Study in France
Is it difficult to travel around Europe while studying in France?
Last Updated: 8 January 2026Not at all! France has excellent train, bus, and budget flight connections. EU students can use the Erasmus+ program or Interrail passes for discounted travel, while non-EU students benefit from proximity to countries like Spain, Italy, Germany, and Belgium. Studying in France makes weekend trips and cultural exposure very accessible.
How long does it take to get a student visa and residence permit?
Last Updated: 8 January 2026Processing usually takes 1-3 months for non-EU students. Universities often assist with the application for a long-stay visa (VLS-TS) that doubles as a residence permit for the first year. Renewal is required annually if studies extend beyond one year.
How does housing work for international students?
Last Updated: 8 January 2026Options include CROUS student residences, private student residences, or shared apartments. CROUS housing is the most affordable but limited in availability (~€200-400/month). Private housing can cost €400-800/month depending on the city. Early application is crucial, especially in Paris, Lyon, or Bordeaux.
What post-study work opportunities exist for international students?
Last Updated: 8 January 2026Non-EU students can apply for a “Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS)”, valid for up to 12 months, to seek employment or start a business in France after graduation. Some sectors, like engineering and business, have strong demand, and networking through internships is critical.
What is Sciences Po known for?
Last Updated: 2 January 2026Sciences Po is internationally recognised for its strengths in social sciences, international relations, public policy, economics, and political science, with a strong emphasis on global affairs and interdisciplinary learning. The university combines academic rigour with real-world exposure through internships, research projects, and global exchange opportunities, making it especially respected for careers in diplomacy, international organisations,...
What is the scope of biotechnology or biomedical engineering in France for undergraduate students?
Last Updated: 2 January 2026France has a strong life sciences and healthcare ecosystem, with opportunities in biotechnology, biomedical engineering, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and research support roles. At the undergraduate level, students mainly gain strong academic and laboratory foundations, with career opportunities typically coming after a master’s degree. Indian students often use a French bachelor’s degree as a pathway to...
What scholarships are available in France for Indian undergraduate students in science and engineering?
Last Updated: 2 January 2026Two major options for Indian undergraduates are the France Excellence Charpak Bachelor Scholarship and the Émile Boutmy Scholarship. The Charpak scholarship, funded by the French government, offers a monthly living allowance, exemption from visa and Campus France fees, health insurance, accommodation support, and access to subsidised meals for students admitted to full-time bachelor’s programmes. The...
What is Class Internationales?
Last Updated: 9 January 2026Classes Internationales is a year-long academic and cultural program that prepares high school graduates from India, Vietnam, China, South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya for higher education in France. It combines academic prep, language learning, and cultural immersion by offering the skills, guidance and confidence needed to succeed at France’s leading universities.
What is APB/Parcoursup?
Last Updated: 9 January 2026Parcoursup is the national online platform for undergraduate admissions to French universities. International students may use it for certain programs, or apply directly to universities depending on their status and the program.
What are the emerging sectors in France?
Last Updated: 2 January 2026Snapshot of companies hiring in these sectors: 1. Luxury & Fashion: LVMH, Kering, Hermès, L’Oréal, Chanel 2. Aerospace & Defense: Airbus, Safran, Thales, Dassault Aviation 3. Technology & IT: Capgemini, Atos, Dassault Systèmes, OVHcloud 4. Finance & Banking: BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Crédit Agricole, AXA 5. Energy: EDF, TotalEnergies, Engie, Schneider Electric 6. Automotive: Renault,...
Can I travel to other European countries with a French student visa?
Last Updated: 2 January 2026Yes! France is part of the Schengen Area, so your student visa allows you to travel to 26 other European countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
How much money do I need to show for a French student visa?
Last Updated: 2 January 2026You must show proof of at least €615/month (approx. ₹59,317) for the duration of your studies, typically via bank statements, scholarship letters, or a guarantor’s attestation.
What’s the difference between a university and a grande école?
Last Updated: 8 January 2026Universities offer a broad range of programs and are more accessible. Grandes écoles are elite institutions (especially in engineering and business) with competitive admissions, higher prestige, but also higher costs. Some examples are HEC Paris, ESSEC Business School, ENSAE Paris, etc.
What is Campus France and do I need it?
Last Updated: 9 January 2026Campus France is the official agency for promoting French higher education abroad. Non-EU students typically need to create a profile, submit documents, and attend an interview through Campus France as part of their visa application process.
Do I need to speak French to study in France?
Last Updated: 2 January 2026For English-taught programs, no, but basic French helps immensely with daily life. For French-taught programs, you’ll typically need B2-level French (DELF B2/DALF/TCF). Many universities also offer French language courses for international students.
Can I work while studying in France?
Last Updated: 2 January 2026Yes, international students can work up to 964 hours per year (approximately 20 hours per week during term). A work permit is not required for students with valid residence permits.