A Unique Gateway to French Higher Education for Indian Students
New Delhi, [17/01/2025] – The French Embassy in India and Campus France proudly announce the launch of the second edition of Classes Internationales, a groundbreaking initiative unveiled by French President Emmanuel Macron during his visit to Jaipur in January 2024 where he announced: “30,000 Indian students in France in 2030. It’s a very ambitious target, but I am determined to make it happen”.
This program is designed to create an exclusive pathway for Indian students into the prestigious French higher education system. Classes Internationales allows Indian students—whether complete beginners or advanced French learners—to access French-taught undergraduate programs after completing an immersive foundational year of French language training and academic preparation. This unique approach aims to bridge linguistic and cultural gaps, offering students the tools they need to succeed in a globally renowned education system.
“Classes Internationales is a testament to the strong and growing educational ties between India and France. This initiative not only opens doors to world-class French education for Indian students but also fosters cultural exchange and mutual understanding, essential pillars of the Indo-French partnership. By empowering young minds through this program, we are building a future where knowledge and collaboration transcend borders.” – H.E. Mr. Thierry MATHOU, Ambassador of France to India.
In its second edition, the program is being offered by 30+ prestigious institutions across France, covering a wide range of disciplines (arts, engineering, social sciences, design and more). Students who successfully complete the International Classes will get direct access to over 200 academic programs taught in French. Students are only required to focus on strengthening their French proficiency during the preparatory year. Several academic programs are offered in the apprenticeship mode in France, allowing students to split their time: half at the university/school and half in a company in the concerned field.
In most cases, the hiring company not only pays the apprentices but also covers tuition fees for as long as the students are working/training with them. A foreign national can get an apprenticeship status after one year of presence on French soil, therefore if the university/school offers this status, any student completing a Classes Internationales can benefit from it.
BENEFITS
Classes Internationales, being an initiative of the French government, ensures, through the French public agency Campus France and the French Embassy in India, that the welfare of the Indian student is kept at the core of each stage of their student journey. They will be guided and accompanied at each step before and during their studies in France, and even after their studies, for post-study opportunities and when they join the dynamic France Alumni network. Fees are capped at a very affordable rate, especially at public universities, in a higher education system that is already unmatched internationally for the affordability of tuition fees for international students. Comprehensive Support: Students benefit from end-to-end guidance by Campus France and the French Embassy, including pre-departure, study, and post-graduation support, along with access to the vibrant France Alumni network.
Application Deadlines:
- March 31, 2025: For students with no prior knowledge of French, allowing time for pre-departure language preparation through Alliance Française.
- May 15, 2025: For students already proficient at the A2 level or higher.
How to Apply:
Students can explore programs and contact participating institutions directly through the official website: www.classesinternationales.org. Admission is based on academic background and motivation, with no entrance exam required.
Don’t miss out on the online Classes Internationales Education fair:
On February 8th, 2025, students dreaming of studying abroad can unlock exciting opportunities at the Classes Internationales Education Fair.
Organized by the French Government and Campus France, the event will feature representatives from over 30 prestigious French universities and higher education institutions, offering Indian students and their families a direct platform to connect from the comfort of their homes.
Explore a wide range of study programs and gain personalized guidance on scholarships, visas, and life in France.
Register on https://www.choosefrance.in to join the Fair!
Contact Information:
For more details, visit www.classesinternationales.org or reach out to individual institutions listed on the website.
This initiative marks a significant step in expanding the horizons of Indian students, providing them with opportunities to access world-class education while fostering stronger Indo-French ties.