Indian Students in France Rise 17%, 2030 Target on Track
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Considering the current scenario, when countries like the United States and several European nations are tightening their international student policies, France is extending a warm welcome to Indian students.
In an interview with Business Standard, Gregor Trumel, Counsellor of Education, Science, and Culture at the embassy of France in India, highlighted France's effort to attract more Indian students through affordable education, numerous English-taught programs, and post-study work opportunities.
“France may not always be the first choice for Indian students due to cultural and language barriers. But we want to change that perception”, stated Trumel. “Students are warmly welcomed here and will find many English-taught programs at far lower cost than in other countries,” he added
While France and India already share robust ties in Business, Air, and Space Cooperation, educational exchange is emerging as a crucial pillar of this partnership. Currently, with nearly 1,000 French companies operating in India and providing employment to over 500,000 Individuals.
Mr. Trumel further emphasised the importance of nurturing talent through education to sustain this collaboration. France also aims to increase the number of Indian students to 30,000 by 2030, diversifying courses offered beyond business studies into engineering, science, and other fields.
Explore the Education System in France
As of now, around 10,000 Indian students are enrolled in France universities, with nearly 85% studying business and management programs. To further add broader awareness of France's academic diversity, the 2025 Choose France Tour Held across Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata featured a total of 59 universities and institutions, up from 50 in 2024 to 40 in the years before.
Student enrollments have also been growing rapidly, as they witnessed a 25% increase compared to the 2023-24 intake, followed by another 17% rise this year, which highlights steady progress towards the 2030 goal.
Many Indian students are now choosing longer multi-year programs instead of one-year courses in France.
While most Indian students pursue business-related degrees in French public universities, considering that they offer exceptional education at remarkably low or nearly no tuition fees. Mr. Trumel, a former student of a French public university himself, reaffirmed that Indian students are wholeheartedly welcomed to be part of their education system and alumni.
Unlike several other European countries, France has maintained student-friendly immigration policies, and graduates are eligible for post-study work visas lasting up to 2 years, enabling them to seek employment or start a business in the country. Additionally, French university alumni can apply for a five-year Schengen Visa, which is a long-term permit with multiple entries, allowing short professional or personal visits to France, reinforcing lifelong connections.
In terms of job opportunities, Mr. Trumel noted that France continues to offer promising career prospects to international graduates, especially to those with knowledge of French. Moreover, the 1,000 French companies operating in India provide excellent avenues for graduates to leverage their French degrees and global exposure even after returning home.
Fulfill Your Aspirations to Study Abroad With GetGIS Assistance
France's open, inclusive, and opportunity-rich education system makes it an increasingly attractive destination for prospective Indian students looking to pursue higher education abroad. To simplify your study in France journey and avail personalised guidance on every step from university selection to visa application process and more, consider reaching out to GetGIS study abroad experts.
