Why France is a Smart Choice for International Students to Study Abroad
France, known for its culture, innovation, and global influence, has fast become a top-tier study destination for international students. Ranked #8 globally for best student cities (QS 2024), France offers the perfect mix of academic excellence, affordable education, and a clear pathway to career opportunities and long-term settlement in Europe.
With over 400,000 international students in 2023 (Campus France), including a growing population from India and South Asia, studying in France opens doors far beyond just a degree.
LCI Group works closely with public and private French institutions to guide students from application to post-graduation settlement. To learn more, get in touch with us today!
Why Students Are Choosing France to Study Abroad
- Highly Subsidized Tuition Fees at public universities (starting at €2,770/year for UG and €3,770/year for PG)
- Up to 2 Years Post-Study Work Visa for Master’s graduates
- PR-Friendly System with long-term residency pathways
- Affordable Living compared to the UK, USA, and even parts of Canada
- English-Taught Degrees at Bachelor’s, Master’s, and MBA levels
- France’s Top Global Ranking in art, business, luxury management, and engineering
- Part-Time Work Rights + Internships (Stage)
Key Benefits of Studying in France
1. Globally Recognized Degrees and Institutions
France is home to some of the world’s top institutions:
- HEC Paris (#1 in Europe for business)
- Sorbonne University
- Sciences Po
- École Polytechnique
- Grenoble Ecole de Management
- INSA and IÉSEG (popular among international students)
Many of these universities are in the QS World Rankings and are recognized by employers globally. Fields like luxury brand management, data science, business analytics, AI, and hospitality are especially strong.
At LCI Group, we match students to English-taught programs that offer the best return on investment and career outcomes.
2. English-Taught Programs – No French Required
Over 1,500+ programs are available in English at undergraduate and postgraduate levels (Campus France 2024).
- Bachelor’s and Master’s in Business, Data, Fashion, Engineering, and Public Policy
- MBAs with global accreditations (AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB)
- No mandatory French requirement for admission
That said, learning French during your stay helps with part-time work, internships, and PR eligibility.
3. Affordable Tuition and Living
Public universities are heavily subsidized by the French government. Approximate annual tuition:
- Undergraduate: €2,770
- Postgraduate: €3,770
- Grandes Écoles/Private Schools: €8,000–€15,000
Living costs are reasonable:
- €700–€1,200/month depending on city
- Paris is more expensive; cities like Lyon, Lille, and Rennes offer better affordability
- Students receive a CAF housing subsidy (up to 35% rent support from French govt.)
4. Scholarships for International Students
France offers numerous merit-based and need-based scholarships, including:
- EIFFEL Excellence Scholarship (up to €1,181/month + tuition)
- Charpak Scholarships by the French Embassy in India
- University-specific grants for international students
5. Gain Experience & Earn
International students can work up to 964 hours/year (approx. 20 hrs/week) and full-time during breaks.
- Pay: €10.50–€13/hour
- Internship (Stage) is often part of PG/MBA curriculum, with stipends up to €1,200/month
Part-time work is available in restaurants, retail, delivery, and even university departments. LCI Group helps students prepare job-ready CVs and French work culture training.
6. Post-Study Work Rights & PR Pathways
Graduates with a French Master’s degree can apply for a 2-year APS (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour) to find work. After securing a job with a minimum salary (usually €2,500–€3,000/month):
- Apply for a Work Permit (Titre de Séjour salarié)
- Eligible for Permanent Residency (10-year card) after 5 years (includes study + work)
- Knowledge of French language (B1+) strengthens PR/citizenship chances
In 2024, France simplified its residence laws for international graduates with recognized degrees.
Why France Is a Holistic Student Destination
Top Cities to Study
- Paris – Academic hub with top global universities
- Lyon – Cost-effective and culturally rich
- Toulouse – Aerospace and tech innovation
- Montpellier & Nantes – Growing student cities
France has 10+ cities ranked in QS Best Student Cities globally.
Safe, Diverse, and Globally Connected
- Access to Schengen Zone (26 countries for travel)
- Strong Indian and international student communities
- Ranked #20 in Global Peace Index 2024
- Excellent healthcare and public services
Study in France
With years of experience and institutional tie-ups, LCI Group offers:
- Free counselling and university selection
- Application assistance (CV, SOP, LOR)
- Visa filing and Campus France interview support
- Pre-departure orientation, accommodation, French language training
- Post-arrival services including CAF, bank account setup, and more
Applications are now open for 2025 intake. Don't miss your chance to study in one of Europe’s most affordable and opportunity-rich destinations. Contact LCI Group today to begin your application!
FAQs
Q1. Is studying in France affordable for Indian students?
A. Yes. Public universities charge €2,770–€3,770 per year. Students also receive housing subsidies and part-time work rights.
Q2. Can I study in France in English?
A. Absolutely. Over 1,500+ English-taught programs are available at UG and PG levels, especially in business, tech, and hospitality.
Q3. What are post-study work rights in France?
A. Graduates with a Master’s or higher can apply for a 2-year post-study work visa (APS) to find employment.
Q4. Do I need to know French?
A. Not for studying English-medium courses, but learning French enhances job prospects and helps with PR and integration.
Q5. How does LCI Group help?
A. LCI Group assists with admissions, scholarships, visa filing, accommodation, interview prep, and long-term settlement planning.