France Scholarships for Indian Students

France is a prime destination for Indian students seeking high-quality education, with over 430,000 international students enrolled in its universities in 2025, including around 15,000 from India. The French government aims to welcome 30,000 Indian students annually by 2030, offering numerous scholarships to make education accessible. Below is a comprehensive guide to scholarships for Indian students in France for 2025, focusing on master’s programs in business (e.g., accounting, finance, management) to align with your interest in business schools, as expressed in your queries about Canada and the UK. It covers key scholarships, eligibility, benefits, application processes, and tips, tailored for Indian students pursuing higher education in France.

Why Study in France?

France offers a compelling mix of academic excellence, affordability, and career opportunities, particularly in business:

Top-Ranked Universities: Institutions like Sorbonne University, École Polytechnique, and Sciences Po rank in the QS World University Rankings 2025 top 500, with 14 French universities in the top 500 globally.
Affordable Tuition: Public universities charge €200–€600/year for master’s programs, though private business schools (e.g., EDHEC, HEC Paris) range from €10,000–€30,000/year.
Business Hub: Paris, ranked 7th in QS Best Student Cities 2025, hosts financial giants like BNP Paribas and L’Oréal, ideal for accounting and finance careers.
Scholarships: Over 500 Indian students receive scholarships annually, with the French government investing €2 million (₹17 crore) yearly.
Post-Study Work: The 2-year post-study visa (APS) allows graduates to seek employment, with pathways to permanent residency via Express Entry.
English-Taught Programs: Over 1,600 master’s programs, including MBAs and MSc in Finance, are taught in English.
Cultural Diversity: France’s multicultural society and vibrant student life in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse enhance the experience.

Types of Scholarships for Indian Students

Scholarships are categorized into government, co-financed, university-based, and non-government programs, offering full or partial funding for bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, internships, and exchange programs. Below are the top scholarships for Indian students in 2025, with a focus on business-related fields.

1. Government Scholarships

France Excellence Charpak Scholarship Program

Administered By: Embassy of France in India, named after Nobel laureate Georges Charpak.
Sub-Programs:
1. Charpak Bachelor’s Scholarship:
  - For Indian students pursuing a full-time bachelor’s degree in France (e.g., BBA).
  - Eligibility: Indian nationals or OCI cardholders, ≤23 years, admitted to a French institution for September 2025, no prior study in France.
  - Benefits: €860/month stipend, student visa fee waiver, Etudes en France fee waiver, social security, accommodation assistance (subject to availability).
  - Application Deadline: Expected April 2025 (portal opens February 2025).
2. Charpak Master’s Scholarship:
  - For 1–2 year master’s programs (e.g., MSc Finance, MBA) in any field.
  - Eligibility: Indian nationals or OCI cardholders, ≤30 years, enrolled in a French institution for 2025, completed higher education in India or ≤3 years work experience.
  - Benefits: €860/month stipend, visa and Etudes en France fee waivers, social security, accommodation assistance. Non-renewable for second year; re-application required.
  - Application Deadline: Expected March 2025 (portal opens December 2024).
3. Charpak Research Internship Scholarship:
  - For bachelor’s/master’s students undertaking 1–2 month research projects/internships at French laboratories (e.g., fintech, business analytics) during April–August.
  - Eligibility: Indian nationals, ≤30 years, enrolled in an Indian institution, project duration 1–2 months.
  - Benefits: €700/month stipend (max 2 months), visa fee waiver, Etudes en France fee coverage.
  - Application Deadline: Expected February 2025 (portal opens December 2024).
4. Charpak Exchange Scholarship:
  - For 1–6 month exchange semesters between Indian and French universities.
  - Eligibility: Indian nationals, ≤30 years, enrolled in an Indian institution with a tie-up to a French institution.
  - Benefits: €860/month stipend, visa and Campus France fee waivers, social security, accommodation assistance.
  - Application Deadline: Expected May 2025 (portal opens February 2025).
Application Process: Apply via ifi.scholarship.ifindia.in with CV, admission letter, transcripts, French/English language certificate, recommendation letter, passport copy. Selection based on academic excellence, statement of purpose (SOP) quality, and consistency (no CGPA cut-off).
Note: Plagiarism checks on SOPs; AI-generated content may lead to disqualification.
Contact: scholarship.france@ifindia.in for queries.

Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program

Administered By: French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs via Campus France.
Level: Master’s (12–36 months) and PhD (up to 18 months) in engineering, sciences, economics, management, law, political science.
Eligibility:
- Non-French nationals, ≤27 years (master’s), ≤32 years (PhD).
- Outstanding academic record; nominated by a French institution (direct applications not accepted).
- Fields include business-related disciplines like economics and management (e.g., MSc Finance, MBA).
Benefits:
- Master’s: €1,181/month stipend, return trip, health insurance, cultural activities.
- PhD: €1,700/month stipend, return trip, health insurance, subsidized housing.
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (call opened October 1, 2024; next call October 2025 for 2026).
Process: Apply through a French university, which nominates candidates to Campus France. Check university websites (e.g., HEC Paris, EDHEC) for nomination deadlines (typically November–December 2024).
Note: Approximately 350 scholarships awarded annually, highly competitive.

Raman-Charpak Fellowship

Administered By: Embassy of France in India, Department of Science and Technology (India), and Ministry of Europe & Foreign Affairs (France) via CEFIPRA.
Level: PhD students conducting 2–6 months of research in France (e.g., business analytics, fintech).
Eligibility:
- Indian citizens registered for a PhD in a recognized Indian university.
- Residing in India, with a tie-up to a French institution.
- Fields: sciences, technology, business-related research (e.g., management sciences).
Benefits: €1,500/month stipend, economy class return airfare, insurance, visa/registration assistance, local travel, seminar/workshop support.
Application Deadline: Typically July and October sessions; check www.cefipra.org for 2025 deadlines.
Process: Apply via CEFIPRA portal with CV, research proposal, and institutional tie-up details.

MOPGA Visiting Fellowship Program

Administered By: French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation.
Level: Post-doctoral researchers (≤5 years post-PhD) in fields like atmospheric sciences, earth/environmental sciences, or business-related computational sciences.
Eligibility: Indian nationals, early-career researchers, affiliated with a French institution.
Benefits: €2,500/month stipend, €500 moving allowance, health insurance (40 fellowships awarded).
Application Deadline: Expected December 2024 for September 2025 start; check Campus France website.
Process: Apply via Campus France with research proposal and institutional endorsement.

2. Co-Financed Scholarships

These are joint ventures between the French Embassy and French institutions, offering tuition waivers and social security benefits (BCS) for Indian students.

EDHEC Business School Co-Financed Scholarship

Level: Master’s in Management Grande École (MIM).
Eligibility: Indian students admitted to EDHEC’s MIM program, merit-based with jury interview.
Benefits:
- 50% tuition fee waiver by EDHEC (€20,000–€25,000 total).
- BCS scholarship: French government scholarship holder status, social security, visa/Campus France fee waivers, accommodation assistance (CROUS priority).
Application Deadline: Contact EDHEC directly (typically March–May 2025).
Process: Apply via EDHEC’s admissions portal; scholarship awarded post-admission.

Rennes School of Business Co-Financed Scholarship

Level: Master’s in Management programs (e.g., MSc International Finance).
Eligibility: Indian students admitted to Rennes, merit-based with interview.
Benefits:
- Tuition fee waiver (up to €10,000/year).
- BCS scholarship: social security, visa/Campus France fee waivers, accommodation assistance.
Application Deadline: Expected March 2025 (portal opens December 2024).
Process: Apply via Rennes School of Business portal; contact for nomination details.

Sciences Po Co-Financed Scholarship

Level: Master’s programs (e.g., Master in Finance and Strategy).
Eligibility: Indian students admitted to Sciences Po Paris, merit-based via Emile-Boutmy Scholarship criteria.
Benefits:
- Tuition fee waiver up to €10,000/year (Emile-Boutmy Scholarship).
- BCS scholarship: social security, visa/Campus France fee waivers, accommodation assistance.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2024 (master’s programs); check Sciences Po website for 2025 updates.
Process: Apply via Sciences Po admissions; scholarship awarded post-admission.

Grenoble École de Management (GEM) Co-Financed Scholarship

Level: Master in Management (Grande École) or specialized master’s (e.g., MSc Finance).
Eligibility: Indian students enrolled at GEM’s Paris or Grenoble campuses for 2025.
Benefits:
- 10% tuition fee waiver by GEM.
- BCS scholarship: French government scholarship holder status, social security, visa/Campus France fee waivers, accommodation assistance.
Application Deadline: Check GEM website (typically March–May 2025).
Process: Apply via GEM’s admissions portal; scholarship awarded post-enrollment.

3. University-Based Scholarships

Emile-Boutmy Scholarship (Sciences Po)

Level: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD (e.g., Master in International Business).
Eligibility: Non-European students with outstanding academic records, admitted to Sciences Po.
Benefits: Up to €19,000/year (tuition waiver and stipend), health insurance, accommodation support.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2024 (master’s); March 4, 2025 (bachelor’s).
Process: Apply via Sciences Po portal; submit financial need and academic merit details.

Université Paris-Saclay Scholarships

Level: Master’s programs (e.g., MSc Economics, Management).
Eligibility: International students ≤30 years, admitted to Paris-Saclay, academic excellence.
Benefits: €10,000/year stipend, up to €1,000 for travel/visa expenses.
Application Deadline: May 9, 2025 (IDEX Master’s Scholarship).
Process: Apply via Paris-Saclay’s scholarship portal post-admission.

Ampère Scholarships of Excellence (ENS de Lyon)

Level: Master’s programs (e.g., business-related computational sciences).
Eligibility: International students pursuing eligible master’s at ENS de Lyon.
Benefits: €1,000/month stipend for 12 months.
Application Deadline: Typically January–February 2025; check ENS de Lyon website.
Process: Apply via ENS de Lyon’s scholarship portal with academic records and SOP.

École Normale Supérieure (ENS) International Selection

Level: Diploma or master’s (20 scholarships annually).
Eligibility: International students with strong academic backgrounds.
Benefits: €1,000/month stipend, free accommodation, tuition waiver.
Application Deadline: Expected December 2024–February 2025; check ENS website.
Process: Apply via ENS international selection portal with competitive academic portfolio.

4. Non-Government and Trust Scholarships

UGAM Legrand Scholarship

Administered By: Legrand Group, Franco-Indian Education Trust, French Embassy.
Level: Master’s in engineering, management, science, finance (e.g., MSc Finance).
Eligibility:
- Indian students with family income <₹10 lakh/year or children of armed forces personnel (preference for martyrs’ children).
- Admitted to a French institution for 2025.
Benefits: Tuition fee waiver up to €10,000, €7,500/year stipend, visa/Campus France fee waivers (excludes airfare, accommodation).
Application Deadline: Expected April 2025; interviews April 7–25, 2025.
Process: Apply via Franco-Indian Education Trust portal; submit SOP, financial documents. No AI-generated SOPs allowed.

Amba Dalmia Scholarship

Administered By: Franco-Indian Education Trust.
Level: Master’s in music, theatre, sports, arts, cinema, gastronomy (e.g., culinary business).
Eligibility: Indian women admitted to a French institution, low-income background.
Benefits: €700/month stipend, visa/Campus France fee waivers.
Application Deadline: Check Franco-Indian Education Trust website (typically March–April 2025).
Process: Apply via Trust portal with portfolio and financial need evidence.

Krishnakriti Foundation Scholarship for Fine Arts

Level: Programs in arts, music, theatre (e.g., arts management).
Eligibility: Indian students admitted to French institutions in fine arts fields.
Benefits: Varies; typically includes stipends and fee waivers.
Application Deadline: Expected April 2025; check Campus France.
Process: Apply via Campus France or Krishnakriti Foundation portal.

Erasmus+ Scholarships

Administered By: European Union for education, training, youth, sport.
Level: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s (1–2 years) in fields like business, management, or finance across multiple EU countries (including France).
Eligibility: Indian students admitted to an Erasmus Mundus program (e.g., Master in Management at HEC Paris).
Benefits: Full tuition, €1,000–€1,400/month stipend, travel/accommodation costs, health insurance.
Application Deadline: Varies by program (typically January–March 2025); check Erasmus Mundus Catalogue.
Process: Apply via program’s portal; requires academic records, SOP, recommendation letters.

Costs of Studying in France

Understanding costs is crucial for financial planning, especially given your interest in study costs (e.g., Canada, UK). Below is a breakdown for a 1–2 year master’s in business (e.g., accounting, finance) in 2025.

Tuition Fees

Public Universities: €200–€600/year (e.g., Sorbonne Université, Master in Economics).
Private Business Schools: €10,000–€30,000/year.
- HEC Paris (MSc Finance): €25,000–€30,000.
- EDHEC (MIM): €20,000–€25,000.
- Rennes School of Business (MSc Finance): €15,000–€20,000.
Average: €15,000/year (private); €400/year (public).

Living Expenses

Proof of Funds: €615/month (₹55,000) required for visa.
Breakdown:
- Accommodation:
  - CROUS (student residences): €200–€400/month.
  - Private rentals: €500–€800/month (Paris), €300–€500/month (Lyon, Toulouse).
- Food: €200–€300/month.
- Transport: €30–€70/month (student passes).
- Personal Expenses: €100–€200/month (leisure, phone).
Total:
- Paris: €10,000–€15,000/year.
- Lyon/Toulouse: €7,000–€10,000/year.
- Average: €10,000/year.

Additional Costs

Student Visa: €50 (₹4,500).
Campus France Fee (Etudes en France): €170 (waived for scholarship holders).
Health Insurance (Social Security): €200–€300/year (included in BCS scholarships).
Travel: €500–€2,000 (return flights India–France).
Books/Materials: €300–€500/year (e.g., finance software, case studies).

Total Estimated Costs (1.5-Year Master’s)

Public University:
- Tuition: €600 (1.5 years).
- Living: €15,000.
- Visa/Insurance: €500.
- Total: ~€16,100 (₹14.5 lakh).
Private Business School:
- Tuition: €22,500 (1.5 years).
- Living: €15,000.
- Visa/Insurance: €500.
- Total: ~€38,000 (₹34.2 lakh).
With Scholarships: Charpak (€860/month) or Eiffel (€1,181/month) can cover 50–100% of costs.

Eligibility and Application Tips

General Eligibility

Academic Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (3–4 years) with 60–65% minimum for master’s (some universities flexible).
- No CGPA cut-off for Charpak; Eiffel requires top academic records.
Age Limits:
- Charpak: ≤23 (bachelor’s), ≤30 (master’s, research, exchange).
- Eiffel: ≤27 (master’s), ≤32 (PhD).
- Others (e.g., Erasmus, university scholarships): Varies, typically ≤30.
Language Proficiency:
- English-taught programs: IELTS 6.5–7.0, TOEFL 84–100, or PTE 60–65 (waived if prior education in English).
- French-taught programs: DELF/DALF (B2–C1); not mandatory for English programs.
Documents:
- Transcripts, degree certificate.
- SOP (tailored, plagiarism-free; avoid AI tools).
- 2–3 recommendation letters (academic/professional).
- CV, passport copy, admission letter.
- Financial proof (€615/month) for visa.

Application Tips

Start Early: Research scholarships 6–12 months before intake (September 2025 or January 2026). Check Campus France (www.inde.campusfrance.org) and university websites.
Tailor Applications:
- Align SOP with scholarship goals (e.g., academic excellence for Eiffel, financial need for UGAM Legrand).
- Highlight business-related achievements (e.g., internships at Deloitte, finance projects).
Secure Admission First: Most scholarships (e.g., Eiffel, co-financed) require admission to a French institution. Apply by January–April 2025 for September intake.
Use Campus France: Register via Etudes en France portal for admissions and scholarship guidance. Local offices in India (e.g., Delhi, Mumbai) offer counseling.
Prepare for Interviews: Charpak and UGAM Legrand involve online interviews (April 7–25, 2025, for UGAM). Practice discussing academic goals and financial need.
Learn Basic French: Not mandatory but boosts applications and integration (e.g., “Classes Internationales” offer French language training).
Track Deadlines:
- Eiffel: January 8, 2025 (via institutions).
- Charpak: December 2024–May 2025 (varies by sub-program).
- University scholarships: December 2024–May 2025.
Avoid Plagiarism: SOPs undergo plagiarism and AI checks; original content is critical.
Explore Multiple Options: Apply for government (Charpak, Eiffel), co-financed (EDHEC, Rennes), and university scholarships to maximize chances.
Contact Support:
- Campus France: info@inde.campusfrance.org, +91-11-43596000.
- French Embassy: scholarship.france@ifindia.in.
- Universities: e.g., mba@hec.fr, admissions@edhec.edu.

Career Prospects for Business Graduates

France’s business programs, especially in accounting and finance, offer strong employability, aligning with your interest in business education.

Employability: 85–90% of business master’s graduates (e.g., HEC Paris, EDHEC) secure jobs within 6 months, with roles in finance, consulting, and management.
Key Employers: BNP Paribas, Société Générale, L’Oréal, Deloitte, EY, McKinsey.
Roles and Salaries:
- Financial Analyst: €40,000–€60,000/year.
- Management Consultant: €50,000–€80,000/year.
- Accountant (CPA track): €35,000–€55,000/year (post-qualification).
Professional Qualifications: Programs at EDHEC, HEC Paris, and Sciences Po align with CFA, ACCA, or CPA certifications, offering exam exemptions.
Post-Study Visa (APS): 2-year work permit; graduates can apply for permanent residency after 2–3 years via Skilled Worker pathways.
Global Recognition: French degrees are recognized in India and globally, per the 2018 France-India mutual recognition agreement.

Sample Business Programs with Scholarships

Below are examples of master’s programs in business at top French institutions, eligible for the scholarships above:

HEC Paris – MSc in Finance
- Duration: 1 year.
- Tuition: €28,000.
- Features: CFA-aligned, internships with BNP Paribas, 95% employment rate.
- Scholarships: Eiffel, HEC Paris Merit Scholarships (€5,000–€15,000).
- Why Apply?: Global finance hub, strong alumni network.
EDHEC Business School – Master in Management (Grande École)
- Duration: 2 years.
- Tuition: €22,000/year.
- Features: Finance and accounting tracks, CPA/CFA pathways, Big Four placements.
- Scholarships: EDHEC Co-Financed (50% tuition waiver), Charpak Master’s.
- Why Apply?: Located in Lille and Nice, affordable living.
Sciences Po – Master in Finance and Strategy
- Duration: 2 years.
- Tuition: €15,000/year.
- Features: Focus on sustainable finance, consulting roles, 90% employment rate.
- Scholarships: Emile-Boutmy (€19,000/year), Sciences Po Co-Financed.
- Why Apply?: Paris location, policy-finance blend.
Rennes School of Business – MSc International Finance
- Duration: 1 year.
- Tuition: €18,000.
- Features: ACCA exemptions, fintech focus, internships with Société Générale.
- Scholarships: Rennes Co-Financed (€10,000 waiver), Charpak Master’s.
- Why Apply?: Affordable tuition, vibrant student city.
Grenoble École de Management – MSc Finance
- Duration: 1 year.
- Tuition: €15,000.
- Features: CFA preparation, ESG finance modules, 88% employment rate.
- Scholarships: GEM Co-Financed (10% waiver), Eiffel.
- Why Apply?: Innovation hub, lower living costs.

Practical Considerations for 2025

Application Timeline

September 2025 Intake:
- University applications: January–April 2025.
- Scholarship applications: December 2024–May 2025 (e.g., Eiffel by January 8, Charpak by March–May).
January 2026 Intake:
- University applications: September–November 2025.
- Scholarship applications: Adjust based on program deadlines.
Visa: Apply 3–6 months before intake via VFS Global after Etudes en France registration.

Challenges and Solutions

Competitive Scholarships: Eiffel and Charpak are highly selective. Solution: Apply for multiple scholarships (e.g., co-financed, university-based) and strengthen SOP with business achievements.
High Living Costs in Paris: €10,000–€15,000/year. Solution: Choose Lyon or Toulouse (€7,000–€10,000/year) or secure accommodation assistance via BCS scholarships.
Language Barrier: English programs don’t require French, but daily life may. Solution: Join “Classes Internationales” for French training or take free university language courses.
Visa Delays: Processing can take 1–3 months. Solution: Apply early via Campus France and VFS; scholarships waive visa fees.

Lifestyle and Support

Student Life: Join business clubs (e.g., EDHEC Finance Club) and explore Paris’s cultural scene (Louvre, Eiffel Tower) or Lyon’s festivals.
Support Services: Universities offer career counseling, visa guidance, and mental health support. Campus France provides pre-departure webinars.
Part-Time Work: 20 hours/week allowed, earning €10–€15/hour (€5,000–€10,000/year). Common roles: tutoring, retail, internships in finance firms.

Sample Study Plan (1.5-Year Master’s in Finance)

Pre-Arrival (6–12 months, May 2024–April 2025):
- Research programs at HEC Paris, EDHEC, or Sciences Po.
- Apply for admission (January–April 2025) and scholarships (Eiffel by January 8, Charpak by March).
- Secure study visa (April–June 2025).
Semester 1 (September–December 2025):
- Study core modules (e.g., financial accounting, corporate finance).
- Join finance clubs, attend career fairs (e.g., Big Four recruitment).
- Apply for internships via university career services.
Semester 2 (January–May 2026):
- Take electives (e.g., fintech, sustainable finance).
- Secure summer internship with BNP Paribas or Deloitte.
Semester 3 (June–December 2026):
- Complete capstone project or thesis.
- Attend campus recruitment for full-time roles.
Post-Graduation (2027):
- Apply for APS visa, start CFA/ACCA exams.
- Secure role as financial analyst or consultant in Paris.

Conclusion

France offers Indian students a wealth of scholarships to pursue business master’s programs in 2025, making high-quality education affordable and accessible. Key options like the Charpak Master’s Scholarship (€860/month, visa waivers), Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (€1,181–€1,700/month, fully funded), and co-financed scholarships (e.g., EDHEC, Rennes, up to 50% tuition waivers) cover tuition (€200–€30,000/year) and living costs (€7,000–€15,000/year). With top business schools like HEC Paris, EDHEC, and Sciences Po offering CPA/CFA-aligned programs and 85–90% employability, graduates secure roles at Deloitte, BNP Paribas, and McKinsey (salaries €40,000–€80,000). To succeed, start early, apply for multiple scholarships, tailor SOPs, and leverage Campus France support. Visit www.inde.campusfrance.org for scholarship details, contact universities (e.g., admissions@edhec.edu), or reach out to the French Embassy (scholarship.france@ifindia.in). With strategic planning, France’s academic excellence and vibrant culture can shape your global business career.