France is now the favourite country of Indian students because it offers internationally recognised universities, modest tuition fees in public higher education institutions and a high emphasis on research and innovation. However, before you can take a closer look at universities or courses, you must be familiar with the intakes in France, their timeline and how they affect your academic planning. Understanding how many intakes in france will enable students to pick the right intake according to their educational background, exam dates and visa process readiness. With the help of Career Width, Indian students can make sense of their applications and find focus with respect to long-term careers.
Study Intakes in France
The term Study intakes in france refers to the time when universities and schools have their courses open. France, unlike countries with various admission cycles; France largely sticks to a fixed academic calendar. These intakes are uniform for all public universities and the majority of the private institutions, which will make it easy for international students to budget and plan.
Each intake determines:
- When you can apply for places
- When classes begin
- Availability of scholarships and accommodation
- Visa application timelines
For Indian students, selecting the right intake paves the way for a seamless academic transition & assimilating into the French education system.
How Many Intakes in France for International Students?
People frequently ask this question: how many intakes in france are available for a study visa? France usually has two major intakes which are open for both domestic and intakes in france for international students.
These two intakes are:
- September Intake (Fall Intake)
- January Intake (Spring Intake)
Some private institutes do have rolling admissions of sorts, but most degree programs coalesce into these two main intakes.
September Intake 2026
The September intake, which is also called the Fall intake, is the primary one between all intakes in france for indian students.
Key features of the September Intake:
- Most schools are available, and programs are offered
- For undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral purposes
- More scholarships and financial aid opportunities
- Longer preparation time for visa, accommodation, and language tests
Timeline for September 2026 Intake:
- Application opening: March–April 2026
- Application deadline: June–July 2026
- Classes begin: September 2026
This intake is best for Indian students who are about to finish their Class 12, undergraduate degree or the final year exams in early 2026. The majority of engineering, management, science, arts and research programs commence during this intake and are the most popular time which students prefer to take if they are going to Study in France.
January Intake 2026
January or Spring intake is the second important option for study intakes in france. There are fewer programs available than there were in September, certainly, but it creates flexibility for students who need extra work at the end of a course.
Key features of the January Intake:
- Limited course availability
- Fewer seats and scholarships
- For students who missed the September deadlines
- Quicker path for those who are ready with documents
Timeline for January 2026 Intake:
- Application opening: September 2025
- Application deadline: November 2025
- Classes begin: January 2026
This is a popular intake for students who had to postpone their tests, exams or the submission of documents. For the Indian students who are looking for a second bite at the apple within the same academic year, this intake is significant among intakes in france.
Intakes in France for Indian Students
The Selection of available intakes in france for indian students. There are many factors to consider:
- Academic completion date in India
- Readiness for English or French language tests
- Availability of preferred courses
- Scholarship deadlines
- Visa processing time
The September intake is suggested for students looking to have a greater number of course options and greater academic exposure. The January intake is for those students who don’t want to wait a whole year and require extra time to prepare.
Why Understanding Intakes Matters for Career Planning
Choosing the appropriate intake will have a bearing on your studies and prospects. Careful consideration of intakes in france for international students
- Internships and part-time work opportunities
- Orientation and integration programs
- Better academic networking
- Improved alignment with the global hiring rhythm
Under Career Width’s expert guidance, students will be able to align their intake decision with academic and career growth, which has a wider horizon after completion of studies.
Conclusion
Comprehension of intakes in france is a must for Indian students who are planning to study abroad in 2026. France proposes two main admission cycles – September and January, in light of diverse student requirements. The January intake is by no means as popular as September’s one, but still very good.Â
Applying early, timely application and selecting the right intakes can make a world of difference in your chances of admission. With good advice and planning, the right study intakes in france can provide students with a strong academic base and a global career path.
FAQs
Ques. 1. How many intakes in France are available for Indian students?
Ans: There are primarily two intakes in france for indian students—September (Fall) and January (Spring).
Ques. 2. Which intake is best to Study in France?
Ans: September intake is ideal as there are more courses on offer and you have better scholarship opportunities to Study in France.
Ques. 3. Are intakes in France for international students different from local students?
Ans: No, intakes in france for international students are the same as domestic students.
Ques. 4. Can I apply for both intakes in France?
Ans: Yes, they can apply for both intakes, but admission will depend upon course availability and applicant eligibility.
Ques. 5. How can Career Width help with intakes in France?
Ans: Career Width is the best platform that lets you make a Smart decision by offering guidance on intake selection, university shortlisting, applications, and visa support for Indian students who would like to study in France.
Check Out – Best Study Abroad Consultants in Delhi
Want To Stay Updated With Latest Study Abroad News & Updates?

