International Student Loan for France: Top Lenders, Eligibility, Process & More

France has rapidly emerged as a preferred destination among international students in recent years. The appeal is evident in the latest enrolment statistics for the academic year 2023–2024, where over 430,466 international students were registered in French higher education institutions. This marks a 4.5% year-on-year increase and an impressive 17% growth since 2018–2019, as reported by Campus France and the French Ministry of Higher Education.

This upward trajectory aligns strongly with the French government's strategic initiative, ‘Bienvenue en France,’ which aims to host 500,000 international students by 2027. This policy, backed by targeted reforms, expanded English-taught programs, and enhanced student services, underscores France’s commitment to global academic mobility.

However, while the academic prospects in are promising, it is essential for students to carefully consider the financial requirements involved. Since personal funding is not always a feasible option, it is reassuring to know that an international student loan for France can be used to support the full cost of studying in France. 

Cost of Higher Education in France for International Students

In the 2023-24 academic year, around 63% of international students in France enrolled in public universities, primarily because they are heavily subsidized. The remaining students choose private institutions for their preferred reasons. Even though private universities and institutes charge more than public universities, the overall cost of education remains lower than in comparable English-speaking countries such as the United States or the United Kingdom. 

In 2025, this gap continues as reported by Le Monde, due to a regulated education system and government insight on pricing to protect education accessibility.

While the tuition fee is only an estimate and the cost of living provides a general guideline, there is an important aspect that international students must pay close attention to, which will be discussed in the next section.

Proof of Fund Requirements for Higher Education in France

To obtain a study visa for higher education in France, you are required to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself throughout your stay. According to official guidelines set by the French authorities, the minimum amount required is €615 per month. While this figure represents the legal threshold, your actual living expenses may vary significantly depending on your lifestyle and spending habits. 

To manage these expenses, you can consider applying for an overseas education loan to support your studies.

Before exploring your available financing options, it's important to understand that you generally have two choices: an education loan with collateral and an education loan without collateral. So, what sets them apart? We’ll take a closer look.

Types of International Student Loan for France

To pursue your studies in France, you can consider two types of education loans available to international students. Understanding their definitions and fundamental differences is essential before making an informed financial decision.

Secured Education Loan (with Collateral)

A secured education loan is granted against collateral, which may include property, fixed deposits, insurance policies, or other valuable assets. Lenders offer higher loan amounts, lower interest rates, and longer repayment terms due to reduced financial risk. Your co-applicant’s income and credit history also matter, but the collateral remains the primary security. 

This type of loan is ideal for students seeking to cover the full cost of overseas education while benefiting from comparatively favorable loan conditions.

Unsecured Education Loan (without Collateral)

An unsecured education loan does not require any collateral or asset to be pledged. Instead, lenders assess the student’s academic merit, the reputation of the university, and the financial profile and creditworthiness of the co-applicant. Since no security is involved, interest rates are higher, and loan amounts are comparatively limited. Approval may also take longer, with stricter eligibility conditions. 

This loan type suits students who cannot offer collateral but meet strong academic and financial criteria.

Based on asset availability and other key factors, you should now have a clearer understanding of which type of education loan best suits your plans to study in France. With this in mind, it is time to explore the top lenders in India offering both secured and unsecured education loans for international students.

Top Lenders Providing International Student Loan for France

Though there are a wide range of lenders offering education loans to study in France, they differ significantly in their categories and lending features. For instance, public sector banks are known for their low education loan interest rate and government-backed credibility, making them a reliable choice for many students. 

Private sector banks, on the other hand, often offer quicker processing times and more flexible loan terms. Finally, NBFCs and international lenders are known for high-value unsecured loan options and broader eligibility criteria.

Moving onto the next part where you will uncover the costs covered in an overseas education loan.

Expenses Covered in International Student Loan for France

Beyond tuition and living costs, several other academic and logistical expenses are also taken care of during your study period in France.

• Tuition fees

• Hostel or on-campus accommodation charges

• Examination, library, and laboratory fees

• Travel expenses (one-way airfare to France)

• Caution deposit or refundable security (against receipts)

• Purchase of books, equipment, instruments, and laptop

• Expenses for study tours, thesis, or project work

• Student health or travel insurance premium

• Visa fees and SEVIS/CAF/OFII fees if applicable

What you receive and how much funding you are eligible for is a separate matter. However, what truly matters at the outset are the prerequisites you must meet to qualify for an international student loan for studying in France.

Eligibility Criteria for International Student Loan for France

Your chances of obtaining a student loan depend entirely on your education loan eligibility. The following are the key factors you need to satisfy in order to qualify.

• Nationality: You must be an Indian citizen with a valid passport.

• Admission: Confirmed admission into a recognized university or institution in France.

• Academic Background: A strong academic record in previous qualifications (10+2 or undergraduate degree, as applicable).

• Age: Generally between 18 to 35 years at the time of loan application.

• Co-applicant: A parent, guardian, or spouse with a regular source of income is required as a co-applicant.

• Creditworthiness: Both applicant and co-applicant must have a satisfactory credit history (CIBIL score often checked).

• Collateral: Required for secured loans. Collateral-free loans may be available for top-ranked universities or depending on the lender.

• Loan Amount: Must meet the bank’s minimum and maximum loan limits, based on university, course, and collateral.

• Repayment Capacity: Applicant and co-applicant should be able to demonstrate repayment capability through income, assets, or future earning potential.

Once the financial institution confirms your eligibility, you will be required to submit a specific set of documents to proceed with the loan application process.

Documents Required for International Student Loan for France

Below is the list of documents you will need to submit when applying for an education loan to study in France.

Student (Applicant)

• Proof of identity (e.g., Passport*, PAN, Aadhaar, Voter ID)

• Address proof (e.g., Passport*, Aadhaar, utility bills)

• Passport-size photographs (2)

• Academic records (10th, 12th, and graduation mark sheets if applicable; entrance exam result if relevant)

• Admission letter or offer letter from the foreign institution

• Schedule of expenses or cost breakdown

• Gap certificate, if any: self-declaration

• Statements of previous student loan (if any)

• Asset liability statement for co-applicant (for loans above Rs. 7.5 lakh)

Co Applicant / Guarantor

• Proof of identity and address (similar documents as above)

• Passport-size photographs (2)

• Bank account statement (last 6 months, or 1 year if prior loan exists)

Income Proof

• Salaried: Latest salary slips, Form 16 or IT returns of last 2 years; bank statements

• Self employed: Business address proof, recent IT returns or TDS certificates; bank statements

Keep in mind that the document checklist may vary depending on the bank or financial institution you choose. The list provided above serves as a general reference to help you prepare. Once you have all the necessary documents in place, you can move forward with the loan application process.

Application Process for International Student Loan for France

The process of applying for an international student loan to study in France can be demanding, but with the right approach, it becomes manageable. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate it effectively.

1. Submit Your Loan Application

Apply through the bank’s official website or visit a nearby branch. Upload or submit all required documents along with the completed loan application form.

2. Verification and Background Checks

The bank will verify your submitted documents and perform background checks on you and your co-applicant (including credit history and income assessment).

3. Loan Assessment and Valuation (if collateral is involved)

If you're applying for a secured loan, the property or asset offered as collateral will be physically inspected and legally verified for valuation.

4. Loan Sanction

Once verified, the bank issues a sanction letter outlining the approved loan amount, interest rate, repayment period, moratorium, and other terms.

5. Signing of the Loan Agreement

You and your co-applicant must sign the official loan agreement in the presence of a bank representative to confirm acceptance of the terms.

6. Disbursement of Funds

Funds are disbursed in instalments or lump sum, either directly to your university in France or to your account depending on fee structure and bank policy.

As you can see, the loan application process involves multiple steps, which can feel overwhelming, especially if you are doing it for the first time. However, there is no need to worry. You can now turn to Élan Overseas Education Loans, which provides end-to-end assistance without the need to visit a bank physically or possess extensive industry knowledge.

How Élan Facilitates Faster Disbursement of International Student Loans for France?

Applying for an education loan can feel overwhelming when you are juggling university deadlines, visa requirements, and financial planning. This is where Élan Overseas Education steps in to simplify the process for you. With personalized guidance at every stage, we help you choose the right lender based on your course, university, and financial profile. 

You do not need to worry about understanding legal jargon or running to the bank multiple times. Our team takes care of document handling, coordination with banks, and follows up on approvals so that you can focus on preparing for your studies. If your university asks for a tuition fee payment before your visa is issued, we also assist with pre-visa disbursement by working closely with financial institutions. 

The goal is to make sure your education journey begins without delays, confusion, or unnecessary stress. With Élan, you always have a trusted partner through your study abroad loan process!

FAQs

1. Can I apply for an education loan for France if I am still waiting for my final admission letter?

Yes, some lenders allow students to start the loan application process with a conditional offer letter. However, final disbursement usually takes place only after you receive confirmed admission from the university.

2. Are part-time work opportunities considered when calculating repayment capacity for loan approval?

No, part-time jobs or expected earnings in France are not considered by Indian lenders when evaluating repayment capacity. Only the income of the co-applicant and existing assets are factored in.

3. Can I include my French language course fees in the education loan?

If the language course is a mandatory prerequisite for your main degree program and is mentioned in your admission documents, some banks may include it in the overall loan coverage. It’s best to confirm with the specific lender.

4. Is it possible to switch from an unsecured loan to a secured one later?

Some banks allow refinancing of an unsecured loan into a secured loan, especially if you wish to increase your loan amount or reduce the interest rate. This is subject to fresh documentation and collateral assessment.

5. Will my loan cover application or entrance exam fees for universities in France?

Most banks do not cover pre-admission expenses like application or exam fees. The loan usually begins with the point of confirmed admission and covers costs related to tuition, travel, accommodation, and other approved educational expenses.