Do you dream of getting a top education, seeing beautiful landscapes, learning French culture, and opening global opportunities? If yes, then study in France from Pakistan might be the best decision you ever make. France offers world-class universities, rich cultural life, and affordable costs. This guide will show you every step, every cost, and every tip you need to go from Pakistan to France in 2025, with help from 7 Sky Consultant. Let’s start your journey, you are just a call away, get our free guidance.
Why Choose Study in France From Pakistan for Higher Education
France ranks among the top destinations for international students. Here’s why:
- Strong academic standards: French universities and grandes ecole offer good programs in engineering, science, arts, business and humanities.
- Low cost: The cost of tuition fees in the public universities in France is relatively low when compared to the US, the UK, or Australia.
- Business fame: A French degree has some weight in Europe, Asia, Middle East, and the rest of the world. French universities are accepted by employers.
- Cultural diversity: You have art, history, architecture, food, fashion – and innovation.
- Programs taught in English: Most universities now have English programs hence you do not necessarily need to be fully fluent in French.
- Research & innovation: Superior labs, alliances and financial support.
Types of Programs & Universities For Study in France From Pakistan
Studying in France doesn’t mean one kind of university. You have several options:
| Type | Examples & Features | Pros | Things to Consider |
| Public Universities | Large, traditional, often affiliated with the government. Good for most bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs. | Low tuition; many departments; research opportunities. | Some programs are only in French; large classes; bureaucracy. |
| Grandes Écoles | Elite institutions (engineering, business, etc.). High prestige. | Excellent networks; smaller cohort; more resources. | Admission is competitive; fees higher; may require prep classes. |
| Private Universities / Schools | Specialized schools (business, art, hospitality, etc.). | Modern facilities; often more personalized support; more international students. | Fees much higher; might have stricter admission criteria. |
| Technical Institutes / IUTs / Vocational Schools | Shorter programs; more hands-on; focus on specific technical skills. | Quicker to finish; good employability; lower costs in many cases. | Less flexible; may have limited options in English; sometimes less globally known. |
You can do:
- Bachelor’s (Licence) – usually 3 years
- Master’s – 2 years
- Doctorate / PhD – ~3-4 years depending on field
Many programs offer joint degrees, exchange semesters, and internships as part of coursework.
Language Requirements
Language is one of the most important parts. You’ll need to decide early whether you study in French or English.
If studying in English:
- Provide proof like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Some universities accept alternative English proficiency (e.g., proof that your previous degree was in English).
- Always check whether your program requires a minimum band (e.g., IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 80).
If studying in French:
- You might need DELF or DALF certificates.
- Some programs require a certain level (e.g., B2 or C1).
- Even if the program is in English, knowing basic French helps daily life.
Tips to Prepare:
- Learn basic conversational French before leaving Pakistan. It helps with daily tasks, bonding, and avoiding culture shock.
- Practice English test as early as possible. Book IELTS/TOEFL slots well ahead.
- Use online resources; join language classes locally.
Application Process (from Pakistan)
You must start early. The application process has many steps, and missing one means delays.
1st Step: Self-Assessment
- Review your academic transcripts, CGPA/percentage.
- Identify your field of study, interests, and target universities.
2nd Step: Shortlist Universities
- Decide if you prefer Paris or smaller cities (Lyon, Lille, Toulouse).
- Look for English-taught vs French-taught programs.
- Compare tuition fees, course content, reputation.
3rd Step: Prepare Documents
You’ll need:
- Academic transcripts & certificates
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond entry)
- Recommendation letters (professors/employers)
- Statement of purpose / motivation letter
- CV / Resume
- Language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL or DELF/DALF)
- Sometimes GRE/GMAT depending on program
Also:
- Translate documents into French or English (if required).
- Get documents notarized/attested as needed.
4th Step: Submit Application
- Use Campus France (the French government’s official platform) if required by your country. Pakistan is one of the countries where many universities require Campus France process.
- Fill out each university’s application form.
- Pay application fees if any.
5th Step: Wait for Acceptance
- Once you get an offer letter, check conditions carefully. Sometimes you’ll have a “conditional offer” e.g., pending test result or language certificate.
- Accept the offer as instructed.
Hassle-Free Visa Process With Us
Getting a visa is one of the most crucial parts. Without it, nothing else matters.
Types of Visa
- Long-Stay Student Visa (Visa de long séjour étudiant) – for courses longer than 6 months.
- Short-Stay Visa (Schengen) – for shorter programs, summer schools, exchanges.
Required Documents
Typically, you’ll need:
- Valid passport
- Acceptance letter from French university
- Proof of sufficient funds (financial means)
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of accommodation in France (or at least reservation)
- Language test scores if required
- Passport photos
- Application & visa fees
Steps
- Register with Campus France in Pakistan if mandated (often required). They guide you through initial steps.
- Prepare and submit visa application at the French Consulate / Embassy in Pakistan.
- Attend a visa interview if called. Be honest, prepared, and show your plans.
- Wait for visa decision (this may take weeks). Submit all documents correctly to avoid rejections.
Timeline
- Start the visa process 3 to 4 months before your intended travel date.
- Application deadlines for universities often fall earlier, so do not delay.
Costs & Budget Planning (in PKR)
Knowing costs helps you plan, save, and avoid surprises. I convert all amounts using approx ₨330 per €1.
Tuition Fees
| Institution Type | Approx Tuition in EUR | Approx in PKR |
| Public Universities (Undergraduate) | ~ €2,770/year | ~ ₨915,000 / year |
| Public Universities (Master’s) | ~ €3,770/year | ~ ₨1,245,000 / year |
| Private Institutions / Grandes Écoles | ~ €8,000-€20,000/year (depends on institution & program) | ~ ₨2,640,000 – ₨6,600,000 / year |
Living Expenses
These include accommodation, food, transport, utilities, health insurance, and misc.
| City Type | Monthly Cost in EUR | Monthly Cost in PKR |
| Paris (higher costs) | €1,200-€1,800 | ~ ₨396,000 – ₨594,000 |
| Medium Cities (Lyon, Toulouse, Lille) | €800-€1,200 | ~ ₨264,000 – ₨396,000 |
| Lower-cost cities / towns | ~ €700-€900 | ~ ₨231,000 – ₨297,000 |
Breakdown of Monthly Costs for study in France from Pakistan
- Accommodation
- University residence: €200-€400 (~₨66,000-₨132,000) though in Paris this may rise to €400-600 (~₨132,000-₨198,000)
- Shared apartment (colocation): €400-€600 (~₨132,000-₨198,000)
- Private small studio: more expensive, often €700+ (~₨231,000+)
- University residence: €200-€400 (~₨66,000-₨132,000) though in Paris this may rise to €400-600 (~₨132,000-₨198,000)
- Food & Groceries: ~ €150-€300/month (~₨49,500-₨99,000) depending on how often you eat out
- Transportation: Monthly pass ~ €30-€75 (~₨9,900-₨24,750) depending on city
- Utilities & Internet: ~ €50-€150 (~₨16,500-₨49,500)
- Health Insurance & Medical: Basic student social security cost ~ €215/year (~₨70,950) + optional “mutuelle” ~ €20-€50/month (~₨6,600-₨16,500)
- Miscellaneous (books, clothes, leisure, phone): ~ €100-€200/month (~₨33,000-₨66,000)
Total Yearly Budget Estimate (for a typical student in a medium city)
Let’s say you study for a master’s in a city like Lyon or Toulouse in English; live in a shared apartment; moderate lifestyle.
- Tuition: ₨ 1,245,000
- Accommodation + food + transport + utilities etc: (~₨330,000/month * 10 months) = ₨ 3,300,000
- Insurance / additional costs: ~ ₨ 150,000
- Visa & travel + one-time items (laptop, flight, bedding, etc.): ~ ₨ 300,000
≈ ₨ 5,000,000 – ₨ 5,500,000 total for first year.
If you choose Paris or expensive private schools, this number can easily be ₨ 8,000,000-10,000,000+.
Scholarships & Funding Opportunities
To reduce financial load, explore these funding paths for study in France from Pakistan. Applying early helps.
Major Scholarships for Pakistani Students
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship: Prestigious program from French Ministry, especially for master’s & PhD. Covers tuition, stipend, housing.
- Erasmus+ Program: Grants for joint-degrees or exchange programs. Some degrees have built-in Erasmus funding.
- Campus France Scholarships: Regionally and subject-based; sometimes for non-EU students with excellent records.
- University-based scholarships / merit aid: Many French universities offer for high achievers.
- Research Assistantships / Teaching Assistantships: For graduate (especially PhD) students, you might get paid roles.
How to Increase Chances of Getting Scholarship
- Maintain high academic grades.
- Publish any projects or relevant work experience.
- Write a strong motivation letter: explain why France, why that university, career plan.
- Apply early. Some scholarships close months before term starts.
- Get all supporting documents ready (transcripts, letters, proof of achievements).
Life in France: Culture, Work & Accommodation
Studying abroad isn’t just about classes. Life in France brings new experiences. Know what to expect.
Accommodation
You have these options:
- University residences (CROUS / Résidences universitaires): Cheapest and often good quality. But places are limited. Apply early.
- Shared apartments (“colocation”): You rent a room and share a kitchen/living room. More social, often more expensive, more private than dorms.
- Private studios/apartments: Best privacy; highest cost; also need more upfront funds (deposit, utilities).
Tips:
- Choose a location close to university or good transport.
- Check safety, heating, furniture, internet.
- Make a budget for deposit (usually 1 or 2 months rent) and first month’s rent + utilities.
Work & Internships
- As an international student, you can work up to ~20 hours/week legally during studies. This helps with daily expenses.
- Many students work as tutors, in cafes, or in university services.
- Internships: Often part of your degree. Good for building experience and network.
- After graduation, you may apply for a post-study work permit / residence permit to stay and work in France (depends on your program and visa type).
Cultural Adjustment
- French culture values politeness. You learn “bonjour/bonsoir” before “hello”.
- Meals are more than just food. Cafés are places to talk.
- Public behavior: queues, keeping noise low in public transport, respecting schedules.
- Learn a little French: even basic phrases help enormously.
- Social connections: join student clubs (international, cultural, sports) to meet people.
Health & Safety
- Once you arrive, register with French social security for health insurance.
- Use “mutuelle” (complementary insurance) to cover what social security doesn’t.
- Medical costs can be high without insurance.
- France is generally safe, but like all big cities, be aware of pick-pockets, etc.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before you leave for study in France from Pakistan, tick off these items.
| Task | Why It Matters |
| Get your passport valid at least 6 months after your arrival. | You’ll need it for visa & entry. |
| Make sure visa & admission letters are ready. | Without them you may be refused boarding or entry. |
| Open a bank account or get a credit/debit card that works internationally. | You’ll need money access. |
| Arrange accommodation in France or temporary stay for arrival. | Avoid last-minute stress. |
| Pack important documents: transcripts, certificates, bank statements, photos, medical records. | Originals + copies. |
| Pack electronics & adapters, clothes for different seasons. | France has cold winters, warm summers. |
| Learn basic French phrases. Maybe carry a phrasebook. | It builds confidence. |
| Plan health cover & bring necessary vaccination records. | Mandatory for some programs. |
| Arrange arrival transport in France (airport pick up / how to go to your city). | Ease your first few days. |
After Arrival: Settling In & Career Options
The first few weeks are crucial. Use them to settle and plan your future.
Getting Settled
- Register at university; get a student ID.
- Get residence permit/validate visa (titre de séjour) if needed.
- Set up a bank account in France (student accounts are usually cheaper).
- Get a mobile SIM card; set up the internet.
- Learn the public transportation system; get monthly cards.
Academic Success Tips
- Attend orientation; meet your professors.
- Use campus resources: libraries, study groups, labs.
- Keep up with assignments; don’t let deadlines pile up.
- Make friends; group study helps.
Career & Post-Study Options
- After a master’s, many graduates apply for residence permit to stay and work.
- Internships & part-time work during studies improve your CV.
- Network via alumni, university career services.
- French and EU job markets: engineering, tech, fashion, luxury goods, hospitality, finance are strong sectors.
Final Tips & Takeaways
Here are practical tips that make the difference:
- Plan ahead: Don’t wait till the last minute. Application, visa, housing all take time.
- Be accurate with documents: One missing or wrong piece can delay a visa.
- Budget carefully: Always keep some extra funds for emergencies, travel, delays.
- Build a strong profile: Good grades + experience + clear goals = better offers + scholarships.
- Stay informed: Rules change (visa, costs, language). Keep checking official sources (Campus France, French Embassy in Pakistan).
- Connect with current or former students: Their experience helps you know what real life is like.
Start Your Journey Now
Study in France from Pakistan offers you a chance to learn, grow, and expand your horizons. You get strong academics, global exposure, cultural richness—and if you plan well, it’s also affordable. With 7 Sky Consultant by your side, you can move from your first application to walking in French university halls with confidence.
FAQs
Q1. Do I need to speak French to study in France?
No, not always. Many programs are in English, especially at master’s level. But knowing French helps in daily life, social integration, and job/internship opportunities outside university.
Q2. When should I apply to study in France from Pakistan?
Start 6-8 months before your desired start date. That gives time for application, visa, scholarship, housing.
Q3. What proof of funds does a French visa require?
You’ll need to show you can cover tuition + living expenses. So bank statements, fixed deposit, scholarships, sponsor letters. The exact amount depends on your city & program, but expect to show several million PKR (see cost estimates above).
Q4. Can I work part-time on a student visa?
Yes. Usually up to 20 hours per week. Conditions depend on your visa type. Work will help with costs but don’t rely on it for major financing.
Q5. Are there quotas or limited seats for international students?
Yes. Especially in public universities, grandes écoles, and popular programs. Seats in English-taught programs are often limited. So competitive applications matter.
Q6. What happens after graduation?
Depending on your visa, you may apply for a residence permit to stay and work. Or you may return home, or move elsewhere. French degrees carry strong value globally.