France continues to strengthen its position as a leading international study destination, currently ranking sixth worldwide in terms of hosting international students.
A Significant Increase in the Number of International Students
Between 2017 and 2022, the number of international students hosted in France increased by 17%, representing an impressive rise of 60,000 additional students. In the 2022–2023 academic year alone, the number of international students arriving in France grew by 3%, according to Campus France data. As a result, the total number of international students in France reached 412,000 in 2022–2023.
The growth in international students in France mainly comes from continental Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa, with a notable increase in students from North Africa and the Middle East. In addition, students from the American continent have also increased by 12%.
Diversity of Student Origins
The top five countries of origin for students in France are Morocco, Algeria, China, Italy, and Senegal. However, between 2017 and 2022, some countries experienced particularly strong growth.
Business Schools: the Strongest Growth
In higher education, business schools such as My French Degree are experiencing the strongest growth, with an 80% increase in the number of international students over five years. This trend highlights the global appeal of French higher education and confirms France’s position as a top international study destination.
An Ambitious Goal: 500,000 Students by 2027
France has set an ambitious goal of welcoming 500,000 international students by 2027, as part of President Emmanuel Macron’s policy agenda.