Study in France - Why France is a great study abroad destination

France stands as one of the top choices for international students, drawing them in with its exceptional education quality, remarkably affordable tuition fees, and the delightful French lifestyle. It holds the position as the fourth-most sought-after destination for international students, trailing only behind the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Notably, France claims the title of the most popular non-English-speaking country for international students. 

In 2018, approximately 325,000 international students opted to pursue their studies in France, and this figure continues to rise annually.

Furthermore, France actively participates in global events, holding prominent positions as a key member of the European Union and Eurozone, a seat on the United Nations Security Council, membership in the Group of Seven (G7), affiliation with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), involvement with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and participation in the World Trade Organization (WTO).
With over 250,000 international students selecting France as their preferred study abroad destination, it comes as no surprise that France holds the 8th position globally and the 5th in Europe among the world’s top study destinations. Beyond academic appeal, France is also the 3rd choice among students seeking to immerse themselves in a new culture or lifestyle, thanks to its rich cultural heritage, renowned cuisine, captivating sightseeing, and globally acclaimed universities.

Significant Statistics

  • Over the last decade, global student enrollment has increased by 50%.
  • By 2025, an additional 80 million students are anticipated worldwide.
  • In 2018, approximately 325,000 international students were enrolled in French institutions.
  • French higher education programs overseas entice 37,000 students.

Exploring Your Next Study Destination in Europe? Consider studying abroad in France! The advantages of studying overseas are numerous, and France provides a distinctive academic setting for any student seeking a sophisticated and dynamic environment to thrive in.

Known as the French Republic or République française, France is a Western European country that also extends into overseas regions like South America, French Guiana, and various islands in the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic oceans. It shares borders with Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Monaco, Italy, Andorra, Spain, and the Netherlands. Interestingly, France holds the record for having the most time zones, numbering twelve, owing to its diverse territories worldwide.

So, why is choosing to study abroad in France the optimal decision for your academic and cultural growth? Picture living in a country with breathtaking landscapes, from the magnificent capital, Paris, to the charming villages of the French South, the sprawling vineyards of Bordeaux, the fairy-tale city of Strasbourg, or the enchanting French Alps blanketed in snow.

In 1998, the French government implemented an active support policy aimed at welcoming foreign students to French educational institutions. This policy, devised and executed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, consists of four key components:

  1. Modification of the visa policy, simplifying the process and prioritizing all students. Two exceptional measures have been implemented: the reconsideration of refusals based on motivation and the establishment of the right to appeal.
  2. Establishment of the Campus France Agency, prominently engaged in educational fairs to promote French higher education in foreign countries. It is strongly recommended that all students interested in studying in France visit the agency's website: www.campusfrance.org/en.
  3. Ongoing efforts to create a European University with the goal of ensuring the reliability of diplomas obtained in the country.
  4. Implementation of a revamped program for French Government grants, designed to make them more appealing to foreign students and align them with the internationalization objectives of French higher education institutions.

Student Life

France boasts a notably high standard of living, and one thing is certain: your experience of studying in France is bound to be fantastic and life-changing.
The country caters to diverse preferences, extending beyond the realms of wine and cheese enthusiasts. Whether you fancy a lively urban setting, serene mountains, or the laid-back ambiance of the Mediterranean coast, you'll discover a suitable destination. Paris provides a unique metropolitan vibe within a charming setting. Marseille and Montpellier are situated right along the Mediterranean coast, complete with summer beaches. Rennes or Nantes offer proximity to the rugged Atlantic coasts. Moreover, from Grenoble or Lyon, the Alps are easily accessible.

Employment Opportunities in France After Graduation

Fluency in the French language can pose a significant challenge for those intending to remain in France after completing their Bachelor's or Master's degree. Achieving fluency, or at least a high level of proficiency, is often a prerequisite for finding employment. Despite this linguistic hurdle, compared to several other European countries, launching a career in France after graduation is relatively straightforward for international students.

Transportation In and Around France

For those studying in Paris, transportation options abound. With direct flights available from nearly every corner of the globe, Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) stands as the busiest airport in continental Europe, while Paris Orly is the second-largest local airport. From either airport, numerous domestic flights and train connections facilitate easy travel to various parts of France.

Should you wish to explore Europe during your studies in France, you're in for a treat. The country's strategic location allows for convenient short trips, with borders adjoining Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Spain. Moreover, the United Kingdom is just a short distance across the Channel.

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