France Higher Education Attracts More International Students in 2023/24

In the 2023/24 academic year, France higher education enrolled a record-breaking 430,466 international students. This represents a 4.6% increase compared to the previous year. The steady growth highlights France’s ability to remain a preferred destination for students globally, even in the face of growing competition from countries like Canada, the United States, and the UK.

Although France’s growth is notable, it’s essential to compare it with other major host countries. For example, Canada saw a sharp 29% growth in foreign enrolments in 2023, while both the UK and US recorded a 12% increase for the 2022/23 academic year. Germany, another major player, experienced a 5% rise in international student numbers in 2023.

Competing in the Global Talent Race

Donatienne Hissard, the Director-General of Campus France, noted the increasing competition among countries to attract international students. “France, like any other major host country, continues its growth in student mobility, and the competition to attract talent is fiercer than ever,” said Hissard.

With over 1 in 6 students in French higher education institutions now coming from abroad, it’s clear that France is committed to remaining a top destination for international students. France’s latest figures reflect an upward trend in attracting talent, even as the global competition heats up.

Boost in Student Enrolment from Asia-Pacific

France saw a notable increase in enrolments from the Asia-Pacific region, which had been relatively stagnant last year. Specifically, Chinese enrolment increased by 6%, while Indian enrolment surged by 12%.

China and India are key markets for many countries that attract international students. However, as other countries face capacity and policy challenges, France has become a more attractive option, particularly for Indian students.

Top 10 Countries for International Students in France

While the top 10 markets sending students to France remain largely unchanged from the previous year, a few trends are worth noting. Morocco, which traditionally sends the highest number of students, experienced a 4% decline for the second year in a row. On the other hand, Algeria saw a 7% increase in student numbers. Many of the top markets have grown significantly over the last five years, particularly Italy, Spain, Cameroon, and Lebanon.

Here are the top 10 countries sending students to France in 2023/24:

1. Morocco: 43,350 students (-4%)
2. Algeria: 34,270 students (+7%)
3. China: 27,125 students (+6%)
4. Italy: 21,040 students (+5%)
5. Senegal: 16,955 students (+11%)
6. Tunisia: 15,255 students (+7%)
7. Spain: 12,090 students (+4%)
8. Côte d’Ivoire: 11,770 students (+10%)
9. Lebanon: 11,235 students (-3%)
10. Cameroon: 10,880 students (+11%)

Lebanon, in particular, has become an increasingly important market for French higher education. While there was a slight decforeign enrollments. However, business schools and engineering schools have seen the morease in Lebanese enrolment this year, the country has seen a remarkable 90% growth in the number of students choosing France over the past five years.

Business Schools and Engineering Schools Lead the Way

Universities continue to attract the majority of international students in France higher education, accounting for roughly two-thirds of all st significant growth.

Business schools, in particular, saw an 11% increase in international student enrolment in the last year alone. Over the past five years, their share of total international students has grown from 10% to 15%. Similarly, engineering schools experienced a 9% rise in enrolment.

This trend reflects a broader shift in the types of programs international students are seeking in France. Many are now opting for specialized courses that align more closely with their career goals, particularly in business and engineering fields.

France’s Global Standing in Higher Education

France higher education system continues to rank among the best in the world. According to the latest Shanghai University Rankings, France ranks third globally in terms of the number of institutions in the Top 50, only behind the United States and China.

A total of 25 French institutions were listed in the World Top 1,000, with 18 in the Top 500. The University of Paris-Saclay stood out as one of the highest-ranking institutions, climbing to 12th place globally. This marked the best ranking ever achieved by a French university and solidified France’s reputation as a leader in higher education.

Growing Interest from Indian Students

Indian students are increasingly considering France as a study destination, with 12% more students choosing French institutions last year compared to the previous year. A recent QS report explored Indian students’ motivations for choosing France, revealing some interesting trends.

Business schools are particularly attractive to Indian students, with 31% indicating a preference for studying business and management in France. This is 11% higher than the global average. Additionally, almost half of Indian students are exploring postgraduate programs in France, compared to only 21% interested in undergraduate courses.

Indian students also place a high value on rankings and reputation when choosing a university. According to the QS report, 51% of Indian students said a high ranking was crucial in their decision-making process, compared to the global average of 33%. Furthermore, 52% indicated that a good reputation was essential, compared to the global average of 45%.

Conclusion: 

A Bright Future for France Higher Education

As international student enrolments continue to rise, France’s higher education system remains one of the most attractive and competitive in the world. With a strong emphasis on quality education, growing enrolments in business and engineering schools, and a focus on key markets like India and China, France is well-positioned for continued success.

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Quick Facts:

• France hosted 430,466 international students in 2023/24, a 4.6% increase from the previous year.
• Asia-Pacific saw renewed interest, especially from China (+6%) and India (+12%).
• Morocco’s enrollment declined by 4%, while Algeria grew by 7%.
• Business schools and engineering schools in France saw the highest growth in international student enrolment.
• France ranks third globally for institutions in the Shanghai Rankings Top 50.
• Indian student enrolment in France grew by 12%, with a strong preference for business and management courses.

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