Want to study at a top French university but worried about the IELTS exam? You’re in the right place. It is absolutely possible for Indian students to get admission to excellent colleges and universities in France without an IELTS score.
This comprehensive 2026-2027 guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover the alternative English requirements French universities accept, a list of top institutions that don’t require IELTS, the step-by-step visa process, and available scholarships.
Why Study in France Without IELTS in 2026-2027: Benefits for Indian Students
France is rapidly becoming a top choice for Indian students, and for good reason. With a goal to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, the country offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural richness, and strong career prospects.
- World-Class Education at Affordable Costs: France is home to globally ranked universities and business schools. Public university tuition fees are particularly low, set by the government at approximately €2,770 (~₹2.8 Lakhs) per year for Bachelor’s and €3,770 (~₹3.9 Lakhs) per year for Master’s programs.
- Thriving Post-Study Work Opportunities: After completing a Master’s degree, Indian students can apply for a one-year Post-Study Work Visa, known as the Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS). This allows you to stay in France to find a job and gain international work experience.
- Courses Taught in English: You don’t need to be fluent in French to study in France. Over 1,600 programs are taught entirely in English, making it accessible for international students.
- Rich Cultural Experience: From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to world-class museums like the Louvre, studying in France offers an unparalleled cultural immersion.
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How to Prove English Proficiency to Study in France Without IELTS?
The main reason you can study in France without IELTS is that French universities offer several alternative ways to demonstrate your English language skills. Here are the most common methods for Indian students.
The Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate: Use This to Study in France Without IELTS
This is the most popular and effective alternative to IELTS for Indian students.
- What is it? An MOI is an official letter from your previous university or college confirming that your entire degree (like a B.Com, B.Tech, or B.A.) was taught in English.
- Why is it accepted? French universities consider it valid proof that you have the necessary English skills to succeed in an English-taught program.
- How to get it? You can request this document from the Registrar's office or the administrative department of your Indian university.
Alternate Tests (TOEFL / PTE / Duolingo) to Study in France Without IELTS
If you don't have an MOI or the university specifically asks for a test score, you can take other recognised English proficiency exams.
| Test | Minimum Score (Typical) |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 82+ |
| PTE Academic | 55+ |
| Duolingo English Test | 110+ |
Personal Interview or Video Assessment to Study in France Without IELTS
Many business schools and private universities conduct a short online interview via Zoom or Skype as part of the admission process. The admissions committee uses this interview to assess your communication skills and fluency in English. A strong performance can lead to an exemption from submitting any language test scores.
Top Universities Where You Can Study in France Without IELTS (Updated 2026-2027 list)
Many leading French institutions, particularly private business schools, are flexible with their English language requirements. Below is a list of popular universities in France without IELTS requirements for most of their English-taught programs.
| University Name | Popular Programs for Indians | Estimated Annual Tuition (EUR/INR) | Notes on English Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| SKEMA Business School | MSc International Business, MSc Financial Markets | €18,000 - €25,000 (~₹18.7L - ~₹26L) | MOI certificate or admission interview accepted. |
| NEOMA Business School | Master's in Management, MSc Marketing | €17,000 - €22,000 (~₹17.7L - ~₹22.9L) | Assessed case-by-case; a strong MOI is beneficial. |
| ESC Rennes School of Business | MSc Data Analytics, MSc International Finance | ~€18,200 (~₹18.9L) | An MOI from a reputable Indian university is often accepted. |
| Paris School of Business | BBA, MSc in International Management | €12,000 - €20,000 (~₹12.4L - ~₹20.8L) | A previous degree taught in English is sufficient. |
| INSEEC Business School | MBA, MSc in Marketing & Digital Communication | €9,400 - €12,400 (~₹9.7L - ~₹12.9L) | Assessment is often based on the admission interview. |
| Toulouse Business School | Master in Management | ~€18,500 (~₹19.2L) | English proficiency is evaluated during the application process. |
| EPITA Graduate School | MSc in Computer Science | €11,000 - €19,400 (~₹11.4L - ~₹20.2L) | MOI or an interview can replace IELTS. |
| ESAIP School of Engineers | Master’s in Engineering (IT & Environment) | €10,000 - €12,500 (~₹10.4L - ~₹13L) | Admission is based on academic profile and interview. |
Disclaimer: Always verify the latest admission policies directly on the official university website before applying.
How to Apply to Study in France Without IELTS: Step-by-Step Process
Follow these steps to successfully apply to French universities without an IELTS score.
- Shortlist Universities & Programs: Research and identify courses and universities that match your academic background and career goals. Check their websites for specific English language requirements.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, your CV, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and, most importantly, your Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate.
- Apply Online: Submit your application through the university's online portal or via the official Campus France platform, which is mandatory for many programs for students from India.
- Ace the Admissions Interview: If an interview is required, prepare to discuss your academic background, career goals, and reasons for choosing France and that specific university. This is your chance to prove your English fluency.
- Receive Your Acceptance Letter: Once your application is successful, you will receive an official acceptance letter (lettre d'acceptation), which is crucial for your visa application.
Do You Need IELTS for a French Student Visa? Study in France Without IELTS Explained
This is a common concern for Indian students. The simple answer is no, IELTS is not compulsory to get a French student visa if your university has already accepted you without it.
The visa officer’s primary concern is whether you have been officially admitted to a recognised French institution. Your acceptance letter, stating that you have met the university’s language criteria, serves as the main proof. However, the visa interview will be conducted in English, so you must be able to communicate confidently.
Key Documents for Visa Application:
- Visa application form
- Passport and photographs
- Official acceptance letter from the French university
- Proof of financial funds (approx. €615/month, which is around ₹7.6 Lakhs for a year)
- Proof of accommodation
- Medical insurance
- Receipt of visa fee payment (€99, which is approx ₹10k)
Scholarships to Help Indian Students Study in France Without IELTS
Several prestigious scholarships are available to help fund your studies, and most do not have a mandatory IELTS requirement.
| Scholarship | Offered By | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Eiffel Excellence Scholarship | French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs | Monthly allowance (~€1,181), travel, health insurance, and cultural activities allowance. |
| Charpak Scholarship | Embassy of France in India | Monthly stipend, tuition fee waiver (up to €5,000), student visa fee waiver, and medical insurance coverage. |
| Erasmus Mundus Scholarship | European Commission | Covers full tuition fees, travel, and installation costs, plus a monthly living allowance. |
| University-Specific Scholarships | Individual Universities | Many universities, like SciencesPo and HEC Paris, offer their own scholarships based on academic merit. |
Cost of Living and Part-Time Work for Indian Students
Understanding the costs and earning potential is crucial for planning your budget. While tuition fees in public universities are low, living expenses, especially in major cities, are a significant consideration.
Monthly Living Costs When You Study in France Without IELTS
Your monthly budget will vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and city of residence. Paris is significantly more expensive than other French cities.
| Expense Category | Cost in Paris (€/₹) | Cost in Other Cities (e.g., Lyon, Toulouse) (€/₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €600 - €900 (₹62k - ₹93k) | €400 - €700 (₹41.6k - ₹73k) |
| Food / Groceries | €300 - €400 (₹31k - ₹41k) | €250 - €350 (₹26k - ₹36.4k) |
| Public Transport | ~€75 (₹7.8k) | €30 - €50 (₹3k - ₹5k) |
| Miscellaneous (Phone, leisure) | ~€150 (₹15.6k) | ~€100 (₹10k) |
| Total (Approx. Monthly) | €1,125 - €1,525 (₹1.1L - ₹1.5L) | €780 - €1200 (₹81k - ₹1.2L) |
Cities like Nantes, Montpellier, and Lille are known for being more affordable for students, offering a high quality of life with lower accommodation costs.
Part-Time Work: Expected Earnings While Studying in France Without IELTS
As an international student in France, you are legally allowed to work up to 964 hours per year, which averages out to about 20 hours per week.
- Minimum Wage: Students are entitled to be paid at least the French minimum wage, known as the SMIC. As of 2025, the gross minimum hourly wage is approximately €11.72 (~₹1,220).
- Potential Earnings: Working 20 hours a week at the minimum wage can earn you roughly €800-€900 (₹83.3k - ₹93.7k) per month before taxes, which can significantly help cover your living expenses.
- Common Jobs: Students often find part-time jobs in retail, hospitality (cafes, restaurants), tutoring, and customer service.
Is Studying in France Without IELTS the Right Choice for You?
As this guide shows, your dream of studying in France doesn't have to be put on hold because of the IELTS exam. With alternatives like the MOI certificate and direct university assessments, top French institutions are more accessible than ever for Indian students. By focusing on a strong application, preparing for your interview, and showcasing your English proficiency through other means, you can unlock a world-class education in a culturally rich country.
The journey requires careful planning, but the rewards, an excellent degree, post-study work opportunities, and an unforgettable experience, are well worth it.
Ready to start your application? Book a free consultation with a Leap Scholar expert today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Can I really study in France without IELTS as an Indian student?
Yes, absolutely. Many French universities accept Indian students without an IELTS score. You can prove your English proficiency through alternatives like a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your previous university, other test scores like TOEFL or PTE, or through an admissions interview
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Which universities in France accept students without IELTS?
Many institutions, especially private business schools, are flexible. Some popular ones include SKEMA Business School, NEOMA Business School, ESC Rennes School of Business, and the Paris School of Business. While some public universities like the Sorbonne University may have stricter requirements, it's always best to check the specific program page on the university's official website.
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What are the main requirements to study in France without IELTS?
Besides meeting the academic criteria for your chosen program, the key requirement is to provide an alternative proof of English proficiency. The most common documents for Indian students are:
- A Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your previous college/university.
- Scores from other tests like TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo.
- A successful admissions interview where your language skills are assessed. -
Is France expensive for Indian students?
It can be quite affordable compared to other Western countries. Public university tuition fees are very low (around €3,770/year for a Master's). Private universities are more expensive. The main cost is living expenses, which range from €800 - €1,200 (~₹83.3k - ₹1.2L) per month in cities like Lyon or Toulouse, and can go up to €1,500 (~₹1.5L) in Paris.
-
Can I study for free in France?
While education is not entirely free, it is highly subsidised by the government at public universities, leading to very low tuition fees. For a truly "free" education, you would need to secure a full-ride scholarship like the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship or the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, which covers both tuition and living expenses.
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Is IELTS required for a France student visa?
No, IELTS is not mandatory for the French student visa if your university has issued an acceptance letter without requiring an IELTS score. The acceptance letter is the primary document that proves you meet the language requirements for your course.
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What is the success rate for a French student visa?
The visa success rate is generally high for genuine students with a complete application. While the rejection rate was noted at 15.7% in a 2024 report, this implies a success rate of over 84%. To ensure success, your application must be complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
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Which is the cheapest city in France for students?
Cities like Montpellier, Lille, Grenoble, and Nantes are often cited as being more affordable for students than Paris. They offer a lower cost of living, particularly for accommodation, while still providing a vibrant student life.
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Can I work in France after my studies?
Yes. After completing a Master's degree or higher, Indian students can apply for a one-year Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS) visa. This residence permit allows you to stay in France for 12 months to find a job in your field.
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