- France ranks as Europe’s third most popular study destination for international students seeking quality higher education.
- 35 French universities are featured in QS World University Rankings 2026 with 4 institutions securing positions in the prestigious global top 100.
- French universities offer Masters programs as low as €250 (₹26,181) for Indian students seeking affordable foreign education.
- Why Do International Students Study in France?
- Top-Ranked Universities in France for Indian Students
- Top Universities for Business & Management Programs in France
- Eligibility Criteria for French Universities
- Best Courses to Study in France: Career Prospects & Salary Insights
- Cost of Living in France for Indian Students
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
France has emerged as an academic powerhouse, continually reshaping global education standards year after year. It proudly holds its place as Europe’s third most popular study destination for international students, with its universities excelling worldwide in engineering, business, and research programmes.
Why Do International Students Study in France?
France is a popular choice among international students, particularly Indians, looking to enrol in higher degree programs in Europe due to its marvellous history, cosmopolitan setting, and concentration of globally renowned institutions.
- According to the QS World University Rankings 2026, 35 French universities are included in the list, with four of them in the global top 100.
- Degrees from French universities are well-recognised globally due to France’s adoption of the LMD system (Licence-Master-Doctorat), which uses ECTS credits.
- The French government invests heavily in education: total public spending on education (from primary right through tertiary) is about 5.4% of GDP.
France hosts many of the world’s largest companies, including the finance giants BNP Paribas and AXA (also in insurance), the luxury goods leaders LVMH and Kering, and technology firms like Dassault Systèmes.
Top-Ranked Universities in France for Indian Students
France’s universities are celebrated for their well-structured programmes that blend strong theoretical foundations with practical, industry-oriented training. Many courses are taught in English, especially at the postgraduate level, making them accessible to international students.
| University Name | QS World University Rank 2026 | Top Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Université PSL | 28 | Masters in Computer Science Masters degree in Management - MeM Masters in Technology & Innovation Management |
| Institut Polytechnique de Paris | 41 | Master Year 1 Physics Masters in BioMedical Engineering (BME) Master of Science & Technology |
| Université Paris-Saclay | 70 | M1 International Track in Electrical Engineering Master of Physics Masters in Mathematics & Applications |
| Sorbonne Université | 72 | Masters - ‘From Fundamental Molecular Biosciences to Biotherapies’ Master of Computer Science: Digital International Program (DIGIT) Master's Degree in Waves and Devices for Advanced Wireless Communication Systems (WaveWiCom) |
| École Normale Supérieure de Lyon | 205 | Masters ‘The thoughts of Cinema program’ Masters Computer Science: Thoughts & Applications Master in Advanced Economics |
| Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne | 257 | Sorbonne LLM Business Law for Foreign Lawyers QEM (Models and Methods of Quantitative Economics) Executive International MBA |
| Université Paris Cité | 300 | Master of Clinical psychology of health Master in biomedical engineering: molecular and cellular biotherapies (MCB) Master in Genetics |
| Université Grenoble Alpes | 321 | M2 Chemistry for life science M1 Nanophysics - Quantum physics M2 Physiology, epigenetics, differentiation and cancer |
| Sciences Po | 367 | Masters in Economics Masters in History Masters in Political Science |
| Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Lyon (INSA) | 406 | Master in Acoustics Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Engineering Systems (MINDS) Master of Science in Biotechnologies and Bioinformatique |
Top Universities for Business & Management Programs in France
France is renowned for business education excellence, offering both traditional master’s programs and quick, one-year management courses designed for career acceleration.
| Business School | FT MiM Rank 2025 | FT MBA Rank 2025 | FT Masters in Finance 2025 | Top Programs | Annual Tuition Fee (EUR/INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HEC Paris | 2 | 9 | 5 | Master in Management Master in International Finance Master in Marketing MBA | €25,900 (₹27.1L), €47,500 (₹49.7L), €35,500 (₹37.1L), €47,000 (₹49.2L) |
| INSEAD | 3 | 4 | - | Master in Management Master in Finance MBA | €49,000 (₹51.2L), €68,333 (₹71.5L), €103,500 (₹108.2L Total) |
| ESCP Business School | 7 | 28 | 1 | Master in Management, MSc Finance MSc Marketing & Creativity MBA | €25,200 (₹26.4L), €31,800 (₹33.3L Total), €27,500 (₹28.8L), €57,900 (₹60.5L Total) |
| ESSEC Business School | 10 | 47 | 4 | Master in Management, Master in Finance MSc in Marketing Management & Digital MBA | €40,000 (₹41.8L), €31,500 (₹32.9L), €31,500 (₹32.9L), €50,000 (₹52.3L) |
| Emlyon business school | 12 | 44 | 13 | Master in Management Master in Finance Master in International Marketing & Business MBA | €22,000 (₹23.0L), €28,750 (₹30.1L), €28,750 (₹30.1L), €49,500 (₹51.8L) |
| EDHEC Business School | 14 | 64 | - | Master in Management - Business Track MSc Corporate Finance & Banking MSc Marketing Management MBA | €49,450 (₹51.7L Total), €30,400 (₹31.8L Total), €27,300 (₹28.5L), €52,500 (₹54.9L Total) |
| SKEMA Business School | 18 | - | 2 | MSc Strategic Management & Consulting MSc Financial Markets & Investment MSc Digital Marketing and Business of Entertainment Global MBA Triple Master (SKEMA - LMU - Loyola | €25,000 (₹26.1L), €29,500 (₹30.8L), €35,000 (₹36.6L), $47,025 (₹39.4L*) |
| Grenoble École de Management | 20 | 89 | 22 | Master in Management MSc Finance & Investment Banking MSc Marketing MBA | €16,800 (₹17.6L), €11,725 (₹12.3L), €16,750 (₹17.5L), €31,450 (₹32.9L Total) |
| Audencia Business School | 25 | 90 | 40 | Master in Management MSc Data Management in Corporate Finance MSc Digital Marketing International MBA | €15,600 (₹16.3L), €19,400 (₹20.3L), €27,800 (₹29.1L), €31,500 (₹32.9L) |
| IÉSEG School of Management | 26Z | - | 15 | Master in Management Master in Finance Master in Digital Marketing & Customer Experience MBA | €14,230 (₹14.9L), €22,800 (₹23.8L), €18,800 (₹19.7L), €39,000 (₹40.8L Total) |
Eligibility Criteria for French Universities
Getting into the best universities in France requires meeting specific academic and language requirements that vary by program level. The French higher education system values both academic excellence and practical experience, making it essential for applicants to prepare comprehensively.
Academic Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree Programs
- Completion of 12 years of schooling (10+2)
- Minimum 60-70% marks in Class 12 (equivalent to 6.0-7.0/10 CGPA)
- Valid school leaving certificate
- Subject-specific prerequisites (Science/Commerce/Arts background as required)
Master’s Degree Programs
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant field (minimum 3 years)
- Minimum CGPA of 6.5/10 or 65% marks (Indian equivalent: 6.5/10 CGPA or First Class)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Statement of Purpose and Letters of Recommendation
Quickly verify eligibility using our CGPA Calculator and shortlist suitable universities.
PhD Programs
- Master’s degree in related discipline
- Minimum CGPA of 7.0/10 or 70% marks (Indian equivalent: 7.0/10 CGPA or First Class with Distinction)
- Strong research background with publications (preferred)
- Research proposal aligned with university faculty expertise
Standardised Test Scores
MBA Programs: The GMAT/GRE is generally needed for top-tier French MBA programs like HEC Paris, ESSEC, and INSEAD.
Bachelor’s & Master’s Programs: Most other bachelor’s & master’s programmes do not require it and often waive it for suitable candidates with a strong undergraduate record.
Engineering Programs: GRE scores are not mandatory for engineering programs in France.
Master in Management (MiM): MiM programs at top French business schools (HEC Paris, ESSEC, EDHEC, etc.) often require GMAT/GRE.
English Language Proficiency (Vary by university)
International students applying for English-taught programs in France are usually required to demonstrate English language proficiency through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
However, many universities also accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate if the applicant’s previous education was fully taught in English.
| Test | Bachelor's Programs | Master's Programs | PhD Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5) | 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) | 6.5-7.0 overall (no band below 6.5) |
| TOEFL-iBT | 80-90 | 90+ | 90-100+ |
| Pearson PTE | 50+ | 58+ | 65+ |
| Duolingo English Test | 100-110 | 100-120 | 110-120 |
| Cambridge English | 169+ | 176+ | 185+ |
Work Experience Requirements
- For most MS/MSc programs in Science, Engineering, IT, and Finance, work experience is not required, and students can apply straight after graduation.
- In Business, Management, Marketing, and International Relations, prior experience is optional but can strengthen your profile.
- For MBA programs, French schools generally require at least 3 years of professional experience.
Best Courses to Study in France: Career Prospects & Salary Insights
France offers exceptional career opportunities across various fields, with competitive salaries and strong industry connections. Here’s a comprehensive overview of top courses and their career prospects for Indian students.
| Top Programs | Top Job Roles | Annual Salary Range (EUR/INR) | Top Employers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master in Management (MiM) | Management Consultant, Investment Banking Analyst | €50,000-€75,000 (₹52.2L-₹78.4L) | McKinsey, BCG, Bain, BNP Paribas, Société Générale |
| MS Finance | Financial Analyst, Risk Manager | €40,000-€60,000 (₹41.8L-₹62.7L) | Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, KPMG, Deloitte, Crédit Agricole |
| MSc Marketing | Digital Marketing Manager, Brand Manager | €45,000-€65,000 (₹47L-₹67.9L) | L'Oréal, LVMH, Danone, Publicis, Havas |
| MS Computer Science | Software Engineer, Data Scientist | €44,000-€71,000 (₹46L-₹74.2L) | Google, Microsoft, Capgemini, Atos, Thales |
| MS Biomedical Engineering | Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Developer | €45,000-€70,000 (₹47L-₹73.2L) | Sanofi, Medtronic, Abbott, Philips Healthcare, Roche |
| MS Physics | Research Scientist, Nuclear Engineer | €49,000-€164,000 (₹51.2L-₹1.7Cr) | CEA, CERN, EDF, Areva, Safran |
| Applied Mathematics | Quantitative Analyst, Data Analyst | €45,000-€80,000 (₹47L-₹83.6L) | BNP Paribas, AXA, Allianz, Orange, Airbus |
| MBA | Senior Manager, Strategy Consultant | €80,000-€150,000 (₹83.6L-₹1.5Cr) | McKinsey, BCG, Bain, L'Oréal, Schneider Electric |
Cost of Living in France for Indian Students
Understanding living expenses helps families plan financially for the transformative educational journey ahead. French cities offer varying cost structures, with students often gravitating toward areas with strong creative communities and industry presence.
| Category | Monthly Budget (EUR with INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €500 – €1,500+ (₹50,985 – ₹152,955+) |
| Food | €250 – €300 (₹25,493 – ₹30,591) |
| Transportation | €50 – €100 (₹5,097 – ₹10,197) |
| Utilities & Internet | €30 – €50 (₹3,059 – ₹5,097) |
| Entertainment & Personal | €150 – €200 (₹15,296 – ₹20,394) |
| Estimated Monthly Total | €980 – €2,100+ (₹99,930 – ₹214,137+) |
The cybersecurity field offers diverse, high-paying career paths with excellent growth potential across all major economies.
Key Takeaways
- Université PSL leads French universities at rank 28 globally, offering top-tier Masters programs in Computer Science, Management, and Technology Innovation with just €250 (₹26,181) annual fees.
- The QS World University Rankings 2026 feature 35 French universities, with four institutions earning a place among the prestigious global top 100.
- France invests 5.4% of GDP in education, demonstrating strong government commitment to maintaining world-class universities.
- Monthly living costs range €980-€2,100 (₹99,930-₹214,137) including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses for Indian students across French cities.
- Focus on high-ranking yet affordable options like Paris-Saclay (€254/₹26,600) rather than expensive private institutions.
- Choose cities like Lyon, Grenoble, or Toulouse over Paris to reduce living costs by 40% (€980 vs €2,100 monthly).
Studying in France opens doors to world-class education, vibrant culture, and global career opportunities. At AdmitX, we guide Indian students to the country’s top universities, helping you turn your academic ambitions into reality with ease.
Our end-to-end study-abroad services include:
- University Selection Guidance
- SOP Review
- Study-Abroad Document Templates
- Free IELTS Bootcamp Course
- Scholarship Assistance
- Visa Support Services
And much more!
Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward your dream career in France.
FAQs
Which are the top-ranked best French universities for Indian students in 2026?
According to QS World University Rankings 2026, the best universities in France for Indian students include Université PSL (QS #28), Institut Polytechnique de Paris (QS #41), Université Paris-Saclay (QS #70), and Sorbonne Université (QS #72).
A total of 35 French universities feature in the global rankings, with 4 institutions securing positions in the prestigious top 100 worldwide.
What is the cost of studying Masters programs in France for Indian students?
French universities offer highly affordable Masters programmes for Indian students with annual tuition fees starting from just €250 (₹26,181) at Université PSL (QS #28).
Other affordable options include Université Paris-Saclay at €254 (₹26,600) and École Normale Supérieure de Lyon at €355 (₹37,178). Even premium institutions like Sorbonne Université charge only €3,770 (₹3.9L) per year.
What are the eligibility criteria for Indian students applying to French universities?
For Bachelor’s programmes, Indian students need completion of 12 years of schooling with minimum 60-70% marks in Class 12. For Master’s programmes, a Bachelor’s degree with minimum 6.5/10 CGPA or 65% marks is required. PhD programmes require a Master’s degree with minimum 7.0/10 CGPA or 70% marks.
Language proficiency in English (IELTS 6.0-7.0) or French (TCF/TEF B2 level) is mandatory depending on the programme’s instruction language.
What is the monthly cost of living in France for Indian students in 2026?
The estimated monthly cost of living for Indian students in France ranges from €980 to €2,100+ (₹99,930 to ₹214,137+). This includes accommodation (€500-€1,500+ or ₹50,985-₹152,955+), food (€250-€300 or ₹25,493-₹30,591), transportation (€50-€100 or ₹5,097-₹10,197), utilities (€30-€50 or ₹3,059-₹5,097), and personal expenses (€150-€200 or ₹15,296-₹20,394).
Do French universities require IELTS for Indian students studying in France?
Yes, most English-taught programmes in French universities require English language proficiency tests. For Bachelor’s programmes, IELTS 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5) is required.
Master’s programmes typically need IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0), whilst PhD programmes require IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (no band below 6.5). Alternative tests like TOEFL-iBT, PTE, and Duolingo are also accepted.
Which French cities offer the most affordable living costs for Indian students?
Cities like Lyon, Grenoble, and Toulouse offer significantly lower living costs compared to Paris, with potential savings of up to 40%. Whilst Paris may cost around €2,100 (₹214,137) monthly, smaller French cities can reduce expenses to approximately €980 (₹99,930) monthly. Université Grenoble Alpes (QS #321) and Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Lyon (QS #406) are excellent options in affordable cities.
Are GMAT/GRE scores required for studying in France for Indian students?
GMAT/GRE scores are generally required only for top-tier French MBA programmes like HEC Paris, ESSEC, and INSEAD. Most Master’s programmes in France do not require standardised tests and often waive them for candidates with strong undergraduate records.
Technical and research-based programmes typically focus more on academic transcripts and research experience than standardised test scores.
What are the best Masters programs offered by French universities for Indian students?
Top Masters programmes include Computer Science and Management at Université PSL (QS #28), BioMedical Engineering at Institut Polytechnique de Paris (QS #41), Electrical Engineering and Physics at Université Paris-Saclay (QS #70), and Digital International Programmes at Sorbonne Université (QS #72).
French universities excel in engineering, business, research, and technology programmes with strong industry connections and practical training components.
How much does the French government invest in higher education for international students?
The French government demonstrates strong commitment to education by investing approximately 5.4% of GDP in education across all levels from primary through tertiary education. This substantial investment ensures world-class infrastructure, research facilities, and affordable tuition fees for both domestic and international students, making France an attractive study destination for Indian students.
What work experience is required for Masters programs in France for Indian students?
Work experience requirements for Masters programmes in France vary by programme but are generally not mandatory for most MS courses. French universities focus primarily on academic qualifications, language proficiency, and relevant educational background.
However, having work experience can strengthen your application and may be beneficial for certain specialised programmes or MBA courses at premium institutions.
