France Sets Bold Target to Welcome 30,000 Indian Students by 2030

By Aahana May 16, 2025
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In a significant step towards deepening Indo-French educational ties, France has announced plans to host 30,000 Indian students by 2030, nearly tripling the current numbers. The announcement was made by French Ambassador to India, Thierry Mathou, during a recent roundtable with The Times of India editors.

With over 8,000 Indian students enrolled for the 2023–2024 academic year and the 10,000 mark expected to be crossed in 2025, France is fast becoming a top choice for Indian students. Ambassador Mathou described the initiative as “ambitious” and unique, noting that France has signed agreements with 35 universities to launch ‘Classes Internationales’, exclusive one-year foundation programs tailored specifically for Indian students.

“These programs are designed to eliminate language barriers while offering a smooth transition into French academia by the second year,” Mathou stated. They combine intensive French training with subject-specific coursework, ensuring Indian students are fully integrated into the system.

France’s popularity among Indian students has grown, especially in business education. Indian students now form the largest foreign student group in French business schools, thanks to English-taught courses and a rising global reputation of institutions like INSEAD, HEC Paris, and Sciences Po.

Beyond academics, the initiative supports long-term collaboration, aiming to avoid brain drain. “We want the best… and we want those students to come back to India,” said Mathou, highlighting the over 800 French companies in India employing more than 500,000 Indians.

France offers robust post-study work options, including a 24-month residence permit to seek jobs or start businesses. The affordable education model, with public universities charging between €2,770–€3,770 annually, combined with scholarships like Charpak and Eiffel, further enhances France’s appeal.

As France strengthens its educational and economic ties with India, its vision goes beyond numbers, building a shared future rooted in mutual growth, innovation, and opportunity.

Source: TIMES OF INDIA

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