18 September 2025
5 minutes read
Study Political Science in France: A Complete Guide for Indian Students
24 August 2024
5 minutes read
Key Takeaways
- Study political science in France to access world-class universities, affordable tuition, and a multicultural academic experience.
- Indian students gain from English-taught programmes and scholarships, opening doors to careers in diplomacy and governance.
- Strong applications with clear goals and profile building greatly improve chances of success abroad.
Did you know France hosts over 400,000 international students, many drawn to its world-class social sciences and political science programmes? Yet for Indian students who wish to explore international relations, diplomacy, and public policy, the real struggle often lies in high tuition fees, cultural adjustments, and navigating admissions at top universities.
Choosing to study political science in France offers more than a degree; it equips graduates with multicultural perspectives, global networks, and a qualification that opens doors to careers in international affairs, governance, and beyond.
Why Indian Students Should Study Political Science in France?
For Indian students aiming to build careers in international relations, public policy, or diplomacy, choosing to study political science in France is a strategic step. Home to top universities like Sciences Po, Sorbonne, and the American University of Paris, France offers interdisciplinary political science programmes taught in English and French.
With affordable tuition fees compared to other study abroad destinations, political science graduates gain a multicultural perspective, critical examination of the political, and qualifications that open diverse careers in governance, global communications, and international affairs.
Top Universities in France for Political Science
France is home to some of the best institutes for students who wish to study political science in France.
From internationally acclaimed schools of international relations to specialised graduate programmes, these universities equip students with the skills needed for careers in diplomacy, public policy, and global organisations.
Sciences Po (Paris Institute of Political Studies)
Sciences Po is globally recognised as the leading institute of political studies in France. Known for its rigorous degree in political science, it offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programmes in political theory, sociology, and international relations.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programmes | Undergraduate, Master’s Degree, Graduate School |
| Specialisations | International Relations and Diplomacy, Comparative Politics, Public Affairs |
| Language | English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programmes |
| Career Outcomes | Careers in politics, government officers, international business |
Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University offers a strong political science degree that combines sociology, law, and economics. Students benefit from a comprehensive theoretical and critical examination of political systems, preparing them for careers in public and private sectors.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programmes | Undergraduate Degree, Master’s Degree |
| Specialisations | Political Theory, Public Policy, International Development |
| Language | French & English |
| Career Outcomes | Public affairs, local governance, foreign affairs |
University of Strasbourg
The University of Strasbourg provides interdisciplinary programs in political science that bring together social sciences, law, and economics. Its graduate school is highly reputed among international students.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programmes | Undergraduate, Master’s Degree, Two-Year Programmes |
| Specialisations | Comparative Politics, Environmental Sciences, Human Rights Advocacy |
| Language | English-taught bachelor’s and French programmes |
| Career Outcomes | Careers in international affairs, NGOs, government organisations |
American University of Paris
A liberal arts institution, the American University of Paris offers degrees in France with an American-style curriculum. Its political science programme integrates international development, diplomacy, and global communications.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programmes | Undergraduate Degree, Graduate School |
| Specialisations | International Relations, Global Communications, Policy Issues |
| Language | English |
| Career Outcomes | Diplomatic roles, international business, project development |
Paris-Saclay University
Paris-Saclay combines political science with fields like economics, environmental sciences, and law, helping students develop real-world problem-solving skills. It’s one of the fastest-growing universities in France.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programmes | Undergraduate, Master’s Degree |
| Specialisations | International Development, Public Policy, Comparative Politics |
| Language | English and French |
| Career Outcomes | Public and private sectors, government officers, research |
Catholic University of Paris
This private university offers specialised programs in political science rooted in values of ethics, rights, and responsibilities. It is particularly suited for students interested in liberal arts and social sciences.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programmes | Undergraduate Degree, Master’s Degree |
| Specialisations | Sociology, Political Theory, Public Affairs |
| Language | French & select English modules |
| Career Outcomes | Public service, NGOs, human rights advocacy |
American Graduate School in Paris
Known for its graduate school focus, the American Graduate School in Paris provides an international learning environment with degrees in political science linked to diplomacy and global organisations.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programmes | Master’s Degree, Two-Year Programmes |
| Specialisations | International Relations and Diplomacy, Foreign Affairs |
| Language | English |
| Career Outcomes | Diplomatic careers, NGOs, intergovernmental organisations |
University of Lyon (Université Lyon 2)
The University of Lyon offers a strong political science programme emphasising comparative politics, governance, and sociology. It prepares students for careers in politics and public policy analysis.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programmes | Undergraduate Degree, Master’s Degree |
| Specialisations | Comparative Politics, Public Policy, Local Governance |
| Language | French (some English-taught options) |
| Career Outcomes | Government officers, policy experts, public and private organisations |
IEP Toulouse (Sciences Po Toulouse)
As part of the IEP network, Sciences Po Toulouse provides an excellent undergraduate degree and master’s degree in political science. It equips students with a broad range of careers in public affairs and diplomacy.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programmes | Undergraduate, Graduate |
| Specialisations | Political Theory, Public Affairs, International Business |
| Language | French & English modules |
| Career Outcomes | Diplomacy, business school collaborations, future careers in politics |
University of Bordeaux
The University of Bordeaux integrates political science with interdisciplinary studies like economics, law, and sociology. Its program combines problem-solving management with a comprehensive theoretical base.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programmes | Undergraduate, Master’s Degree |
| Specialisations | Structural Analysis, Comparative Politics, International Development |
| Language | French & select English-taught programmes |
| Career Outcomes | International affairs, local governance, public and private sectors |
Eligibility and Admission Requirements to Study Politics in France
If you wish to study political science in France, understanding the eligibility and admission process is the first step.
While many universities offer flexible entry routes, students must meet certain academic, language, and program-specific requirements to enrol successfully.
1. Academic Qualifications
Students interested in studying must have completed an undergraduate degree or equivalent in social sciences, law, or fields of economics. This foundation is vital to pursue a two-year program or advanced master’s degree.
2. English Language Proficiency
For English-taught programmes, universities require IELTS/TOEFL scores. Strong language skills help students learn to represent their ideas confidently in an interdependent and multicultural classroom.
3. Statement of Purpose & Motivation
Applicants should show why they wish to pursue political science, connecting their interests to global issues and new challenges. A clear narrative demonstrates readiness to handle the complex world of politics.
4. Letters of Recommendation
Strong letters of recommendation from professors or employers show that applicants can learn to represent the public and contribute to organisations. This is key for young professionals qualifying for a broad range of careers.
5. Entrance Exams or Interviews
Some universities require entrance exams or interviews to assess analytical ability. These processes ensure students are ready for a program qualifying them for leadership in governance, policy, and the job market.
6. Work Experience (Optional)
For certain master’s programmes, prior work or internship experience in NGOs, government, or international organisations strengthens an application. It signals real-world readiness for a range of careers in international affairs.
Cost of Studying Political Science in France
When you study political science in France, the expenses include tuition fees and living costs, which vary by institution and city.
Understanding this breakdown is essential, as it helps in planning a degree that is qualifying you for a broad range of future opportunities.
| Expense Category | Average Annual Cost (in EUR) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (Public Universities) | €2,770 – €3,770 | Affordable options subsidized by the French government |
| Tuition Fees (Private Universities) | €8,000 – €20,000 | Higher cost but more specialised programmes |
| Living Expenses | €9,000 – €12,000 | Includes accommodation, food, and transportation |
| Health Insurance | €300 – €600 | Mandatory coverage for international students |
| Miscellaneous | €1,000 – €2,000 | Books, leisure, and other student activities |
Scholarships for Indian Students to Study the Political Science Programme in France
For Indian students planning to study political science in France, scholarships can significantly reduce financial stress. Many institutions and government bodies provide funding opportunities to support deserving students.
| Scholarship Name | Provider | Coverage | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eiffel Excellence Scholarship | French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs | Tuition, monthly allowance, travel | High-achieving international students applying for master’s/PhD |
| Charpak Scholarship | French Embassy in India | Tuition waiver, living expenses | Indian students enrolling in French institutions |
| Emile-Boutmy Scholarship | Sciences Po | Partial to full tuition fee support | Merit-based for non-EU international students |
| Erasmus+ | European Union | Tuition, living, travel | Students applying for joint programmes across Europe |
| AUP Global Scholars Grant | American University of Paris | Tuition discount | International students with strong academic record |
Conclusion
Choosing to study political science in France is more than earning a degree; it’s stepping into a multicultural classroom that shapes you into a global thinker, ready for diplomacy, governance, and international affairs. But success abroad doesn’t just depend on admissions; it depends on how strong and unique your profile is.
That’s where Ambitio comes in. With expert mentorship and personalised profile building, Ambitio helps you stand out among thousands of applicants.
Ready to turn your ambitions into acceptance letters? Connect with Ambitio today and start building your future with confidence!
FAQs
Why study political science in France?
France offers top-quality political science programs, a multicultural environment, and access to international relations expertise.
Can I study in English?
Yes, many universities in France offer English-taught programs, especially at the graduate level.
What are the career prospects after studying political science in France?
Graduates can pursue careers in politics, public affairs, international business, diplomacy, and various government roles.
Are there scholarships available for international students?
Yes, many universities and organizations offer scholarships to help international students cover tuition costs.
How long does it take to complete a political science degree in France?
It depends on the level of study; an undergraduate degree typically takes three years, while a master’s program is usually two years.
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