France launched a strategic initiative in 2019 to enhance its position as a preferred destination for international students. The goal is to attract half a million students from around the world by 2027. According to Campus France reports, the number of international students pursuing higher education in France reached 402,883, reflecting a 2.6% increase from the previous academic year and a significant 17% growth over the past five years.
If France successfully achieves its target, it is expected to become one of the top host countries globally for international students. As part of this initiative, France is focusing on streamlining the application process for international students through dematerialization. Additionally, Campus France plans to launch a new global communication campaign this year to promote France as the premier study destination in Europe.
In the academic year 2021–22, Morocco emerged as the leading contributor of international students to France, followed by Algeria, China, Italy, Senegal, and Tunisia. Campus France conducted a survey which revealed that an impressive 90% of international students recommend French institutions for pursuing education. Moreover, international students significantly contribute to the French economy, with an average contribution of €5 billion.
France stands out as one of the few countries providing health insurance and social benefits to international students. The recently introduced immigration law mandates that international students must have €615 at their disposal or €7,380 per year to cover their living expenses while in the country. In 2021, France secured the second position in popularity within the Erasmus+ programme for student and staff mobility, only behind Germany but surpassing Italy and Poland. This underscores France’s commitment to strengthening international collaboration and mobility in the academic sphere.
