Budgeting Guide for Indian Students Studying in France
Studying in France doesn’t have to break the bank. From housing and food to transport and mobile plans, here’s a clear and practical budgeting guide tailored for Indian students heading to France.
Studying in France is a dream for many Indian students. From world-class universities to the rich European lifestyle, the experience is unmatched. But before you pack your bags, it’s essential to get one thing right: your budget.
Here’s a practical guide to managing your money as an international student — including typical expenses, tips to save, and how to plan your finances like a pro.
Average Monthly Budget for Indian Students in France
| Category | Estimated Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Rent | 250 – 600 |
| Food & Groceries | 150 – 250 |
| Transportation | 30 – 60 |
| Mobile & Internet | 15 – 30 |
| Personal expenses | 50 – 100 |
| Entertainment & leisure | 50 – 100 |
Total: €600 – €1,000/month (₹55,000 – ₹90,000 INR approx.)
Accommodation
Rent is the biggest part of your budget. Here are your options:
- CROUS student residence: €200–€400
- Private residence or shared flat: €350–€700
- Studio in Paris: €600–€900 (most expensive)
Apply for CAF (French housing aid) to reduce rent by €50–€150/month.
Food & Groceries
Cooking at home can save you money. You’ll spend:
- €150–€200 if you cook regularly
- Add €20–€40 for eating out occasionally
- Indian grocery stores are available in major cities
Buy in bulk from Lidl, Aldi, Carrefour, or local markets.
Transport
Public transport is affordable for students:
- Student metro pass: €25–€40/month
- In Paris: Imagine R pass (€350/year)
- Walking and cycling are popular free options
Mobile & Internet
Top SIM providers: Free Mobile, Orange, SFR, Bouygues
- Plans start from €2 to €20/month
- Most student accommodations include Wi-Fi
Health Insurance
- Public health insurance (Sécurité Sociale): Free for students
- Optional private insurance (mutuelle): From €10/month
- Travel insurance (for the first 3 months) may be required initially
Banking & Payments
Open a French bank account for:
- Rent payments
- Receiving CAF or scholarships
- Subscribing to mobile/Internet services
Top banks: BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, Société Générale
Part-Time Work Opportunities
Indian students are allowed to work up to 964 hours/year (approx. 20 hours/week).
- On-campus jobs, cafes, tutoring
- Pay: €10.50 – €15/hour
This can help cover daily expenses or save for travel.
Smart Budgeting Tips
- Apply for CAF to cut rent costs
- Cook at home and eat out less frequently
- Use student discounts for movies, museums, trains
- Track your spending with apps like Tricount or Bankin’
Initial One-Time Costs Before Leaving India
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa & Campus France fees | ₹18,000 – ₹20,000 |
| Flight tickets (one-way) | ₹35,000 – ₹60,000 |
| First rent + deposit | €500 – €1,200 |
| Furniture & setup (if needed) | €100 – €200 |
| Miscellaneous | ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
Plan a one-time pre-departure budget of ₹1.2–1.5 lakhs.
Monthly Budget Summary
| Expense Category | Estimated Range (€) | Recommended Monthly Cap (€ |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | 250 – 600 | 400 |
| Food | 150 – 250 | 180 |
| Transport | 30 – 60 | 40 |
| Mobile & Internet | 15 – 30 | 20 |
| Misc. Personal Expenses | 50 – 100 | 60 |
| Entertainment/Leisure | 50 – 100 | 50 |
| Total | - | €750/month |
A realistic target: €700–€800 per month is a safe and manageable budget for most Indian students in France.
Moving to France for studies can be affordable — if you plan ahead. Understanding the cost of living, tracking your spending, and using available student benefits will help you make the most of your time abroad.
Thousands of Indian students in France manage their expenses smartly every year — and so can you.