Choose USA if…
Largest choice of universities and specialisations; STEM OPT gives up to 3 years of work experience after an eligible degree.
🇺🇸 vs 🇫🇷
USA vs France for Indian Students
A side-by-side comparison of studying in the USA and France: total cost in rupees, work during and after study, and long-term options.
- USA: median ₹98 lakh
- France: median ₹75 lakh
- France cheaper by ≈ ₹23 lakh
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Quick answer
USA or France: which is better for Indian students?
On our university data, France is cheaper: the median total cost is ₹75 lakh versus ₹98 lakh in the USA. After graduation, the USA offers OPT 12 months + 24-month STEM OPT extension for STEM-designated degrees, while France offers indian master's graduates: residence permit of up to 2 years to work. The better choice depends on your course, budget and long-term plan.
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USA vs France
- Median total cost
- USA: ₹98 lakh · France: ₹75 lakh
- Duration
- USA: 1.5–2 years (some 1-year programs) · France: 1–2 years
- Intakes
- USA: Fall (Aug/Sep) · France: September; some January
Side by side
USA vs France: the numbers
Our view
Which suits you?
Choose France if…
Low public tuition and top-ranked business schools; Up to 2 years of post-study stay for Indian master's graduates.
Budget first
France is about ₹23 lakh cheaper at the median on our data.
Career first
Compare post-study work: USA (OPT 12 months + 24-month STEM OPT extension for STEM-designated degrees) and France (Indian master's graduates: residence permit of up to 2 years to work).
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
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Ask a counsellor directly — we reply on WhatsApp during working hours (Mon–Sat, 9 AM–6 PM IST).
On our data, France has the lower median total cost (₹75 lakh vs ₹98 lakh).
USA: OPT 12 months + 24-month STEM OPT extension for STEM-designated degrees. France: Indian master's graduates: residence permit of up to 2 years to work.
USA: Up to 20 hours/week on campus during semesters. France: Up to 964 hours per year.
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