Why Study in France?
- World-Class Education: Home to Sorbonne University and École Polytechnique (ranked #1 in EU for STEM).
- Low Tuition Fees: Public universities charge €170–€3,770/year for non-EU students.
- Work Opportunities: 20 hours/week during studies, full-time during holidays.
- Post-Study Benefits: 24-month job seeker visa (PSW) after graduation.
- Cultural Hub: Art, fashion, and innovation at your doorstep.
Student Visa Requirements (2025)
Visa Type
Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS): Valid as residence permit for 1 year.
Key Requirements
- Admission Letter from a French institution (e.g., Campus France approval).
- Proof of Financial Means: €9,000/year (€615/month) in a blocked French account (e.g., BNP Paribas).
- Health Insurance: €75–€150/month (mandatory for non-EU students).
- Valid Passport (6+ months validity).
- Visa Fee: €99 (non-refundable).
Processing Time
15–30 days (Campus France procedure required).
Tuition Fees & Living Costs (2025)
Tuition Fees
| Institution Type |
Non-EU Students (per year) |
EU/EEA Students |
| Public Universities |
€170–€3,770* |
€170–€601 |
| Grandes Écoles |
€5,000–€20,000 |
Same as non-EU |
*€3,770 for non-EU Bachelor's at public unis.
Estimated Monthly Living Costs
- Accommodation: €400–€900 (CAF housing subsidy available).
- Food: €200–€400.
- Transport: €20–€75 (student discounts).
- Miscellaneous: €100–€300.
- Total: €800–€1,500/month (higher in Paris).
Work Rights & Post-Study Opportunities
During Studies
- Part-time Work: 20 hours/week (minimum wage: €11.65/hour).
- Full-time Work: Allowed during summer (June–August).
After Graduation
- 24-Month Job Seeker Visa: Renewable with job offer.
- EU Blue Card: For jobs earning €53,836/year (2025 threshold).
- PR Pathway: 5 years (2 years for Master's graduates under new 2025 rules).
Scholarships (2025)
| Scholarship |
Coverage |
Eligibility |
| Eiffel Excellence |
€1,181/month + flights |
Master's/PhD students |
| Charpak Program |
€700–€1,000/month |
Indian Bachelor's students |
| Erasmus+ |
€300–€500/month |
EU & partner country students |
Key Information
- Low tuition fees at public universities.
- Generous 20-hour work rights + high minimum wage.
- 2-year job search visa (longest in EU).
- Fast-track PR: 2 years for Master's graduates (2025 update).
