France has become one of the top destinations for international students, with Indian students increasingly choosing French universities. The previous year, nearly 2.9 million students were enrolled in French universities, with over 400,000 being international students, marking the highest growth in over 15 years.
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French President Emmanuel Macron recently launched a programme to welcome 30,000 Indian students to France by 2030. The growing appeal of French higher education is due to its affordability. With affordable higher education, the cost of study in France for Indian students remains lower than in many other countries like the UK, USA and Australia.
This makes it an attractive option for students looking to balance quality education with manageable expenses. For international students considering studying in France, understanding the cost of living and university fees is essential.
This guide will cover the cost of study in France for Indian students, including tuition fees, living expenses, and more. Read on!
What is the Cost of Studying in France?
France offers education in some of the top universities and affordability, making it a popular choice for international students. With universities like PSL, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, and Sorbonne University, the cost of study in France for Indian students is relatively low compared to other European countries.
In the 2024 academic year, 7,344 Indian students enrolled, which is expected to grow by 200% by 2030. With subsidised tuition fees and low living costs in France for international students, it’s an accessible option for many.
Here is a breakdown of the cost of study in France for Indian students in terms of different program types.
| Programme Type | France University Fees for International Students |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | INR 2.8L to 11.4L (EUR 3K to 12K) per year |
| Masters | INR 2.8L to 19L (EUR 3K to 20K) per year |
| MBA | INR 29L to 93L (EUR 31K to 98K) per year |
Public vs. Private University Costs
The choice between public and private universities significantly impacts the cost of studying in France for Indian students. Public universities offer affordable tuition, while private universities often charge higher fees but provide specialised programs.
Here's a quick overview of tuition fees for international students in France’s public and private universities.
| University Type | Annual Average Fees |
|---|---|
| Public | INR 2.8L to 3.8L (EUR 3K to 4K) |
| Private | INR 4.7L to 28L (EUR 5K to 30K) |
Also Read: Study in France for Indian Students
What is the Living Cost in France for International Students?
International students must budget for around INR 1.7L (EUR1.8K) per month, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and other essentials.
While living expenses depend on your city, here is an estimate of the cost of study in France. Let’s break down the monthly living costs in France for international students.
| Expenses | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | INR 85K (EUR 900) |
| Utilities | INR18K (EUR 189) |
| Internet | INR 3K (EUR 30) |
| Transportation | INR 6K (EUR 64) |
| Fitness/Gym | INR 3K (EUR 35) |
| Groceries | INR 28K (EUR 300) |
| Leisure | INR 26K (EUR 280) |
| Health Insurance | INR 3.7K (EUR 40) |
France Student Visa Cost
The France student visa cost is an important factor for your study plans. With an 80% acceptance rate, getting a student visa is achievable for most applicants. Overall, the cost of study in France for Indian students remains affordable, even when factoring in these visa-related costs.
Here is a quick overview of France student visa cost.
| Visa Type | Processing Time | Visa Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Long Stay Student Visa | 2 to 3 weeks | INR 9.4K (EUR 99) |
Along with the visa application fee, you will need to budget for health insurance with a minimum INR 35.6L (EUR 37.5K).
Also Read: Study Visa in France
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Cheapest Universities in France for Indian Students
France is home to over 3,500 higher education institutions, offering multiple affordable options for Indian students. The cost of study in France for Indian students is relatively low, especially at public universities, which the government heavily subsidises.
By choosing the right institution, you can significantly reduce your expenses while receiving a world-class education.
Here’s a quick overview of the cheapest universities in France, both public and private.
| Cheapest Universities in France | Tuition Fees in France for International Students |
|---|---|
| Université Paris-Saclay | INR 16K to 23K (EUR 170 to 243) |
| Université d’Orléans | INR 16K to 23K (EUR 170 to 243) |
| Aix-Marseille Université (AMU) | INR 16K to 23K (EUR 170 to 243) |
| Université Toulouse 1 Capitole | INR 16K to 23K (EUR 170 to 243) |
| Université de Montpellier | INR 16K to 23K (EUR 170 to 243) |
| Université de Paris | INR 16K to 23K (EUR 170 to 243) |
Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in France
Over 500 Indian students receive scholarships to study in France each year. The French Embassy in India, in collaboration with French companies and institutions, provides these scholarships for students attending both public and private universities.
Here are the top scholarships that help reduce the study cost in France for Indian students.
| Scholarships | Offered By | Award |
|---|---|---|
| Emile Boutmy Scholarship | SciencesPo | EUR 6.2K to EUR 14.7K (INR 60K to INR 14L) per year |
| University Paris-Saclay International Masters Scholarships | University Paris-Saclay | EUR 10K (INR 9.5L) lump sum |
| France Excellence Europa Scholarships | Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs | EUR 6.8K (INR 6.5L)lump sum |
Also Read: France Scholarships for Indian Students in 2025-26
Scholarship Eligibility & Application Process
You must meet certain academic and language requirements to qualify for French scholarships. These typically include:
- A strong academic record, with good grades and relevant coursework, and a minimum GPA of 4 or above.
- Ensure the scholarship is open to Indian students, as most scholarships have nationality-specific criteria.
- Strong letters of recommendation from professors, mentors, or employers.
- A well-written statement of purpose (SOP) outlining your academic and career goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
- Proficiency in either French or English, depending on the program.
Here are the language requirements to study in France:
Also Read: Study in France without IELTS
Comparing Study Costs: France vs. Other Countries
When considering where to study abroad, comparing the cost of study in France for Indian students with other countries can help make an informed decision. This section provides a clear comparison of France with other popular study destinations like Germany, Canada, and Australia.
1. France vs. Germany
| Country | Average Annual Cost of Study |
|---|---|
| France | INR 2.8L to 19L (EUR 3K to 20K) |
| Germany | INR 14K to 28L (EUR 150 to \30K) |
2. France vs. Italy
| Country | Average Annual Cost of Study |
|---|---|
| France | INR 2.8L to 19L (EUR 3K to 20K) |
| Italy | INR 47K to 3.8L (EUR 500 to 4K) |
3. France vs. Canada
| Country | Average Annual Cost of Study |
|---|---|
| France | INR 2.8L to 19L (EUR 3K to 20K) |
| Canada | INR 12L to 18L (CAD 20K to 30K) |
4. France vs. Australia
| Country | Average Annual Cost of Study |
|---|---|
| France | INR 2.8L to 19L (EUR 3K to 20K) |
| Australia | INR 11L to 27L (AUD 20K to 50K) |
Also Read: Top Reasons for Indian Students to Study in France
Tips to Manage Expenses While Studying in France
Managing your expenses in France can help you make the most of your time without breaking the bank. With careful planning and smart strategies, you can keep the cost of studying in France within your budget as an Indian student.
- Choose public universities: Public universities in France have a low cost of studying, making them a more affordable option compared to private institutions.
- Opt for student housing: University dormitories or shared student apartments are often more affordable than private accommodations.
- Cook your own meals: Preparing your own food can save you a significant amount compared to dining out or ordering takeaway.
- Take advantage of student discounts: Many services, from transport to leisure activities, offer discounts for students.
- Use public transport: Instead of taxis or private vehicles, use affordable student transport passes to get around.
Final Thoughts
In this blog, we discussed the study cost in France for Indian students, the cheapest universities in France, and much more. France provides affordable education in leading universities famous for luxury business and fashion.
By knowing the cost of studying in France, you can easily make your dream of studying in France come true, and many scholarship opportunities can make this dream more achievable.
Studying in France offers excellent education and a rich cultural experience, but managing finances can feel overwhelming. Understanding the cost of studying in France and exploring scholarship options can help ease the burden and make your dream of studying abroad more achievable.
If you're ready to take the next step in your academic journey, Leap Scholar can guide you through every process - from choosing the right university to securing scholarships and managing your finances.
Book a free session with LeapScholar today.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q. What is the total cost of studying in France for Indian students?
A. The total cost of studying in France for Indian students varies widely. Public university annual costs range from INR 3.35L to 11.89L (EUR 3K to 12K), while private institutions can cost between INR 6.2L and 38.54L (EUR 5K to 30K) annually. These figures include tuition and living expenses but exclude visa, travel, and other fees.
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Q. How much does a master's degree cost in France?
A. A Master’s degree in France at a public university typically costs EUR 243 to 3,770 annually (INR 23K to 3.6L). Private institutions charge significantly more, often exceeding EUR 10,000 (INR 9.5L) per year, depending on the programme and institution
-
Q. What are the living expenses for Indian students in France?
A. Living expenses for Indian students in France vary depending on the city. Outside Paris, monthly living costs are typically EUR 600 to EUR 800 (INR 57K to 76K). In Paris, the cost can exceed EUR 1,200 (INR 1.1L) per month. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.
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Q. Which is the cheapest university in France for international students?
A. Public universities in France are generally the most affordable for international students. The cost of study in France for Indian students at these institutions typically ranges from EUR 170 to EUR 243 (INR 16K to INR 23K) annually. These universities offer low tuition fees thanks to government subsidies.
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Q. What is the France student visa cost for Indian applicants?
A. The France student visa costs EUR 99 (INR 9.4K). In addition to the visa fee, you will also need to account for a Campus France fee of around INR 16,500 (EUR 170), and a VFS Global service fee. These should be factored into your total cost of study in France for Indian students.
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Q. Are there scholarships for Indian students in France?
A. Yes, there are scholarships available for Indian students in France. These include the Charpak Scholarship, Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, and university-specific scholarships. The Indian government also offers scholarships, helping reduce the cost of study in France significantly.
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Q. How much does MS in France cost?
A. The cost of a masters degree in France is typically between EUR 243 to 3,770 annually (INR 23K to INR 3.6L). Private institutions, particularly business or specialised schools, can charge upwards of EUR 10,000 (INR 9.5L) per year, depending on the institution and programme.
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Q. Is studying in France cheaper than in Germany?
A. Studying in France can be more expensive than in Germany. German public universities often have no or low tuition fees, whereas French public universities charge nominal fees. However, living costs in France, especially in Paris, can be higher than in Germany.
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Q. What are the part-time job opportunities for Indian students in France?
A. Indian students in France can work part-time on or off campus. Popular part-time jobs include language tutoring, babysitting, hospitality, retail, and online freelancing. With a student visa, you're permitted to work up to 964 hours per year, which helps manage the living cost in France for international students.
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Q. Can Indian students study in France without IELTS?
A. Yes, Indian students can study in France without IELTS. Many French universities accept alternative English proficiency tests or offer internal assessments. French-taught programmes generally do not require IELTS, provided you meet the French language proficiency requirements.
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Q. What are the France public universities fees for international students?
A. France public universities fees for international students are generally affordable, with annual tuition fees ranging from INR 2.8L to INR 3.8L (EUR 3K to EUR 4K). These fees are subsidised by the French government, making them a cost-effective option compared to private institutions, especially for students looking to reduce their cost of study in France.
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