France has unveiled an ambitious plan to attract 30,000 Indian students by 2030. The move comes on the heels of extending the 5-Year Short-Stay Schengen Visa for Indian students. This initiative reaffirms France’s status as one of the top European study destinations for Indian students. Here are the key highlights of this plan:
Seamless Transition with International Classes
To ensure a smooth transition into the French education system, French universities and colleges will offer international classes conducted in English. Additionally, comprehensive French language training will be provided for non-French-speaking Indian students. In October 2023, the French Government, in collaboration with Campus France, will host the ‘Choose France Tour 2023’ in Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai.
Enhanced Support and Resources
France plans to bolster its support for Indian students by expanding the recruitment of staff and resources in India for Campus France. These efforts aim to facilitate Indian students’ academic pursuits in France. Furthermore, Indian students can now benefit from a 5-year short-stay Schengen Visa, with eligibility criteria for Indian alumni who have completed a Master’s degree or spent at least a semester studying in France.
Affordable Education and Scholarships
France offers affordable education, especially in public higher education institutions, with tuition fees as low as €2,700 per year for Bachelor’s degrees and €3,700 per year for Master’s degrees. The French government subsidizes education extensively, even for non-EU students. Additionally, France provides scholarships worth over Rs 15 crore exclusively for Indian students, ensuring financial accessibility across various academic disciplines.
International Classes: Fostering Integration and Excellence
Currently, the majority of Indian students in France opt for English-taught programs, while also having the opportunity to engage in French-language studies. The introduction of “International Classes” is designed to support seamless integration and academic success. These specialized programs provide comprehensive training in the French language and various academic fields, aiming to make all Indian students feel at home in France.
Five-Year Schengen Circulation Visa for Indian Alumni
France values the connections formed when Indian students study in the country. As a result, Indian alumni who hold a Master’s degree or above and have spent at least a semester studying in France are eligible for a five-year short-stay Schengen visa. This provision enables Indian alumni to maintain strong ties with France and their French counterparts.
Popular Courses Among Indian Students
Indian students in France pursue a diverse range of academic disciplines. The majority opt for management and business programs, accounting for approximately 75% of students. Other disciplines gaining popularity include engineering (12.5%), science and technology, arts, design, sport, hospitality, culinary arts, and fashion, offered in both French and English. The highest mobility is observed at the Master’s level (over 80%), followed by the Bachelor’s level (13%).
Visa Requirements Simplified
For Indian students planning to study in France for more than three months, the Etudes en France procedure is the gateway to obtaining a student visa. This process, overseen by Campus France, offers comprehensive guidance and support from application to enrollment. Applicants can even apply for their visas online and track the progress of their applications through this platform.
Post-Study Work Visa Opportunities
France offers a two-year post-study work visa for post-graduates with a French Master’s degree, allowing Indian students to gain valuable work experience and explore career opportunities in the country. This visa is initially issued for one year, with the possibility of renewal for an additional year, providing a total of two years to build a career in France. France’s strong ranking in the “Global University Employability Ranking” published by Times Higher Education underscores the employability of Indian graduates in Europe.
On-Campus Work Opportunities
French law permits foreign students to work up to 964 hours per year, or 60% of the maximum working hours allowed. This ensures that students can support themselves financially while pursuing their studies. The statutory minimum wage, known as the Smic (salaire minimum interprofessionnel de croissance or guaranteed minimum wage), is guaranteed by law when working in France.
Supportive Indian Community
France boasts a vibrant Indian community, with approximately 19,000 non-resident Indians and 90,000 persons of Indian origin registered in the country. This community provides valuable support and a sense of belonging to Indian students pursuing their education in France.
Conclusion
Studying in France offers a blend of academic excellence and career opportunities. To take advantage of these initiatives and explore educational opportunities in France, reach out to our team at 3Z Study Abroad, the best study abroad agency in Trivandrum. Our experts will assist you in selecting the right French university or institution and guide you through the application process. Contact our team today for end-to-end services to study in France!
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