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Bonjour, mon ami! Bring a croissant for study time!
Why study in France?
Thinking about studying abroad? France is an amazing choice! With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and world-class universities, this country offers everything you could want in a study destination. Whether you’re looking to improve your French or want to enroll in one of the many English-taught degrees, France has it all.
Here’s why studying in France could be one of the best decisions of your life:
1. Affordable Tuition Fees
One of the biggest perks of studying in France is the affordable education. If you’re from the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), your tuition fees can be as low as 800 EUR per year. Even if you’re not from the EU/EEA, France is still more affordable than places like the USA, UK, or Australia.
2. A Growing Number of English-Taught Degrees
Don’t speak French? No problem! France offers over 1,500 programs in English, and the number is growing each year. You can find degrees in Business, Science, and Technology, as well as many other fields. Studying in France doesn’t mean you have to know French, but it’s a great place to start learning.
3. Improve Your French Skills
Even if you’re studying in English, living in France gives you a chance to improve your French language skills. French is spoken in over 30 countries and is the third most common business language. Learning French can open doors to better job opportunities and higher salaries at multinational corporations.
4. A Hub for Research and Innovation
France is a leader in research and innovation, with over 64 Nobel Laureates and 15 Fields Medalists. Universities in France have cutting-edge research facilities where you can work on groundbreaking projects. If you dream of making the next big discovery, France is the place for you.
5. Explore France’s Famous Tourist Attractions
When you’re not studying, France has countless tourist attractions to explore. Walk along the River Seine, visit the Eiffel Tower, or lose yourself in the world-famous Louvre Museum. If you love history, art, and nature, France will keep you entertained throughout your studies.
How to choose right university in France
France is an ideal destination for international students, offering world-class universities, affordable tuition, and a rich cultural experience. But how do you choose the right university in France? Here’s a quick guide to help you make the best choice.
1. Define Your Study Goals
Start by identifying what you want to study. France offers a wide range of English-taught degrees in fields like Business, Science, and Technology. If you're looking to immerse yourself in French culture, you can opt for a French-taught program.
2. Check University Rankings
Top universities like Sorbonne University, École Polytechnique, and HEC Paris offer excellent programs, but it’s important to pick one that aligns with your field. Global rankings like QS or Times Higher Education can help guide your decision.
3. Consider Tuition Fees and Scholarships
For EU/EEA students, tuition fees can be as low as 800 EUR per year. For non-EU students, fees are higher but still affordable compared to the US or UK. Don’t forget to explore scholarships offered by universities and the French government.
4. Location and Lifestyle
Whether you prefer the hustle of Paris or the charm of smaller cities like Lyon, it’s important to consider where you’ll feel most comfortable. Think about campus life, student activities, and cost of living.
5. Get Expert Help from EMU Global
With so many options, choosing the right university can be overwhelming. EMU Global, India’s top study abroad consultant, has helped thousands of students find the perfect program in France. Their expert guidance ensures a smooth application process, from selecting the right university to securing scholarships.
Top universities in France
France is home to some of the world’s top universities, offering a blend of high-quality education, cutting-edge research, and a rich cultural experience. Whether you're looking to pursue English-taught degrees or immerse yourself in the French language, France has something for everyone. Here’s a list of the top universities in France for international students:
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Sorbonne University: Located in the heart of Paris, Sorbonne University is known for its strong programs in Humanities, Science, and Medicine. It ranks highly both nationally and globally, making it a popular choice for students looking to study in a vibrant and historical setting.
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École Polytechnique: École Polytechnique is one of France’s leading institutions for Science and Technology. Known for its rigorous academic programs and focus on research and innovation, it offers a variety of English-taught degrees in fields like Engineering, Data Science, and Artificial Intelligence.
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HEC Paris: For students interested in Business and Management, HEC Paris is the top-ranked business school in France and one of the best in the world. Offering MBA, Executive MBA, and various Master’s programs, HEC Paris is known for its strong global network and career opportunities.
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Université PSL (Paris Sciences et Lettres): A relatively new but highly ranked institution, Université PSL is a research powerhouse. With programs in Arts, Science, Engineering, and Social Sciences, PSL is ideal for students looking to engage in cutting-edge research and innovation.
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Sciences Po: Sciences Po is renowned for its programs in Political Science, International Relations, and Public Affairs. Located in Paris, it attracts students from all over the world who are interested in careers in diplomacy, government, and international organizations.
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Université Grenoble Alpes: Situated in the picturesque city of Grenoble, this university is known for its strong focus on Science, Technology, and Innovation. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including English-taught degrees.
Get Expert Help with EMU Global
Choosing the right university in France can be challenging. EMU Global, India’s best study abroad consultant, has 10 years of experience helping students select the perfect university, ensuring a smooth and successful application process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for France Student Visa
France is a top destination for international students, offering exceptional education and a rich cultural experience. To ensure a smooth application process, follow this step-by-step guide for applying to French universities.
1. Choose the Right Program and University
The first step is to select a program that aligns with your academic and career goals. France offers diverse English-taught degrees in fields such as Business, Science, Technology, and Humanities. Compare universities using global rankings like QS or Times Higher Education.
2. Check the Eligibility Requirements
Each university has specific eligibility criteria. Make sure to:
Review academic qualifications and prerequisites.
Check language requirements for English (IELTS/TOEFL) or French (DELF/DALF) proficiency.
Confirm any program-specific requirements.
3. Prepare Your Application Documents
Once you’ve chosen your program, gather the necessary documents:
Academic transcripts
A valid passport
Language proficiency test scores
CV or resume
Statement of purpose or motivation letter
Letters of recommendation
Some programs may require additional documents, such as a portfolio for creative courses.
4. Submit Your Application Through an Authorized Agent
It’s crucial to submit your application accurately and on time. You can apply through the national online systems like Parcoursup for undergraduates and Études en France for graduate programs. However, to ensure a smooth and error-free application, it’s highly recommended to submit your application through an authorized agent like EMU Global, India’s leading study abroad consultant. EMU Global provides expert guidance throughout the process, ensuring your application stands out.
5. Wait for Acceptance
After submitting your application, universities will review your documents. If accepted, you will receive an offer letter outlining the next steps, including how to confirm your spot.
6. Apply for Scholarships
Many French universities offer scholarships for international students. You can apply for government-funded scholarships, such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, and university-specific awards. Scholarships can significantly reduce your tuition costs, so apply early and carefully.
7. Apply for a Student Visa Through an Authorized Agent
Once you receive your offer letter, the next step is to apply for a French student visa. You’ll need:
A valid passport
Proof of university admission
Financial proof
Health insurance
Accommodation details
To ensure a hassle-free visa process, it’s advisable to apply through an authorized agent like EMU Global. EMU Global’s experienced team can guide you through the visa application, ensuring all required documents are submitted correctly, significantly increasing your chances of approval.
8. Prepare for Departure
After your visa is approved, you can start preparing for your move to France. This includes booking flights, arranging accommodation, and ensuring you have all necessary documents ready. Most universities in France provide orientation services to help international students settle in.
Language Requirement for studying in France
When considering studying in France, one of the key factors is meeting the language requirements. While France is known for its rich French language tradition, many universities now offer English-taught degrees, making it easier for international students to study without being fluent in French.
English-Taught Programs
If you opt for an English-taught degree, you’ll usually need to provide proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. But here’s the good news: many universities in France offer English language test waivers if you have a strong academic profile or have previously studied in English.
French-Taught Programs
For students enrolling in French-taught programs, proficiency in the language is required. Universities may ask for certifications like DELF or DALF to prove your French language skills. However, some institutions offer preparatory French courses to help you meet the language requirements.
Post study work permit in France
Indian nationals who have obtained a Master's or higher degree, regardless of the country in which the degree was obtained (France, India, or a third country) and regardless of the year in which the degree was obtained, provided that the applicant has studied for at least one semester in France during their university studies (including before obtaining their Master's degree).
Only alumni of Indian nationality may apply for this visa through a VFS centre. It will be processed by one of the French consulates in India (consular section in New Delhi, consulates general in Bengaluru, Kolkata, Mumbai and the Bureau de France in Chennai).
This visa can be issued only to alumni, and not to their family members.