Why France is becoming top choice for Indian students
What's the story
France is gradually but surely becoming the go-to destination for Indian students pursuing higher education.
In the 2023-24 academic year, 7,344 Indian students were enrolled in French institutions; this figure is projected to rise by 200% by 2030.
The country's affordable education system, high academic standards, and robust placement programs by over 75 prestigious institutions, including HEC Paris Business School and Sorbonne University, are behind this growing interest.
Education diplomacy
France's education appeal and India's diplomatic ties
French President Emmanuel Macron has set an ambitious target to increase the number of Indian students in France to 30,000 by 2030, which he stated during his visit to India in January.
Macron's goal could be further discussed during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ongoing visit to France, which also included co-hosting an AI Summit with Macron and discussing key defense and nuclear energy deals.
Cost-effective studies
France's affordable education and living costs
Traditionally, Indian students have preferred the US, UK, Canada, and Australia for higher studies.
However, France's affordable education system with low tuition fees at public universities and financial aid programs like Charpak and the Eiffel Excellence program are luring more students.
Emmanuel Lenain, former Ambassador of France to India, said France offers scholarships worth over ₹15 crore specifically for Indian students.
Career prospects
France's strong placement programs and visa incentives
The cost of living in France is also fairly reasonable, with Paris averaging €1,723/month and Lyon providing a more affordable option at €1,130. Other cities have living costs of around €1,105/month.
NEOMA Business School student Pragya Sancheti told FPJ, "I chose France for its budget-friendly education system."
Further, Sciences Po University student Rijutosh Chakrabarty added, "French universities are offering much better placement rates and packages than many other countries."
Educational initiatives
France's initiatives to attract Indian students
France is also actively wooing Indian students through initiatives like offering courses in English and the Classes Internationales program.
Under this program, Indian students can access French-taught undergraduate programs after a foundational year of language training.
More than 30 institutions across France offer this initiative. Additionally, dual degree programs are available through partnerships with Indian institutions like TISS in Mumbai and Mumbai University's Department of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology.
Visa policies
France's visa policies for Indian students and alumni
In 2023, the French administration also launched a five-year Schengen circulation visa for Indian alumni with a Master's degree or above who studied in France.
Moreover, France offers a two-year post-study work visa for postgraduates with a French Master's degree.
The visa is granted for one year initially and can be renewed for another year.