Why is France becoming the Go-To choice for Indian Students?

France is going all-in on Indian students! While the US tightens its visa policies and the UK raises its fees, France is literally rolling out red carpets for Indian students with specifically designed programs, simplified visa processes, and a crystal-clear message: "We want you here."

The goal? 30,000 Indian students studying in France by 2030. And they're putting serious efforts behind making it happen. 

France's Target for Indian Students

During his visit to India in 2024, President Macron declared that France would host 30,000 Indian students by 2030, almost quadrupling from about 8,000 in 2023–2024.

The story is told by the numbers. The majority of French government scholarship recipients today are Indian students.

Government policies, institutional support, and significant funding are making studying in France a popular option for Indian students.

Classes Internationales Program

Now the real game-changer: Solving the biggest problem Indian students face when considering France - language!

For international high school graduates, more than 35 French universities offer a one-year foundation program called Classes Internationales. Without requiring any prior knowledge of French, the program teaches academic methodology, field-specific preparation, and French language proficiency.

After completing the foundation year, students directly transition into bachelor's or master's programs at elite French institutions.

French Student Visa for Indians

France is making visa processes dramatically easier for Indian students, especially compared to the bureaucratic nightmares at other destinations.

Five-Year Schengen Visa for Alumni

After graduation, Indian students who studied in France are eligible for five-year short-stay Schengen visas. That's five years of being able to travel throughout 26 European countries and return to France for professional networking, employment opportunities, or additional education!

A €220 visa fee is required for the application process (scholarship recipients are exempt).

The digital system has greatly improved the French student visa. France is promising stability and guaranteeing 30,000 student visas by 2030 with clear post-study work options, while the US and UK create uncertainty with their ever-changing regulations.

Mon Logement Étudiant Platform

The worst part of studying overseas is typically housing. France just made it way easier!

In September 2025, France launched a Student Housing Plan with the goal of building 45,000 new student housing units by 2027.

Although the price of student housing in France varies by city, CROUS housing usually provides the most economical options, frequently costing between €300 and €400 per month, depending on the location.

Why Study in France Over the US, UK, or Australia?

Affordable Tuition Fees in France

Public universities in France charge under €3,000 per year for most programs (sometimes significantly less). And now comparing that to $50,000+ at US universities or £20,000+ in the UK? The cost difference is staggering.

English-Taught Programs in France

There are currently more than 1,500 English-taught programs in France, especially in highly sought-after fields like business management, engineering, artificial intelligence, and data science.  

EU Mobility and Career Opportunities

A French degree comes with access to the entire European job market. Post-study work permits, five-year Schengen visas, and freedom to pursue opportunities across 26 countries create an unmatched career flexibility.

Choose France Tours and Support

To make the entire process more accessible, France regularly organises "Choose France" recruitment tours in India that put students in direct contact with university representatives, scholarship opportunities, and application support.

The Bottom Line

The French government wants international graduates to stay and contribute to their economy, especially in the tech and innovation sectors, where India produces exceptional talent!

Study abroad in France 2026 represents a strategic choice – recognised degrees, reasonable costs, cultural richness, and professional opportunities.

The question isn't whether France is a good option. It's whether students are ready to take advantage of these opportunities.

Whether it’s France or any other place on your dream study-abroad destination list, Hello Study Global is here to help you right from your day 0. All you need to do is fill that form and reach out to us. Don’t wait, because France is waiting for you! 

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