France, long celebrated for its prestigious universities, world-class research institutions, and rich cultural heritage, has actively enhanced its appeal to international students, particularly from India. In recent years, the French government has expanded English-taught programmes, streamlined visa processes, and introduced more scholarships tailored for international students. With over 10,000 Indian students in France, the country aims to increase this number to 30,000 by 2030. The availability of a post-study work visa, coupled with growing financial aid opportunities, makes France an increasingly attractive study destination. Strengthening Indo-French academic ties, universities continue to expand partnerships, reinforcing France’s position as a top choice for Indian students. While most English-taught programmes in France have traditionally been at the master’s level, a few universities have introduced undergraduate degrees delivered entirely in English. Let’s take a closer look at some of them.
Université PSL
Université PSL, a public university, is in the heart of Paris, France—a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage, innovation, and academic excellence. Formed in 2010 by consolidating several prestigious institutions, Université PSL achieved an impressive 24th place globally, according to QS rankings. It is home to a diverse international community, with 20 percent of its students from different countries. PSL collaborates with prestigious institutions such as University College London, University of Cambridge, Rice University, and the University of Montreal. The university takes pride in its academic excellence, evidenced by its remarkable achievement of 28 Nobel Prizes.
English-Taught Bachelor’s Programmes
1) The International Bachelor of Science AI programme
This three-year, fully English-taught undergraduate course is designed to prepare students for careers in artificial intelligence and related fields. The programme offers a rigorous curriculum that combines foundational courses in mathematics, computer science, and data analysis with specialised modules in machine learning, robotics, and cognitive computing. Students engage in intensive theoretical learning alongside practical lab work, collaborative projects, and research initiatives. This balanced approach ensures that graduates acquire both the analytical skills and the hands-on experience necessary for innovation in the AI sector.
2) Bachelor in Management
This undergraduate programme prepares students for leadership roles in business through a rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum. Taught in English, it helps students build expertise in management, economics, law, and digital sciences. In the first two years, students develop a strong foundation covering accounting, finance, human resources, marketing, and strategy. In the third year, they select a concentration track, specialising in organisational management, auditing, asset management, or management sciences. Graduates acquire transversal skills and a critical understanding of contemporary business challenges, successfully paving the way for advanced studies at Dauphine–PSL.
3) Bachelor in Sustainability Sciences
An innovative undergraduate programme, Sustainability Sciences equips students with interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills to address today’s environmental and societal challenges. The curriculum integrates natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, allowing students to explore climate change, resource management, biodiversity loss, and social equity from multiple perspectives.
Institut Polytechnique de Paris
Located in Paris’s vibrant academic hub, Institut Polytechnique de Paris is a renowned engineering and technological excellence centre. Formed through the merger of several prestigious engineering schools, the institution emphasises interdisciplinary research and innovation. Its educational approach blends theoretical foundations with hands-on projects and industry collaborations.
English-Taught Bachelor’s Programmes
1) École Polytechnique’s Bachelor of Science
This prestigious, innovative undergraduate programme is for students passionate about scientific inquiry and technological innovation. Students acquire intellectual tools and core knowledge in the first year while exploring disciplines to select their specialisation. During the second and third years, they choose one of three double majors: Mathematics and Physics, Mathematics and Computer Science, or Mathematics and Economics. In the third year, students may study abroad in the fall at partner institutions such as the University of Toronto, UC Berkeley, King’s College London, or The University of Melbourne.
In spring, students complete an eight-week research internship and submit their bachelor’s Thesis. Mathematics remains central throughout, emphasising practical applications from numerical simulation to cryptology.
Sciences Po
Sciences Po is a prestigious social sciences university in France, renowned for its excellence in political science, international relations, law, economics, and sociology. Founded in 1872, it has produced numerous global leaders, policymakers, and intellectuals. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary education, critical thinking, and international exposure, Sciences Po attracts students from around the world and has campuses across France, including Paris.
English-Taught Bachelor’s Programmes
1) Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Sciences Po’s Undergraduate College offers a three-year Bachelor of Arts (BA) with a multidisciplinary focus on politics, law, economics, history, sociology, and humanities. With 15,000 students, half of whom are international from 150+ countries, the programme is taught in French, English, or both across seven campuses in France. A mandatory third year abroad allows students to study at one of 470+ partner universities in 50 countries. The school also prioritises accessibility, with 1 in 3 students receiving scholarships.
It offers a core curriculum covering political science, law, economics, history, sociology, and the humanities, with French, English, or both courses. Sciences Po provides dual degree programmes with prestigious universities worldwide, including Columbia, UC Berkeley, UCL, the University of Sydney, and the National University of Singapore, for those seeking an international or specialised track. These programmes allow students to study in two institutions and earn degrees from both.
2) Bachelor of Arts and Sciences (BASC)
Launched in 2020, Sciences Po’s BASC program combines humanities, social sciences, and scientific disciplines through partnerships with leading universities. Students study Earth sciences, mathematics, or life sciences alongside law, economics, history, sociology, and political science. The four-year programme includes a year abroad, culminating in a dual degree: a Bachelor of Science from the partner university and a Bachelor of Arts from Sciences Po. The curriculum fosters interdisciplinary dialogue on contemporary issues such as climate change, bioethics, and big data.
Institut National Des Sciences Appliquées Lyon
The Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Lyon (INSA Lyon) is one of France’s top engineering schools, known for its rigorous interdisciplinary education and strong research focus. Founded in 1957, it offers a five-year curriculum covering a wide range of engineering fields, including computer science, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, and biotechnology. INSA Lyon emphasizes innovation, international exposure, and close industry partnerships, preparing graduates for leadership roles in engineering and technology worldwide.
English-Taught Bachelor’s Programmes
1) The International Bachelor in Engineering
This three-year multidisciplinary engineering programme at the Institut National Des Sciences Appliquées Lyon is taught entirely in English, designed for international students seeking a strong foundation in science and engineering. The first two years focus on core scientific disciplines, including mathematics, physics, computer science, engineering science, chemistry, humanities, social sciences, and language courses to ensure a well-rounded education. The final year allows students to specialise in an engineering field, engage in advanced technical coursework, and participate in industry-oriented projects or international exchanges. It is ideal for students looking for an internationally focused engineering education with a strong emphasis on scientific fundamentals, practical learning, and global mobility opportunities.
ESSEC Business School Paris
ESSEC Business School is one of the leading international business schools with campuses in France, Singapore, and Morocco. Established in 1907, it has earned a global reputation for its academic excellence, innovative teaching methods, and strong industry connections. ESSEC is consistently ranked among the top business schools worldwide and is recognised for its undergraduate, graduate, and executive education programmes. ESSEC has a diverse student body, with over 7,000 students across its campuses, including individuals from over 100 countries.
English-Taught Bachelor’s Programmes
1) BSc in Artificial Intelligence & Data Management Sciences (AI & DMS)
This four-year cutting-edge programme equips students with the skills needed for data science, AI, and technology management careers. It combines computer science, mathematics, and business, offering students a strong foundation in data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence while focusing on business applications.
The curriculum includes theoretical learning, practical projects, and internships to develop hands-on expertise. Students also benefit from global exposure, with the opportunity to study at partner universities and access ESSEC’s extensive network in the tech and business industries. This programme prepares students for careers in AI, big data, and digital transformation across various industries.
2) Global BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration)
This internationally recognised four-year undergraduate programme is designed for students seeking a global business education. It features a multidisciplinary curriculum that blends management, entrepreneurship, economics, and social sciences while building a strong foundation in business fundamentals. The emphasis on international exposure is reinforced through study exchanges at 100+ partner universities and internships at leading global companies.
With a diverse cohort representing over 70 nationalities, the programme fosters cross-cultural understanding and global perspectives. Students receive personalised career support and gain access to ESSEC’s worldwide network of over 60,000 alumni. The Global BBA equips students to launch international careers through world-class education and hands-on experience.
Institut Français de la Mode
The Institut Français de la Mode (IFM) is a leading fashion school in Paris, offering top-tier education in fashion design, management, and craftsmanship. Founded in 1986, it merged with the École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne in 2019, strengthening its reputation as a global fashion hub. IFM provides interdisciplinary programs combining creativity, business, and technical expertise, attracting students from around the world. With strong industry connections and a focus on innovation, IFM prepares future leaders for careers in luxury, fashion, and design.
English-Taught Bachelor’s Programmes
1) Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Management for Fashion and Creative Industries
This is a three-year, full-time program taught at the Institut Français de la Mode (IFM) in Paris. It aims to develop future managers with strong creative sensibilities, equipped to work in sectors such as fashion, luxury, beauty, perfumes, sports, and entertainment, where creation, art, and aesthetics are central.
The programme confers a Bachelor’s degree (“grade de licence”) recognised by the French Ministry of Higher Education. It also holds a Level 6 registration with the Répertoire National des Certifications Professionnelles (RNCP). Students receive a solid foundation in management and humanities, alongside an understanding of creative processes. The curriculum prepares them for roles where innovation and capturing the “zeitgeist” are essential.
IFM has established strong ties with renowned fashion houses and companies, including Chanel, Dior, Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Chloé, Adidas, and L’Oréal. The school also collaborates with the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, which organises Paris Fashion Week.
French universities offer an exciting opportunity for undergraduate students seeking a high-quality, international education. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant student life, rich history, or innovative educational approaches, studying in France can open doors to numerous academic and professional opportunities, making it an ideal destination for undergraduates. If you need assistance applying to undergraduate universities in France, get in touch. Meanwhile, check out our blogs: 5 German Universities Offering English-Taught Bachelor’s Programmes: Everything You Need to Know and Compelling Reasons to Pursue Undergraduate Studies in France.
