Cost of Living in France for Indian Students 2024 - 2025

The cost of living in France is determined by a number of factors that affect foreign students. The amount of money you have to spend on living will mostly depend on your lifestyle, the type of housing you choose, and its location. Compared to other study-abroad countries, it is often more costly, which makes it difficult for many students to finance. The bright side is that plenty of scholarships and chances for part-time work can lessen your financial load for your whole stay there.

Selecting a shared apartment is usually a smart decision because you can split the rent with one or more people. Additionally, preparing your food helps prevent your expenses from rising. Depending on your budget, dining out at fine dining establishments or restaurants once every two months is possible. Also, avoiding eating out frequently will save you money and help you maintain your health.

As previously stated, these are only indicative expenses that reasonably indicate the average. It's crucial to remember that living expenses increase with city size.  For example, the average monthly rental price of €928 for a single room in Paris is about double that of the rest of the nation. Further, basic utilities in the city cost an average of €180 a month, while leisure costs much more because there is so much to see and do in a city the size of Paris.

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There are several choices available to students in France for commuting. Depending on their budget, they can choose between cabs, trains, buses, coaches, etc. The bus is the most affordable alternative because it charges the least of all the options and gives students certain discounts. Along with this, many schools and universities have transportation company offices on campus, where students can sign up for monthly or annual passes once classes start.

Public Transportation: If you are a student who is 26 years of age or younger, you can receive discounted transportation fees when you sign up for public transportation. To do this, you will need to present your student ID. Students who live in Île-de-France can use the Imagine R card, which gives them unrestricted travel options across the region. Less than 350 euros will be required of them each year. For the same age bracket, there is also a special pass known as the Ticket Jeune, which is good for 24 hours on Saturdays, Sundays, and band holidays. For about four euros, students may use this to travel freely within a certain area.

In addition, coaches, which are less expensive than trains, can transport students and include amenities like Wi-Fi, cosy, reclinable seats, and charging outlets. Another choice is the self-service bicycle rental program, available in most of France's main cities. For an average of 15–30 euros per year, students who live off campus can subscribe for the same benefits.

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France comprises various living options, but the expenses differ drastically. Here is a list of all the options with the cost of living in France for international students.

The table below shows some famous French universities' monthly rental costs for on-campus living and university accommodations.

If you wish to live off campus, there are various living opportunities in France, although they would be comparatively more expensive, and you would have to incur transport expenses as well. Here are some of the living options in France:

The pricing will also differ if you are looking at houses in the city centre or are willing to stay in the outskirts. Sharing a three-bedroom apartment would save a student a significant amount of money. Moreover, on-campus housing would be less expensive and a fantastic exploration destination for students. Hence, finding your balance is the key. Here is a comparison of the average monthly costs in France's top student cities.

It is clear that, with the exception of Paris, the cost of living in all the well-known cities is more in line with the national average. Again, this might differ from place to place, but as a student, you can be sure to identify the best answer. Right now, the only guidance we want to offer is to use the most basic numbers possible while planning. Although optimisation would take place thereafter, it would be prudent to consider these numbers as the bare minimum when making plans.

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The French University System, which enrols almost 2.5 million students annually, is renowned for its varied training programs, excellent academic standards, and engaging learning environment. You may select from more than 3500 public and private institutions in France to get a bachelor's, master's, or doctorate. If you're an international student, a sizable amount of your costs will go into your tuition fees.

However, depending on the university, program, and location, the cost of education will also be included in the cost of living in France might differ for international students. In comparison to many other nations, public colleges in France often have rather low tuition costs. Overall, it's crucial to remember, meanwhile, that non-EU students pay greater tuition than their EU counterparts.

Let’s look at an approximate amount for studying in France-

• For a bachelor’s degree in France, the average tuition fee for non-European students would come up to 2,770 Euros per year.

• For a master’s degree in France, the tuition fee for a non-European student would be around 3,770 Euros per year.

These expenses need to be considered when looking at the living expenses in France for international students.

Also, Read: Costs of Living in Ireland 

With careful budgeting and lifestyle adjustments, you may reduce the average monthly costs in France. Here are some suggestions for lowering your living expenses and saving money:

• Check out a few comparison websites to determine if you are paying more for your power bills. Certain suppliers have appealing introductory deals, including the first two months of free usage. Lowering the temperature by three degrees might result in a twenty per cent reduction in energy costs.

• Replace old, bulky electrical appliances like washing machines and refrigerators, as they are unlikely to be energy-efficient.

• When you buy at your neighbourhood grocery, use your loyalty cards. Make a list before you go to the market, and follow through on it.

• Use websites such as Cdiscount.com, veepee.fr, and showroomprive.com to find incredible deals on apparel, pet supplies, home products, and holidays.

• In France, purchasing used goods is popular. You can find excellent deals on furniture, clothing, and household goods on websites like Leboncoin and Vide-Grenier and in local buy-and-sell clubs. Selling things can sometimes help you get rid of undesirable stuff while making money.

To sum up, knowing the average cost of living in France for overseas students is essential to living comfortably. France may have significantly higher living expenses than India despite its beautiful scenery, lively culture, and excellent educational system. Above, we have discussed the living expenses in France, including accommodation, cost, education fees, and extra living expenses.

We hope the information above has helped you understand how much it costs to live in France for Indian students. If you would like to get a deeper insight into the standard of living in France, we encourage you to speak with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). Our counsellors will provide you with guidance throughout your study abroad. Get help with the application process, SOPs, and filing for a visa. Visit us and get one-to-one counselling, or avail yourself of free video counselling via our website. We will be happy to help you, so please do not hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or 1800-1230-00011.

1. Is the cost of living in France expensive for international students?

Yes, in comparison with other countries, France is on the expensive side for an international student.

2. Are all the cities in France expensive?

No, apart from Paris, there are less expensive cities in France. The cost of living in France entirely depends on the university and the course you want to pursue.

3. Should I consider France as a study option?

Yes, the cost of living in France for international students is comparative, which makes it favourable for them.

4. Which are the cheapest places in France?

The cost of living in France for Indian students is affordable in the cities like Montpellier, Grenoble, Nantes, Tarn, etc.

5. How can you save money while being in France?

Saving money is crucial as the cost of living in France is slightly higher. It can be done with simple steps and by being mindful. For more information regarding this, consult the MOEC blog.

6. What is the average tuition fee for pursuing an undergraduate degree in France?

On average, the undergraduate program in French universities costs up to 2,770 Euros per year.

7. Is the cost of living in France the same for undergraduate and postgraduate programs?

No, the cost of living in France will change as the tuition fee is different for both programs.

8. What is the cheaper option for living in France?

For students, living on campus would be cheaper as it reduces transport expenses and the rents are lower.

9. Are there any scholarships available for students wanting to study in France?

Yes, there are various scholarships available, depending on the application process and their availability.

10. Looking at the cost of living in France, is it a good option for higher studies?

Yes, as the country provides quality education, you can consider it for higher education, depending on your finances and preferred course.