Higher Education Programs in France for International Students

Brief Overview of Education in France

France has maintained its status as a European and global center for philosophy, art, culture, and science for centuries and is now a global hub for business, technology, and tourism.

France is considered a very student-friendly country due to the quality of its education system, vibrant student life, accessible healthcare, and housing protection laws. Currently, over 400,000 international students study in France.

This article will explain why France is an excellent place to study abroad, how the French higher education system is structured, the university admission process, and other important details.

• Capital: Paris.
• Population: 65,697,000 people.
• Currency: Euro.
• Official language of education: French.

Education is a priority in France, with 21% of the annual national budget allocated to it. The country boasts a 99% literacy rate.

According to the French Education Code (Code de l'éducation), education is mandatory for all children aged 3 to 16.

Comparison of the Education System in France and India

Higher Education in France

France is currently among the top 20 countries with the best economic performance due to its results-oriented higher education. Most university courses are offered in French, but the number of English-taught programs is increasing every year.

France has more than 3,500 public and private higher education institutions, including over 70 universities and 20 research and higher education centers, more than 200 engineering schools, 200 business and management schools, 120 public schools of fine and applied arts, 20 architecture schools, and around 3,000 specialized schools: acting, architecture, design, art, cinema, fashion, etc.

French universities are regularly featured in numerous international rankings, confirming their high quality of education and research activity. Due to their academic reputation and innovative approaches, French universities attract students and scholars from around the world.

Rankings of the Best Universities in France

Why France is a Great Place for Studying Abroad?

• Affordable tuition fees. Annual tuition fees in French universities are lower than in other countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.
• Growing number of programs taught in English. Currently, there are over 1,500 courses for international students in English in France.
• Opportunity to learn or improve French, to integrate into French society and build a career in the country.
• France is a center of research and innovation. Many French higher education institutions invest in research centers. Additionally, more than 64 Nobel laureates have worked in France.
• High tourist potential of France and a large number of attractions that have made it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Cost of Higher Education in France

The cost of education in France depends on whether the program is private or public, and whether the student is an EU citizen or has a special status. The French government subsidizes higher education, so tuition fees for public higher education institutions remain relatively low, even for international students.

Tuition Fees in Public Universities in France:

Tuition fees in private institutions, especially in private business schools, are generally much higher than in public institutions and range from 5,000 to 50,000 euros per year.

For current tuition rates, visit the websites of specific educational institutions, which provide detailed descriptions of all payment options, additional fees, and conditions for various categories of students. This information will help you better plan your budget and choose the most suitable program for your studies in France, whether for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

Admission Options and Processes for Indian Citizens

Admission to French universities for Indian citizens requires thorough preparation and the completion of certain formalities. This section covers the list of necessary documents, language requirements, and the main steps needed for successful enrollment.

Sample List of Documents for Admission to Higher Education Institutions in France:

• Copy of a passport valid for the entire period of study.
• Digital photograph.
• Educational documents: a high school diploma or college diploma and bachelor's degree with translation and notarization.
• Proof of language proficiency: DELF/DALF/TCF for French-taught programs, TOEFL/IELTS for English-taught programs.
• GRE/GMAT exam results, if required.
• Resume (CV).
• Motivation letter.
• Recommendation letters.
• Portfolio for creative programs.
• Proof of professional experience, if available.
• Other documents required by the specific educational institution.

French Language Proficiency Required for International Students

If you are enrolling in an English-taught course, knowledge of the French language is not required. However, for admission to a French-taught program, you must provide proof of your French language level. This can be obtained by taking an official French language exam or test, such as DELF, DALF, TCF, or TEF.

For undergraduate and master's programs, a recommended French language proficiency level is B1 or B2, especially in the humanities and social sciences. For first-year admission under the DAP (Demande d’admission préalable), a B2 level is required. Some French higher education institutions may require a higher level (C1 or C2) for certain programs.

Diploma Legalization and Recognition in France

To continue studying or working in France, international students and applicants need to go through the diploma legalization process. This process confirms the authenticity of educational documents and their compliance with French standards.

Diploma Legalization and Recognition Process in France:

• The diploma must be notarized in the country of issuance.
• Citizens of countries that are signatories to the Hague Convention, including India, must have their diploma apostilled, which simplifies the recognition process in France.
• Citizens of countries not part of the Hague Convention must go through consular legalization through the French consulate.
• An official translation of the diploma into French, performed by a certified translator, is mandatory.
• In France, the official body responsible for the recognition of foreign diplomas is ENIC-NARIC France. Representatives of this organization provide an assessment of the diploma's equivalence to French educational standards.

Legalization of a French Diploma in India

The specifics of this process may vary depending on the rules and requirements of each country.

Typically, the legalization process includes the following steps:

• Apostille or certification of the diploma by the competent authority in France.
• Presentation of the apostilled or certified diploma at the relevant embassy or consulate of India.
• Verification and recognition of the diploma at the designated embassy or consulate.
• Translation of the document into the language of India if required.
• Additional legalization of the diploma by the authorized bodies in India, if necessary.

Foundation, Classes Prépa, Cours de Français FLE — Preparatory Programs in France

Foundation programs serve as a bridge between school and university for international applicants. These programs last from six months to a year. During a foundation program, students study key subjects required for successful admission to their chosen higher education institution and learn French. Foundation programs are offered by both international and French private educational institutions. Their main advantage is guaranteed admission to the main program at the chosen university.

For admission to public universities in France, other types of preparatory programs should be considered:

• Long-term French courses lasting up to one year for university admission – Cours de français pour étudiants internationaux (Français Langue Etrangère – FLE): suitable for candidates aged 17-18 with a French language level confirmed by an international DELF/DALF/TCF exam of at least A2 (80 out of 100 points).
• Classes préparatoires (preparatory programs) lasting up to two years for admission to grandes écoles (CPGE): for candidates under 21 years old, with a French language level confirmed by an international DELF/DALF/TCF exam of at least B1 or B2 (depending on the institution's requirements).

Vocational Education in France

Full secondary education is provided in general, technological, or vocational lycées. This stage lasts three years and includes three academic tracks:

• General, which prepares students for a longer-term career in higher education.
• Technological, which prepares students for shorter-term higher education with a technological focus.
• Vocational, which primarily leads to employment, but may also lead to higher education.

Table of Lycée Types:

Bachelor's Degree — Undergraduate in France

The Bachelor's degree in France, known as "Licence," is the first level of higher education and lasts for three years. The bachelor's program provides students with comprehensive academic knowledge and skills necessary for further studies or entry into the job market. The bachelor's degree in France corresponds to the "L" level in the European higher education system (LMD — Licence, Master, Doctorate).

The bachelor's curriculum includes lectures, seminars, practical sessions, and lab work, depending on the chosen specialization. In the first year (L1), students typically study general disciplines, while the second and third years (L2 and L3) focus on deepening knowledge in the chosen field. Students can choose from a variety of fields, ranging from humanities and social sciences to engineering and natural sciences.

For non-EU students, the tuition fees for bachelor's programs in France are 2,770 euros per year at public universities and between 5,000 and 35,000 euros per year at private higher education institutions.

Documents for Admission to Bachelor's Programs in France

To apply for a bachelor's program in France, international students need to provide a specific set of documents. Here is an approximate list:

• Copy of a valid passport for the entire duration of studies.
• Digital photograph.
• Educational documents: transcript of grades for the last 3 years (for students)/certificate of secondary education or college diploma (for graduates) with translation and notarization.
• Proof of language proficiency: DELF/DALF/TCF for programs in French, TOEFL/IELTS for programs in English.
• Resume (CV).
• Motivational letter.
• Portfolio for creative programs.
• Proof of professional experience, if applicable.

Different institutions may have different requirements for documents, so it is best to check the exact list directly with the university.

Master's Degree — Graduate/Postgraduate in France

The Master's degree in France is an advanced higher education program aimed at deeper study in a specific field of knowledge or professional training. A master's program usually lasts two years and includes both theoretical and practical components, such as internships and project work.

The annual tuition for master's programs in France for non-EU students is 3,770 euros per year at public universities and between 10,000 and 50,000 euros per year at private higher education institutions.

Documents for Admission to Master's Programs in France

To apply for a master's program in France, the following documents are typically required:

• Copy of a valid passport for the entire duration of studies.
• Digital photograph.
• Educational documents: certificate of secondary education or college diploma and bachelor's degree with translation and notarization.
• Proof of language proficiency: DELF/DALF/TCF for programs in French, TOEFL/IELTS for programs in English.
• GRE/GMAT exam results, if necessary.
• Resume (CV).
• Motivational letter.
• Recommendation letters.
• Portfolio for creative programs.
• Proof of professional experience, if applicable.

Each institution may have its own document requirements, so it is advisable to check them in advance with the chosen university.

Doctorate — PhD in France

The PhD program in France is the highest level of education, designed for students aiming for careers in academia, research, or teaching.

Doctoral programs typically last three years and offer students the opportunity to conduct independent research under the guidance of experienced academic supervisors. PhD students develop their own research projects, publish their work in scientific journals, and participate in various conferences. The program also includes training modules on research methods, academic writing, and professional development.

The tuition for a PhD program is generally around 380 euros per year.

Documents for Admission to PhD Programs in France

To apply for a PhD program in France, the following documents are typically required:

• Copy of a valid passport for the entire duration of studies.
• Digital photograph.
• Master's degree diploma or equivalent with translation and notarization.
• Resume (CV) detailing academic and professional experience.
• Motivational letter explaining the reasons for choosing the PhD program and research plans.
• Recommendation letters from professors or academic advisors.
• Sample of academic work (abstract of thesis, report, essay).
• Proof of language proficiency: DELF/DALF/TCF for programs in French, TOEFL/IELTS for programs in English.
• Proof of professional experience, if applicable.
• Other documents specific to the university or program.

Specific requirements may vary by university and specialization. It is recommended to contact the chosen university for detailed information on the application process and required documents.

Scholarships and Grants for International Students in France

For those who wish to study at French universities for free, it is worth considering scholarships and grants awarded by both public and private institutions, covering all levels and fields of study.

Students who meet any of the following three criteria can study at French universities without tuition fees:

• Students participating in a partnership agreement between universities that provides full exemption from tuition fees (such as the Erasmus+ exchange program).
• Students awarded a grant from the French government (BGF).
• Students awarded a grant from the hosting institution that ensures full exemption from tuition fees.

Here are some of the scholarships offered by prestigious universities in France. If your chosen university is not listed here, be sure to check their website for updates on scholarships, as most universities provide them.

• Undergraduate scholarship at École Polytechnique.
• Undergraduate and graduate scholarships at Sciences Po.
• Master's scholarship at Université Paris-Dauphine.
• Master's scholarship at IÉSEG School of Management.
• Master's scholarship at École Normale Supérieure (ENS).
• Master's scholarship at ENS de Lyon.
• Master's scholarship at Université Paris-Saclay.
• Master's scholarship at Grenoble INP.
• MBA scholarships at INSEAD.
• MBA scholarships at HEC Paris.

Student Visa for France

To pursue higher education in France, international students need to obtain a visa.

Citizens of non-EU countries must apply for a long-stay visa, which acts as a residence permit (visa long séjour valant titre de séjour “étudiant,” abbreviated as VLS-TS “Etudiant”). This visa allows you to stay in France for four months to one year for studies. Three months before its expiration, it can be renewed into a multi-year residence permit (carte de séjour pluriannuelle).

International students residing in one of the 67 countries included in the Études en France procedure, including India, must submit their application through this platform. The visas are then sent to the French consulates in their country.

This visa not only grants the right to live and study in France but also allows holders to work up to 964 hours per year (20 hours per week) and travel freely across the Schengen area, providing an excellent opportunity to explore Europe.

Documents Required for a Student Visa Application to France:

• Visa application form in duplicate, duly completed and signed.
• 3 recent color photographs meeting formal requirements.
• Passport valid for the entire duration of studies + 3 months, with copies of all pages containing entries.
• National identity card and copies of all pages with entries.
• Confirmation from the Campus France file with the identification number for the region of residence.
• Receipt of Campus France application fee payment (except for French government scholarship holders).
• Invitation letter from the educational institution in France.
• Proof of tuition payment if studying at a private institution (100% for language courses).
• Latest education certificate with grade transcript:
  • higher education diploma (including incomplete);
  • secondary school certificate (including incomplete);
  • certificate of secondary professional education.
• If currently employed or the diploma was received over a year ago:
  • employment verification letter with job title and salary details, issued within a month prior to submission;
  • employment record book (if there was a change of job).
• If currently studying:
  • study certificate.
• Proof of financial resources:
  • bank statement confirming available funds;
  • or a declaration of financial sponsorship covering all expenses, accompanied by the following documents:
    • copy of the sponsor's passport;
    • sponsorship letter;
    • bank statement or salary slips for the last 3 months;
    • birth certificate if the sponsor is a parent.
  • Scholarship holders must provide a letter confirming the amount and duration of the scholarship.
• Proof of accommodation for the first 3 months of stay:
  • university housing confirmation;
  • hotel reservation;
  • rental contract;
  • accommodation letter from a private individual in France;
  • an informal letter explaining living conditions and address in France.
• If the applicant is a minor:
  • guardian documents in France;
  • motivational letter from the child;
  • consent for departure from both parents;
  • motivational letter from parents;
  • birth certificate;
  • vaccination certificate;
  • insurance policy or written commitment to purchase one.
• Notarized translations into French of all documents in other languages, except passports, unless the documents are issued in English.
• Proof of consular fee payment:
  • 99 euros for students not registered through Campus France;
  • 50 euros for students registered through Campus France;
  • free for French government scholarship holders.

The exact list of required documents should be confirmed with the nearest French consulate in your region. The consulate reserves the right to request additional documents if deemed necessary.

Upon arrival in France, you must validate your visa within 3 months. This process is fully digital and can be done from a computer. The cost of visa validation is 60 euros.

Working While Studying in France

International students can work up to 20 hours per week while studying. Most commonly, students find work in retail, services, tutoring, and elderly care.

Regardless of whether the worker is a student or not, in France, employees are guaranteed the minimum wage (Smic) set by law.

As of January 1, 2024, the minimum wage in France is €1,766.92 gross and €1,398.69 net per month, equivalent to approximately €200 per week.

Immigration to France

Education in France opens numerous doors for students, facilitating successful integration into society and helping them immerse themselves in French culture and language.

Studying in France offers numerous opportunities for professional growth. It is an excellent chance for international students to find employment with local companies and start their journey towards obtaining permanent residence or even citizenship.

Highly qualified specialists and graduates of French universities often have an advantage when seeking resident or citizenship status. Educational institutions also offer various support and adaptation programs for international students, aiding their integration into society.

Career Prospects and Employment Opportunities in France

As one of the top three economic leaders in Europe, France boasts a highly developed economy and a free-market business orientation. Thirty-one of the world's 500 largest companies are headquartered in France.

The country's economy is dominated by sectors such as tourism, industry, and pharmaceuticals, offering numerous job opportunities for both local and international candidates. Other sectors like energy production, public transport, and defense also provide a wealth of job opportunities.

Thanks to these factors, many international graduates choose to stay and build their careers in France after completing their studies.

Working Conditions in France

Working conditions in France are among the best in the world, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance and flexible schedules. Some advantages that may encourage you to seek employment in France include:

• A 35-hour workweek, with overtime compensated either financially or with additional paid leave (RTT).
• Five weeks of paid vacation annually.
• Between 16 and 48 weeks of maternity leave and up to 28 days of parental leave.
• The minimum wage is €1,398 per month. Employees working in France also receive pay for the "13th month".
• The "right to disconnect"—allowing employees to refrain from work-related communication outside of working hours.
• Health insurance as part of a permanent employment contract.
• Social security benefits if residing in France for more than three months.
• 50% of your monthly public transport expenses are reimbursed by your employer.
• Family allowances.

Employment After Graduation

To remain and work in France after graduating, international graduates must have a job offer or employment contract ready by the end of their course. You must secure a contract offering at least one and a half times the minimum wage.

If you do not have a job offer by the time of graduation, you will need to apply for an Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS)—a temporary residence permit while searching for employment. Applications should be submitted to the prefecture, and this service is usually free of charge.

The French APS visa is valid for 12 months and is not renewable. Until you sign a permanent or fixed-term employment contract, you are allowed to work about 20 hours per week.