7 French Universities Where Indian Students Can Study in France Without IELTS in 2025: Complete Guide to Language-Free Admissions

Are you looking to study in France but worried about IELTS requirements? Good news! Many French universities now accept alternative proof of English proficiency for international students. This trend has opened doors for Indian students who want to pursue higher education in France without taking standardized language tests.

Several prestigious French business schools and universities offer programs where Indian students can study without submitting IELTS scores in 2025. Instead of IELTS, they might ask for proof that your last school taught in English, run their own language tests, or even just chat with you in an interview to check your English.

All this flexibility? It's made France a lot more appealing for Indian students looking for a solid education in Europe. Places like SKEMA Business School, NEOMA Business School, and KEDGE Business School have streamlined admissions for English-speaking folks. So, let's dive into seven French universities that don't demand IELTS from Indian students in 2026.

Overview Of Studying In France Without IELTS

If you're an Indian student eyeing France, here's the scoop - lots of universities don't insist on IELTS anymore. This opens up the country for international studies and knocks down a big barrier for many.

Why France Welcomes Indian Students

France has really caught the attention of Indian students lately, thanks to its stellar education system and vibrant culture. By 2025, French universities are actively seeking out Indian talent to mix things up on campus.

The French government is rolling out scholarships just for Indian students, hoping to build stronger academic bridges between the two countries. French degrees are recognized globally, which doesn’t hurt your job prospects. Plus, after graduation, you can get a post-study work permit pretty handy if you want some international experience. And let's be honest, compared to the US or UK, tuition fees in France are much lighter on your wallet.

French University Language Requirements

French universities usually offer two tracks for international students. If your program is in French, you'll need to show you can handle the language - think DELF or DALF exams.

But for English-taught programs, the requirements are different:

• Internal English tests: Some schools run their own assessments

• Prior education proof: Show you studied in English before

• Interview assessment: Sometimes they'll just talk to you and see how you do
  

For English-taught courses, a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your previous school basically saying classes were in English often does the trick.

For the January 2026 intake, double-check what each university wants policies can shift from program to program.

7 French Universities Where Indian Students Can Study Without IELTS In 2026

SKEMA Business School

SKEMA Business School is a top pick in France, opening its doors to Indian students without making IELTS a must. Since its start in 2009, SKEMA has campus in Paris, Lille, and Sophia Antipolis.

Indian students can send an MOI letter from their previous school confirming classes were in English. That’s usually enough proof for SKEMA.

The school has a range of programs BBA, MSc in International Business, MBAs, and so on. Tuition sits between €15,000 and €25,000 (₹13.5–22.5 lakhs) a year, depending on your course.

SKEMA gives you a truly international vibe, with campuses in France and abroad (USA, Brazil, China, South Africa). Their grads seem to do well too 96% land jobs within six months. Not bad, right?

NEOMA Business School

NEOMA Business School is often counted among France's best. With campuses in Reims, Rouen, and Paris, it offers a lively and diverse setting for students from all over.

Indian students can skip the IELTS if they provide an MOI letter. NEOMA also runs its own English test if you need another route.

They’ve got programs in management, finance, marketing, and international business. Tuition is usually €14,000–22,000 (₹12.6–19.8 lakhs) per year.

NEOMA’s industry connections are strong, so students find good internships and job options. The school partners with over 300 companies, which is nothing to sneeze at.

Plus, NEOMA has triple accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA), putting it among the top business schools worldwide.

KEDGE Business School

KEDGE Business School is a solid choice if you want to avoid IELTS. With campuses in Bordeaux, Marseille, Paris, and Toulon, the school has a lot to offer.

Indian applicants can submit an MOI letter if they’ve studied in English for at least two years. Or, you can go for a Duolingo English Test score of 105 or more.

KEDGE runs a bunch of undergrad and postgrad programs in business, management, finance, and marketing. Tuition sits between €13,500 and €24,000 (₹12.2–21.6 lakhs) a year.

The school is big on sustainability and innovation, and has AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA accreditations to back up its quality.

KEDGE also boasts an alumni network of 75,000+ professionals. Their career services team does a lot to help students land internships and jobs.

RENNES Business School

RENNES Business School, based in Brittany, is about as international as it gets - 95% of the faculty are non-French, and students come from 70+ countries. It's a global learning hub right in France.

Indian students can use MOI letters to show their English skills. If you don't have IELTS, RENNES can check your English in an admission interview.

Programs cover international management, finance, data analytics, and digital marketing. Tuition ranges from €12,500 to €21,000 (₹11.3–18.9 lakhs) per year.

RENNES teaches all its courses in English, which makes it a great fit for Indian students who want to avoid French altogether.

The school’s career center is hands-on, helping students with internships and job hunts. They seem to really care about getting you where you want to go.

Additional French Universities Accepting Indian Students Without IELTS

Besides the big-name business schools, there are other respected French universities that also let Indian students in without IELTS. They offer solid education and use flexible ways to check your English skills.

Université Grenoble Alpes

Université Grenoble Alpes is one of France's top public research universities. For Indian students, it has a range of English-medium programs, and you don’t necessarily need an IELTS score to apply.

Alternative Assessment Methods:

• Internal online English proficiency test

• Video interview in English

• Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your previous institution
  

There are more than 15 master’s programs taught in English—think computer science, math, environmental sciences, and more. Tuition fees are quite reasonable compared to many other places:

The campus has over 8,000 international students and offers support services for Indian students, like orientation and cultural workshops.

Audencia Business School

Audencia Business School is a highly regarded business school in Nantes. It welcomes Indian students without IELTS, using a few alternative ways to check your English.

IELTS Waiver Options:

• Proof that you studied in English (bachelor’s level or above)

• Audencia’s own online English test

• Video interview with the admissions committee
  

They’ve got specialized programs in:

• International Management

• Marketing and Digital Innovation

• Finance and Sustainable Development
  

Tuition is between €15,000 and €20,000 (₹13,60,000 to ₹18,15,000) per year, depending on the course. Audencia’s got great industry links with more than 180 partner companies, so internships and job prospects are solid.

Indian students can access career counseling and a pretty active alumni network across Europe and Asia.

EM LYON

EM LYON Business School, established in 1872, gives Indian students several ways to apply without IELTS. It’s almost always listed in France’s top 5 business schools.

English Proficiency Alternatives:

• Transcripts showing English as the medium of instruction

• Internal English test (written and spoken)

• Previous degree from a recognized English-speaking university
  

Their MSc in Management is a favorite for Indian students, with options in digital marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, and more.

The school reports a 91% employment rate for international graduates within six months. Scholarships for Indian students range from €3,000 to €8,000, depending on merit and financial need.

Application Tips And Visa Considerations For 2026

Getting admitted and securing a French student visa takes some careful planning. Indian students should start the process 6-8 months before their intended start date so, earlier is better.

Required Application Documents

For French universities that don’t require IELTS in 2025, you’ll need these key documents:

• Academic transcripts (with certified translations)

• Statement of Purpose (500-700 words about your goals)

• Resume/CV (showcase academics and any work experience)

• Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your last school or college

• Recommendation letters (2-3, academic or professional)

• Passport (valid at least 6 months past your course end date)

• Passport-size photos (recent, white background)
  

Most business schools want an official MOI letter on your university’s letterhead. It has to be signed by someone authorized.

Some universities might ask you to take their own English test or do a video interview, so be ready for that.

Visa Processes For Indian Students

France issues the VLS-TS (long-stay student visa) for courses over 3 months. The visa application starts after you get your acceptance letter.

Indian students have to register with Campus France before applying for a visa. It’s a required step.

Here’s what you’ll need for the visa:

1. Proof of financial resources (about €615/month or ₹55,000/month)

2. Health insurance

3. Accommodation proof (like a university housing letter or rental agreement)

4. Admission letter from your French university

5. Campus France approval
   

Visa processing usually takes 2-3 weeks. It’s smart to apply at least 3 months before your course begins.

Indian students can work part-time (up to 20 hours a week) in France, which helps with living costs. The student visa also lets you travel freely within the Schengen area.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are plenty of ways for Indian students to study in France without IELTS in 2025. Here are some answers to common questions about language requirements, university choices, and alternative admissions paths that we have not answered above.

What alternative language proficiency tests are accepted by French universities for Indian students?

Many French universities will accept alternatives to IELTS. The TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) is accepted for French-taught programs.

For courses in English, TOEFL, Cambridge English exams, or PTE Academic are often accepted too. Some schools, especially business ones like SKEMA and NEOMA, have their own internal English tests.

Which public universities in France offer admission to international students without requiring IELTS in 2025?

Quite a few public universities in France don’t ask for IELTS. University of Paris (Sorbonne), University of Lyon, and University of Strasbourg all accept other proof of English skills.

Usually, they’ll take a Medium of Instruction letter from your last institution showing you studied in English.

Public universities in France are generally affordable, with tuition fees around €3,000-€4,000 per year for international students.

Can Indian students apply to Sorbonne University without IELTS, and if so, what are the requirements?

Yes, you can apply to Sorbonne University without IELTS. They accept a Medium of Instruction letter as proof of your English skills.

If you went to an English-medium school or college, just ask your institution for this letter. It should clearly say your studies were in English. For some programs, Sorbonne might do an online interview to check your language ability instead of asking for test scores.

Are there specific language courses that Indian students can take to meet the requirements of French universities without IELTS?

Yes, there are prep language courses that can help. Many universities offer pre-sessional English courses, and if you pass, they’ll often waive the IELTS requirement. French universities also accept completion of recognized English language programs from places like Alliance Française or Campus France. Some French universities are starting to accept the Duolingo English Test as an alternative to IELTS too.

What are the eligibility criteria for Indian students to enroll in University of Strasbourg without IELTS?

University of Strasbourg lets Indian students in without IELTS if they have a Medium of Instruction letter from their previous institution. You need to have studied at least three years in English. Sometimes, the university might ask for a Skype interview to check your English level. For master’s programs, you’ll need at least 65% in your bachelor’s degree, and your degree should relate to the field you want to study.

Does Toulouse Business School have special provisions for Indian students to study in 2025 without presenting IELTS scores?

Toulouse Business School does have some flexibility for Indian students. If you can get an MOI letter from your previous institution basically, proof that you studied in English they’ll accept that.

They also run their own English proficiency test as part of admissions, so you might not need to bother with IELTS at all.

If your degree’s from a recognized English-medium institution, there’s a good chance you’ll get a full waiver for language testing at Toulouse Business School.