The French Embassy in India and Campus France have launched the second edition of Classes Internationales, a groundbreaking initiative designed to increase the number of Indian students in France. First announced by French President Emmanuel Macron during his visit to Jaipur in January 2024, this program aligns with France’s ambitious goal of welcoming 30,000 Indian students by 2030. But how does this initiative impact Indian students aspiring to study in France? Let’s explore the opportunities it presents and how it can be a game-changer.
What is Classes Internationales?
Classes Internationales is a pathway program that provides Indian students with a foundational year of French language training and academic preparation. This initiative is tailored for students who wish to pursue undergraduate studies in France but need additional linguistic and academic support before transitioning to full-fledged French-taught programs.
The program is open to both beginners and advanced learners, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds have the opportunity to integrate smoothly into the French higher education system.
Strengthening Indo-French Educational Ties
According to French Ambassador to India, Thierry Mathou, this initiative is set to enhance educational collaborations and cultural exchange between India and France. It not only facilitates easier access to French universities but also deepens the relationship between the two nations by encouraging more Indian students to experience France’s world-class education.
Opportunities for Indian Students
The Classes Internationales programme brings numerous benefits to Indian students looking to study in France:
Access to a Wide Range of Institutions
More than 30 institutions across France are participating in the programme, offering courses in arts, engineering, social sciences, and design. This gives students a broad spectrum of academic options to choose from.
Direct Entry into French Universities
Graduates of the program gain direct access to 200+ academic courses across various disciplines, removing major barriers for Indian students who previously struggled with the language or unfamiliar academic systems.
Affordable Education at Public Universities
The French Embassy and Campus France help Indian students secure cost-effective education at public universities, making high-quality French education more accessible and affordable.
Application Deadlines and Process
To cater to students with different levels of French proficiency, the French Embassy has announced two deadlines for applications:
March 31, 2025 – For students with no prior knowledge of the French language.
May 15, 2025 – For students with A2-level proficiency or higher.
Students can apply directly through the official website:
www.classesinternationales.org. The selection process is based on academic background and motivation, with no entrance exam required, making it an excellent opportunity for students who are eager to study in France but are concerned about stringent admission tests.
The Impact on Indian Students
This initiative removes multiple hurdles that Indian students often face when applying to universities in France, including language barriers, academic integration, and financial constraints. By providing a well-structured foundation year, Classes Internationales ensures that Indian students can adapt to the French education system seamlessly and thrive in their chosen fields.
With affordable education, apprenticeship opportunities, and strong institutional support, this program makes studying in France a much more realistic and accessible option for Indian students than ever before.
The launch of Classes Internationales is a significant step forward in Indo-French educational relations. It not only increases the chances for Indian students to study in France but also enhances their career prospects and global exposure. If you’re an aspiring student looking to experience France’s top-tier education system, now is the perfect time to apply!
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