Study in France from Pakistan: Costs, Campus France and Visa (2026)

Why France

France often gets overlooked by Pakistani students who assume everything is taught in French and costs a fortune. Neither is fully true. Public university tuition is low, the country invests heavily in supporting students through housing and transport subsidies, and the number of English-taught programs keeps rising. Add a respected education system and a central spot in Europe, and France becomes a strong, affordable option. See it next to other choices on our France study page.

Tuition at public universities

Public universities in France charge low tuition by international standards, with non-EU students paying more than locals but still far less than in the UK or US. Some institutions and grandes ecoles or private schools cost more, especially for business programs. For budget-focused students, public universities are the natural starting point, and several scholarships and fee exemptions can lower the cost further.

The Campus France procedure

This is the step that surprises people. Most students from Pakistan must go through the Campus France process before applying for the visa. It involves creating an account, listing your chosen programs, paying the Campus France fee, and attending an interview where you explain your study plan. It is essentially a pre-screening that links your admission to your visa application. Treat it seriously, since a weak Campus France interview can affect how the rest of your application is viewed. Prepare to explain why France, why this course, and how it fits your background.

Language and English-taught programs

You do not always need French. Many master’s programs, and a growing number of bachelor’s, are taught entirely in English, especially in business, engineering and science. If your course is in English, the university tells you which English proof it accepts, often IELTS. If it is in French, you need French to the required level. Learning some basic French still helps with daily life, but it is not always an academic requirement.

Costs, housing and scholarships

Beyond tuition, France supports students well. Subsidised student housing through the national network helps with one of the biggest costs, and housing assistance can lower rent further for eligible students. Transport and meals are also subsidised in many cities. On scholarships, the Eiffel programme and various regional and university awards take international students, so it is worth applying. Living costs are higher in Paris than in smaller cities, so your choice of city shapes your budget.

The visa and documents

After Campus France and admission, you apply for the student visa with your documents, which typically include your passport, admission proof, Campus France confirmation, proof of funds, accommodation details, health insurance and academic records. As in every country, your finances must be genuine and traceable. Keep your file consistent, since the study plan you gave at Campus France should match what you present for the visa.

Work and staying on

International students in France can work part time within set limits during study, which helps with living costs. After graduating, there are routes to stay and look for work or move into employment under the right conditions, including a temporary residence option for job searching. This makes France more than a place to study, since it offers a path into the French and wider European job market for graduates who plan ahead.

Frequently asked questions