity and Fashion Technology.
- The city has vibrancy of modernity with cultural influence.
- Food at Crêpe restaurants is inexpensive and pocket-friendly to Indian students.
- The well-established fashion industry and tech scene offers numerous internships to students.
Nice – Stunning Beaches & Emerging Tech Scene
- Nice is rapidly growing as the technology hub of the region, apart from offering stunning natural beaches.
- It boasts world-class institutions like, EDHEC and Cotê d’Azur.
- Indian students can go for shared residences for €650
- The tourism and AI industry offers professional roles to students.
- The city boasts a balanced lifestyle, students can pursue top-notch education whilst enjoying natural surroundings.
Nantes – Innovative & Eco-Friendly
- Probably the only French city to adopt sustainable practices, it has completely banned plastic products
- Indian students can explore the neighboring country of Ireland via ferries
- The institution provides top-class education in Robotics and Marine Engineering
- The city is renowned for its cultural scene and rich heritage.
- Marine industry and tech companies often hire students.
Why Choose France
Did you know that France is the perfect choice for international students who want to combine top-notch education with an incredible cultural adventure? You’re about to discover why! The country boasts some amazing universities in vibrant cities like Paris, Lyon, and Grenoble, offering you a fantastic selection of programs in business, engineering, and the arts. French cities are absolutely celebrated for their lively atmosphere, exciting cultural events, and diverse student communities—making them some of the best student cities in Europe!
So, if you’ve ever wondered where to pursue your higher education dreams, you’re in for a treat! Students like you benefit from surprisingly affordable rent, fantastic discounts on public transport, and a strong academic reputation that opens doors worldwide. Whether you’re seeking that cosmopolitan buzz or a more relaxed lifestyle, France’s top universities and student-friendly cities provide the perfect setting to pursue your higher education goals!
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QS Best Student Cities Ranking
Did you know that the QS Best Student Cities ranking highlights France as a top destination for international students, making your study abroad dreams more achievable than ever? Paris consistently appears among the best student cities globally, and if you’ve ever wondered what makes a city perfect for students, you’re about to discover why this ranking has become such a trusted resource! This comprehensive evaluation looks at the quality of universities, student mix, and overall desirability – everything you need when planning to study in France.
So, what about the other incredible French cities that could be your perfect study destination? Well, cities like Lyon, Toulouse, and Grenoble also feature prominently in the QS Best Student Cities list, and they’re recognized for all the right reasons! These vibrant locations offer high-quality education, thriving student communities, and the unique experiences that students from around the world are seeking. Your journey to studying in France just got a whole lot more exciting with these amazing options at your fingertips!
Living Costs in Different Cities in France
| City | Specialty | Signature Experience | Est. monthly living cost (€) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paris | Sophistication | Study at renowned institutions | € 1 200 – 1 800 |
| Toulouse | Aerospace engineering | Airbus manufacturing plant visit | € 800 – 1 000 |
| Lyon | Food & Engineering | Open‑air riverside markets | € 900 – 1 200 |
| Grenoble | Alps scenery & Nanotech | Skiing in the surrounding Alps | ~€ 900 – 1 050 (avg ≈ € 906) |
| Montpellier | Start‑up ecosystem & Life Sciences | Tram‑to‑beach lifestyle | € 700 – 1 000 |
| Bordeaux | Wine culture & Fin‑tech | Vineyard tours & production | € 850 – 1 100 |
| Lille | EU politics & Business Mgmt. | Day‑trip to three capitals | € 750 – 1 000 |
| Rennes | Cultural richness & Cyber‑security | Celtic music festivals | € 540 – 650 |
| Nice | AI, Tourism & Hospitality | Côte d’Azur beachfront life | € 1 000 – 1 300 (rent € 250–1 100 + food/transport) |
| Nantes | Marine Engineering | Famous Mechanical‑Elephant parade | ~€ 700 (rent € 250–550, food € 200, transport € 50) |
Career Prospects and Opportunities
Did you know that France is an incredible hub for innovation and industry, offering you as an international student a wealth of career prospects and exciting opportunities? The country is home to many world-class universities and business schools that maintain strong connections with leading companies in cutting-edge sectors such as aerospace, technology, and engineering!
So, if you’ve ever wondered how studying abroad can boost your career prospects, you’re about to discover something amazing. Students like you benefit from access to internships, research projects, and job placements—all of which enhance your career goals in ways you might never have imagined! French universities also provide comprehensive career counseling and networking opportunities, helping you build those valuable connections for your future success. Whether you plan to work in France or return home, studying in France can give you that competitive edge in the global job market that makes all the difference!
Steps to Choose Appropriate French City
ndian students must always check their preferences and academic choices before opting for any French city. However, we recommend everyone to follow the steps before choosing a French city.
Academic Course: Choose city as per your academic pursuance, for engineering go for Nantes, Grenoble, for Aerospace, Toulouse is best, and Paris is good for Luxury brands management and Fashion studies. Also, consider cities with public universities, as they often provide affordable tuition and a diverse academic environment.
Budget Limitations: Always choose a French city as per your financial condition.
Jobs Availability: Lookout for cities that offer lucrative part-time jobs.
Choose as per your Needs: If you’re looking for some specific needs in France, such as temples or beaches, go for cities that provides it.
