The top courses to study in France for international students include Engineering, Computer Science and AI, Business and Management, Data Science, Medicine and Life Sciences, International Relations, Hospitality and Tourism, Fashion and Luxury Brand Management, Economics and Finance, and Environmental Science. These courses are offered by leading French universities with English-taught programs, affordable tuition fees, scholarships, and strong employment opportunities across Europe.
The top courses to study in France for international students include Engineering, Computer Science and AI, Business and Management, Data Science, Medicine and Life Sciences, International Relations, Hospitality and Tourism, Fashion and Luxury Brand Management, Economics and Finance, and Environmental Science. These courses are offered by leading French universities with English-taught programs, affordable tuition fees, scholarships, and strong employment opportunities across Europe.
Why Choose France for Higher Education?
- Globally ranked universities and grandes écoles
- Public universities with low tuition fees
- Wide range of English-taught master’s programs
- Strong internship and industry exposure
- Two-year post-study work option after master’s degrees
- Access to European job markets
Top Courses to Study in France for International Students
1. Engineering
Engineering is one of the most in-demand fields in France, supported by strong industrial and research ecosystems.
Popular specialisations:
Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Aerospace, Robotics, Automotive Engineering
Top universities:
École Polytechnique, Université Paris-Saclay, Université Grenoble Alpes, Politecnico-style engineering schools
Career scope:
High employability in aerospace, automotive, energy and manufacturing sectors across Europe.
2. Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
France is a growing hub for AI, software development and digital innovation, making this one of the best courses to study.
Popular specialisations:
Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering
Top universities:
Université Paris-Saclay, PSL University, Sorbonne University, Université Grenoble Alpes
Career scope:
Strong demand in tech companies, startups, research labs and multinational firms.
3. Business & Management
France is home to some of the best business schools in Europe, offering globally recognised degrees.
Popular programs:
MBA, Master in Management (MiM), International Business, Marketing, Strategy
Top institutions:
HEC Paris, ESSEC, ESCP, EDHEC, emlyon
Career scope:
Consulting, finance, marketing, management roles across Europe and globally.
4. Data Science & Analytics
With the rise of big data and AI, data-focused programs are highly valued in France.
Popular specialisations:
Data Science, Business Analytics, Statistics, AI-driven Analytics
Top universities:
Université Paris-Saclay, Université Grenoble Alpes, University of Paris, ENS-affiliated programs
Career scope:
Data analyst, data scientist, AI consultant roles in technology and finance sectors.
5. Medicine & Life Sciences
France has a strong reputation for medical education, biotechnology and life sciences research.
Popular programs:
Medicine, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences
Top universities:
Université de Montpellier, University of Paris, University of Padua-style medical faculties, Sorbonne University
Career scope:
Healthcare, research, pharmaceuticals and public health sectors.
6. International Relations & Political Science
France plays a key role in global diplomacy, making it an ideal destination for social science studies.
Popular programs:
International Relations, Political Science, Public Policy, European Studies
Top universities:
Sciences Po Paris, University of Strasbourg, Sorbonne University
Career scope:
Diplomacy, NGOs, policy research, international organisations.
7. Hospitality, Tourism & Hotel Management
France is the world’s top tourism destination, creating strong demand for hospitality professionals.
Popular programs:
Hospitality Management, Tourism Management, Event Management
Top institutions:
Vatel, Institut Paul Bocuse, universities with hospitality programs
Career scope:
Hotels, resorts, tourism companies, luxury service industries.
8. Fashion & Luxury Brand Management
As the global capital of fashion and luxury, France offers unmatched opportunities in this field.
Popular programs:
Fashion Management, Luxury Brand Management, Design and Merchandising
Top institutions:
ESMOD, Institut Français de la Mode, HEC Paris (luxury management tracks)
Career scope:
Luxury brands, fashion houses, global retail companies.
9. Economics & Finance
France offers strong academic and professional training in economics and finance.
Popular programs:
Economics, Finance, International Economics, Financial Engineering
Top universities:
Paris School of Economics, HEC Paris, Université Paris-Saclay
Career scope:
Banking, finance, policy research, economic consulting.
10. Environmental Science & Sustainability
With a strong focus on climate action, France is a leading destination for sustainability studies.
Popular programs:
Environmental Science, Climate Studies, Sustainable Development
Top universities:
Université Grenoble Alpes, Sorbonne University, PSL University
Career scope:
Environmental consulting, research, sustainability management.
Cost of Studying These Courses in France
| Course Type | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Public Universities | €2,700 – €4,000 |
| Engineering Grandes Écoles | €10,000 – €18,000 |
| Business Schools | €15,000 – €45,000 |
Scholarships and fee waivers are widely available.
Conclusion
France offers a diverse range of high-quality courses for international students, combining academic excellence with affordability and strong career prospects. From engineering and AI to business, fashion and international relations, French universities provide globally recognised degrees, English-taught programs and access to European job markets. With low public university tuition fees, scholarships and post-study work opportunities, France remains one of the best study destinations for international students in 2026.
FAQs
1. Which course is best to study in France for international students?
Engineering, computer science, business, data science and life sciences are among the best courses due to strong demand and career scope.
2. Are courses in France taught in English?
Yes. Many master’s programs are fully taught in English, especially in STEM and business fields.
3. Which courses in France offer high-paying jobs?
Courses like engineering, AI, data science, finance and MBA programs offer the highest salary potential.
4. Is France a good destination for Indian students?
Yes. France offers affordable tuition, scholarships, English-taught programs and a two-year post-study work option.
5. Can international students work while studying in France?
Yes. Students can work up to 964 hours per year alongside their studies.
6. Which course in France has the highest job demand?
Engineering, computer science, artificial intelligence and data science have the highest job demand in France and across Europe.
7. Which courses in France are best for Indian students?
Engineering, business management, data science, computer science, hospitality and luxury brand management are popular among Indian students.
8. Are French degrees recognised internationally?
Yes. Degrees from French universities are globally recognised and highly valued by employers worldwide.
9. Can I study business in France in English?
Yes. Most French business schools offer English-taught MBA, MiM and management programs for international students.
10. Which course is best for PR or long-term stay in France?
STEM fields, business, healthcare and research-based programs offer better job opportunities, supporting long-term stay in France.
11. Is France good for engineering students?
Yes. France has a strong engineering ecosystem with top universities, research institutions and global companies.
12. What is the duration of master’s courses in France?
Most master’s programs in France last 2 years, while some specialised programs run for 12–18 months.
13. Are internships included in French university courses?
Yes. Many programs include mandatory internships, improving employability and practical skills.
14. Which course is best for high salary in France?
Engineering, AI, data science, finance and MBA programs offer the highest salary potential.
15. Can international students change courses after arriving in France?
Course changes are possible but subject to university approval and visa regulations.