France Opens Doors Wider for Indian Students!

Amidst the numerous restrictions imposed by the US on foreign students, France aims to strengthen educational ties with India. By 2030, France is planning to welcome 30,000 Indian students into their country. This is a sharp rise from the current 8,000 enrolled for 2023-24 academic year. Hence, it could be the best alternative to the US, for pursuing higher academics for Indian students.

French ambassador Thierry Mathou, speaking to an English daily, said that the readiness of France to welcome Indian students is part of a broader plan to deepen people-to-people connections under the India-France strategic partnership.

France, according to a report in the leading English daily, has introduced tailored measures to attract Indian students. As part of it, special one-year “classes internationals” would be held in 35 French universities. The curriculum to be pursued in these universities includes intensive training in French language, for all those completing high school. Introductory courses in the chosen field will also be conducted.

The language training is exclusive for Indian students and would not be offered to those from other countries. The tailored measures have been initiated after many French business schools saw a rise in Indian enrolments. The French officials said that they want to attract the students, not in huge volumes but with quality.

At the same time, France also wants the Indian students to return to India where they would find job prospects in French companies operating in India. There are 800 French companies operating in India, employing over 5,00,000 Indians. Visa procedures have also been streamlined.

France also streamlined the visa procedures. As part of it, the Embassy of France would process Schengen visa applications by Indian tourists, students, and professionals within 48 hours of receiving the documents. These measures are aimed at strengthening the bilateral ties between both the countries.