French President Emmanuel Macron revealed the initiation of the Classes Internationales program during his official visit to India as the chief guest for Republic Day celebrations. This special initiative allows Indian students to immerse themselves in a year-long French language program in France before pursuing their preferred academic degree. Aimed at enabling India's top high school graduates to explore the diverse educational opportunities in France, the program ensures that language barriers do not restrict their choices to English-taught programs, as highlighted in a statement by the French embassy.
Irrespective of whether Indian students already have proficiency in the French language or are beginners, they are now eligible for admission to undergraduate programs offered by French higher education institutions that are conducted in French. This opportunity comes after successfully completing a foundational year of language training at the respective institution, as mentioned in the statement. The joint statement, endorsed by both President Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi after their meeting on January 26, highlighted their commitment to supporting the establishment of international classes. These classes, starting from September 2024, will allow Indian students to receive instruction in French as a foreign language, along with exposure to methodology and academic content, in prestigious French universities for one academic year. Following this, students can seamlessly transition into their chosen academic curricula in France.
While touring Amber Fort, Macron engaged with Indian students affiliated with Alliance Française de Jaipur, the French departments at Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University, and alumni who had completed their studies in France. Macron emphasized France's dedication to expanding avenues for Indian students, citing initiatives like Classes Internationales and the introduction of a five-year short-stay Schengen visa specifically for alumni. Additionally, he highlighted that India currently receives the highest number of French academic scholarships.
