France is one of the most sought-after study-abroad destinations, inviting an abundant number of students every year from all over the world. Students who want to encounter the unique French culture along with an interactive study environment must consider an Education in France. The broader macro environment of France is a significant selling point for students wishing to educate themselves as millions throughout the world appreciate the beauty, literature, history, and culture France is so decorated by, as well as its artistic and intellectual heritage. France has undoubtedly had a strong intellectual tradition, and whether it’s to improve your French, for the richness of cultural activities, or just to try something different, there is a range of options for international students. For many years, France has held its prominent place in subjects like Mathematics, Astrophysics, Biology, Medicine (Medicine in France), Genetics, Physics and other science subjects. Upon arrival in France, international students are asked to visit designated welcome centers where they discover everything from acquiring a residence permit to how to open a bank account.

Students must also be able to record a minimum of resources to remain in the country. France does allow students to work although a temporary work permit is required. Campus France is an online portal governed by the French administration that assists students in their university applications, from choosing a university up to student visa processing.

While Arts may garner the worldwide spotlight, engineering, and business in France merit equal attention. France is also home to more than 200 engineering schools and 220 business schools, including the incredibly prestigious Grandes Écoles. France used to have a complex system of degrees and diplomas, but as part of the Bologna process degrees are being systematized into Licence, Master, and Doctoral levels, which correspond to Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate degrees, requiring three, two, and three years respectively to complete. Students with French degrees have a leading edge on the job hunt, thanks to a thriving network of partnerships between top companies and institutions of higher education. Furthermore, the French government recently declared employability as a French mandate. Universities in France are primarily driven by research and draw substantial funds to support longer-term objectives. The faculty is of an incredibly high standard too, and students are given the opportunity to interact with high profile individuals from different sectors.  French universities tend not to have the equivalent level of student activity that collegiate academies in the English-speaking world do. There are many extra-curricular projects and social events organized by student unions. Most universities make an enthusiastic effort to welcome them; with international students’ offices, student organizations and buddy programs to help facilitate east the transition for international students.

Students from all over the world want to go to France to study, and unfortunately, there aren’t very many scholarships available because of the low cost of education in France. The cost of studying in France varies dramatically depending on the institution: public universities offer pleasingly economical tuition fees, while private organizations cost much more. Still, compared to nations like the U.S. and the U.K., the cost of joining one of France’s premiere institutes of higher education is a relative steal. Not to mention quite a few of scholarships accessible for international students, which makes France a pragmatic destination even for those on the tightest budgets. Three Charpak Scholarship Programs are offered by the Embassy of France in India: (i) Research Internships (ii) Exchange programs and (iii) Master’s Degree Programmes. Students considering France scholarships are recommended to begin the application procedure 8-12 months before the intake. Scholarship deadlines vary amongst institutions.

The cost of living in France is related to other countries in Europe, but Paris, which is the most sought-after destination for students, can be very expensive, and it can be challenging to find housing. Depending on your budget and likings, a variety of lodging options exist in France -from campus housing to private accommodations. The foreign student office of your institution should be able to guide you in the right direction.  Most universities of higher education in France are located in city centers, close to cultural and social life. Museums, libraries, cinemas, theaters, and cafes are rarely very far away. There are many benefits extended to students in France including large discounts for food, entertainment, and transportation. Eligibility criteria can fluctuate. Some benefits are only offered to student card holders, while others are available to anyone under the age of 26.

Students have to clear one or more additional standardized admission examinations before they can be considered by most French universities for admission. These range from the standardized graduate and college admission tests such as GRE, GMAT and SAT to English Language tests, such as TOEFL and IELTS. If you choose to undertake a degree program taught in French, you must have at least an intermediate level of French. Many universities require the B2 (intermediate) certificate in the Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française (DELF) or sometimes the C1 (advanced) certificate, (the Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française or DALF), depending on the course. Unlike public universities, which accept all applicants provided they hold a French baccalauréat or equivalent, Grandes Écoles have a very rigorous admission process. Students attempting to study at a French Grande École need to carry a baccalauréat or equivalent diploma and are ranked according to the results achieved at the competitive entrance examinations.