Planning to study in France in 2026? France offers international students a wide range of higher-education programmes, internationally recognised qualifications, scholarship opportunities and exposure to European culture and industry.
For students looking for a combination of study and practical experience, some programmes may include an internship or work-placement component. The GlobalScholar programme featured in this article is advertised as 6 months of study + 6 months of paid internship, but the availability, duration, remuneration and eligibility for an internship depend on the specific institution and programme.
France can be particularly interesting for students considering Hospitality & Hotel Management, Business & Management, Tourism & Event Management, Culinary Arts, Luxury Management and International Relations.
At GlobalScholar Study Abroad, we help students understand course options, eligibility, applications, documentation and the France student-visa process.
Why Study in France?
France is one of Europe’s established higher-education destinations and offers programmes across a wide range of academic and professional fields.
1. Internationally Recognised Education
French universities and higher-education institutions offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, doctoral and specialised programmes.
Students can choose from academic and professional programmes depending on their qualifications and career plans.
2. Wide Range of Programmes
Students planning to study in France can explore programmes in:
- Hospitality Management
- Hotel Management
- Business & Management
- Tourism & Event Management
- Culinary Arts & Gastronomy
- Luxury Management
- International Relations
- Finance
- Marketing
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Engineering
- Healthcare
- Other specialised fields
Programme availability varies by institution.
3. Practical Learning Opportunities
Some French programmes include internships, apprenticeships or work placements as part of the academic structure.
A professional internship in France may require a formal agreement between the student, educational institution and host company. France-Visas specifically states that a student work placement must be supported by a training agreement between the student, educational establishment and host company.
4. Scholarship Opportunities
International students may find scholarships and financial-support opportunities through universities, government programmes and other organisations.
Eligibility depends on the scholarship and programme.
5. European Exposure
Studying in France gives students the opportunity to experience French culture and life within Europe.
Students should remember that travel within the Schengen Area is subject to the conditions of their visa/residence status and the rules applicable to their nationality.
Study in France With Paid Internship
One of the main features promoted in the GlobalScholar flyer is:
6 Months Study + 6 Months Paid Internship
This type of structure can be attractive to students who want to combine classroom learning with practical industry exposure.
However, students should verify the exact programme before applying.
The following should be confirmed in writing:
- Whether the internship is compulsory
- Internship duration
- Whether it is paid
- Minimum or expected remuneration
- Internship sector
- Internship location
- Internship agreement requirements
- Whether the institution arranges the placement
- Whether students are responsible for finding the host company
- Visa/residence requirements
- Conditions for changing employers or placements
A paid internship is not automatically guaranteed simply because a programme is advertised with an internship component.
The exact terms depend on the programme and host organisation.
Popular Fields to Study in France
Hospitality & Hotel Management
France is internationally associated with hospitality, tourism, food and luxury industries.
Students can explore programmes in:
- Hotel Management
- Hospitality Management
- International Hospitality
- Hotel Operations
- Food & Beverage Management
- Hospitality Business
A programme with practical training can help students gain exposure to hospitality operations.
Business & Management
Business programmes can include:
- Business Management
- International Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Finance
- Entrepreneurship
- Human Resources
These programmes can be suitable for students interested in international business environments.
Tourism & Event Management
France’s tourism sector creates academic opportunities in areas such as:
- Tourism Management
- Event Management
- Destination Management
- Travel Management
- Hospitality Tourism
- International Tourism
Culinary Arts & Gastronomy
France has a strong international reputation for culinary education.
Students can explore:
- Culinary Arts
- Gastronomy
- Food Management
- Bakery and Pastry
- Restaurant Management
- Food & Beverage Management
Luxury Management
Students interested in fashion, beauty, luxury goods and premium hospitality can explore:
- Luxury Brand Management
- Fashion Management
- Luxury Marketing
- Retail Management
- Luxury Hospitality
International Relations
Students interested in international affairs can explore programmes related to:
- International Relations
- European Studies
- International Development
- Global Affairs
- Political and Diplomatic Studies
Specific academic and career requirements vary by programme.
Study in France Tuition Fees 2026–27
One of the biggest advantages of France is the relatively accessible tuition structure at many public higher-education institutions.
For the 2026–27 academic year, Campus France lists the following differentiated registration fees for eligible non-EU students at public higher-education institutions under the French Ministry of Higher Education:
| Programme | 2026–27 Annual Tuition |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | €2,902 |
| Master’s | €3,950 |
| Doctoral | €398 |
Some international students are exempt from differentiated fees depending on their status or programme. Private institutions can have substantially different tuition fees.
Therefore, students should always check the exact fee charged by their selected institution.
Is France Affordable for Indian Students?
France can offer relatively accessible tuition at some public institutions, but students must consider the total cost of studying abroad.
Your budget should include:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Food
- Transportation
- Health/insurance-related expenses
- Visa expenses
- Residence-related costs
- Study materials
- Personal expenses
- Travel
The most affordable option on paper may not necessarily have the lowest overall cost because accommodation and living expenses vary by city.
Can I Study in France Without IELTS?
This is one of the most common questions from international students.
The answer is:
It depends on the university and programme.
Some institutions or programmes may accept alternative proof of English proficiency.
Depending on the course, possible evidence can include:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- Other recognised English tests
- Previous English-medium education
- MOI certificate, where accepted
- Institutional assessment or interview
The flyer states:
“No IELTS Required – MOI may be accepted.”
This should be understood as programme-specific, not a universal France admission rule.
Before applying, students should confirm in writing whether their selected programme accepts MOI instead of IELTS.
What Is MOI?
MOI means Medium of Instruction.
An MOI certificate is issued by an educational institution to confirm the language used to teach a student’s previous programme.
For example, if a student’s Bachelor’s degree was taught in English, the university may provide an MOI certificate confirming this.
Whether an MOI is accepted depends on the institution and programme.
Therefore, students should not assume that an MOI automatically replaces IELTS for every French university.
France Admission Requirements
Admission requirements depend on:
- University
- Programme
- Qualification level
- Nationality
- Academic background
- Teaching language
- Programme-specific prerequisites
Common documents may include:
Academic Documents
- 10th certificate
- 12th certificate
- Diploma, where applicable
- Bachelor’s degree
- Academic transcripts
- Previous qualification certificates
Personal Documents
- Passport
- Passport photographs
- CV
- Statement of Purpose
- Recommendation letters, where required
Language Documents
Depending on the programme:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- Other accepted English-language evidence
- French-language certification where applicable
- MOI, if accepted
Other Documents
- Work-experience documents
- Portfolio for selected programmes
- Financial documents
- Additional university-specific documents
Can Students With Study Gaps Apply to France?
A study gap does not automatically mean that you cannot apply to France.
However, acceptance depends on the institution and programme.
Students should be prepared to explain their gap clearly.
Possible supporting evidence may include:
- Employment
- Business experience
- Professional training
- Certifications
- Family circumstances
- Other documented activities
The GlobalScholar flyer indicates that age and study gaps may be accepted subject to the institution.
This should therefore be assessed individually rather than treated as a universal French admission rule.
Can Students With Backlogs Apply?
Some institutions may consider students with academic backlogs, but policies vary.
Universities may consider:
- Number of backlogs
- Whether backlogs are cleared
- Academic percentage
- Previous qualification
- Programme requirements
- Overall academic profile
Students with backlogs should have their profile assessed before selecting universities.
Can Students Work While Studying in France?
Yes, eligible international students can generally work within the limits established by French immigration rules.
For students holding a student residence status, France currently permits employment up to 964 hours per year, equivalent to 60% of the annual legal working time.
This is different from an internship that forms part of a course.
Students should distinguish between:
Part-time employment
and
Academic internship/work placement
The rules and documentation can differ.
Students should not depend on part-time work as the sole source of funding for tuition and living expenses.
Paid Internship in France
For a professional internship that is part of a student’s course, the internship normally requires the appropriate agreement/documentation.
France-Visas states that a student undertaking a professional work placement in France must have a training agreement concluded between the student, training institution and host company.
If the placement is longer than 90 days, France-Visas states that a long-stay visa equivalent to a residence permit may be required, depending on the circumstances.
Therefore, students should confirm the correct immigration procedure before travelling.
France Student Visa for Indian Students
For students from India planning to study in France for more than three months, the relevant long-stay student visa process applies.
France-Visas identifies India among the countries covered by the Études en France (EEF) procedure.
For a higher-education course lasting more than three months, France-Visas states that students are issued a long-stay visa serving as a residence permit, subject to the applicable formalities after arrival.
The visa process can involve:
- Choosing an eligible programme
- Applying to the institution
- Completing the relevant France/Études en France procedure
- Receiving admission
- Preparing visa documentation
- Applying through the official France-Visas process
- Completing required formalities
- Travelling to France
- Completing enrolment and residence formalities
The exact procedure depends on the student’s circumstances and programme.
France Student Visa Financial Requirement
Students must be prepared to demonstrate sufficient financial resources for their stay.
France-Visas currently states that applications submitted from 1 August 2026 for long-stay student visas must include proof of resources corresponding to a minimum of €877.50 per month.
Students should check the latest France-Visas requirements immediately before submitting their application because financial requirements can change.
What Is VLS-TS?
For many students staying in France for more than three months, the relevant visa is a:
VLS-TS — Visa de Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour
France-Visas explains that a VLS-TS must be validated after arrival in France, generally within three months.
Students should follow the official instructions applicable to their visa.
Scholarships to Study in France
Scholarships and financial support may be available depending on:
- University
- Programme
- Academic performance
- Nationality
- Financial circumstances
- Scholarship scheme
Possible sources include:
University Scholarships
Some universities and institutions offer their own scholarships or fee reductions.
Government Scholarships
France and other organisations offer scholarship programmes for eligible international students.
Excellence Scholarships
Students with strong academic profiles can investigate available excellence-oriented scholarship schemes.
Other Funding
Students can also investigate:
- Regional support
- Research funding
- Institutional grants
- External scholarships
Scholarship availability and deadlines vary, so students should check each scholarship separately.
Post-Study Opportunities in France
France offers immigration pathways for certain graduates, but eligibility depends on the qualification, institution, nationality and applicable immigration rules.
For example, France-Visas has a specific “job search / business creation” route for certain students who have successfully obtained a qualification at least equivalent to a Master’s degree from an eligible French institution.
This does not mean every international student automatically receives a post-study work permit.
Students should verify their eligibility before making plans based on post-study employment.
Explore Europe While Studying in France
France is located within the Schengen Area.
Students with a valid French long-stay visa or residence status may have travel rights within the Schengen Area subject to the applicable rules.
Travel permission should not be confused with a separate right to study or work in another European country.
If a student wants to study or work in another country, they must check that country’s immigration requirements.
Popular Cities for International Students in France
Students can explore universities and institutions in cities such as:
Paris
A major international centre for business, fashion, luxury, hospitality, culture and education.
Lyon
Known for business, education, gastronomy and industry.
Toulouse
An important centre for aerospace, technology and higher education.
Bordeaux
Known for education, tourism, hospitality and business.
Lille
A major student city with access to a large European business region.
Nice
Popular for tourism, hospitality and international exposure.
The best city depends on the programme, budget and career goals.
How to Apply to Study in France
Step 1: Choose Your Course
Select a programme based on your:
- Academic qualification
- Career goals
- Budget
- Language ability
- Preferred location
Step 2: Check Eligibility
Verify:
- Academic requirements
- Percentage/grades
- English or French requirements
- Work experience
- Study-gap policy
- Backlog policy
Step 3: Prepare Documents
Prepare your academic, personal and financial documentation.
Step 4: Apply
Submit your application through the required university or official application route.
Step 5: Receive Admission
If selected, you will receive the relevant admission/acceptance documentation.
Step 6: Complete Visa Process
Follow the applicable France-Visas and Études en France process.
Step 7: Arrange Accommodation
Secure suitable accommodation before travelling.
Step 8: Travel to France
Complete the required visa/residence formalities after arrival.
Step 9: Begin Your Studies
Complete university enrolment and begin your programme.
Step 10: Internship
If your programme includes an internship, complete it according to the programme’s academic and legal requirements.
Study in France: 6 Months Study + 6 Months Paid Internship
The programme advertised in the GlobalScholar flyer offers a structure of:
6 Months Study + 6 Months Paid Internship
This can be particularly relevant to students interested in:
- Hospitality
- Hotel Management
- Tourism
- Culinary Arts
- Business
- Luxury Management
However, the exact internship arrangement should be verified before enrolment.
Ask these questions before paying your application or tuition fees:
- Is the internship compulsory?
- Is it guaranteed or placement assistance?
- Is the internship paid?
- What is the expected remuneration?
- Who finds the internship?
- What happens if a placement is not secured?
- Is the internship included in the curriculum?
- What visa/residence rules apply?
- What sectors are available?
- What is the exact programme and awarding institution?
This protects students from misunderstanding promotional wording.
Career Areas After Studying in France
Depending on the qualification and experience, graduates may explore careers in:
- Hotel Management
- Hospitality Management
- Tourism
- Event Management
- Culinary Operations
- Restaurant Management
- Luxury Brand Management
- Business Management
- Marketing
- Finance
- International Business
- Technology
- International Relations
Career outcomes depend on the qualification, skills, French/English language ability, experience, employer requirements and immigration status.
Why Choose GlobalScholar Study Abroad?
Choosing an international education programme involves more than selecting a country.
Students need to understand:
- Course eligibility
- University requirements
- Tuition fees
- Scholarship options
- Internship conditions
- Documentation
- Visa requirements
- Accommodation
- Total budget
GlobalScholar Study Abroad can guide students through the study-abroad process.
Our Support Can Include:
✔ Course selection
✔ University selection
✔ Profile assessment
✔ Application guidance
✔ Document guidance
✔ Scholarship guidance
✔ Admission support
✔ Visa documentation guidance
✔ Pre-departure guidance
Study in France With GlobalScholar
If you are planning to study in France in 2026, France can provide opportunities to combine academic education with international exposure and, for eligible programmes, practical experience.
Whether your interest is Hospitality & Hotel Management, Business & Management, Tourism & Event Management, Culinary Arts & Gastronomy, Luxury Management or International Relations, the right programme should be selected based on your academic background, budget and career objectives.
Start your France study journey with GlobalScholar Study Abroad.
GlobalScholar Study Abroad
📍 Gunadala, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India
📞 +91 99662 55779
📞 +91 77991 55779
Study | Learn | Grow | Go Global
Frequently Asked Questions
Is France good for international students?
France offers a broad higher-education system, public institutions, specialised schools, scholarship opportunities and programmes across many fields.
Can I study in France with a paid internship?
Some programmes include internships or work placements, but the internship conditions are programme-specific. A paid internship should not be assumed to be guaranteed.
Is the 6-month paid internship guaranteed?
The GlobalScholar flyer advertises a 6-month paid internship as part of the featured programme. Students should confirm the exact internship terms, placement conditions and remuneration with the institution before enrolment.
Can I study in France without IELTS?
Some programmes may accept alternative English-language evidence, including MOI where permitted. Requirements vary by institution.
How much is tuition in France?
For 2026–27, Campus France lists €2,902 for eligible non-EU Bachelor’s students and €3,950 for eligible non-EU Master’s students at relevant public institutions. Exemptions and different fee structures can apply.
Can international students work in France?
Eligible students can generally work up to 964 hours per year under the applicable student status rules.
Can I work 20 hours every week?
The annual limit is 964 hours. The practical weekly distribution can vary; the rule should not be interpreted as an unconditional 20-hour entitlement every single week.
Do I need a student visa?
For courses lasting more than three months, non-EU students generally need the applicable long-stay student visa/residence process.
Can I stay in France after graduation?
Certain graduates may qualify for a job-search or business-creation route, subject to specific eligibility requirements.
Can students with study gaps apply?
Some programmes may consider students with study gaps, but acceptance depends on the institution and course.