France Sees 17% Rise in Indian Students, Aims for 30,000 by 2030

France has witnessed a 17% surge in Indian student enrolments for the 2024–25 academic year, according to the Embassy of France in India. The growth reflects the nation’s long-term goal of welcoming 30,000 Indian students by 2030, strengthening bilateral educational and cultural ties between India and France to encourage students to study in France.

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Choose France Tour 2025: Connecting Indian Students with French Universities

The French Embassy launched the Choose France Tour 2025, a flagship higher education outreach campaign that began in Chennai on October 5 and will visit Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai through October 11.

The initiative brings together over 50 leading French universities, engineering schools, business institutions, and art academies, offering Indian students direct access to information on:

• Academic programs and admission requirements
• Scholarships and funding options
• France Student Visa guidance and post-study work opportunities
• Student life and accommodation in France

“France’s commitment to India is stronger than ever. Our goal to host 30,000 Indian students by 2030 reflects our faith in Indian talent and shared global future,” said Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India.

Check Out: Top Universities in France

India–France: A Partnership in Talent and Innovation

Ambassador Mathou emphasized that each Indian student is viewed as a future partner in bilateral relations, contributing to both nations’ innovation ecosystems. He also highlighted France’s flagship initiatives, including Classes Internationales and streamlined visa processes, designed to simplify international student mobility.

France currently has over 1,000 French employers operating in India, and universities are expanding collaborations with Indian institutions to enhance employability and global exposure for graduates.

Check Out: Jobs in France for International Students

Why Indian Students Are Choosing France

France is becoming one of Europe’s fastest-growing destinations for Indian students, offering a blend of quality education, affordable tuition, and strong post-study career options.

Key reasons include:

• Globally ranked universities offering courses in English
• Affordable tuition compared to the UK or US
• 2-year post-study work visa

Numerous scholarships for Indian students, including the Charpak Programme and Make Our Planet Great Again Fellowship

Snapshot: France’s Higher Education Goals for Indian Students

What This Means for Indian Students?

The rising enrolment figures and continued diplomatic engagement mark a new phase in Indo-French educational cooperation.

For Indian students, the growing number of English-taught master’s programs, scholarship opportunities, and streamlined visa processes make France an attractive alternative to the UK, Canada, and Australia.

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