Studying in France is a dream for thousands of Indian students because of its world-class universities, multicultural environment, and globally recognised degrees. However, understanding the cost of living in France is essential for planning your study budget effectively. From accommodation and food to transportation and student insurance, every expense matters – especially if you’re managing finances carefully.
This guide breaks down the average cost of living in France, city-wise expenses, scholarship options, budgeting tips, and how Supreme Forex helps you save money on tuition fee transfers and everyday currency needs.
Table of contents
- Average Monthly Cost of Living in France for Indian Students
- City-Wise Cost of Living in France
- Breakdown of Major Living Expenses
- Scholarships to Reduce Cost of Living in France for Indian Students
- Cost of Living in France Compared to Other Countries
- Budgeting Tips to Reduce Your Cost of Living in France
- Part-Time Work Opportunities for Indian Students
- Why Supreme Forex Is the Best Partner for Your France Study Journey
- FAQs: Cost of Living in France for Indian Students
- Conclusion
Average Monthly Cost of Living in France for Indian Students
The monthly cost of living in France depends heavily on the city you choose. Paris is one of the most expensive student cities in the world, while cities like Lille, Nantes, and Grenoble are more affordable.
Average Monthly Living Expenses:
| Expense Category | Average Cost (EUR) | Average Cost (INR approx.) |
| Accommodation | €450–€900 | ₹43,000–₹86,000 |
| Food & Groceries | €180–€300 | ₹17,000–₹28,000 |
| Transportation | €20–€75 | ₹1,900–₹7,000 |
| Utilities | €60–€120 | ₹5,700–₹11,400 |
| Health Insurance | €20–€40 | ₹1,900–₹3,800 |
| Miscellaneous | €100–€200 | ₹9,500–₹19,000 |
Total Monthly Cost of Living in France
€850–€1,600 (₹80,000–₹1,50,000)
International students on a budget generally spend closer to the lower end by choosing shared accommodation and cooking at home.
City-Wise Cost of Living in France
Costs can vary significantly depending on where you study. Below is a comparison of major French cities.
Cost of Living in Popular Student Cities (per month):
| City | Average Monthly Cost | Why It’s Popular |
| Paris | €1,200–€1,800 | Top universities, global exposure |
| Lyon | €900–€1,300 | Affordable, major student hub |
| Toulouse | €850–€1,200 | Aerospace & engineering hub |
| Lille | €800–€1,100 | Budget-friendly for students |
| Grenoble | €850–€1,200 | Tech & research city |
| Nice | €950–€1,400 | Mediterranean lifestyle |
Paris is nearly 30–40% more expensive than other cities due to high accommodation and transport costs.
Breakdown of Major Living Expenses
a) Accommodation Costs
Housing is the biggest expense for international students.
Types of Student Housing in France:
- CROUS dormitories: €150–€400
- Shared apartments: €300–€600
- Private studios: €600–€1,000
Accommodation in Paris is significantly higher, starting at €650 for basic shared spaces.
b) Food & Groceries
Cooking at home is the best way to manage food costs.
- Monthly food cost: €180–€300
- University cafeteria meal: €3.30
- Restaurant meal: €12–€20
c) Transportation Costs
France offers excellent, student-friendly public transport.
- Monthly metro/bus pass: €20–€75
- Intercity travel discounts for students
- Many cities offer student mobility cards
d) Utilities & Internet
Average monthly cost:
- Utilities (electricity, water, heating): €60–€120
- Internet: €20–€30
e) Healthcare & Insurance
Health insurance is compulsory.
- Student (EU, non-EU): €20–€40
- Private insurance: €40–€90 (optional)
f) Entertainment & Miscellaneous Costs
Student-friendly activities like cinema, sports, and cultural events can cost:
- €50–€150 per month
g) Tuition Fees & Hidden Costs to Know
Public universities offer relatively low tuition fees:
- Bachelor’s: €2,770 per year
- Master’s: €3,770 per year
- Engineering programs: €2,500–€5,000
- Grandes Écoles & private colleges: €10,000–€35,000 per year
Hidden costs:
- CVEC student life fee: €100–€120
- Residence permit: €50
- Initial deposit for accommodation
Scholarships to Reduce Cost of Living in France for Indian Students
Several scholarships help reduce living expenses:
a) Charpak Scholarship (by the French Government)
- Covers tuition, living allowance, and visa fees
- Ideal for bachelor’s, master’s, and exchange programs
b) Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
- Monthly stipend (€1,181 for master’s, €1,700 for PhD)
- Travel and health insurance covered
c) Erasmus+ Scholarship
- For exchange students in Europe
d) Campus France Scholarships
- Various government-backed programs for meritorious students
e) University-Specific Scholarships
- Sciences Po Emile Boutmy Scholarships
- HEC Paris Scholarships
- Université de Paris International Scholarships
Cost of Living in France Compared to Other Countries
| Country | Average Monthly Cost for Students |
| France | €800–€1,400 |
| Germany | €850–€1,100 |
| UK | €1,200–€1,800 |
| Netherlands | €1,100–€1,500 |
| Ireland | €1,200–€1,600 |
France remains relatively affordable compared to top study destinations like the UK or Ireland.
Budgeting Tips to Reduce Your Cost of Living in France
Students can manage costs effectively through:
1. Choose shared accommodation – Reduces rent by 40–50%.
2. Cook at home – Saves €80–€100 per month.
3. Use student discounts – Available on transport, museums, cafés, and cinemas.
4. Buy second-hand furniture/books – Platforms like LeBonCoin and Facebook Marketplace are very helpful.
5. Opt for a student meal pass (RU meal) – Meals at €3.30 are a huge cost-saver.
Part-Time Work Opportunities for Indian Students
Students can work 20 hours per week on a student visa.
Average part-time salaries:
- €600–€900 per month, depending on the city
- Sectors include hospitality, retail, tutoring, and university assistantships
Income from part-time work covers about 30–40% of monthly living expenses.
Why Supreme Forex Is the Best Partner for Your France Study Journey
Studying in France involves international fee payments and foreign currency management. However, Supreme Forex simplifies the entire process. With competitive exchange rates, transparent pricing, and reliable service, it ensures smooth, secure, and cost-effective transactions for students and parents alike.
What Supreme Forex Offers
- Get the best EUR to INR exchange rates in India, ensuring maximum value for every transfer.
- Enjoy instant and fully secure university fee transfers, trusted by students and parents alike.
- Benefit from zero hidden charges, so you always know exactly what you’re paying.
- Use student-friendly forex cards that are widely accepted across Europe for hassle-free spending.
- Opt for doorstep foreign currency delivery across major cities in India, saving time and effort.
- Receive dedicated expert support at every step, guiding both parents and students with clarity and confidence.
Supreme Forex ensures your financial transactions during your France journey remain stress-free and affordable.
FAQs: Cost of Living in France for Indian Students
1. What is the monthly cost of living in France?
The average cost ranges from €850 to €1,600 depending on the city and lifestyle.
2. Is France good for Indian students?
Yes. It offers world-ranked universities, affordable tuition, scholarships, and excellent job opportunities.
3. What scholarships are available for Indian students?
Major options include the Charpak Scholarship, Eiffel Scholarship, Erasmus+, and university-specific funding.
4. What are accommodation costs in Paris vs other cities?
Accommodation in Paris is significantly higher, while cities like Lyon, Lille, and Toulouse offer more affordable rents and student housing options.
- Paris: €700–€1,200+
- Lyon/Toulouse: €400–€700
- Lille/Grenoble: €350–€600
5. How can I reduce living expenses in France?
Choose shared housing, cook at home, use public transport, and apply for student discounts.
6. What is the eligibility for the Charpak Scholarship?
Academic performance, motivation, and enrolment in a French higher education institution are key criteria.
Conclusion
France offers a perfect blend of world-class education, cultural richness, and excellent career opportunities. By understanding the cost of living in France, Indian students can plan their budgets wisely and enjoy a comfortable academic life. With scholarships, budgeting strategies, and support from Supreme Forex, studying in France becomes even more accessible and affordable.
If you are planning your higher education in France, start early, explore your options, and secure the best EUR exchange rates with Supreme Forex to begin your journey confidently.
Sources –
- Shiksha Study Abroad
- UpGrad
