Cost of Studying in France: Tuition & Living Expenses
*T&C Apply
Why do Indian Students Prefer Studying in France?
Over 7,000 Indian students studied in France in 2023–24, with a goal of 30,000 by 2030.
Strong Indo-French ties and student-friendly schemes like YPS and the International Classes Scheme.
Home to top universities like HEC Paris, INSEAD, Sorbonne, and more.
Offers English-taught programmes and language support.
Affordable tuition and scholarships like Charpak and Eiffel reduce costs.
Lower cost of living in cities like Lyon and Toulouse.
Post-study work visa of 2 years and a 5-year short-stay visa after graduation.
Strong job market and startup support for Indian students.
Source: https://www.firstpost.com/explainers/france-indian-students-top-choice-higher-education-13861980.html#:~:text=France %20is%20steadily%20becoming%20one,number
%20to%2030%2C000%20by%202030.
Tuition Fees in France for Indian Students
| Institution Type | Tuition Fee Range (EUR/year) | In INR (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Grandes Écoles | €500 – €10,000 | ₹49,000 – ₹9.8 lakhs |
| Private Universities | €1,500 – €20,000 | ₹1.47 lakhs – ₹19.6 lakhs |
| Business Schools | €5,000 – €30,000 | ₹4.9 lakhs – ₹29.4 lakhs |
Note: The study fees for Indian students mentioned above are tentative and based on estimates for 2025. Tuition costs may vary depending on the university (public or private), country, course specialisation, and other factors. It is always best to check with the university for the most accurate and updated fee structure.
Source: https://www.mastersportal.com/articles/355/tuition-fees-and-living-costs-in-france.html
Student Visa and Application Fees
Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS): €99 (~₹9,200) This visa is required for study programmes exceeding 90 days.
Reduced Visa Fee for EEF Countries: €50 (~₹4,600) Indian students applying through the 'Études en France' (EEF) procedure may be eligible for this reduced fee.
VFS Service Fee: Approximately ₹1,467 This fee covers the services provided by VFS Global during the visa application process.
Courier Service (Optional): For applicants who wish to have their passports delivered to their home or office.
Note: Visa fees are payable in Indian Rupees at the current exchange rate and are non-refundable, even if the visa application is denied. It's advisable to check with the official France-Visas website or the nearest VFS Global centre for the most accurate and up-to-date information
Source: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/india
Average Monthly Living Costs for Students in French Cities
| City | Estimated Living Cost (EUR/month) | In INR (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Paris | €1,200 – €1,800 | ₹1,08,000 - ₹1,62,000 |
| Nice | €900 – €1,400 | ₹81,000 - ₹1,26,000 |
| Lyon / Nantes / Bordeaux / Toulouse | €800 – €1,000 | ₹72,000 - ₹90,000 |
| Other Cities in France | From €650 | From ₹58,500 |
Source: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/documents/d/france-visas/frais-de-visa-anglais
Average Monthly Student Expenses in France
| Category | Details | Cost (EUR) | Cost (INR Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Student Hall (outside Paris) | €200/month | ₹18,000 |
| Student Hall (Paris) | €400/month | ₹36,000 | |
| Shared/Rented Apartment (small cities) | €300/month | ₹27,000 | |
| Shared/Rented Apartment (big cities) | €400 - €700/month | ₹36,000 - ₹63,000 | |
| Apartment in Paris | €800/month | ₹72,000 | |
| With Partner/Family | €700 - €1,000/month | ₹63,000 - ₹90,000 | |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | €200/month | ₹18,000 | |
| Food | Groceries (Paris) | €250 - €300/month | ₹22,500 - ₹27,000 |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | €10 - €15 | ₹900 - ₹1,350 | |
| Transportation | Monthly pass (bus, metro, tram) | €30 - €75 | ₹2,700 - ₹6,750 |
| Taxis (Paris, approx. 1.50 EUR/km) | €7 - €10/short trip | ₹630 - ₹900 | |
| Bike rental | Low cost | ||
| TGV train (intercity travel) | Around €30/trip | ₹2,700/trip |
Note: Costs vary by city and lifestyle. Paris tends to be more expensive than smaller cities.
Source: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/documents/d/france-visas/frais-de-visa-anglais
Cost of Studying in France for Indian Students
These are the typical expenses Indian students can expect when planning to study in France. To manage these costs more effectively, you can also consider applying for education loans for France, specifically designed for Indian studies.
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (EUR/year) | Estimated Cost (INR/year) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (Public Universities) | €170 – €620 | ₹15,000 – ₹55,000 |
| Tuition Fees (Private Universities) | €5,000 – €30,000 | ₹4.5 lakhs – ₹27 lakhs |
| Living Expenses | €7,800 – €12,000 | ₹7 – ₹10.5 lakhs |
| Student Visa + Application Fees | €99 – €150 | ₹9,200 – ₹13,500 |
| Total Average Cost (Public Univ.) | €10,000 – €13,000 | ₹9 – ₹12 lakhs |
| Total (Private Univ. - Higher Side) | Up to €30,000+ | Up to ₹27 lakhs+ |
Source: https://www.mastersportal.com/articles/355/tuition-fees-and-living-costs-in-france.html
Budgeting Tips to Manage Expenses in France
Live in university housing or shared flats
Cook your own food
Use student discount cards for travel.
Buy used books or borrow from the library
Apply for part-time jobs (20 - 21 hours/week allowed)
Note: Students planning to pursue higher education abroad should thoroughly review the international student policies of their chosen country. Understanding the visa requirements, work regulations, and post-study opportunities will help them make informed decisions.
Note: Currency conversion is based on the April 2025 rate of 1 EUR = ₹90.50. These are average estimates. Please research thoroughly or consult experts before making any decisions.
