France is one of the most popular destinations for higher education, particularly for international students looking to pursue MBBS, engineering, business programs, and much more. Not only is it home to some of the best universities in Europe, but it also offers quality education at affordable prices compared to other study destinations in Europe. If you're considering studying abroad, study in France for Indian students is a great option due to its diverse culture, world-class education, and career opportunities after graduation. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of studying in France, covering university fees in France for international students, living costs, scholarships, and more.
University Fees in France for International Students
The tuition fees in France for international students are one of the most affordable in Europe. These fees are regulated for public universities, but may vary slightly for private universities and specialized institutions. Here’s an overview of the costs:
1. Public Universities in France
Public universities in France are heavily subsidized by the French government, making them more affordable for international students:
- Bachelor’s programs: €2,770 per year
- Master’s programs: €3,770 per year
- PhD programs: €380–€450 per year
The university fees in France are low compared to many other European countries, making it an attractive choice for international students. However, non-EU students, including Indian students, will have to pay slightly higher fees at some institutions.
2. Private Universities & Grandes Ecoles
Private institutions and specialized schools (known as Grandes Écoles) can be more expensive. Tuition fees for private universities in France range from €5,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the program and institution. Grandes Écoles tend to charge between €10,000 and €30,000 annually for specialized programs in fields like engineering, business, and political science.
Living Costs for International Students in France
While the university fees in France for international students are relatively affordable, the cost of living in France can vary greatly depending on where you study and live. Here’s a breakdown of estimated living expenses:
1. Accommodation Costs
Accommodation is one of the largest expenses for students. Rent will depend on the city you choose:
- Paris: €800–€1,200 per month
- Other cities (Lyon, Toulouse, Lille): €400–€800 per month
You can save on rent by opting for student housing or shared apartments.
2. Food and Groceries
The average cost for food and groceries is about €200–€400 per month. Cooking at home can help reduce costs, but eating out occasionally can be affordable as well. Many universities also have student cafeterias that offer discounted meals.
3. Transportation
Transportation in France is quite affordable, especially with student discounts on public transport. Public transport costs range between €30–€75 per month, depending on the city. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transportation for students, especially in cities like Paris and Lyon.
4. Health Insurance
All students in France must have health insurance. EU students can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while non-EU students (including Indian students) must register for French student social security, which costs about €20 to €50 per month.
Scholarships for International Students in France
France offers numerous scholarships for international students to help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. Some well-known scholarships include:
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel for Master’s and PhD programs.
- Charpak Scholarship: Aimed at Indian students studying in France, this scholarship helps cover tuition fees and living costs.
- Campus France Scholarships: Offered by Campus France to support international students, these scholarships vary by program.
Be sure to apply for scholarships early to maximize your chances of receiving funding.
Cost of Studying
The cost of studying in France for Indian students is significantly lower than in countries like the USA or UK, especially with affordable public university options. Here’s a general breakdown of costs:
- Tuition Fees: Public universities typically charge €2,770–€3,770 per year for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
- Living Costs: Expect to spend €900–€1,400 per month on accommodation, food, and transportation.
- Scholarships: There are several scholarship opportunities available to help reduce these costs.
Overall, the cost of studying in France for Indian students is relatively low, and many students can offset some expenses by working part-time while studying.
Applying for a Student Visa in France
To study in France, Indian students must apply for a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS). The visa application process involves the following steps:
- Accept an Offer: Secure admission to a French university before applying for a visa.
- Prepare Documents: These include your passport, proof of admission, proof of financial resources, health insurance, and proof of accommodation.
- Visa Application: Submit your visa application to the French consulate or embassy in India.
- Visa Fee: The visa fee for a student visa is typically €99 (around ₹9,000).
FAQs: Cost of Studying in France
1. What is the average cost of studying in France for international students?
The average cost of studying in France for international students ranges between €3,000–€12,000 per year for tuition, while living expenses typically range from €900–€1,400 per month.
2. What are the tuition fees in France for international students?
University fees in France for international students are generally €2,770 per year for Bachelor’s programs and €3,770 per year for Master’s programs at public universities.
3. What is the cost of studying in France for Indian students?
For Indian students, the cost of studying in France is relatively affordable, with public universities charging €2,770–€3,770 per year for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs, and living expenses ranging from €900–€1,400 per month.
4. Are there any scholarships available for international students in France?
Yes, several scholarships are available, such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, Charpak Scholarship, and Campus France Scholarships, to help cover tuition fees and living expenses.
5. Which are the cheapest universities in France for international students?
Some of the cheapest universities in France include University of Paris, University of Lille, and University of Strasbourg, which offer affordable tuition fees for international students.
For further assistance or queries students can contact us, Edwise International, and avail our wide range of services for students on destinations like Study in France, study in Ireland, study in UK, study in USA, study in Canada, study in Australia, study in New-Zealand, study in Singapore, study in Germany and many other countries.



