France Expands “Classes Internationales” Programme for Indian Students

The program reflects a broader shift in international education: studying abroad is no longer limited to postgraduate degrees. Increasingly, students are achieving global experience earlier in their academic journey, especially at the undergraduate level. In this context, structured preparation, including language training, academic orientation and cultural integration, becomes imperative for students to successfully navigate international higher education systems.

During his visit to India this year, President Emmanuel Macron had reaffirmed France’s commitment to strengthening educational ties with India and articulated a long-term vision for student mobility between the two countries: “Today we welcome around 10,000 Indian students every year, but together with Prime Minister Narendra Modi we have set a clear target to reach 30,000 Indian students in France by 2030. On the French side, we will simplify procedures and strengthen visa facilities. This is possible.”

Commenting on the initiative, French Ambassador to India Dr. Thierry Mathou said: “The goal set by President Macron and Prime Minister Modi is at the forefront of our efforts. Indian students see how France can meet their professional goals, as our excellent education system leads to rewarding career opportunities. The Classes Internationales program helps Indian students transition to French universities with confidence and succeed in their academic journey.”

The Classes Internationales program is designed to support the 2030 goal by ensuring students are prepared academically and linguistically before entering full degree programmes.

Today, more than 30 French higher education institutions are part of the initiative, collectively offering access to more than 200 undergraduate programs in disciplines such as engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, business, art and design.

Unlike traditional admission routes, the initiative involves a special preparatory year in France combining:

• intensive French language learning

• Introduction to French academic methodology

• cultural interaction and orientation

• Academic support in the transition to undergraduate programs

This approach reflects the emerging global understanding that opportunity alone does not guarantee success in international education; Structured preparation plays an equally important role.

Language preparation is an important component of the program. Many students prepare for their studies through the global network of Alliance Française centres, working towards proficiency in French at A2 level before starting the academic year in France.

Applications are open for 2026 recruitment. Students can explore available programs and apply via their website or get guidance from their nearest Campus France office. The initiative is coordinated in India by Campus France in partnership with the French Institute in India.

Originally launched to support Indian student mobility, the program has now expanded internationally and is currently implemented in seven countries in the Indo-Pacific region (India, Vietnam, Indonesia, China) and Africa (Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa).