France combines world-class education, iconic culture and strong career prospects, especially in business, engineering, fashion and hospitality. With many English-taught programs and generous scholarships, it's an excellent choice to study in France.
Why Study in France?
- Globally ranked business schools and engineering grandes écoles
- Affordable public university tuition
- English-taught master's programs
- Scholarships like Eiffel and Charpak
- 2-year post-study work opportunities
Admission Requirements
- Relevant academic qualification with good grades
- IELTS/TOEFL (or French proficiency for French-taught courses)
- SOP, CV and recommendation letters
- Portfolio for design/creative courses
Cost of Studying in France
Public universities charge subsidised tuition, while grandes écoles and private schools charge more. Living costs are roughly €900–1,300 per month depending on the city. Scholarships can significantly reduce costs for strong applicants.
Student Visa
Indian students apply for the France long-stay student visa (VLS-TS) after securing admission through Campus France. We guide you through the Campus France procedure, documentation and interview.
Campus France and the Visa: A Two-Portal Process
France runs applicants through two separate systems, and missing that is the usual reason a French plan runs late. Campus France (the Études en France portal) handles academic approval, including an interview. France-Visas and VFS handle the visa itself. You cannot skip the first to get to the second.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Campus France processing fee | ₹18,500 plus taxes |
| Student visa — VLS-TS | €99 |
| Student visa — VLS-T | €50 |
| VFS service fee | €32.20 (about ₹2,960) |
| Proof of funds | €615 per month — €7,380 for the year |
On funds: France expects bank statements from the last three months showing consistent, traceable money. A large deposit made shortly before applying is treated as a red flag, so if a relative is funding you, move the money early and be able to explain where it came from.
Timeline for a September intake
- January–March — finalise university offers and pay deposits
- April–May — complete the Études en France portal and sit the academic interview
- June–July — apply on France-Visas and book the VFS appointment
- August — receive the visa and prepare to travel
Want to study in France?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Campus France process for Indian students?
All Indian applicants must complete the Études en France procedure on the Campus France India portal, including an academic interview, before applying for the visa through France-Visas and VFS. The Campus France processing fee is ₹18,500 plus taxes.
How much money do I need for a French student visa?
€615 per month, which works out at €7,380 for a year. France expects three months of bank statements showing consistent funds — a large last-minute deposit is treated as a red flag.
How much does a French student visa cost?
€99 for the VLS-TS or €50 for the VLS-T, plus a VFS service fee of €32.20 and the Campus France processing fee of ₹18,500 plus taxes.
Can I study in France in English?
Yes. Many French universities and business schools offer master's and bachelor's programs fully in English, especially in business, engineering and technology.
Is France affordable for Indian students?
Public university tuition is subsidised and scholarships are available, making France relatively affordable, though private schools cost more.