Why Study in France?
France offers world-class education at globally ranked universities, combining academic excellence with affordable tuition. Studying here gives you access to vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse student life. Graduates benefit from strong career prospects both in Europe and globally.
Key Facts to Study in France
France is one of Europe’s most popular study destinations, known for its top universities and affordable education. It offers a rich blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and strong career pathways for international students.
• Capital: Paris
• Popular Student Cities: Lyon, Toulouse, Bordeaux
• Programs Available: English & French
• Tuition: Low-cost public university fees
• Education Types: Public Universities, Grandes Écoles, Private Schools
• Work Options: Part-time work allowed for international students
• Post-Study: Opportunities to stay and work after graduation
Intakes in France
France offers flexible academic intakes to accommodate international students, with options in both fall and winter. Choosing the right intake helps students plan their applications, visas, and relocation smoothly.
Intakes:
September Intake: The main intake with the largest number of programs available across French universities and Grandes Écoles.
January/February Intake: A secondary intake with limited courses, ideal for students who missed the fall intake or prefer a later start.
Student Visa Requirements for France
To study in France, international students must apply for a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS). The process begins with securing an admission offer from a recognized French university or Grande École, which is mandatory for the visa application. Along with the application, students need to provide several important documents:|
Valid passport and completed visa application form
Passport-sized photographs
Proof of financial resources to cover tuition and living costs (around €615/month)
Academic transcripts, diplomas, and a university acceptance letter
Health insurance coverage and proof of accommodation in France
Language and Test Requirements
French-taught programs require DELF/DALF/TCF, while English programs usually require IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. The application is submitted via Campus France, followed by biometric registration at the French consulate or visa center. Visa processing typically takes 4–6 weeks, so early preparation is recommended.
Top Universities
Cost of Studying in France
Studying in France is relatively affordable compared to other popular study destinations in Europe, making it attractive for international students. Costs vary depending on the type of institution, city, and lifestyle, but there are clear estimates to help with planning.
Tuition Fees: Public universities charge around €2,770–€3,770 per year, while private institutions can range from €8,000–€20,000 per year.
Living Expenses: Monthly living costs typically range from €700–€1,200, covering accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Student Services: Many universities provide discounted rates for transportation, sports, and cultural activities, helping students save additional costs.
Books & Supplies: Expect to spend around €200–€500 per year on textbooks and study materials.
Overall, France combines high-quality education with affordable living, making it a smart choice for Nepalese students looking for value and global opportunities.
Scholarships for Nepali Students
Nepali students have access to several scholarships when studying in France, helping to reduce tuition fees and living expenses. These scholarships are offered by the French government, universities, and international programs.
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship: Covers tuition, monthly allowance, and travel expenses for outstanding students pursuing master’s or PhD programs.
Campus France Scholarships: Financial support for international students based on academic merit and program eligibility.
Charpak Scholarship Program: Specifically for Indian and Nepali students, covering tuition fees, living costs, and health insurance.
Erasmus+ Program: Offers partial funding for students enrolled in participating European exchange programs, including study in France.
Applying early and meeting eligibility criteria is crucial, as these scholarships are highly competitive. SAS Education Consultancy guides students through the application process to maximize their chances of success.
Part-Time Job Opportunities in France
International students in France are allowed to work alongside their studies, helping to support living expenses and gain valuable work experience. Part-time work is flexible, but students must ensure it does not interfere with their academic commitments.
Work Limit: Students can work up to 964 hours per year (approximately 20 hours per week).
Job Types: Common roles include restaurants, cafes, retail stores, tutoring, and campus jobs.
Internships: Many programs offer paid or unpaid internships related to your field of study, which can enhance your career prospects.
Minimum Wage: Students earn the French minimum wage (SMIC), which is around €11–€12 per hour.
Work Permits: No additional work permit is needed for students holding a valid VLS-TS visa.
Part-time work allows students to gain professional experience, improve language skills, and contribute to living costs while studying in France.
Post-Study Work Opportunities in France for Nepalese Students
France offers international students opportunities to stay and work after completing their studies, helping them gain professional experience and advance their careers. Graduates can explore jobs in their field or pursue further education.
Temporary Residence Permit: After graduation, students can apply for a temporary residence permit (APS – Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour), valid for 12 months, allowing work in France.
Work While Job Hunting: The permit enables graduates to search for employment related to their degree without leaving the country.
Job Sectors: Popular sectors include IT, engineering, business, hospitality, and research, depending on the field of study.
Transition to Long-Term Work Visa: If a suitable job is found, graduates can convert their permit into a long-term work visa, enabling them to stay and work legally.
Networking Opportunities: Universities often provide career services, job fairs, and internship placements to help international students connect with employers.
Post-study work opportunities in France give Nepalese students a strong pathway to gain international work experience and enhance their global career prospects.
