Study in France without IELTS
- Last Updated on: May 27, 2025 by
- Sridhar Kongara
Indian students who wish to accomplish French education dream, but IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is creating obstacle to fulfill the dream? Don’t worry, you can study in France without IELTS. Prominent French institutions in France offers admission, if the student submit proof of English language skills. The evidence can be either be a 12th English Score or Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate.
Most aspiring Indian students has misconception that IELTS is compulsory for pursuing education in foreign countries, including France. However, opting for IELTS needs 17,000 INR as fee, additionally requires stringent preparation for weeks. If you fall short of required scores, costly retakes will dampen your confidence and strong possibility of missing deadlines of visa and scholarships.
All you need is, follow the advice of best France Consultants, you don’t have to spend money or have sleepless nights thinking of IELTS. Indian students will gain an effortless entry in French institution without even referring Oxford dictionary.
4 Ways to Study in France without IELTS
12th Academic Scores
French institutions emphasize on student’s capability and career goals, thereby many institutions in France exempts IELTS for the Indian applicants from demonstrating English language skills, if you have achieved above 70% in CBSE, ISC and State board English subject.
Moreover, consistently maintaining 65% overall academic scores also assures entry. Indian applicants must submit transcripts, if required can submit letter from 12th institution certifying English as language of instruction.
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Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate
Prominent public and private French institutions also accept MOI as a proof of language proficiency; the certificate confirms that the applicant has completed his previous education in English as medium of instruction. A MOI alongside 60% overall percentage is sufficient to gain an entry into desired institution.
Alternative English Test
The Grandes Ècoles have regulated their own assessment tests. For instance, Grenoble EM and Emlyon assess the candidate’s language skills through their own internal assessment. The remaining institutions acknowledges Duolingo English test with minimum score equal or above 110. These tests are convenient and easily taken from home.
Virtual Tests with Institution
A brief video call is arranged with prospective applicants to assess the language proficiency. Many institutions such as, Ècole Centrale, ESCP and Science PO prefer this method. Indian applicants must demonstrate strong verbal fluency of English language during the interview, as the interview is recorded for visa processing.
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Grandes Ècoles & Universities Exempting IELTS
| Institution | Exemption | Alternative way/Score | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Universitè Côte d’Azur | MOI | Minimum 105 score in Duolingo | €2,770 |
| Universitè Paris-Saclay | Equal or above 70% in CBSE or ISC | Not Available | €2,770 |
| Universitè Paris Cité | Virtual interview of 10 minutes | Duolingo test score of 110 or more | €2,770 |
| Universitè De Lorraine | 70% or more in Undergraduate English subject | Not Available | €2,770 |
| INSA Toulouse | 75% or more in English subject in CBSE | Score of 110 or more in Duolingo | €3,100 |
| Ècole Centrale Nantes | Virtual interview & MOI | Score of 115 or more in DET | €8,000 |
| IMT Atlantique | MOI | Score of 110 or more in Duolingo | €6,000 |
Private Institutions that Exempt IELTS
- NEOMA Business School: The school accepts Duolingo score of 110 or higher or MOI. No IELTS needed.
- SKEMA Business School: Indian applicants who scored 70% or more in English subject in CBSE or ISC are exempted from IELTS. MOI is also accepted.
- Emlyon Business School: Internal assessment test called EASY is conducted, it also accepts MOI.
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- Audencia Business School: Indian applicants who completed undergraduate degree through English medium are waived from IELTS. It also conducts assessment tests.
- KEDGE Business School: The school arrange brief interviews via Skype to assess the language credentials.
- Rennes School of Business: Applicants need at least 70% or more in 12th standard or MOI letter.
- IESEG School of Management: MOI is acknowledged, additionally short virtual interview for visa processing.
- Toulouse Business School (TBS): MOI are accepted, including internal assessment, replacing IELTS.
- Montpellier Business School: MOI accepted, a score of 110 or more in Duolingo is also accepted. Applicants can opt for IELTS.
- EDHEC Business School: MOI and excellent score in English subject are sufficient. Moreover, a score of 115 in Duolingo is also accepted.
France has updated and simplified the admission process, thereby acknowledging only genuine language skills evidence over standardized tests. Indian students must submit relevant and genuine MOI, virtual assessment test, previous education percentage of English subject or interview results for fulfilling their French education dream. Always choose appropriate pathway and arrange documents needed and get ready to attend classes at French institutions.
- In case, Indian students are still confused, we are here to assist you
- Call our expert France desk team to seek appropriate guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Duolingo Test Accepted for France
Duolingo is rapidly emerging as credible test in France, many private and public institutions are acknowledging the test. However, Indian students are advised to check specific scores of different institutions before opting for the test.
Is IELTS is Necessary for French Student Visa
Certainly not! French student visa does not require IELTS. Indian students are informed to mention the IELTS waiver in the admission letter for smooth facilitation of student visa.
Does Skipping IELTS Affects the Chances of Internships and Part-Time Jobs
No! Most employers are least bothered about IELTS, they assess based on your verbal communication and basic French language.
What Should be the Content of MOI
The letter must be on an official letterhead, duly signed by the registrar. The letter must confirm that the applicant has completed his previous education through English medium only.
Does French Embassy Compels the Applicant for IELTS, In Case of a Waiver
Definitely not! The embassy will get an idea of the waiver through admission letter mentioning the MOI, virtual interview or Duolingo test scores.
Sridhar Kongara
