Study in Paris for International Students in 2025

Paris — sparkling lights, historical architecture, leading art galleries, fashion, and a university system that fuses centuries of tradition with innovation and research. For students around the world, Paris is hard to turn down as a study destination — but if you are even thinking about studying there in 2025, as an Indian or one from a non-EU country, there are many moving parts. This guide is not just to inspire you — it is practical, up to date, and full of insights that you will not always find in brochures.

Why Study in Paris in 2025?

Before getting into logistics, let’s first examine why Paris is both a romantic place, and currently one of the smartest academic decisions you will make. 

1. France’s push to internationalize universities
   Under initiatives such as Choose France / Bienvenue en France, the French government is clearly striving to increase the number of international students, increase the number of English language-taught programs, increase the number of scholarships, and facilitate the visa process.
2. Ambitious targets with Indian students
   France wants to attract 30,000 Indian students by 2030. In the 2023-24 academic year, there were about 8,000 Indian students who are expected to attract more than 10,000 soon. That entails more support structures, more programs friendly to English speakers, and more alumni networks & community for Indian students.
3. Strong universities & rankings
   Institutions like Université PSL, Institut Polytechnique de Paris (IP Paris), Sciences Po, École Polytechnique, HEC Paris continue to feature in top QS/global university rankings. IP Paris, for example, welcomes a large international mix and has many English-oriented Bachelor’s/Master’s programs.
4. Policy & visa improvements
   New regulations, more comprehensible visa expenses, proof of finance, post-study pathways, alumni pathways (e.g. extended Schengen visa for alumni) are allowing for more (not always easy) manageable smart planning for non-EU students.
5. Cultural immersion + opportunity
   Outside of academics, Paris is still a cultural, economic, artistic, and political center. For several fields — fashion, art & design, business, political science, gastronomy — it provides access and a visibility level that is difficult to replicate.

Study in Paris for Indian Students: What’s New & What You Should Know

If you are a student from India (or any country outside EU), here is a similar set of updates and information applicable to 2025:

• Visa and context: You will most likely use the long stay visa (visa de long séjour pour études), As of 2025, you need to demonstrate financial support, meaning you must show approximately €820/month (or about €9,840/year) or the equivalent in bank statements, scholarships or letters from sponsors.
• Online appointment system for visa applications: All visa applications for France (short-stay or long-stay) require an appointment to be made online (through VFS or the relevant French consulate/embassy).
• Post-study and alumni: Indian students who have studied in France, even if for one semester, and have graduated with a Master’s degree or higher, may qualify for a longer/multiple-entry short-stay Schengen visa (e.g., 5-year alumni Schengen visa). This is useful for networking, internships, travel, etc.
• Growing community and targets: As France aims for 30,000 Indian students by 2030, institutions are starting to create further admissions slots, as well as supports for Indian students, and support for Indian students via formal guidance programs in India. It means things like pre-departure orientation and instructing students about scholarships are likely to be available.

What to Study in Paris: Best Courses & Fields (2025 Edition)

What to study in Paris is determined by your interest, your future skills, and what level of French you speak – or want to. Here are degrees that are particularly strong and growing, plus some under-the-radar exciting options. 

Importantly: Programs offered in English are increasing. So if you are not fluent in French, there are many options available to you, especially at the master’s or professional level. Schools like École Polytechnique have BSc, MSc / PhD tracks offered in English. Sciences Po offers a bachelor’s & master’s programs in English. HEC has many Master’s in Management / Finance / Marketing in English. 

Where to Study in Paris: Best Universities, Program Types & Locations

Simply stating “study in Paris” isn’t enough.   Where in Paris, at what institution, what type of campus and surrounding community, what language, are all important.  Here are some of the best locations to study in Paris in 2025. 

Key Institutions & Their Profiles

• Université PSL (Paris Sciences & Lettres) — A collection of colleges/institutes merging impressive research in Arts & Humanities, Sciences, and Business & Management.  Provides excellent research and interdisciplinary programs.  Good fit for students looking for academic prestige and research possibilities.
• Institut Polytechnique de Paris (IP Paris) — Strong in engineering, technology, science. Population of many international students. English & French medium. Beautiful campuses around the Paris region. 
• Sciences Po — If you’re more interested in politics, public affairs, international relations, global studies. Known for its global student body and many programs of study in English with some exchange opportunities. 
• École Polytechnique — Very strong prestige; selective, especially for technology/engineering. If you have a strong math/engineering background it can be a very rewarding experience.
• HEC Paris – Business school with management, marketing, finance. Strong international placements for graduates. Expensive fees – but valuable brand and network.
• EDC Paris Business School – Very good for luxury brand management, and international management at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Also works in English.

Campus Types & Locations

• Central Paris vs Suburbs: A trade-off. Central arrondissements are more expensive (rent, daily costs), more vibrant, more convenient. Suburban campuses or satellite campuses (but still with easy metro/RER access) are cheaper.
• shared apartments vs university residences vs private studios: university residences (CROUS or equivalent) are cheaper but limited. For many students, especially international, applying early to CROUS is a must.
• Skirting the heart: Living just outside Paris proper (inner its suburbs) may help with cost savings while still enjoying access to the city.

How to Study in Paris: Step-by-Step Process

Here’s a detailed, updated roadmap for how to study in Paris, especially for non-EU students from India or similar countries.

1. Decide Your Field, Program, Language
   – Choose your desired field of study (see above). Consider whether the program is in English, French, or bilingual; if it is in French, you may be required to take the DELF/DALF or some other proof of level.

– Explore the whether the College is public or private; Grandes Écoles vs Universities; costs and admission processes are different.

1. Research & Shortlist Universities
   – Review program specifics: courses offered, internships, exchanges, employment rates.

– Look up rankings (e.g. QS, Times Higher Education) for your field. Beyond ranking, student reviews, alumni feedback, and facilities.

1. Prepare for Entrance / Admission Conditions
   – Some programs require standardised tests (GRE, GMAT), especially for business schools.
   – Some require French language proof even if you’re in English programmes, or expect some French.
   – Portfolio / art for design, Fashion etc.
   
2. Apply Through Proper Channels
   – Many public universities have centralised admission via national portals; others manage applications directly. Sciences Po has its own system. Public universities via Campus France is common.
   – Submit all documents: transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters, proof of finances, language test scores, etc.
   
3. Scholarships & Financial Aid
   – Look out for scholarships like Eiffel Excellence, Charpak, or ones specific to Indian students. Some Grandes Écoles give merit-based aid.
   – Application deadlines for scholarships often come earlier than for admission, so track those.
   
4. Visa Application
   – After acceptance, apply for the Long Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS) if your program is more than 3-6 months. Book appointment online via VFS (or local French embassy).
   – You’ll need: Acceptance letter; proof of financial means (as mentioned, ~€820 per month); health insurance; passport; academic transcripts; sometimes French language proficiency; proof of accommodation.
   – Visa fee is about €99 (approx ₹8,000-₹9,000) for many Indian students (this may vary).
   
5. Before Departure
   – Accommodation: Pre-book if possible, especially CROUS or student residences. Bring proof of booking for visa, arrival.
   – Health Insurance: Non-EU students need to register for French student health cover (“Sécurité Sociale”) often; sometimes need “mutuelle” top-ups.
   – Finances: Open bank account, plan for recurring costs, and keep cash/slack for first few weeks.
   
6. After Arrival
   – Validate your VLS-TS visa online (within first 3 months).
   – Apply for transport pass (Navigo or other student pass) to save money.
   – Apply for CAF (aids for housing) if eligible — helps reduce rent.
   – If you want to work part-time, check limits: usually students are allowed up to 964 hours/year (~60% of full-time) if visa allows.
   

Cost of Living

Many students underestimate how quickly living expenses add up. Here are updated estimates & cost-saving tips.

Cost-Saving Tips

• Live in university residences or shared flats. Early applications help.
  
• Use student discounts (transport, museums, entertainment).
  
• Cook at home, use discount supermarkets / local markets.
  
• Get student transport passes. Use bike-sharing (e.g. Vélib in Paris) when possible.
  
• Consider living slightly outside central Paris but near good transport.
  

What to Expect Academically & Culturally

Studying in Paris is not just going to class and reading in the library — it is about embracing a European system, experiencing the culture of France, and combining the rigour of academics with experiences of life. 

• Academic calendar & assessments: Typically, two semesters. Many public universities have more ongoing evaluations + final exams. Grandes écoles often include project work, placements, group work, etc. 
• Language is important: Even English programs – French (or really, some French!) helps with daily life, integration into a society, and securing jobs/internships. Most universities offer (low-cost or free) language classes for international students.
• Culturally appropriate: France is a place that respects and even encourages engaging in copy intellectual discussions, posing critical inquiry and discourse, and, at times, formal structures of communication. Attend lectures and symposiums, join a student society, immerse yourself in the café scenes, museums, historical sites – you will be learning outside the classroom as much as in!
• Internship, work experience: Many of the programs have mandatory or highly encouraged internships on or off campus. As Paris is business, creative and tech hub, there are opportunities for internships and work experiences. The visa also allows some part-time work p; therefore, if a student chooses to stay and work after graduation, students begin to explore the job market in France, or that in the EU.

Where to Study in Paris: Neighbourhoods, Living Areas & Lifestyle

Knowing where in Paris you’ll live or study is almost as big a decision as what you study. Paris is huge, varied, and your quality of life will depend heavily on which arrondissement or suburb you choose.

• Central vs outskirts: Living in the 5th, 6th, 7th, 1st, 4th arrondissements is charming but expensive. Getting further (but still well connected via metro/RER) lowers rent.
  
• Student residential zones: LAT (Latin Quarter), Montparnasse, St-Germain, 13th have many students. Also suburbs like Ivry-sur-Seine, Saint-Denis, etc. with lower rent but decent transport access.
  
• Campus locations: Some Grandes Écoles/universities have campuses outside central Paris (e.g., satellite campuses or research centres in suburbs). These might be cheaper but factor in daily transit time.
  
• Quality of life: Consider proximity to grocery stores, markets, parks, cafés. Paris has great public transport but living just adjacent to a metro station saves time & money.
  
• Safety & social integration: Paris is generally safe, but like any big city, some districts are more lively at night; research the area; talk to current students (especially Indians/international). Living in mixed residential areas helps with integration.
  

How to Finance Your Studies & Scholarships in 2025

Money is often the biggest worry. Here are updated ways to plan & find help:

• Tuition fees: Public universities (for Master’s) are often modest for non-EU students (though more than EU students, of course). Grandes Écoles and private institutions can cost much more (tens of thousands of euros for some specialized programmes).
  
• Scholarships: 
  • Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (French government) for Master’s/PhD programs.
    
  • Charpak (indian students) – sometimes offered.
    
  • University-/Grande École-specific merit scholarships.
    
  • External private or NGO scholarships.
    
• Part-time work: Students with valid visas often can work up to around 964 hours/year (or ~60% full time). Good option for earning pocket money, gaining experience.
  
• Aid for housing: CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales) provides housing subsidies for eligible students in France – can reduce your rent burden.
  
• Budget carefully: Include in your plan dorm deposit, first-month rent, travel, initial furnishing, health insurance. Keep an emergency buffer.
  

Risks, Challenges & How to Handle Them

No place is perfect. Paris is amazing, but you’ll want to go in eyes open.

• High cost of living: Rent, food, entertainment are expensive. If you pick a nice studio in central Paris, expect high monthly costs. Budget carefully.
  
• Competition & selectivity: Especially in Grandes Écoles or top Master’s programs, competition is intense. Application process can be lengthy; often needs extra work (projects, statements, interviews).
  
• Language barrier: Even if your program is in English, day-to-day life tends to involve French (administration, supermarkets, cafés). Not being able to speak French can feel isolating. But many students adapt fast.
  
• Visa delays or document challenges: With increased demand, some consulates or VFS centres may have waiting times; missing documents can delay. Start visa application process early.
  
• Cultural adjustment: Academic norms, punctuality, interaction with professors might differ from what you’re used to. Also, life in a busy city like Paris has its stressors (weather, crowded public transport, finding housing).
  

What to Expect After Graduation

If you’re studying in Paris for international students with post-study goals, here’s what you need to plan for 2025 onward.

• Alumni and Post-study visas: Depending on your visa, country of study, level of degree, you may get options to stay and work in France/EU, apply for job-seeker visas, or extended Schengen access for alumni. The alumni benefit for Indian Master’s or higher students (one semester in France) getting multi-year Schengen visa is one example. The Indian Express
  
• Networking and internships during studies: These will matter a lot. Companies in Paris (tech, fashion, luxury, hospitality, finance) value interns with good language skills, cross-cultural adaptability. Use university career services.
  
• Language as asset: French + English is powerful. Even if your degree is in English, knowing French helps in job applications, everyday interactions, and in some sectors (government, public service, NGOs, etc.).
  
• Global mobility: A degree from a recognized Paris institution adds prestige, opens up opportunities globally (Europe, North America, Asia) if placements or reputation are strong in your field.
  

Conclusion

In my opinion, studying in Paris in 2025 is more viable, international, and well supported for non-EU students than ever before. Indeed, the prices are high, but the quality — of education, network, exposure, cultural richness — are likewise high.

If you are one who thrives in fast moving situations, who wants more than just the classroom, who will adapt ( learn French, work hard for housing, manage a budget), Paris can certainly be life changing.

However, if your funds are limited, or personal preferences lie in quieter towns – there will also be wonderful value and comfort in smaller French towns. But if you have a mind for global opportunities, or fields such as fashion, luxury, design, international relations etc…, the extra cost for Paris often brings large returns.

FAQs

Q: Can I study in Paris in English if I don’t speak French?

A: Yes — out of many programmes, especially at the Master’s level, there are English-taught tracks. Schools like École Polytechnique, Sciences Po, HEC, IP Paris all have them. However, even in English programmes, French helps a lot in daily life, internships, administrative tasks.

Q: Do I need to know French before applying?

A: Depends. For French-taught or bilingual programmes, yes. For English-only ones, possibly not; but some institutions may require a basic French test or at least motivate that you’ll learn French on the side.

Q: What is the visa timeline?

A: After acceptance, you should apply as early as possible. Visa processing for student visas can take 2-4 weeks (VFS and embassy) but delays happen, especially during high season. Book early, prepare documents correctly.

Q: Is Paris too expensive? Can I survive on a tight budget?

A: It’s expensive, but manageable if you share accommodation, cook, use discounts, minimize travel, live modestly. Budget of €1,200-€1,400/month might be tight but workable; €1,500-€1,800/month is more comfortable.

Q: After my studies, can I stay and work?

A: There are post-study visa options depending on your level of degree. Also alumni benefits (like extended Schengen visa for some Indian alumni) help. But you’ll need to explore job offers, often in sectors where French/English both help.