Study Medicine in France for International Students

To Study Medicine in France, Indian students must hold DELF B2/DALF C1 certification (French Language Proficiency Tests), qualify the highly competitive entrance exams PASS/PACES in first year, and have strong Class 12 scores in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. MBBS in France for Indian Students spans 9–11+ years at top universities like Sorbonne and Paris Cité, with affordable public tuition and primarily French-taught programs. 

• Entrance System: Students must clear the competitive first year (PASS/LAS system, earlier PACES). 
• Top Medical Universities: Sorbonne University, Université Paris Cité, University of Lyon and Aix-Marseille University. 
• Course Duration: Medical education in France typically takes 9 to 11+ years, including internships and specialisation. 
• Age: Minimum 17 years old. 
• Documents: Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (2+), CV, proof of funds (~€10,000/year or INR 10.6L/year for non-EU students). 

Studying medicine in France combines affordability, academic excellence, and global recognition, making it a strong long-term investment for committed medical aspirants from India. 

Thinking of doing MBBS from France? Read our guide on MBBS in France

Top Medical Courses to Study Medicine in France

France offers a wide range of medical and allied health programs. From clinical medicine to nursing, pharmacy, and dentistry, students can choose structured degree pathways that match different career goals and time commitments while studying within Europe’s most advanced healthcare system. 

Here are the top 5 medical courses best for international students. 

1. Doctor of Medicine (MD – Integrated Bachelor’s + Master’s Level)

This is the main clinical pathway for students aiming to Study Medicine in France and become licensed doctors. The program begins with a highly competitive first year, followed by clinical training and long-term internships. 

• Duration: 9–11+ years including specialisation 
• Language: French 
• Career Scope: Physician, Surgeon, Specialist 
• Best For: Students targeting full medical practice in France or the EU 

2. Bachelor of Nursing (Bachelor’s Degree)

Nursing is one of the most popular healthcare programs linked to MBBS in France for Indian Students due to strong job demand and faster career entry. The course focuses on patient care, hospital training, and clinical skills. 

• Duration: 3 years 
• Language: French 
• Career Scope: Registered nurse, hospital staff, community healthcare 
• Best For: Students seeking stable and faster healthcare employment 

3. Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD – Integrated Degree)

Pharmacy is a highly respected medical field for those planning to Study Medicine in France without pursuing clinical practice as a doctor. It includes pharmaceutical sciences, hospital training, and industry exposure. 

• Duration: 6–9 years 
• Language: French 
• Career Scope: Pharmacist, drug researcher, hospital pharmacy roles 
• Best For: Students interested in medicines, research, and healthcare industry 

4. Doctor of Dental Surgery (Dentistry – Integrated Degree)

Dentistry is a top choice within MBBS in France for Indian Students alternatives, offering strong income potential and specialisation options. The course includes academic training and extensive clinical practice. 

• Duration: 6–8 years 
• Language: French 
• Career Scope: Dentist, orthodontist, oral surgeon 
• Best For: Students seeking independent medical practice 

5. Bachelor in Physiotherapy (Bachelor’s + Master’s Track)

Physiotherapy is an allied medical field growing rapidly among students who want to Study Medicine in France through rehabilitation and physical therapy. It combines anatomy, movement science, and clinical training. 

• Duration: 3–5 years 
• Language: French 
• Career Scope: Physiotherapist, sports rehab specialist 
• Best For: Students interested in non-surgical patient recovery 

 

Top Medical Schools in France Catering Best Courses

The leading universities for MBBS in France for Indian Students are known for strong clinical training, advanced research facilities, and global recognition. These institutions also offer diverse medical and allied healthcare programs for those planning to Study Medicine in France. 

Here are top 12 QS Ranked French medical universities: 

University	QS World Ranking 2026  (For Medicine Program)
Sorbonne University	45
University of Paris Cité	77
Aix-Marseille University	201-250
University of Strasbourg	251-300
Claude Bernard University Lyon 1	160
University of Montpellier	251-300
University of Bordeaux	201-250
University of Rennes 1	501-550
University of Lille	251-300
University of Toulouse III - Paul Sabatier	301-350
University of Nantes	301-350
University of Lorraine	501-550

With a clear understanding of the top medical programs and MBBS in France, knowing the eligibility criteria you must meet to study medicine in France successfully is essential. 

Why These Universities Rank at the Top

• Strong government funding ensures high-quality medical infrastructure and laboratories. 
• Close hospital partnerships provide early and intensive clinical exposure. 
• Globally ranked faculty members lead advanced medical research. 
• Affordable public tuition attracts top international talent. 
• High graduate employability across Europe strengthens their academic reputation. 

Explore the top Public Universities in France for getting an affordable education

Eligibility Criteria for Admissions in Medical Courses in France

To be eligible to enter in top medical schools in France, you’ve to mandatory pass the academic and language proficiency criteria, since they are common in all courses and universities. 

Other specific criteria are listed down below: 

Academic Criteria: 

1. Completion of higher secondary education (equivalent to French Baccalauréat). Minimum 70-75% aggregate in science subjects. 
2. Strong foundation in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics 

Language Proficiency: 

1. French: DELF B2 or DALF C1. Required for most programs where French is the medium of instruction. 
2. English: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80+ (if program offered in English). Varies by university and program. 

Competitive Exams: 

1. Success in the Première Année Commune aux Études de Santé (PACES) or équivalent entrance test. PACES pass required for medical program progression. 
2. Some universities may require additional tests or interviews. 

Financial and Others: 

1. Proof of financial resources to cover tuition fees and living expenses. Minimum of €10,000 (~INR 10L) per year. 
2. Valid student visa: Mandatory for non-EU students. 
3. Work experience (optional but recommended for some programs). 
4. Statement of Purpose (SOP): Explains the motivation to study medicine in France. 
5. Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Usually 2 academic or professional references. 
6. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Academic and extracurricular summary. 

 

Admission Process for Medical Programs and MBBS in France

Understanding the admission process is crucial for students planning to Study Medicine in France, as entry into medical programs and MBBS in France for Indian Students at leading institutes is highly selective. 

Nearly 70% of enrolled students successfully complete the first cycle, reflecting the system’s academic precision. Additionally, demand for certified French language proficiency has risen by about 25% over the last five years. 

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate admissions at top Medical Schools in France: 

1. Research and Shortlist Universities: Begin by researching medical programs offered by top Medical Schools in France. Each year, more than 10,000 international students apply to medical courses, making early shortlisting a critical step. 
2. Check Eligibility Criteria: Students must meet academic requirements, typically 70–75% or higher in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Language proficiency is mandatory. 
3. Register on Parcoursup or University Portals: Most public Medical Schools in France accept international applications through Parcoursup, the centralized national admission platform. Some private institutions may have separate university portals. 
4. Submit Required Documents: Applicants must upload academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, passport copy, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, CV, and proof of financial resources showing at least €10,000. 
5. Pass the Entrance Exam (PACES or Equivalent): Students must pass the PACES exam or its replacement, the PASS/LAS system. Only 15-20% of students advance beyond the first year. 
6. Receive Admission Decision: Admission results are communicated via Parcoursup or university portals. Successful candidates can then proceed with enrollment and visa support. 
7. Apply for Student Visa: Non-EU students must apply for a student visa at the French consulate in their home country before traveling to France. 

Cost to Study Medicine in France

For Indian students planning to Study in France, affordability remains one of the biggest advantages, especially at public universities and government-funded Medical Schools in France. France consistently ranks among the top three European destinations for international students, with living expenses estimated between €850–€1,200 (INR 90,160 - 1.27L) per month. When converted using Indian standards, the overall annual cost remains competitive compared to other medical destinations. 

Approximate Annual Cost to Study Medicine in France 

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (EUR)	Estimated Cost (INR)
Tuition Fees (Public Universities)	€2,700 – €3,800	₹2.9L – ₹3.95L
Pre-Arrival (Visa, Travel, Admin)	€500 – €800	₹52K – ₹83K
Accommodation (Yearly)	€3,600 – €9,600	₹3.75L – ₹10L
Food & Groceries (Yearly)	€2,400 – €3,600	₹2.5L – ₹3.75L
Transport (Yearly)	€240 – €600	₹25K – ₹62K
Health Insurance (Yearly)	€100 – €300	₹10K – ₹31K
Books & Study Materials (Yearly)	€200 – €300	₹21K – ₹31K
Miscellaneous Personal Expenses	€500 – €800	₹52K – ₹83K

 Total Estimated Annual Cost 

• Public Universities: Approximately ₹14L – ₹20L per year 
• This range comfortably covers tuition, accommodation, daily living, insurance, and personal expenses for students pursuing MBBS in France for Indian Students at top Medical Schools in France. 

Once students clearly understand the cost structure to Study Medicine in France, the next crucial step is exploring the scholarships and financial aid options that can significantly reduce the overall financial burden. 

 

Financial Aid and Scholarships

One of the top reasons to study in France is the wide range of financial aid options available. With around 25% of international students in France receiving some scholarship support, these opportunities make pursuing medical programs and MBBS in France more financially accessible than in many other countries. 

The table shows France's Top Scholarships and Financial Aid for Medical Students. 

Scholarship Name	Type	Benefits and Eligibility
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship	Government-funded	Benefits: Monthly stipend: €1,031 (INR 1.07L), travel, insurance, housing support
French Ministry of Higher Education Scholarships	Government-funded	Benefits: Tuition waiver, health insurance, and accommodation
Émile Boutmy Scholarship (Sciences Po)	University-specific	Benefits: Up to €13,000 (INR 13L)/year tuition assistance
Université Paris-Saclay IDEX Scholarship	University-specific	Benefits: €10,000 (INR 10 L)/year stipend, relocation support
ENS International Selection Scholarships	University-specific	Benefits: Monthly grant: €1,000 (INR 1L), housing
Charpak Scholarship (by the French Embassy in India)	External (Government-funded)	Benefits: Tuition waiver, visa fee waiver, stipend
MOPGA Scholarship (Make Our Planet Great Again)	Government + Institutional	Benefits: €1,190 (INR 1. 24L)/month stipend
Erasmus+ Funding	External (EU-wide program)	Benefits: Tuition fees, travel allowance, living stipend

After your medical course in France, career prospects range from practicing locally to global roles. French scholarships for Indian students, like Charpak and Eiffel, also ease the financial journey. 

 

Career Prospects After doing Medical Courses in France

Graduating after you Study Medicine in France unlocks diverse career opportunities across clinical practice, medical research, and academic roles. As per INSEE projections, France’s healthcare sector is expected to expand by about 7% over the next five years, sustaining strong demand for both general physicians and medical specialists. 

The table shows the Top Career Options After Studying Medicine in France. 

Job Role	Average Annual Salary (EUR)/(INR)	Description
Surgeon	€100,000 – €200,000  INR 1Cr – INR 2.1Cr	Operates in hospitals or private clinics; requires additional training
Medical Specialist (e.g., Cardiologist, Neurologist)	€90,000 – €150,000  INR 94L – INR 1.57Cr	Requires further specialization post MD; highly paid and in demand
General Practitioner	€70,000 – €90,000  INR 73L – INR 94L	Primary healthcare provider, often the first point of contact for patients
Clinical Pathologist	€60,000 – €85,000  INR 62L – INR 89L	Diagnose diseases via lab tests; employed by clinics and diagnostic centers
Hospital Administrator	€55,000 – €80,000  INR 57L – INR 83L	Manages operations in public/private hospitals
Public Health Expert	€50,000 – €70,000  INR 52L – INR 73L	Works with NGOs, governments, or the WHO on community health initiatives
Medical Researcher	€45,000 – €65,000  INR 47L – INR 68L	Works in laboratories or with pharma companies; often linked to universities
Lecturer/Professor (Medical University)	€40,000 – €65,000  INR 42L – INR 68L	Academic career, often combined with clinical practice or research

Source: Glassdoor, Payscale, Salaryexplorer 
Note: INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

 

Top Recruiters in France for Medical Graduates

For students who study medicine in France, securing employment with leading healthcare organizations is a critical step in their career journey. Here’s a list of the top recruiters in France actively hiring medical graduates from leading medical programs and MBBS in France. 

• Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP): Europe’s largest hospital network, employing doctors, surgeons, nurses, and medical researchers across 30+ hospitals in Paris. 
• Ramsay Santé: One of France’s biggest private healthcare groups, hiring clinicians, specialists, and allied health professionals. 
• Elsan Group: Major private hospital chain focused on surgery, oncology, and critical care services. 
• Sanofi: Global pharmaceutical leader recruiting pharmacists, clinical researchers, and biomedical scientists. 
• Inserm (National Institute of Health and Medical Research): France’s top public medical research employer for scientists and physician-researchers. 

 

Conclusion

Studying medicine in France offers Indian students a rare balance of academic excellence, affordability, and global career recognition. From structured clinical training at top Medical Schools in France to diverse options under MBBS in France for Indian Students, the country delivers strong long-term value. With affordable public tuition, robust hospital exposure, and growing healthcare demand, those who Study Medicine in France gain both professional security and international mobility in today’s competitive medical landscape. 

Book your free 1:1 counseling session with upGrad experts today and take the first step toward realizing your dream to study medicine in France!