According to Thierry Mathou, the Ambassador of France to India, a promising time awaits Indian students aspiring to study in France. Thierry highlights that President Emmanuel Macron’s vision is to warmly welcome 30,000 Indian students into the country by the year 2030. To facilitate this, significant reforms have been introduced to streamline the visa process for Indian students. Specifically, Indian students holding a Master’s degree or higher qualification and those who have experienced at least one semester of education in France will be eligible for a convenient 5-year short-stay visa in the country.
The Indo-French partnership has seen remarkable growth in recent years; the shared commitment to educational excellence and cultural exchange is the main influence. This partnership was further strengthened during the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to France. As a result of this visit, several measures were implemented to enhance collaboration in the field of education.
A noteworthy initiative arising from this partnership is the introduction of international classes within universities. These classes are designed to cater to non-francophone students and pave the way for their integration into standard French bachelor programs. To achieve this, students will undergo a specialised one-year training programme, ensuring they are well-equipped with the necessary language and academic skills. Currently, the partnership between India and France boasts over 600 collaborations. Among these, there are 22 prestigious business and management schools, 17 engineering schools, and 3 arts and design schools. These institutions provide a diverse array of academic opportunities for Indian students. By enrolling in these esteemed universities and schools, Indian students can not only benefit from a world-class education but also immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of France.