French higher education ranking

The Times Higher Education (THE) released its ranking of the most international universities. France has nine institutions on the list, with four in the Top 100 and five in the Top 200.

The assesses universities based on metrics like international staff and students, research co-authorship, and global reputation.

Top-ranking French institutions include:

• Institut Polytechnique de Paris
• Sorbonne Université
• PSL - Paris Sciences et Lettres
• Université Paris-Saclay

France has five more institutions in the Top 200:

• University of Toulouse
• Aix-Marseille University
• Université Paris Cité
• Université Grenoble Alpes
• Ecole normale supérieure de Lyon.

These rankings showcase France's dedication to international collaboration and academic excellence.

Taught in English Programmes

If you are considering pursuing a degree in France, or even spending a semester abroad, you may have wondered if your French proficiency is sufficient to keep pace with your peers in a French institution.

As institutions in France evolve to welcome international students from around the world, they are increasingly offering degree programs taught mostly or entirely in English to ensure these programs are accessible to non-French-speaking candidates.

There are now over 1,700+ programs in France that are taught in English to ensure their accessibility for international students.

French degree programs taught in English now include:

• 125 undergraduate programs
• 1,400+ master's programs
• 84 short and professional courses
• 125 summer classes

Classes internationales [French taught]

Classes Internationales offer access to top French higher education institutions for studying in French. Enter Get ready for your bachelor's with a foundation year to learn french in France!

• Explore the map and various programs available.
• Spend between a semester and a year at a preparatory school for admission to universities, engineering, or management schools.
• Welcomed by a diverse team and international students to support French language learning progress.

PHD opportunities

PhD opportunities in France are abundant and diverse, covering various fields of study. French universities and research institutions offer opportunities for doctoral research in disciplines ranging from sciences (such as biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics) to humanities (such as literature, history, philosophy, and linguistics). Some key features of pursuing a PhD in France include:

• Research Excellence
• Funding and Scholarships
• International Environment
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration
• Career Development
• Cultural Experience

Scholarships for Indian Students

Every year, the French Embassy in India, along with French companies and institutions, awards scholarships to over 500 meritorious young Indian students aspiring to pursue higher education in France at public or private institutions. These scholarships cover graduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and other levels of study across various subject areas. Indian applicants with exceptional academic records have numerous funding options available for their studies in France.

• French Embassy in India, along with companies and institutions, awards scholarships to 500+ Indian students yearly.
• Scholarships cover various study levels and subjects in France.
• Exceptional Indian applicants have numerous funding options available for studies in France.

Student Visas and Process

Depending on your educational needs, you may require short-term or long-term visas. Take the time to explore your options and gather all the necessary information to prepare for your stay in France.

Post study visa

Post-study visas are available for Master's degree holders in France seeking employment or entrepreneurship.

• Eligibility requires holding a Master's degree obtained in France.
• The visa allows a one-year stay, renewable once, totaling two years.
• Applications can be made at VFS centers in India within four years of obtaining the degree.
• Required documents include paperwork for a long-stay visa, proof of alumni status with a Master's degree from France, and a copy of the degree earned within the past four years.
• Evidence of intentions to establish a related business may be required.

Job opportunities

Indo-French relations, spanning 25+ years of partnership, feature mutual degree recognition, fostering academic and professional exchanges. Economic ties thrive with 1000+ French companies in India and 150+ Indian firms in France.

France Alumni network

The France Alumni network is a community of former students from the French system of higher education. It allows you to stay in touch with your classmates and offers professional opportunities. The France Alumni India chapter has more than 15,000 members.

The India chapter was launched in September 2016. It is a platform that enables Indian students who studied at French higher education institutions to network, get together, organize events, and share experiences. The network also provides support with work placements to help students launch their careers and continue to develop professional connections between the two countries.

Schengen circulation visa for alumni

A 5-year validity short-stay visa is available for Indian post-graduates who have pursued studies in France. This visa is applicable to Indian nationals who have attained a Master's degree or higher, irrespective of the country where the degree was acquired (France, India, or a third country), and regardless of the year of attainment, on the condition that the applicant has studied for at least one semester in France during their university education, including before obtaining their Master's degree.

French Culture

Life in France blends tradition and modernity, offering diverse experiences from Parisian streets to countryside tranquility. The "art de vivre" emphasizes leisure and gastronomy, reflecting in culinary heritage and appreciation for beauty. Studying in France provides academic excellence, diverse programs, access to leading experts, and career opportunities with global perspectives.

French Language

French, second most taught and fifth spoken globally, enhances communication, adds value to CV, and broadens job prospects and cultural insight. As one of the official languages of international diplomacy, French holds a prominent place in the realms of politics, commerce, and culture, serving as a bridge between diverse nations and cultures.