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Cost of Study in France

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Introduction

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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. 

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?

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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 studying in France for Indian students in terms of different program types.

Programme TypeFrance University Fees for International Students
UndergraduateINR 2.9L to 11.6L (EUR 3K to 12K) per year
MastersINR 2.9L to 19.4L (EUR 3K to 20K) per year
MBAINR 30L to 95L (EUR 31K to 98K) per year

Please note: The amount may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

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 TypeAnnual Average Fees
PublicINR 2.9L to 3.8L (EUR 3K to 4K)
PrivateINR 4.8L to 29L (EUR 5K to 30K)

Please note: The amount may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

France Student Visa Cost

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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 TypeProcessing TimeVisa Cost
Long Stay Student Visa2 to 3 weeksINR 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

Cheapest Universities in France for Indian Students

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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 FranceTuition Fees in France for International Students
Université Paris-SaclayINR 16K to 23K (EUR 170 to 243)
Université d’OrléansINR 16K to 23K (EUR 170 to 243)
Aix-Marseille Université (AMU)INR 16K to 23K (EUR 170 to 243)
Université Toulouse 1 CapitoleINR 16K to 23K (EUR 170 to 243)
Université de MontpellierINR 16K to 23K (EUR 170 to 243)
Université de ParisINR 16K to 23K (EUR 170 to 243)

Please note: The amount may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in France

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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:

ScholarshipsOffered ByAward
Emile Boutmy ScholarshipSciencesPoEUR 6.2K to EUR 14.7K (INR 60K to INR 14L) per year
University Paris-Saclay International Masters ScholarshipsUniversity Paris-SaclayEUR 10K (INR 9.5L) lump sum
France Excellence Europa ScholarshipsMinistry for Europe and Foreign AffairsEUR 6.8K (INR 6.5L)lump sum

Please note: The amount may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

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: 

TestScore
IELTS6.5
TOEFL100
DELF (French)50
DALF (French)B2

Comparing Study Costs: France vs. Other Countries

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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

CountryAverage Annual Cost of Study
FranceINR 2.9L to 19L (EUR 3K to 20K)
GermanyINR 14K to 28L (EUR 150 to 30K)

2. France vs. Italy

CountryAverage Annual Cost of Study
FranceINR 2.8L to 19L (EUR 3K to 20K)
ItalyINR 47K to 3.8L (EUR 500 to 4K)

3. France vs. Canada

CountryAverage Annual Cost of Study
FranceINR 2.8L to 19L (EUR 3K to 20K)
CanadaINR 12L to 18L (CAD 20K to 30K)

4. France vs. Australia

CountryAverage Annual Cost of Study
FranceINR 2.8L to 19L (EUR 3K to 20K)
AustraliaINR 11L to 27L (AUD 20K to 50K)

Tips to Manage Expenses While Studying in France

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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.

FAQs

Q. What is the total cost of studying in France for Indian students?

Ans. 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.

Q. How much does a master's degree cost in France?

Ans. 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?

Ans. 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.

Q. Which is the cheapest university in France for international students?

Ans. Public universities in France are generally the most affordable for international students. The cost of studying 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.

Q. What is the France student visa cost for Indian applicants?

Ans. 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.

Q. Are there scholarships for Indian students in France?

Ans. 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.

Q. How much does an MS in France cost?

Ans. The cost of a master's degree in France is typically between EUR 243 and 3,770 annually (INR 23K to INR 3.6 L). 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.

Q. Is studying in France cheaper than in Germany?

Ans. 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.

Q. What are the part-time job opportunities for Indian students in France?

Ans. 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 costs in France for international students.

Q. Can Indian students study in France without IELTS?

Ans. 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.

Q. What are the France public universities fees for international students?

Ans. 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.