Top Universities in Canada for International Students in 2025 – Complete Guide
Top Universities in France for International Students
People usually tend to not take this seriously, but your future is heavily influenced by the institution you choose today. I current times, where global employability, industry relevance, and international networking determine your career trajectory, choosing the right university becomes very important. It is more like a launchpad of your successful career.
France, long renowned for fashion, food, and fine living, is now cementing its position as a top-tier education hub, particularly for Indian and international students seeking quality education in business, management, technology, and beyond. With a rise in English-taught programmes, industry-connected curriculums, and globally ranked institutions, France is no longer just an aesthetic experience, it’s an academic powerhouse.
We have curated some of the Best Colleges in France which are providing good number of opportunities to the international students. Continue reading to find out what they offer and how they can help you to step onto a successful career.
Why Choose France?
France offers a high return on investment, with significantly lower tuition fees than the UK or US, yet degrees that are equally respected worldwide. Graduates from master’s programmes benefit from a two-year Post-Study Work Visa, adding great value to their international experience. The country’s strong global network, with over 500 French companies operating in India, including Capgemini, BNP Paribas, and Dassault makes returning home a strategic advantage for career growth. Moreover, the Cost of Living in France remains affordable, especially in student-friendly cities like Clermont-Ferrand, Angers, and Lyon.
Top Universities in France
We’re not naming the usual “Top 10” on every other blog. Instead, we’re giving you industry-aligned, application-ready institutions you can actually get into and benefit from.
1. KEDGE Business School
Location: Marseille, Bordeaux, Paris
Known for: International Business, Finance, Luxury Brand Management
Why Choose KEDGE:
- Triple-accredited (EQUIS, AACSB, AMBA)
- 12,000+ students from 120+ nationalities
- Strong industry tie-ups with L’Oréal, Accor, and Decathlon
Entry Route: Bachelor’s or Master’s through standard international applications
Related Read: PGDM in Dubai – DY Patil’s Global PGDM
2. ESSCA School of Management
Location: Angers, Paris, Lyon
Popular Courses: Management, Marketing, International Affairs
Why ESSCA:
- Accredited by AACSB, AMBA, and EPAS
- Part of France’s prestigious Grandes Écoles
- International internships and exchange programmes across 60 countries
Add-on Advantage: Ranked in the top 100 for global employability (QS Rankings)
Linked Topic: Study in UK – Top Reasons to Consider
3. Schiller International University
Location: Paris Campus
Key Strength: International Relations, Hospitality & Tourism, Global Business
Why Schiller:
- 100% English-taught programmes
- American-style education with French global exposure
- Monthly intakes, no need to wait a full year to get started
Highlight: Flexibility to study across Schiller campuses globally (US, Germany, Spain)
Explore More: International Engineering Program
4. ESDES Business School
Location: Lyon
What Stands Out: Business & Digital Innovation
Why It’s Unique:
- Built inside Université Catholique de Lyon, giving access to interdisciplinary faculties
- Strong corporate partnerships with Deloitte, EY, and LVMH
- Focus on ethical leadership and sustainable management
Degree Type: State-recognised Master’s in Management
Related Blog: Best Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students
5. College De Paris
Location: Paris
Highlights: Fashion, Design, Digital Marketing
Why Students Choose It:
- Deep links with luxury brands and creative industries
- Modern campus right in the heart of Paris
- All programmes taught in English
Who It’s For: Those targeting fashion-tech, entrepreneurship, and digital careers
Check This: Study in France – Full Application Guide
6. Clermont School of Business (ESC Clermont)
Location: Clermont-Ferrand
Known For: Business Analytics, Project Management
Why It Stands Out:
- 98% employability within 6 months of graduation
- Ranked in the Top 100 European Business Schools
- Affordable living + world-class education = win-win
Student Cities Focus: Safe, student-friendly, budget-conscious
Linked Resource: Cost of Studying in UK vs France
7. Aivancity School for Technology, Business & Society
Location: Cachan (Greater Paris)
Top Courses: Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Tech Management
What Makes Aivancity Unique:
- The only school in France focusing entirely on AI & Data ethics
- Courses taught by leading tech professionals and researchers
- Mix of hard tech + soft skills (ethics, society, innovation)
Good To Know: Entry with both STEM and business backgrounds
Explore: GMAT Exam – Score vs Profile
8. Ecole de Management Appliqué (EMA)
Location: Paris
Specialisations: Sales, Marketing, Digital Commerce
Why EMA?
- Application-centric curriculum
- Emphasis on real-world business projects
- Small class sizes, individual mentorship
Student Fit: Best for those wanting hands-on experience from Day 1
See Also: Career Counselling for Indian Students
9. ESDES University (Different from ESDES Business School)
Location: Paris
Courses: General Business, Entrepreneurship, Communication
Why Consider It:
- Practical training in core business subjects
- Strong network with French start-up scene
- Affordable tuition fees with scholarship options
Recommended For: Early-stage professionals, business grads
Also Read: Scholarships to Study in USA – Are You Eligible?
10-Step Application Flowchart to Study in France
Things To Look for While Shortlisting
Here are five data-driven tips:
- Accreditations (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS)
- Internship support (mandatory internships are a big plus)
- Language of instruction (choose English-taught)
- Graduate employability rate (check recent alumni data)
- Student visa extensions/post-study work options
What Do Recruiters Look for in French University Graduates?
Recruiters highly value graduates from French universities for their cross-cultural competence and multilingual exposure, which are vital in today’s global workforce. The emphasis on project-based learning equips students with practical, real-world problem-solving skills, while opportunities to engage with start-ups or entrepreneurial ventures further enhance their professional profile. Additionally, international internships across the EU reflect strong global mobility. A major value-add of studying in France is the access it provides to the entire Schengen job market, significantly broadening career prospects beyond France alone.
Scholarships You Can Apply For
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
- Charpak Scholarships (by French Embassy in India)
- Campus France Scholarships
- University-specific waivers and bursaries (each university listed above offers their own)
Most of the above are merit-based, require a strong SOP, and must be applied at the time of admission. You can learn more about the Scholarships in France here, in this detailed blog.
Ready to Take the Leap?
A degree from a top university in France doesn’t just make you employable, it makes you globally agile. In a world where skills matter more than passports, a high-value international education becomes your greatest investment.
At MetaApply IE, we offer expert counselling to help you find the right course, college, and destination. Our team supports you throughout the process, from application submission to securing financial aid and preparing for visa interviews.
Our experienced counsellors ensure every detail is taken care of, making your journey smooth, fast, and tailored to you. With TestPrep support, career counselling, and a deep understanding of global admissions, we’re here to help you not just apply but succeed.
If you’re driven to make a difference, pursuing your education abroad is your ideal first step. Let us guide you to it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the top universities in France for Indian students include KEDGE Business School, ESSCA School of Management, ESDES Business School, College De Paris, and Clermont School of Business. These institutions offer globally recognised degrees, English-taught programmes, and strong career outcomes, making them ideal for international students.
Yes, studying at top universities in France is highly worthwhile for international students due to affordable tuition fees, high ROI, excellent post-study work opportunities, and internationally accredited degrees. Institutions like Schiller International University and Aivancity University provide career-focused education that is globally relevant.
You can apply by selecting your university, preparing key documents (SOP, CV, transcripts), submitting your application online, and applying for a visa. MetaApply IE offers end-to-end guidance to simplify the process.
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