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Top 10 Universities in France for International Students 2025
Edited By Jembi Selva Mary. A | Updated on Dec 18, 2024 03:55 PM IST
France is a popular destination for higher education because it is renowned for its world-class universities and academic excellence. Roughly 2.55 lakh students from over 100 countries were admitted for higher education in France. The cost of study in France for international students is approximately Rs 2.54 to 11.94 lakhs (EUR 2,770 13,000) annually. Living expenses vary according to lifestyle, generally, the average cost of living in France for Indian students is around Rs 90,000 to 1.0 lakhs per month. France President Emmanuel Macron declared that France will be accepting almost 30,000 Indian students in its universities by 2030 to strengthen educational ties between both nations.
This Story also Contains
- Top 10 Universities in France in 2025
- Top universities in France for international students
- Why study in France?
- Eligibility for Admission at Top 10 Universities in France
- Admission process for top 10 universities in France?
- Popular Courses in France by Top Universities
- Cost of studying in France
Top 10 Universities in France for International Students 2025 are mostly publicly funded which implies that the tuition fees in France for international students are lower than in other universities in other popular study destinations like the USA or UK. Read the article below to learn more about the best universities in France, their overall rankings in the world and France, and a brief description of these universities.
Top 10 Universities in France in 2025
Some of the best universities in France include the University of Paris-Saclay, Sorbonne University, Université Grenoble Alpes, PSL University, Sciences Po, ENS Lyon, Panthéon-Sorbonne University, ENPC, and University of Paris.
Top universities in France for international students
France's educational system is mainly based on organised and best-quality education. The top universities in France are mentioned based on Times Higher Education and QS World Rankings for the 2025 academic year:
Top 10 universities in France in 2025
University | QS World Rankings 2025 | THE Best Universities in world 2025 |
Université PSL | 25 | 42 |
Institut Polytechnique de Paris | 46 | 71 |
Sorbonne University | =63 | 76 |
Université Paris-Saclay | 73 | 64 |
École Normale Supérieure de Lyon | 187 | 251–300 |
Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne | 283 | N/A |
Université Paris Cité | =302 | =183 |
Université Grenoble Alpes | 334 | 351–400 |
Sciences Po | =350 | N/A |
Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Lyon (INSA) | =405 | N/A |
Institut Polytechnique de Paris
The Institut Polytechnique de Paris, also known as IP Paris, is a public technological university in Palaiseau, France. IP Paris offers a wide range of courses which are taught in both the languages which are French and English. Some of the Institut Polytechnique de Paris popular courses are Data Analysis, Advanced Master in Architecture and Security of Information Systems, Applied Mathematics, and Master in Artificial Intelligence.
To be eligible for IP Paris admission, one must pass high school with advanced mathematics and at least one advanced science course, English proficiency via IELTS/TOEFL/CAE/DET, etc for a bachelor's degree. Specifically, for IP Paris Engineering courses, students must have completed their 2-year bachelor's in Science, Engineering, or Quantitative Economics & Finance. Moreover, additional documents may include LORs, SOPs, resumes, and many more.
IP Paris Highlights 2025
Particulars | Details |
Acceptance Rate of Institut Polytechnique de Paris | 8 to 10% approximately |
Institut Polytechnique de Paris Tuition Fees 2025 | FRF 18,800 for international students |
Paris Sciences et Lettres University
Paris Sciences et Lettres University also known as PSL University, is a public research university located in Paris, France. Paris Sciences et Lettres University (PSL) offers a wide range of academic programmes across different fields in both French and English language instruction. A few of PSL University popular courses include Computer Science, Applied Economics, Fashion and Materials, Engineering, Physics, and many more.
A student must be academically qualified to apply for PSL University admission. Generally, students must pass high school with a 3.0 GPA for UG courses and must have a bachelor's for PG courses. Language proficiency in French and English is one of the mandatory PSL University entry requirements. One can attempt CAE/IELTS/TOEFL/DET for English proficiency.
IP Paris Highlights 2025
Particulars | Details |
Paris Sciences et Lettres University Acceptance Rate 2025 | 60 to 70% |
Paris Sciences et Lettres University Tuition Fees 2024 | FRF 1,078 for UG and FRF 243 for PG |
Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University is a publicly owned research university situated in Paris, France. The university is known for its world-class education and research facilities. Sorbonne University offers a wide range of courses for international students. However, the language of instruction for most of the Sorbonne University courses is French. Some of the Sorbonne University popular courses include Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, Earth Sciences and many more.
As per the common Sorbonne University entry requirements, one must have passed high school for undergraduate degrees or they must have completed their bachelor's for graduate degrees. A strong French language proficiency is one of the crucial requirements to secure Sorbonne University admission. Generally, a French level of B2 or higher is required to apply to the university; however, a French CEFRL C1 level is required for Medicine courses.
Sorbonne University Highlights
Particulars | Details |
Sorbonne University Acceptance Rate for Indian students | 35 to 40% |
Sorbonne University Tuition Fees | FRF 10,000 approximately for international students |
Université Paris-Saclay
Université Paris-Saclay is a multidisciplinary research-based university located in Paris, France. It is one of the leading research universities in Europe and provides a wide range of Université Paris-Saclay courses in both languages of instruction- English and French. A few of the Université Paris-Saclay popular courses include AI, International Business, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Biology and Biochemistry, and many more.
One is eligible to apply for Université Paris-Saclay admission on complying with the entry requirements as stated by the university. Generally, one is eligible if they hold or will hold a French or European baccalaureate (BAC). An English language proficiency through IELTS/CAE/TOEFL/DET or French proficiency is required to apply to Université Paris-Saclay courses (whichever is applicable).
Université Paris-Saclay Highlights
Particulars | Details |
Acceptance Rate of Université Paris-Saclay | 10 to 15% approximately |
Université Paris-Saclay Tuition Fees | FRF 170 for UG, FRF 243 for PG, FRF 380 for Doctorate |
Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon
The École Normale supérieure de Lyon which is popularly known as ENS de Lyon is a prestigious research-based French university located in Lyon, France. It offers a wide range of academic courses from bachelor's to Doctorate. Although most of the courses are offered in French language of instruction, some courses are offered in English as well. A few of the ENS de Lyon popular courses include Biosciences, Physics, Computer Science, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Advanced Economics.
To apply for ENS de Lyon admission, students must have completed high school for the undergraduate degrees. For master's application, students must have an undergraduate degree in the relevant field of study as per ENS de Lyon entry requirements. One of the most important ENS de Lyon eligibility criteria is having French or English language proficiency. DET/IELTS/TOEFL can be accepted at the university.
ENS de Lyon Highlights
Particulars | Details |
Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon Acceptance Rate 2025 | 30 to 38% approximately |
Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon Tuition Fees 2025 | FRF 184 for UG and FRF 243 for PG annually on average |
Why study in France?
There are many reasons to pursue higher education in France. However, here are some of the most important reasons to study in France as an Indian student:
Benefits of studying in France
The first two countries to have a mutual recognition agreement were France and India, and around 570 French corporate companies in India accept students with French degrees.
With its highly recognised institutions, France offers top-notch education in a variety of subjects. Because of the quality of their education, French higher education institutions are frequently listed among the best in the world.
The cost of living, tuition, and personal expenses are comparatively low compared to other Western nations, such as the United States and the United Kingdom.
More than 1500 programs are taught in English in French institutions so that students from other countries have no difficulty understanding.
Eligibility for Admission at Top 10 Universities in France
Is it hard to get into university in France? Getting admission to top universities in France, is extremely competitive. Overall the acceptance rate for international is roughly 20% which shows out of 100 applications 20 were accepted in university. However, you can get admission by fulfilling the requirements of the French university.
Admission Requirements for France Universities
Students must complete their high school diploma or equivalent program from a recognised university equivalent to French universities.
There is no age limit for admission in France. Still, you must be 18 years old.
For undergraduates, standardised scores are not mandatory. The GRE or GMAT scores may be required for some graduate programs such as business schools or engineering.
Documents Required for Indian Students in France
Valid Bank Statement
Resume
Cover letter
Work experience (for MBA programs)
English language proficiency
Financial documents
Admission process for top 10 universities in France?
The step-by-step application process for international students in France is given below:
Step 1: Shortlist the desired top university and course in France.
Step 2: Check the requirements in the official university and prepare all the necessary documents.
Step 3: Apply to public universities through the Etudes En France/ EeF portal. For private universities, apply through the EEF portal and then submit a second application to the university's website.
Step 4: Provide the required details, and review the application.
Step 5: To complete the application process, pay processing fees and submit it.
Step 6: Browse for scholarships that you are eligible for. Then, apply and obtain a France student visa.
Popular Courses in France by Top Universities
France's education system offers three types of degrees for students - Undergraduate, Master's, and PhD. The popular courses at the top 10 universities in France include computer science, engineering, management, finance, and data science. Here the table details the top specialisations offered at top universities in France.
Top universities in France: Course Wise
Top courses in France | University Name |
Top universities in France for computer science |
|
Top universities in France for engineering |
|
Top universities in France for management |
|
Top universities in France for finance |
|
Top universities in France for data science |
|
Top universities in France for masters |
|
Also Read: Top Scholarships in France
Cost of studying in France
The cost of studying in France depends on the institution and the type of degree program. The majority of the costs associated with your degree program at a public university in France will still be covered by the government. Here are the tuition fees in France:
Average tuition fees at top universities in France
Level of degree | Cost in EUR |
Bachelor | 175 |
Master | 250 |
Doctoral | 391 |
Engineering | 618 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is the No. 1 university of France?
According to QS World Rankings 2025, Université PSL is ranked No. 1 in France and 25th worldwide. It is a public research university, located in Paris. The top courses at Université PSL include computer science, engineering, management, and finance.
2. What is the ranking of Paris-Saclay in 2025?
QS WUR 2025 ranked Paris-Saclay at 73rd, and it is ranked 64th in Time higher education rankings globally. It is a public research university in Orsay, France. Some top courses at Paris-Saclay include AI, International Business, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Biology and Biochemistry.
3. Which university is best for international students in France?
The best universities for international students in France include the University of Paris-Saclay, Sorbonne University, Université Grenoble Alpes, PSL University, Sciences Po, ENS Lyon, Panthéon-Sorbonne University, ENPC, University of Paris.
4. Is France a good place to study for Indian students?
Yes, France is a good place to study for Indian students. It is definitely worth it as it offers Indian students an opportunity to have great learning experiences, know different cultures and traditions as well as interact with different people.
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Correct Answer: advanced
Solution : The third option is the correct answer.
The word cosmetically suggests that the blank should be filled with an adjective that describes the level of development or sophistication in the field of cosmetics. Advanced is an adjective that fits well in this context, indicating that South Korea is the most advanced country in terms of cosmetics.
Therefore, the right word to fill in the blank is advanced.
Team Careers360 25 January,2024
Correct Answer: PQSR
Solution : The correct choice is the fourth option.
The correct order of the sentence is PQSR.
This order ensures a logical flow of information, as it begins by introducing the challenge of pandemic-related travel complications (P), followed by the governance of key countries like India and France (Q), and their role in facilitating interactions between EDF and NPCIL (S). The sentence concludes by specifying the outcome of this interaction: EDF's ability to submit a binding techno-commercial offer on April 22, 2021 (R). This arrangement of the parts in a sentence maintains proper coherency and clarity.
Therefore, the complete sentence would be: Despite pandemic-related travel complications, the governments of India and France facilitated interactions between EDF and NPCIL, which allowed EDF to submit to NPCIL a binding techno-commercial offer on April 22, 2021.
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Correct Answer: would have gone
Solution : The correct choice is the first option.
Explanation:
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Correct Answer: Portugal and England
Solution : Given:
(I) In the European Championship Games, the flags of six countries were arranged on top of pillars in the following way. The flag of Argentina was to the left of Portugal's bi-colour and the right of the flag of France.
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