The French Embassy in India has clarified that recent claims about Campus France branch offices in India are “misleading and false information,” stressing that such accusations harm the reputation of a well-regarded university.
The French Embassy in India stated, “The French higher education system is diverse, offering a wide range of academic and professional programmes. Its institutions include public universities, which provide various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across numerous fields; Grandes Ecoles, prestigious institutions offering specialised training in areas such as engineering, business, and public administration; and specialised schools (Ecoles Specialisees), which focus on specific sectors such as art, architecture, and hospitality.”
The embassy added, “Additionally, some private higher education institutions in France, often registered as companies, are recognised as training centres by the Education Code and civil authorities. These institutions may issue their own certificates and diplomas, which do not have government recognition. While these certificates are accepted in the labour market, they do not carry the academic value that comes with State recognition.”
The French Embassy in India emphasised that Campus France is a French government agency dedicated to promoting international mobility. It pointed out that there are 200 Campus France centers and branches across 134 countries globally.
The embassy further clarified, “As in any other country where its offices are established, Campus France India, which reports directly to the French embassy in India, is tasked with promoting France as a premier destination for higher education and facilitating student mobility. The office is responsible for providing information to Indian students and researchers about the French higher education system and the visa application procedures.”
The French Embassy in India noted that Campus France India operates independently and is not linked to any particular educational institution, whether public or private. Its role includes providing free counselling to students interested in studying in France and offering general advice on selecting the appropriate institution before applying.
The embassy advised prospective students to thoroughly research the credentials of the institutions they are considering, especially when entering into agreements with private higher education providers. It urged students to carefully review and understand the terms and conditions of their applications.
The embassy highlighted that accurate and reliable information about courses offered by French universities can be found online in the “Etudes en France” platform and on the Campus France website.
The embassy added, “If there is any uncertainty regarding the reliability of an institution, Campus France India’s counsellors are available to assist. It is also worth noting that the ‘Bienvenue en France’ label guarantees the quality of the French higher education institutions to which it is awarded.”
The French Embassy in India clarified that French higher education institutions typically do not require the full tuition fee to be paid before students arrive on campus with a student visa. Generally, students only need to pay a partial fee to complete the registration process during their application.
The embassy advised prospective students to thoroughly understand all terms and conditions of their application before making any payments. It emphasised that Campus France India is available to provide guidance if there are any uncertainties, particularly when independent and reliable information is needed.
The embassy reaffirmed the commitment of French authorities to uphold the high standards of France’s internationally recognised higher education. It “firmly rejects” any institution that might damage this reputation through misleading or exploitative practices aimed at students, whether domestic or international.
The embassy mentioned that fraud control authorities are promptly notified, and official correspondence is sent to the institutions involved if such practices are discovered. It added, “For students in dispute with institutions based in France, Campus France India can provide support and counselling on the administrative and legal procedures but cannot be a legal party to the dispute.”
The French Embassy in India reported that French authorities are actively working to promote and enhance student mobility and youth exchanges between France and India. This effort includes several innovative measures designed to meet the goal set by French President Emmanuel Macron during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit in July 2023: to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030.
The embassy highlighted new initiatives, such as a five-year Schengen visa for Indian students who have studied in France for at least one semester and hold a master’s degree or higher from a recognised university in India, France, or elsewhere. Additionally, international classes have been introduced.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France earlier in 2023, where he was the Guest of Honour at France’s National Day on July 14, coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Strategic Partnership between India and France.