The top universities in France for Indian students in 2026 include Université Paris-Saclay, PSL University, Sorbonne University, HEC Paris, École Polytechnique, Sciences Po Paris, Université Grenoble Alpes, Aix-Marseille University, University of Strasbourg, and Université de Montpellier. These universities offer English-taught programs, low tuition at public institutions, scholarships for Indian students, and strong post-study job opportunities across Europe.
France has become one of the most preferred study destinations for Indian students because of affordable public universities, English-taught programs, scholarships, strong job opportunities, and a two-year post-study work option. In 2026, more Indian students are choosing France over other European countries due to lower tuition fees and high academic quality.
This guide lists the top 10 universities in France for Indian students in 2026, based on rankings, course availability, affordability, scholarships, and career outcomes.
Why Indian Students Choose France in 2026
Indian students prefer France because:
- Public universities charge low tuition fees
- Many master’s programs are taught in English
- Scholarships reduce tuition and living costs
- 2-year post-study work visa after master’s degree
- Strong demand for engineers, IT, data science, and business graduates
- Safe cities and good student support
Top 10 Universities in France for Indian Students
1. Université Paris-Saclay
Université Paris-Saclay is the top choice for Indian students in engineering, computer science, AI, and data science. It consistently ranks among the top universities in Europe.
Why Indian students choose it:
- Strong STEM programs
- Low public tuition fees
- Paris-region job opportunities
- English-taught master’s programs
Popular courses: Engineering, AI, Computer Science, Physics, Data Science
2. PSL University (Paris Sciences et Lettres)
PSL University is a group of elite institutions known for research and innovation. It attracts high-performing Indian students.
Why it stands out:
- Top global ranking
- Excellent research funding
- Strong academic reputation
- English-taught postgraduate programs
Popular courses: Data Science, Mathematics, Economics, AI, Physics
3. Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University is one of the oldest and most respected universities in Europe and is highly popular among Indian students.
Key advantages:
- Affordable public university fees
- Wide range of English-taught programs
- Strong science and medicine departments
- Located in central Paris
Popular courses: Life Sciences, Computer Science, Engineering, Humanities
4. HEC Paris
HEC Paris is the best business school in France and one of the top in the world.
Why Indian students apply:
- Excellent MBA and management programs
- High salary placements
- Global corporate network
- Strong brand value in India
Popular courses: MBA, Master in Management, Finance, Strategy
5. École Polytechnique
École Polytechnique is among the most prestigious engineering schools in France.
Why it is ideal for Indian engineers:
- Strong technical education
- High graduate salaries
- Global employer recognition
- Research-focused environment
Popular courses: Engineering, Mathematics, Data Science, AI
6. Sciences Po Paris
Sciences Po is best for Indian students interested in social sciences, policy, and international relations.
Why Indian students choose it:
- English-taught programs
- Strong international exposure
- Excellent career outcomes in policy and consulting
Popular courses: International Relations, Political Science, Public Policy
7. Université Grenoble Alpes
Université Grenoble Alpes university is very popular among Indian students because of low fees and strong engineering programs.
Why it is attractive:
- Affordable tuition
- Strong technology and science departments
- Good student life and lower living cost
Popular courses: Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Environmental Science
8. Aix-Marseille University
Aix-Marseille University is a large public university offering affordable education and many English-taught programs.
Why Indian students consider it:
- Lower cost of living
- Strong medicine and law programs
- Mediterranean lifestyle
Popular courses: Medicine, Law, Environmental Science, Business
9. University of Strasbourg
Located near Germany, University of Strasbourg is well known for European studies and research.
Why it suits Indian students:
- Public university fees
- International research environment
- Multilingual culture
Popular courses: Law, Biotechnology, Chemistry, European Studies
10. Université de Montpellier
A top university for health sciences and biology, with affordable education.
Why Indian students like it:
- Strong life science programs
- Budget-friendly city
- Scholarships available
Popular courses: Medicine, Biotechnology, Environmental Science
Conclusion
France is one of the smartest study abroad choices for Indian students in 2026. With world-ranked universities, affordable public education, scholarships, and strong career prospects, it offers excellent value for money. Universities like Paris-Saclay, Sorbonne, HEC Paris, and Grenoble Alpes provide high-quality education with global recognition, making France a top destination for Indian students planning their future abroad.
Related Blogs:
- Living Expenses for International Students in France
- Why Study in France: Key Advantages for International Students
- Top French Universities for International Students
- Part-Time Job Opportunities for International Students in France
- Living in France as an International Student: Culture, Campus, and Beyond
- Top Courses to Study in France for International Students
FAQs
1. Which is the best university in France for indian students?
Université Paris-Saclay and PSL University are considered among the best due to rankings and academic excellence.
2. Are French universities affordable for indian students?
Yes, public universities in France offer low tuition fees compared to other European countries.
3. Do French universities offer English-taught programs?
Yes. Most top universities offer English-taught programs at the master’s level, especially in STEM and business.
4. Is France a good option for Indian students?
Yes. France offers scholarships, English-taught programs, and a two-year post-study work opportunity for master’s graduates.
5. Can international students work in France while studying?
Yes. Students can work up to 964 hours per year alongside their studies.
6. Which French universities are best for engineering and technology?
Université Paris-Saclay, École Polytechnique and Université Grenoble Alpes are the best choices for engineering, AI, computer science and technology programs.
7. Which university in France is best for business and management studies?
HEC Paris is the top university for business and management studies, followed by ESSEC, ESCP and other leading French business schools.
8. Are French public universities good for international students?
Yes. French public universities offer globally recognised degrees, low tuition fees and strong research opportunities for international students.
9. What is the average tuition fee at top French universities?
Public universities charge around €2,700–€4,000 per year, while business schools and grandes écoles have higher fees depending on the program.
10. Which French universities offer the most English-taught programs?
Université Paris-Saclay, PSL University, Sorbonne University, Université Grenoble Alpes and Sciences Po offer many English-taught master’s programs.
11. Is France affordable for international students compared to other countries?
Yes. France is more affordable than the UK and the US due to low public tuition fees and student housing support.
12. Which city in France is best for international students?
Paris offers top universities and jobs, while Grenoble, Montpellier and Lyon are better for affordability and student lifestyle.
13. Do French universities offer scholarships for international students?
Yes. Scholarships include Eiffel Excellence, Emile Boutmy, Erasmus+, Paris-Saclay scholarships and university-specific grants.
14. Can international students stay in France after graduation?
Yes. Master’s graduates can apply for a 2-year post-study work visa, allowing them to search for jobs or start working in France.
15. Are French degrees recognised globally?
Yes. Degrees from top French universities are recognised worldwide and valued by employers across Europe, North America and Asia.