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Study in France

Student Questions

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France

Why study in France?

Hub of Education

France is one of the most sought after study-abroad destinations, inviting abundant number of students every year from all over the world. In addition to a good educational experience, studying in France leads to good career opportunities internationally after graduation. France is better known for its high level of technological development, culture and reputation in the education system, which attracts number of young aspirants here every academic year. For many years, France has held its prominent place in subjects like Mathematics, Astrophysics, Biology, Medicine (Medicine in France), Genetics, Physics and other science subjects. The past record of the country in relation to its contribution to science and research field, its achievement is tremendous. It is also well known for its Elite " Grande Ecole " with selective entry levels for the best students in areas such as Business, Engineering. Thus, many foreign students choose to pursue their higher studies in France due to its technological progress.

Affordable Life

More than a fifth of respective students living in provincial towns will experience reasonable living costs, lower than most European capitals. The French government very often provides students as well as international students with some financial help for accommodation upto about one third for successful students. It is also easy for them to explore central Europe in their spare time due to France's geographical division. Living in France can be relatively cheaper compared to the United Kingdom. As many advisories provide, the cost of living is dependent upon your lifestyle with the cost of going out an aspect that you need to consider, as it is easy to get lost in the sights and sounds of the French jet-set and haute couture lifestyle.

French is not essential

French Universities and Grande Ecoles are now increasingly using English as the medium of instruction especially in areas like management, engineering, political sciences etc for French and international students. For students lacking proficiency in French, it is usually taught as a subject in their curriculum during the course time.

Rich in Art and Culture

France is perhaps one of the most traditionally Rich countries in Europe with a Rich flavour of art and tradition. France holds different meanings for different people. France is the number1 touristdestination in the world for many different reasons (architecture, sight seeing, culture).While some connect it with romanticism, most adore it for its deep and vast art and culture. France is the home to many famous paintings like Monet. French architecture is unparalleled in the world with its unique style. Magnificent pieces of architecture still erected, have the influence of different periods in history from the Eiffel Tower, to the Ave de triumphe. This ranges from the most modern to the antique buildings.

Excellence in Science and Technology

In the Information Technology sector, France ranks second in Europe and fourth in the world. France is in the forefront of technological progress in several fields. France is responsible for the monitoring and technical management of the European space program Ariane, the operational launcher of several dozen communications and observation satellites.

Institutions Represented

  • Dijon Burgundy School Of Business
  • Grenoble School of Management
  • EM Strasbourg Business School
  • Esigelec School of Engineering (Grande ecole)
  • Le Cordon Bleu
  • Neoma Business School
  • Normandy Business School
  • Novancia Business School Paris
  • Skema Business School
  • Pass World (6 Grande Ecoles)
  • Schiller International University
  • Telecom Ecole De Management

Education System

The French educational system is highly centralized; organized and ramified .It is divided into 3 different stages:

  • Primary education
  • Secondary education
  • Higher education

Primary Education

In France, kids start school very early, school starts 3 (for almost 100%) and children spend 3 years in kindergarten, schooling is compulsory until age 16.

Secondary Education

For secondary education age is from 11 to 15 which is know as BEPC which is equivalent to 10 th in India, then the students who completes secondary school in France receive a diploma known as the Baccalaureate which is equivalent to 12th in India.

Higher education

Higher education is offered in different institution. There are two different types of education institutes that International Students usually you can choose from Universities and Grande Ecoles.

Universities

There are about 88 public Universities spread throughout the country. They cover the entire range of academic disciplines from the sciences, including Mathematics, chemistry, physics and biology to technology, covering computer science, engineering, material science and electrical engineering through to literature, language, the arts, the social science, law economics management health sports and more. The university covers all disciplines and trains student for research. Students are usually in larger classes with fewer support systems. The fee structure is sometimes lower than the other countries.

Grande Ecoles

The Grande Ecoles are uniquely French institutions, created in the early 19th century in parallel to the university system; they are extremely selective and offer education of a very high standard. There are over 300 Grande Ecoles in France covering different subject areas. The fee structure can sometimes be higher but students benefit from smaller class sizes, better support systems and excellent networks (alumni companies and international partners). These can be either Public or Private Institutions or part of both.

Popular Courses

MBA, IT, Engineering, Fashion , Art and Design
Entry Requirements for Masters.
MBA: A good bachelor degree, 2 to 3 year work experience, GMAT
Master: Good bachelor degree
English requirement + Eligibility:
IELTS with score of band 6 is mandatory to secure the admission in France.

Ranking and Acrrediation

There are several ranking are published by reputable newspaper and specialized press. The Grande Ecole always comes out of top. They are also highly accredited institutions.

  • The UK financial Times has ranked the Best Business schools in Europe, X of them are French Grande Ecoles
  • For example the best Grande Ecole Business Schools are accredited by EQUIS, AMBA, AACSB (international accreditations). They are also approved by the government. The best Grande Ecole
  • Engineering Schools are accredited by the French Board of Engineering Degrees.
  • Member of the CGE (French Conference of top management and engineering Schools) and the CDEFI (Conference of Directors of French Engineering Schools). Awarded the EURACE label.

Application Procedure

  • All the applicants must submit certified true copies of relevant documents along with the application form. They must bring originals to Edwise offices also.
  • The school which you have applied will decide on the recognition of your academic background and will decide at which level you can qualify to enter.
  • If the application is successful you will receive a conditional/confirmation offer letter from them which can be used for a long stay student resident visa.
  • You need to complete Registration and pay the first installment fees and send it to the School. The School will send you details on how to apply for accommodation later on.
  • The applicant needs to take an appointment with the French embassy for a visa interview and to verify the financial documents along with the visa documents at the Embassy of France or the consulates in Mumbai.
  • Applicants must complete the online procedure. They will find details about this at campusfrance.org and on the India CF page.
  • After considering the complete application Approval is given by the French Embassy within 48 hrs.
  • After the visa approval the student can book their tickets.

Intakes:

The major intake in France is September and February.

Documents Required

  • Confirmed admission letter from French University/school
  • Final admission letter - unconditional
  • Proof of Accommodation in France
  • Proof of Financial Resources
  • Overseas Medical Insurance
  • Flight tickets
  • Academic Degree Certificate
  • Resume
  • Valid Passport

Industry and Employement

Work Permit

Working in France during your studies: International students are entitled to work part time upto 20 hours a week off campus. French legislation now authorizes foreign students to work a maximum of 964 hours per year. In France there is a guaranteed minimum salary, which is 8.71 gross per hour.

Working in France after your studies: Once you have obtained a degree equivalent to a Master's or higher degree, you may request a temporary residence permit after expiration of your "student" residence permit. The temporary residence permit is valid for six months and is non-renewable.

  • This permit authorizes you to work in any kind of salaried job you choose, up to a limit of 60% of the legally permitted number of working hours.
  • If you sign an employment contract that is in a field related to your studies and whose remuneration is at least equal to one and a half times the SMIC, you will then be able to work full time and request a change in status (from student to employee) from the Pr'fecture administrative offices.
  • At the end of your studies, you can also be recruited by a company even if you are not an EU national.
  • You will then have to change your legal status (from student to employee) through a specific procedure.
  • You will have to present an employment contract or an employment offer from a French company. In evaluating your request, the authorities will consider various factors, such as the company's reasons for making the offer, your profile and the number of years of study completed.

FAQ

Is French Language compulsory in France?

No, French Universities are now using English as the language of instruction especially in areas like Management, engineering, Political science etc, to attract more international students. It is advisable to learn some French in order to compete with French Students.

May I work in France?

International Students may work part time if their timetable permits as long as they are registered at an institution approved by the French social security system. Even first year students coming to France for the first time have the right to work part time 20 hrs per week.

What Visa status will I have as a student?

International students coming from countries outside the European Union for programmes more than 6 months must obtain a long term students visa from the French consulate.

How can I find housing in France?

Several housing plans are available for International students enrolling at French Universities and Institution. They help the students to find the accommodation.

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