France has set an ambitious goal to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, emphasizing academic excellence and intercultural exchange. This initiative provides Indian students with access to world-renowned institutions, fostering educational and cultural ties between the two nations.
A key component of this effort is the ‘Classes Internationals’ program, introduced following an agreement between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron. Launched in September 2024, this program is designed to support India’s top high-school graduates, regardless of their French language proficiency, by offering them a year-long intensive French language course before they begin their chosen academic programs in France.
‘Classes Internationals’ opens doors to some of France’s most esteemed higher education institutions. It caters to both students with prior knowledge of French and complete beginners, ensuring language is not a barrier to academic success. Upon completing the foundation year, students can pursue a three-year Bachelor’s degree (Licence) or a two-year Master’s degree in their chosen fields.
For the second phase of the program, students with no prior French knowledge (A0 level) must apply by March 31, 2025. Those with an A2 level of proficiency have until mid-May 2025 to submit their applications.
A2 proficiency, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), enables students to understand and use common expressions related to everyday topics such as personal information, shopping, geography, and employment. This level is sufficient to gain admission to a higher education program in France.
Many students who studied French in high school may have taken standardized tests like DELF, DELF Junior, or TCF to assess their CEFR level. Those who have not taken a formal test can get their proficiency evaluated through the French Embassy or the Alliances francises, where a free placement test is available.
Students who do not yet meet the A2 level requirement can enroll in a specially designed program at the Alliances françaises in India. This preparatory course helps them achieve the necessary proficiency before embarking on their studies in France.
While having an A2 level in French is advantageous, complete beginners can still secure admission if they commit to language training. This initiative ensures that all eligible students, regardless of their French language skills, have the opportunity to study at top French institutions, further strengthening Indo-French educational collaboration.
