Eiffel-tower

Why France is a Top Destination for Global Students?

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Les voyages forment la jeunesse,” as the French saying goes — travelling shapes youth.

Nowhere is this more true than in education. Over the past decade, global higher education has undergone a profound transformation. According to the OECD’s Education at a Glance 2024 report, more than 6.4 million students are currently studying outside their home country — nearly twice as many as in 2005.

For a growing number of young people, studying abroad has become a deliberate choice rather than a romantic ideal. It is no longer merely about discovering a new culture, but about building a global career, acquiring cross-cultural skills, and joining a network that spans continents.

Among the world’s most attractive destinations, France now ranks within the top five countries welcoming international students (Campus France – Key Figures 2024) for its unique combination of academic excellence, cultural richness, and accessible tuition.

Why you are right to choose to study abroad 

Choosing to study abroad is one of the most valuable decisions you can make for your future.
It’s not only about earning a degree — it’s about expanding the way you think, learn, and connect with the world.

 

A growing global movement

According to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics (2024), more students than ever are studying outside their home countries — a number that continues to rise across every continent.
This global mobility reflects a shared ambition to:

  • Access high-quality education.
  • Gain intercultural experience.
  • Develop global career opportunities.

Studying abroad gives you the tools to thrive in a world that values flexibility, curiosity, and cultural understanding.

Parisian bridge

Learning beyond the classroom

The Erasmus+ Impact Study (European Commission, 2023) found that:

  • 92% of students who studied abroad felt more confident in their career prospects.
  • 80% improved their leadership and problem-solving skills.

Experiencing new academic systems and teaching styles helps students become more creative, independent thinkers — skills that make a difference in any profession.

 

A career advantage for life

The OECD’s Education Indicators in Focus (2023) shows that graduates with international experience are:

  • More likely to reach managerial or international positions within five years of graduation.
  • Better prepared to work in multicultural environments.

Studying abroad is not only an education — it’s a professional investment that signals adaptability, openness, and global vision to future employers.

 

A journey of self-discovery

Finally, studying abroad changes the way you see yourself.
It allows you to:

  • Step outside your comfort zone.
  • Build independence and resilience.
  • Discover new ways of thinking and living.

Choosing to study abroad means choosing growth — academic, professional, and personal. It’s one of the few decisions that truly shapes who you become.

Parisian metro

Why France Stands Out as a Study Destination

Gastronomie, mode, architecture, douceur de vivre — France attracts for its cinematic image, but also for the strength of its higher education system. It remains a central hub of global exchange, where major players in business, innovation, and culture intersect.

Beyond its romantic reputation, France is one of the world’s leading destinations for international students, hosting more than 400,000 learners from abroad (Campus France, Key Figures 2024). Its influence combines academic excellence, global connectivity, and a rich cultural heritage that continues to inspire students from every continent.

Some of the reasons why France stands apart:

1.
Renowned academic standards

French universities and grandes écoles are recognized worldwide for their research excellence and rigorous programs in management, technology, and the humanities.

2.
A multilingual, international environment

Over 1,700 programs are taught entirely in English (Campus France, 2024), making French higher education accessible to a global audience.

3.
High quality, reasonable cost

Tuition fees in France are among the lowest in Europe, offering outstanding value compared to the UK or the US.

4.
Paris as an academic capital

Ranked among the top 10 best student cities (QS, 2025), Paris combines intellectual energy with creativity, innovation, and career opportunity.

5.
A gateway to global business

Home to the headquarters of world leaders like L’Oréal, BNP Paribas, and Kering, France offers international students direct exposure to major economic and cultural actors.

How to Choose the Right University Abroad

1. Look for international recognition

When comparing universities abroad, recognition matters as much as reputation.
Institutions accredited by bodies such as AACSB, AMBA, or EFMD meet the highest international standards in teaching and research quality. These accreditations also ensure that your degree is recognized and valued by employers around the world — a key factor for anyone aiming for an international career.

 

2. Consider the language and learning environment

Language is not a barrier anymore.
France, for example, now offers over 1,700 English-taught programs (Campus France, 2024), allowing international students to pursue degrees without prior knowledge of French.
Equally important is the learning environment: a university that fosters diversity and encourages dialogue among cultures provides a richer, more stimulating experience both academically and personally.

 

3. Examine career connections and student support

Beyond academics, look for universities that maintain strong links with global companies and provide personalized guidance.
Internships, career fairs, and corporate projects are essential components of employability.
In France, business schools like Paris School of Business integrate these elements directly into their programs — connecting students with leading firms and offering dedicated support for visa, housing, and career placement.

Paris School of Business : an international place to be and study

Located in the vibrant 13th arrondissement of Paris, Paris School of Business (PSB) offers an academic experience that combines global ambition with French excellence. Founded in 1974, PSB is part of the new generation of internationally accredited business schools, holding the prestigious AACSB accreditation, which places it among the top 6% of business schools worldwide.

PSB welcomes students from more than 100 nationalities, creating a truly multicultural learning environment where perspectives from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas meet every day. Courses are taught entirely in English by a diverse faculty of academics and professionals who bridge research and real-world practice.

The school’s philosophy is rooted in experiential learning. Students engage in consulting projects, innovation labs, and study trips across Europe. Partnerships with companies such as L’Oréal, Capgemini, Deloitte, and Air France offer real exposure to international business challenges.

The Paris campus itself mirrors the city’s energy — modern, collaborative, and connected. Beyond lectures, students participate in events, clubs, and career fairs that foster networking and creativity. Dedicated services also support international learners with housing, visas, and integration into life in France.

For those aiming to combine academic rigor, cultural discovery, and professional opportunity, PSB represents an ideal choice.

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How to Come and Study in France?

France welcomes thousands of international students each year through direct applications or exchange programs. Whatever your path, the process is simple and transparent.

 

Apply directly to a French institution

Many universities and business schools, including Paris School of Business, offer online applications for international students.
You’ll need:

  • Academic transcripts and diplomas (translated into English or French)
  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
  • A motivation letter and valid passport

 

Join through an academic exchange

If you study at one of PSB’s partner universities, you can spend a semester or a full year in Paris. Exchange students benefit from English-taught courses, career services, and full access to PSB’s campus life.

 

Find scholarships and funding

France offers several scholarship opportunities — including the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship and regional grants — to make studying abroad more affordable.

 

Studying in France means combining education, culture, and opportunity.
At Paris School of Business, international students receive dedicated support from admission to graduation — and become part of a truly global community in the heart of Paris.