France has over 70 public universities, most of them backed by the government and known for offering quality education across fields like engineering, business, arts, and science.
For Indian students, public universities in France are a great option because they offer recognized degrees at affordable fees. Even international students benefit from the subsidised tuition structure.
Here’s what sets them apart for Indian students:
Annual tuition ranges between €200 to €600 (₹18,000 to ₹54,000)
Courses available in both English and French
Scholarships offered specifically for non-EU students
Part-time work allowed during your studies
Read further to know everything about public universities in France—including fees, admissions, scholarships, and a list of top public universities in France for international students. You’ll know exactly where to start and what to expect.
Data Analyst, Engineer, Business Consultant, Researcher; EU job market access after graduation
Post-Study Work Visa
1 year for master’s graduates (renewable); options to apply for residence permit
Cost of Living
€600–€1,000/month (₹54K–₹90K approx.), lower in smaller cities
Part-Time Work
Up to 964 hours/year (~20 hours/week); minimum wage applies
Interested in business programs? This list of business schools in France might help you compare options more clearly.
Top Public Universities in France for International Students
Indian students can apply to public universities in France without needing French citizenship or EU residency. Most universities now offer a mix of programs in both English and French—especially at the master’s level.
Top Public Universities in France (With Programs and Fees)
Here’s a list of top public universities in France for international students, along with their offerings:
University Name
City
Programs in English
Avg. Tuition Fee (Non-EU, per year)
Sorbonne University
Paris
Yes
€2,770–€3,770 (₹2.5L–₹3.3L)
University of Paris-Saclay
Orsay
Yes
€2,770–€3,770 (₹2.5L–₹3.3L)
Aix-Marseille University
Marseille
Yes
€2,770–€3,770 (₹2.5L–₹3.3L)
University of Strasbourg
Strasbourg
Yes
€2,770–€3,770 (₹2.5L–₹3.3L)
University of Montpellier
Montpellier
Yes
€2,770–€3,770 (₹2.5L–₹3.3L)
University of Grenoble Alpes
Grenoble
Yes
€2,770–€3,770 (₹2.5L–₹3.3L)
These are standard public tuition fees for most bachelor's and master's programs in France. Doctoral programs usually cost less (around €380/year or ₹33,000), and a few specialized courses may cost more.
All of these public universities in France offer degrees that are globally recognized and accept students from India for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs.
Still deciding between public or private? Explore the top universities in France to see which ones match your course and budget.
Tuition Fees in Public Universities in France
Here is a look at the tuition fees in public universities in France for international students, including Indian students. These are the standard annual fees charged by the French government for public education.
Program Level
Non-EU Students (incl. Indian)
INR Approx. (Non-EU)
Bachelor’s
€2,770/year to €3,000/year
₹2.5 lakh to ₹2.7 lakh
Master’s
€3,770/year to €4,000/year
₹3.3 lakh to ₹3.6 lakh
Doctorate (PhD)
Around €380/year
₹33,000
Note: Some specialized or professional programs—like medicine, engineering, or MBA—may have higher fees depending on the university.
Planning your finances? Check out the cost of living in France to estimate rent, food, and other monthly expenses.
What Does the Tuition Fee Cover?
For Indian students, it’s important to understand what’s included in these amounts. Public university tuition in France generally covers:
Course registration and academic access
Library and lab usage
Student support services
Access to university campus facilities
Exam registration and assessments
These tuition fees do not include costs like accommodation, meals, student insurance, or transport. You’ll need to budget separately for living expenses, which we’ve already covered in the cost table above.
If you're applying to highly specialized programs (like an MBA or design school), always check the exact fee on the university’s website. Fees can go up to €10,000 or more in those cases.
Common Programs Offered in Public Universities in France
Indian students can choose from a wide range of subjects. Many public universities in France for international students offer English-taught programs, especially at the master’s level.
Field of Study
Available in English
Available in French
Computer Science/IT
✔️
✔️
Engineering (various branches)
✔️
✔️
Business and Management
✔️
✔️
Law and International Relations
(limited)
✔️
Arts and Humanities
(limited options)
✔️
Medicine and Health Sciences
(mostly in French)
✔️
Considering medicine? MBBS in France is possible, but many programs need strong French skills.
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
To apply to public universities in France, Indian students must meet basic academic and language requirements.
Criteria
Bachelor’s (UG)
Master’s (PG)
Academic Qualification
Class 12 (CBSE/ISC or State Board)
Bachelor's Degree (min. 3 years)
English Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
Required if course is in English
Required
French Language (DELF/DALF)
Required for French-taught courses
Required for French-taught
Documents Needed
Transcripts, SOP, LORs, Passport
Transcripts, SOP, LORs, Resume
SOP = Statement of Purpose; LORs = Letters of Recommendation
Even though public universities in France have low tuition, students should still plan for additional costs like housing, food, transport, and health insurance.
Expense Type
Monthly Cost (in €)
INR Approx.
Student Housing/Rent
€300–€600
₹27,000–₹54,000
Food and Groceries
€150–€250
₹13,000–₹22,000
Public Transport
€20–€40
₹1,800–₹3,600
Health Insurance (annual)
€90/year
₹8,000
Campus Admin Fees
€100–€500/year
₹9,000–₹45,000
Admission Process for Public Universities in France
Planning to apply to a public university in France? You’ll need to meet basic academic and language requirements and follow the right application channel based on your program level and language of instruction.
Who Can Apply to Public Universities in France?
Indian students can apply for bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD programs depending on their current qualifications.
Program Level
Minimum Academic Requirement for Indian Students
Bachelor’s
Class 12 certificate (CBSE, ICSE, or state board)
Master’s
3-year or 4-year bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
PhD
Master’s degree in a relevant field
Most programs do not require entrance exams. But some technical or design-related courses may ask for portfolios or interviews.
Once you're admitted, your next big step is getting the visa. This guide on France study visa walks you through it with clarity.
French vs. English-Taught Programs: What’s the Difference?
You’ll find public universities in France offering programs in both French and English. The requirements for each are different, so choose carefully.
Program Language
Language Proficiency Required
Notes for Indian Students
English-taught
IELTS (6.0–6.5) or TOEFL (80–90 iBT)
Many master's programs in business, tech, science
French-taught
DELF B2 / DALF C1
French-taught programs are common at UG level
French proficiency is a must if you choose a French-taught course. If you plan to study in English, make sure the university confirms that no French skills are needed for coursework.
Where and How to Apply?
The application platform depends on your course level and nationality. Indian students generally apply through Campus France or the university’s own admission portal.
Tip: Use Campus France if you're applying to multiple public universities. It simplifies the process and ensures your documents meet French standards.
Documents Required for Admission
Get your documents ready before applying. Public universities in France are strict about deadlines and document format.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Academic transcripts and certificates (Class 10, 12, Bachelor’s, etc.)
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Explains your study goals and why France
Letters of Recommendation (LORs) – Usually 1–2 from professors or employers
CV/Resume – Especially for PG and PhD programs
Language test scores – IELTS/TOEFL or DELF/DALF
Passport copy
Portfolio – Only for art, design, or architecture programs
Some universities may also ask for a motivation letter or a short video introduction.
Scholarships for International Students in France
Indian students applying to public universities in France can access various scholarships. These are offered by the French government, Campus France, and individual universities. Scholarships reduce tuition and help with monthly expenses, especially if you're applying to a full-time degree.
If you're targeting top public universities in France for international students, it's worth looking into funding options early.
Government and University-Specific Scholarships
Here’s a quick breakdown of the types of scholarships you’ll find:
Scholarship Type
Offered By
Covers
Government Scholarships
Campus France, French Ministry
Tuition, living costs, insurance
University Scholarships
Public universities in France
Tuition waivers, monthly grants
Top Scholarships for Indian Students
Indian students applying to top public universities in France have several strong options. Some scholarships are automatic; others need separate applications.
Scholarship Name
Open To
What It Covers
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
Master’s & PhD students
Monthly grant, travel, insurance
Charpak Scholarship
UG & PG students (Campus France)
Tuition waiver, living support
Université Paris-Saclay Scholarship
Master’s applicants
€10,000/year (₹9 lakh), travel
Grenoble Alpes Scholarship
Master’s students
Tuition + monthly allowance
Emile Boutmy (Sciences Po)
Sciences Po only
Up to 100% tuition coverage
These scholarships apply across various fields—especially in engineering, science, and business—popular programs at most top public universities in France.
You should apply for scholarships at the same time as your university application. Some scholarships are built into the admission process. Others need a separate application through Campus France or the university’s financial aid portal.
Here’s what you’ll usually need:
Academic transcripts and certificates
SOP or motivation letter tailored to the scholarship
IELTS/TOEFL or DELF scores (based on program language)
Letters of recommendation
Proof of income (for need-based support)
Don’t wait. Many scholarships close 2–3 months before regular admission deadlines.
Do Scholarships Cover Only Tuition?
No. Some do more. Several public universities in France for international students offer scholarships that cover:
Tuition fees (fully or partially)
Monthly living allowance (€700 to €1,200 or ₹63,000 to ₹1.08 lakh)
Health insurance
Travel expenses in some cases
That’s why students applying to public universities in France should always check both tuition and living cost support. A tuition waiver helps, but a monthly grant makes the real difference when you're living on your own in Europe.
Best Cities in France for International Students
Indian students applying to public universities in France can choose from several cities that offer quality education, affordable living, and a great student lifestyle. Some cities are known for science and tech, while others shine in arts, business, or healthcare. So the city you pick can shape your entire study experience.
Where Are the Top Public Universities in France Located?
Here’s a quick look at the best cities in France for international students, with the universities they’re known for and their academic strengths:
City
Public Universities in France for International Students
Known For
Paris
Sorbonne University, Paris-Saclay University
Arts, humanities, science, law, economics
Lyon
University of Lyon, Jean Moulin University Lyon 3
Political science, law, literature, management
Toulouse
University of Toulouse, INSA Toulouse
Aerospace, mechanical engineering, mathematics
Bordeaux
University of Bordeaux
Life sciences, medicine, wine science, data science
Grenoble
University of Grenoble Alpes
AI, robotics, physics, sustainability
Strasbourg
University of Strasbourg
Biology, chemistry, international relations
Montpellier
University of Montpellier
Pharmacy, environmental science, public health
Nice
Côte d’Azur University
Tourism, languages, information technology
Each of these cities hosts some of the top public universities in France, and they all admit international students.
Still choosing your ideal study destination? Compare options with these guides:
It depends on what you're looking for. Some cities offer more English-taught programs. Others are more affordable. Here's a comparison to help you decide:
City
Average Living Cost/Month
Language Support
Student-Friendly
Paris
€1,000–€1,400 (₹90K–₹1.2L)
Moderate
High (but costly)
Lyon
€800–€1,000 (₹72K–₹90K)
Good
Very High
Toulouse
€700–€900 (₹63K–₹81K)
Good
Very High
Grenoble
€650–€850 (₹58K–₹77K)
Excellent
High
Bordeaux
€750–€1,000 (₹67K–₹90K)
Moderate
High
Strasbourg
€700–€900 (₹63K–₹81K)
Good
High
Costs vary by lifestyle, housing choices, and part-time work options.
Why Do Indian Students Prefer These Cities?
Here’s what stands out about these cities:
Paris has top-ranked universities but the highest living costs.
Lyon and Toulouse offer strong academics and lower expenses.
Grenoble and Strasbourg are safe, student-oriented, and tech-driven.
Bordeaux and Montpellier combine research with a relaxed lifestyle.
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Study in France
Want to study at public universities in France but not sure how to go about it? We’ll help you get there—start to finish.
Here’s what you get with upGrad Abroad:
1:1 counseling to shortlist the right universities for your course and profile
Expert help with SOPs and LORs that grab attention
Application support for Campus France and direct university portals
Guidance on scholarships—government, university, and need-based options
IELTS/TOEFL prep so you meet all language requirements
Visa and document support to keep everything on track
Speak to our counselors. Start your journey to France with clarity and confidence.
FAQs on Public Universities in France for International Students
Do public universities in France require entrance exams for international students?
No, most public universities in France do not require entrance exams for undergraduate admissions. Admission is based on academic records, language proficiency, and course-specific requirements.
How competitive is admission to French public universities for non-EU students?
Admission is generally less competitive than in the US or UK, but popular courses (like business or engineering) at top universities may have stricter selection criteria.
Are there application fee waivers available for low-income international students?
Yes. Some universities may waive the application fee on request, especially for students applying through Campus France or those with proven financial hardship.
What is the process for transferring from one public university in France to another?
Transfers are allowed, but require approval from both universities. You’ll need to justify the reason, show academic progress, and submit updated documents.
Do public universities in France offer dual-degree or exchange programs?
Yes. Many public universities partner with institutions across Europe, the US, and Asia. You can study one part in France and the other abroad, or join semester exchange programs.
How can international students apply for on-campus jobs in France?
International students can work up to 964 hours per year (around 20 hrs/week). Campus jobs are usually posted on the university’s student portal or career services office.
Is it possible to get permanent residency in France after studying at a public university?
Yes. After completing your studies, you can apply for a post-study work visa (APS), find a full-time job, and then apply for permanent residency after a few years of continuous stay.
What support services are available for international students at French public universities?
Support includes French language classes, academic help, housing assistance, health insurance guidance, and integration programs for international students.
Are there specific public universities in France known for business, engineering, or arts programs?
Yes.
Business: Paris Dauphine, Toulouse School of Management
Arts/Design: ENSAD Paris, Le Fresnoy, Université Paris 8
How can international students apply for healthcare coverage while studying in France?
Students can register for French public health insurance (Sécurité Sociale) after arrival. Registration is free for students under 28 and done online through the official portal.
What financial aid options exist besides scholarships for international students?
Apart from scholarships, students can apply for housing subsidies (CAF), meal subsidies, and reduced public transport passes. Part-time work also helps cover expenses.
Do international students get discounts on transport, food, and cultural activities in France?
Yes. With a student ID or “Carte Étudiant,” you get discounts on metro passes, student meals (as low as €3, ₹270), museums, cinema tickets, and more.
Can I defer my admission if I am unable to travel to France in time?
It depends on the university. Some may allow a deferral by one semester or year, especially for valid reasons like visa delay. Always request it officially in writing.
What are the language learning resources available for non-French-speaking students?
Most universities offer free or low-cost French language courses (FLE). You can also access apps, local community programs, and online resources through Campus France.
How do public universities in France compare to universities in the US and UK in terms of job opportunities?
France offers solid job options, especially if you speak French. While the UK and US may have more global companies, France has growing demand in tech, healthcare, business, and research—and the lower cost of education makes it a smart long-term choice.
Pragya Sharma is a content developer and marketer with 6.5+ years of experience in the education industry. She started her career as a social media copywriter for NIELIT, Ministry of Electronics & IT, and has now scaled up as a 360-degree content professional well-versed with the intricacies of digital marketing and different forms of content used to drive and hook the target audience.
She is also a co-author of 2 stories in an anthology based on the theme- women empowerment.
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