Study in France
Why Study in France
Pursuing higher education in France presents a unique opportunity for Indian students to access world-class training in technology and business. With its long history of innovation and emphasis on high-quality technical and scientific research, France provides an outstanding backdrop to pursue critical fields like Engineering and Management.
French institutions like CentraleSupelec, HEC Paris and ESSEC Business School enjoy global reputations for their rigorous programs blending technical excellence with strategic business perspectives, aimed at shaping versatile leaders of tomorrow. Students can specialize in diverse engineering domains while building integrated understanding of market dynamics, operations, and organizational leadership. With its focus on creativity, problem-solving and multidisciplinary collaboration, France enables students to emerge as well-rounded managers who can apply technological ingenuity to build successful global businesses and drive strategic transformation.
As your trusted education partner, IVYGeeks offers end-to-end guidance to help you navigate program selection, applications, visa process and more to study Engineering and Management in France. Our expertise and tools provide personalized assistance so you can make informed decisions to progress towards a rewarding international career.
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Requirements to Study in the France
Pursuing higher education in France as an international student generally requires demonstrating strong English language abilities. While France has many programs taught in French, a growing number of graduate degrees at leading French institutions are offered fully or partially in English to attract global talent.
French universities and grandes écoles outline specific English proficiency requirements for programs taught in English to ensure students can actively participate in lectures, discussions, projects and more. Meeting these language thresholds is key to both gaining admission and excelling academically.
Some standard tests accepted to prove English language capabilities by French institutions include:
Common English Language Tests Accepted
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): The TOEFL exam is widely recognized in France for evaluating the English skills needed for academic environments.
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Many French institutes accept IELTS scores, especially the Academic version calibrated for university study.
- Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English: CAE certification demonstrating advanced English mastery is acknowledged for admission eligibility.
- PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English): This computer-based test also assesses real-life English language usage and is considered by an increasing number of French universities.
Top universities in France with their rankings
École Polytechnique (ParisTech)
Typical Ranking Range
Top 50-150 globally and #1 in France
Location
Palaiseau (near Paris)
ESTD
1794
Sector
Public
Paris Sciences et Lettres – PSL Research University Paris
Typical Ranking Range
Top 50-100 globally and #2 in France
Location
Paris
ESTD
2010 (but most institutions date back hundreds of years)
Sector
Collegiate university formed of 10 constituent institutions
Sorbonne University
Typical Ranking Range
Top 100-200 globally and #3 in France
Location
Paris
ESTD
2018 (predecessor universities date back to mid-13th century)
Sector
Public
CentraleSupélec
Typical Ranking Range
Top 100-250 globally and #4 in France
Location
Gif-sur-Yvette
ESTD
2015 (merger of École Centrale Paris founded 1829 & Supélec founded 1894)
Sector
Institute of technology & grand école
Top Programs to Pursue in France
- Engineering: Computer Science, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Aerospace, Industrial.
- Business and Management degrees.
- Applied Sciences: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
- Economics, Politics, International Affairs.
- Architecture, Design and Fashion Technology.
- Hospitality and Culinary Arts.
- Humanities: French Language, Literature, Social Sciences.
Scholarship and Financial Aid Options in France
France offers a host of scholarships and tuition subsidy programs aimed at attracting exceptional international talent and making quality education accessible. These awards help fund partial or full costs of pursuing academic studies in France.
Government Scholarships
Programmes like Make Our Planet Great Again and the Charpak Master’s Program fully fund Indian students to study STEM and humanities subjects in France through a competitive merit-based selection process.
University-Based Aid
Leading institutions provide scholarships covering partial or full tuition fees and other expenses for deserving students. These university-specific awards depend on academic merit and other criteria.
Campus France Fellowships
Funded by the French Embassy in India, Campus France scholarships are offered at bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels across more than 30 premier French institutes each year.
External Awards
Numerous foundations and philanthropic organisations fund international students to study in France every year. Eiffel Excellence Scholarships are a prestigious award in science, economics, law, management and other fields.
Preparing for Career Success in France
French universities provide robust career assistance to empower students in strategically building their professional profiles. With a proactive approach focused on self-assessment, skills development and industry exposure, students gain resources to launch successful careers after graduation.
Personalized Guidance: One-on-one coaching for creating career plans matched with individual strengths and aspirations.
Professional Development: Workshops focused on CV writing, interview tactics, personal branding, networking, corporate etiquette and other career-enhancing skills.
Business Exposure: Direct access to company presentations, networking mixers and internship opportunities to build industry connections.
Mentorship Programs: Opportunity to be matched with working alumni as mentors for career-related advice and insider tips.
Job Search Support: Individual guidance provided for identifying right-fit job openings, conveying unique value to recruiters, salary negotiations and more.
Gaining Professional Experience in France
Integrating practical training within degree programs is an established hallmark of French higher education. Through various pathways like apprenticeships, internships, collaborative projects or international exchanges, students gain vital professional exposure.
Test Interests: Experiment with diverse roles aligned to your field by directly participating in real-time business challenges.
Apply Knowledge: Translate academic learning into professional practice in a structured on-the-job training environment.
Develop Skills: Build industry-relevant capabilities and enhance employability through immersive direct experiences.
Expand Networks: Interact with corporate contacts and working alumni to form meaningful relationships for ongoing career progression.
With France’s focus on skill-based learning models, graduates enter the job market with specialized abilities shaped through experiential training in world-class institutional and company settings thereby enabling a smooth transition into the global workforce.
Strong Graduate Employability Outcomes in France
French institutions nurture robust corporate relationships that catalyze excellent employment prospects for graduates across fields. Surveys indicate over 80% of university alumni and 90% of elite grande école graduates successfully transition into appropriate roles or further studies within months of completing their degree.
With rigorous education models blending theoretical knowledge and practical application, French programs equip students to seamlessly access suitable opportunities. Work-integrated degree structures further strengthen recruitment potential, a distinguishing feature of French higher education.
Graduates are primed for success securing roles like engineering specialists, strategy consultants, investment bankers, marketing managers, economists, scientists, architects and public policy experts at major national and global firms in France. Surveys highlight international graduates from French universities landing competitive profiles and leadership tracks in globally-focused corporations.
By emphasizing skill development and corporate exposure, higher education in France invests students with specialized expertise and professional maturity to progress in prestigious career directions from the outset.
Application Process
Identify Programs and Institutions
Research programs offered, rankings, locations, entry criteria, fees, scholarships, and campus culture to shortlist options aligned with your academic and career goals.
Prepare Application Materials
Compile necessary documents like updated CV, certificates, diplomas, standardized test scores, proof of English proficiency, letters of recommendation, and any required essays or statements of purpose.
Verify Eligibility for Chosen Program
Confirm you meet the academic background equivalencies, subject prerequisites, language requirements and other qualifications stipulated by your selected French universities/schools.
Submit Your Application
Carefully complete all sections accurately against application deadlines. Apply via France’s common online platform for foreign students - Études en France portal.
Explore Financing Options
Research scholarships and loans offered by the French government and institutions. Start your visa process only once your finances are secured.
Accept Final University Offer
Carefully assess and accept your preferred admission offer before the date stipulated in your provisional acceptance letter.
Get Your Student Visa
Submit a strong visa application with confirmations of university admission and financial resources to fund your education and living costs in France.
Complete Enrollment Formalities
Once in France, finish administrative enrollment formalities with your institution, find housing, register for residence permit, insurance coverage etc. to officially start your studies.
FAQ
What are the entry requirements to study in France?
The main requirements are having strong academic grades, meeting French or English language proficiency scores (like DELF, TCF, TOEFL), taking standardized tests (like GRE or GMAT) if required by your program, and showing sufficient funds to cover tuition and living costs.
What is the cost of studying in France?
Tuition fees range from €170 – €7000 per year at public universities, €2000 – €15000 at private institutes, and €5000 – €15000 at the selective Grandes Ecoles. Living expenses are roughly €800 – €1200 per month across cities.
How do I fund my education in France?
You can fund your studies through French government and university scholarships, education loans, personal and family funding sources. Part-time on-campus jobs can supplement costs.
Can I work while studying in France?
Yes, international students can work for up to 20 hours a week during semesters and full-time during vacations. Many degree programs have compulsory internships or projects within industry settings as well.
What is the post-study work permit policy in France?
Graduates are eligible for the ‘French Tech Visa’ – a 2 year residence permit allowing international students to work or set up a company in France after finishing their French qualification.
How can I choose the right university in France?
Carefully research program offerings, rankings, location, costs, scholarship options, career outcomes, alumni reviews and admission requirements to shortlist universities fitting your interests, budget and career goals.
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