Last Updated: February 2026
Study in France from Nepal
Complete 2026 Guide
Low tuition at public universities, 1,500+ English-taught programs, and the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship—France is an affordable, high-quality option for Nepali students.
Source: Campus France, French Ministry of Higher Education, France-Visas. Public tuition €2,895–€3,941; proof €615/month. Verify at nepal.campusfrance.org, campusfrance.org, france-visas.gouv.fr.
By San Marina Education Consultancy · QEAC & PIER Certified Education Consultants · Study abroad for Nepali students since 2014
Study in France from Nepal – Key Facts 2026
| Public tuition | €2,895 (Bachelor), €3,941 (Master)/year |
| Living | Paris €1,235–1,800/mo; other €800–1,200/mo |
| Visa | €50; VLS-TS; VFS Kathmandu; 2–4 weeks |
| Proof of funds | €615/month (min 3 months) |
| APS post-study | 12–24 months (Master, Licence Pro) |
| Eiffel 2026 | €1,200/mo (Master), €2,100/mo (PhD) |
| English programs | 1,500+ (Campus France) |
Source: Campus France, France-Visas. Verify at nepal.campusfrance.org, france-visas.gouv.fr.
3,500+
Institutions
Growing cohort
Nepali Students
1,500+
English Programs
Up to 24 Months
Post-Study Work
1,500+
Students Placed
Why Study in France in 2026?
Quick answer: France offers subsidised public tuition (Bachelor €2,895, Master €3,941) per Campus France 2025/26, 1,500+ English-taught programs, and degrees from Sorbonne and PSL. The state covers two-thirds of costs. Study abroad in France is among the most affordable in Europe.
According to Campus France and the French Ministry of Higher Education, the true cost of a degree is around €10,000 per year—but the state absorbs most of it at public universities. For Nepali students, this means gaining a world-class education at a fraction of UK or US prices.
France also ranks among the top destinations for international students globally. Cities like Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, and Lille combine academic excellence with culture, history, and strong industry links. Nepali students increasingly choose France for engineering, business, and humanities.
The country hosts over 412,000 international students (per QS Global Student Flows 2025). The French Ministry of Higher Education and Research oversees quality assurance. Degrees from accredited institutions are recognised under the Bologna process across Europe. Whether you seek a Grande École engineering diploma, a Sorbonne humanities degree, or a business degree from HEC Paris, the credentials carry weight worldwide.
Is France Good for Nepali Students?
Quick answer: Yes. Low tuition, English-taught options, and APS post-study work (up to 24 months, per Campus France bilateral agreement). Études en France guides applications from Kathmandu. Nepali student numbers are growing.
- • Low public tuition compared to UK, USA, Australia
- • Can study in France without IELTS via English programs
- • Post study work permit in France (APS) up to 24 months for eligible graduates
- • Schengen access: travel across 27 European countries
- • Part-time work: 20 hours per week during study
Financial proof is a common concern for Nepali applicants. France requires evidence of €615 per month (around NPR 88,000) for living costs. Banks in Kathmandu can provide statements; some students use sponsors. A study in France from Nepal consultancy like San Marina helps structure financial documents to meet France-Visas and Campus France expectations. Visa approval rates for genuine applicants with complete paperwork remain strong.
Top Universities in France (2026)
Quick answer: Four in QS Top 100: PSL (#28), Polytechnique (#41), Paris-Saclay (#71), Sorbonne. 35+ French institutions ranked. Source: Campus France, QS 2026.
Université PSL
QS #28
Paris · Arts, Sciences, Engineering
Institut Polytechnique de Paris
QS #41
Paris-Saclay · Engineering, Tech
Université Paris-Saclay
QS #71
Paris-Saclay · 100+ English Master's
Sorbonne University
QS Top 100
Paris · Medicine, Humanities, Science
Sciences Po
Top 50
Paris · IR, Public Policy, Law
HEC Paris
Top Business
Paris · MBA, Management
Study in France Cost (Tuition + Living)
Quick answer: Public: €2,895 (Bachelor) or €3,941 (Master)/year + CVEC €105. Living: Paris €1,235–€1,800/mo; elsewhere €800–€1,200/mo. Campus France 2025/26.
Tuition Comparison: Public vs Private
| Level | Public (Non-EU) | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor (Licence) | €2,895/year | €6,000–€18,000/year |
| Master | €3,941/year | €6,000–€18,000/year |
| Doctorate | €397/year | Varies |
| CVEC (all) | €105/year | €105/year |
Total Cost to Study in France from Nepal
According to Campus France, first-year budget: €8,500–€18,000 (NPR 12–26 lakhs). Breakdown: tuition €2,895–€3,941 + living €9,600–€14,400 + visa €50 + CVEC €105 + airfare ~€800. Exchange rate: 1 EUR ≈ 143 NPR (Feb 2026). Compare with study in UK, Germany, or other European destinations.
Accommodation for Nepali Students
| Type | Monthly (approx) |
|---|---|
| CROUS (student housing) | €250–450 |
| Private (Paris) | €600–1,200 |
| Private (other cities) | €400–800 |
| Homestay | €400–700 |
Tuition (Public)
€2,895–€3,941
NPR 4.1–5.6L
Living (Annual)
€9,600–€14,400
NPR 13.7–20.6L
Visa
€50
NPR 7,150
CVEC
€105
NPR 15,000
Airfare
~€800
NPR 1.1L
Can I Study in France Without IELTS?
Quick answer: Yes. Choose from 1,500+ English-taught programs (Campus France catalog). TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge, or prior English-medium proof accepted. French programs need DELF/DALF.
Université Paris-Saclay alone offers over 100 English Master's programs. Sciences Po, HEC Paris, and many Grandes Écoles also teach in English. Check each program's language policy on the university website or Campus France.
If your previous education was in English (e.g., 10+2 or bachelor's from an English-medium institution), some universities may waive a formal test. However, most competitive programs still request TOEFL (typically 90+) or IELTS (6.0–6.5). For study French in France pathways, DELF B2 is the standard for undergraduate entry; Master's may require C1. Plan your language preparation early.
Study in France for Free (Public + Scholarships)
Quick answer: Fee exemptions via BGF, Erasmus+, or institutional waiver. Non-EU normally pay €2,895–€3,941; host or embassy decides. Study in France for free is possible for qualified applicants.
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (2026)
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, managed by Campus France, provides a monthly stipend of €1,200 (Master's) or €2,100 (PhD) from January 2026. It covers international transport, health insurance, and housing support—but not tuition. Duration: 12–36 months depending on level. Applications are submitted by the French host institution; students cannot apply directly. Highly competitive.
- • Master: €1,200/month (2026)
- • PhD: €2,100/month (2026)
- • Apply via your French university
Other funding options include the French Ministry's BGF (Bourse du Gouvernement Français), Erasmus Mundus joint programs, and university-specific grants. Campus France publishes an annual scholarship database. Applying to multiple sources improves your chances. Study in France for free remains possible for a limited number of highly qualified applicants through these channels.
Study French in France (Language Pathway)
Quick answer: Study French in France at FLE centres or university language departments. 6–12 month programs prepare for French-taught degrees. Some fee exemptions for pre-2019/20 FLE enrollees; check Campus France.
DELF B2 or DALF C1 is typically required for French-taught Bachelor's and Master's. Language schools in Paris, Lyon, and other cities offer intensive courses. Combining a language year with a degree improves employability and daily life in France.
Campus France lists recognised FLE centres. A typical pathway: 6–12 months of French study, then entry to a Licence or Master program. Learning French opens more scholarship opportunities and makes the post study work permit in France phase easier—employers often prefer bilingual candidates. For students focused on English-taught programs, basic French (A2–B1) still helps with administration, housing, and part-time work.
Post Study Work Permit in France
Quick answer: APS/RÉCE: 12 months, renewable to 24. Eligible: Master's, engineering, Licence Pro from French institution. Nepal bilateral per Campus France. Post study work permit in France lets graduates work up to 964 hrs/year while job-seeking.
- • Duration: 12 months, renewable to 24 months
- • Work up to 964 hours/year during job search
- • Proof of €615/month or job offer
- • Apply via ANEF within 4 months before permit expiry
Once you secure a permanent contract (CDI) paying at least 1.5 times the minimum wage (SMIC), you can apply directly for an employee residence permit without using the full APS period. Registering with Pôle emploi (job centre) is recommended. The post study work permit in France gives Nepali graduates time to find roles in tech, consulting, engineering, and other sectors. France's labour market values international graduates, especially in STEM and business.
Student Visa Process from Nepal (Step-by-Step)
Quick answer: Études en France for academics → Campus France interview → VLS-TS via France-Visas. Submit at VFS Kathmandu. Processed by French Embassy Delhi; 2–4 weeks. Nepal under Etudes en France (Campus France Nepal, France-Visas).
- 1Create account on Études en France (pastel.diplomatie.gouv.fr)
- 2Apply to French institutions and receive acceptance
- 3Complete Campus France academic interview
- 4Pay Campus France fee and obtain interview certificate
- 5Complete France-Visas application (france-visas.gouv.fr)
- 6Book appointment at VFS Global Kathmandu
- 7Submit documents and attend biometrics
- 8Receive VLS-TS visa (typically 2–4 weeks)
Required Documents
- Acceptance letter from French higher education institution
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months)
- Proof of funds: €615/month or equivalent (minimum 3 months)
- Health insurance valid in France
- Campus France / Études en France application (Nepal)
- French long-stay student visa (VLS-TS)
- English or French proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/DELF as required by program)
Intakes in France
Main intake: Fall (September), with applications through Études en France typically due January–April. Spring intake (January/February) is available for some programs; deadlines September–November. Campus France opens the 2026–27 cycle in October 2025; deadline usually December 15.
Fall (September)
Application deadline: January–April
Spring (January/February)
Application deadline: September–November
Advantages & Disadvantages of Studying in France
Advantages
- • Low public tuition (€2,895–€3,941/year)
- • 1,500+ English-taught programs
- • APS post-study work up to 24 months
- • Schengen access to 27 countries
- • Strong research and industry links
- • Eiffel Excellence Scholarship available
Disadvantages
- • Bureaucratic process (Études en France)
- • Paris living costs higher than other cities
- • French helpful for part-time jobs
- • Visa processed via Delhi (not Kathmandu)
Why Choose Our Consultancy in Nepal?
A study in France from Nepal consultancy removes the guesswork. San Marina guides you through the Études en France procedure—from document checklist and financial proof structure to Campus France interview prep. We help shortlist universities, decode scholarship options, and support your visa application at VFS Kathmandu. QEAC & PIER certified.
Our team understands France-Visas requirements and the French Embassy Delhi processing flow. We advise on proof of funds (€615/month), health insurance, and the timeline from application to departure. Students from Kathmandu, Baneshwor, Ghorahi, and Itahari have relied on us for study abroad in France guidance since 2014.
- • Free first consultation—no obligation
- • Études en France and France-Visas expertise
- • Financial proof guidance for Nepali applicants
- • Campus France interview preparation
- • Offices in Kathmandu, Dang, Itahari
Study in France FAQs
Common questions about study in France from Nepal in 2026
What is the total cost to study in France from Nepal in 2026?
First year: €8,500–€18,000 (NPR 12–26 lakhs). Tuition €2,895–€3,941; living €800–€1,800/month; visa €50; CVEC €105; airfare ~€800. Private adds €6,000–€18,000/year. 1 EUR ≈ 143 NPR (Feb 2026).
Can I study in France without IELTS?
Yes. Choose from 1,500+ English-taught programs (Campus France). Universities accept TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge, or prior English-medium proof. French programs need DELF/DALF.
What is the post study work permit in France for Nepali students?
APS/RÉCE: 12 months, renewable to 24 months. Eligible: Master's, engineering, Licence Pro from French institution. Per Campus France, Nepal has a bilateral agreement enabling APS. Show €615/month or job offer; work up to 964 hrs/year.
How much does it cost to study in France from Nepal?
Public: €2,895 (Bachelor) or €3,941 (Master)/year; living €800–€1,800/month. First year total €10,000–€20,000 (NPR 14–29L). Private: €6,000–€18,000 tuition.
Can I study in France for free?
Possible via BGF scholarship, Erasmus+ partnership, or institutional waiver. Non-EU normally pay €2,895–€3,941; exemptions decided by host or embassy. Eiffel covers stipend, not tuition.
What is the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026?
€1,200/month (Master) or €2,100/month (PhD) from Jan 2026. Covers transport, health, housing—not tuition. 12–36 months. Apply via French host institution. Source: Campus France.
How do I apply for France student visa from Kathmandu?
Use Études en France (Campus France) for academics, then France-Visas for visa. Submit at VFS Kathmandu. Processed by French Embassy Delhi; 2–4 weeks. Per Campus France Nepal.
What are the intakes to study in France?
Fall (Sept): main intake, deadlines Jan–Apr. Spring (Jan/Feb): limited, deadlines Sep–Nov. Études en France 2026–27 opens Oct 2025; deadline ~15 Dec.
Is a study in France from Nepal consultancy helpful?
Yes. Consultancy assists with Études en France, documents, financial proof, Campus France interview, visa. San Marina: free consultation in Kathmandu, Baneshwor, Ghorahi, Itahari.
Can I study French in France before my degree?
Yes. FLE centres and university language departments offer 6–12 month programs. Some fee exemptions if enrolled pre-2019/20. Essential for French-taught degrees.
How much proof of funds is needed for France student visa?
€615/month (3 months minimum). Year: ~€7,380 plus tuition. Nepal banks can issue statements. Check Campus France and France-Visas for latest.
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