Unlocking a new kind of access
For overseas students, more than 30 prestigious French universities offer Classes Internationales, a one-year foundation programme. More than 200 university degrees taught in French are directly accessible to Indian high school graduates.
Before enrolling in full undergraduate programmes in disciplines including engineering, business, the arts, design, and the social sciences, applicants go through a rigorous academic and language preparatory phase. Entry does not require fluency in French, just at an elementary level. To ensure that they are academically and linguistically equipped by the time they graduate, students learn the language throughout the programme.
Why this programme is a game-changer
Over the years, France has positioned itself as an affordable yet high-quality education hub for international students. Classes Internationales takes this a step further by offering:
- A streamlined path from language learning to university admission
- Full integration support—from orientation to housing and life in France
- Career development through access to the France Alumni and local internship networks
- No wasted time: France’s three-year undergraduate degree (Licence) keeps students on pace with—or ahead of—their Indian counterparts
Many programmes are also offered in apprenticeship mode, where students split their time between classroom learning and paid, hands-on work experience in a relevant industry. After just one year in France, international students become eligible for apprenticeship status, giving them a practical edge and, in many cases, eliminating tuition fees altogether.As Dr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, states, “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 programme, we are building a future where knowledge and collaboration transcend borders.”
ET SpotlightWho can apply?
If you are completing high school by summer 2025, turning 18 before year-end, and have an A2 level in French, you are eligible.
A2 is a basic conversational level under CEFR, often achieved through school-based instruction. If not, Alliances Françaises across India offer fast-track courses to help students reach A2.
Even beginners can apply: some institutions may offer conditional admission if the student completes French training before departure.
The 2025 edition: Bigger, broader, and more ambitious
With over 30 participating institutions, this second edition offers a wider academic selection than ever before. Programmes are available across a diverse range of fields, including arts, social sciences, engineering, humanities, design, and more. What remains consistent is the structured pathway: one year of foundational preparation, followed by direct access to a French-taught undergraduate degree.
This year also brings stronger linkages to industry through expanded apprenticeship opportunities. For Indian students and their families, this means a highly practical benefit—many graduates will finish their degrees with paid work experience, no student debt, and immediate job prospects in France or beyond.
Ready to begin?
Applying to Classes Internationales is simple: Click here to explore the programmes, and contact the institutions directly. There are no centralised exams—admissions are based on your academic performance and motivation. The French Embassy provides essential support through its Alliances Françaises network across India, helping you meet the required French proficiency and prepare for your journey.
ET SpotlightApplications are open now until May 15, 2025, for those with an A2-Level proficiency in French. If you are a beginner, you can start French training through Embassy-supported pathways, with some programmes offering a second intake in January 2026. Classes Internationales is more than a study programme—it is your gateway to world-class education, cultural immersion, and career opportunities. Apply before May 15, 2025, and take the first step towards your future. For more details, visit the platform or reach out to the institutions listed.
Disclaimer: The article has been produced on behalf of the Embassy of France by the Times Internet’s Spotlight team.
