A recent survey of 10,000 former students, including about 1,200 from the Asia-Pacific region (mainly India, China, and Vietnam), has revealed strong positive outcomes from their experiences studying in France. The survey showed that a significant percentage of Asia-Pacific alumni found their studies in France had a major impact on their career paths, especially when it came to finding jobs after graduation.
The survey found that 37percent of alumni from the Asia-Pacific region were able to find their first job in France after completing their studies. Moreover, 64percent of respondents secured employment within six months of graduation. These impressive figures underline the strength of France’s education system and its connection to the job market, making it an attractive destination for international students.
Further emphasizing the positive experience, 93percent of survey participants recommended France as a destination for higher education. Additionally, 85percent said they would recommend France as a place to work. These high recommendations highlight the overall satisfaction and success of students who studied in France, not only for their academic achievements but also for the opportunities available in the French job market.
The results of the survey will be shared at the upcoming Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) institutional conference, which is set to take place in New Delhi from March 24 to 28, 2025. This annual event serves as one of the largest international education fairs in the Asia-Pacific region, providing a platform for universities and institutions to build academic and mobility partnerships with schools from various countries, particularly India. For France, India is a priority country, and the country aims to host 30,000 Indian students by 2030.
The Asia-Pacific region is a key player in global student mobility. According to UNESCO data, around 2.6 million students from Asia-Pacific were pursuing higher education abroad in 2022, making it the leading region for international student mobility. France continues to be a popular destination for these students, with 55,000 students from the Asia-Pacific region studying in France in the 2023-2024 academic year. This figure represents 13percent of all international students in France, with the number of students from India and China rising by 12percent and 6percennt, respectively, in the past year. Overall, the region saw a 13percent increase in student mobility to France from 2023 to 2024.
The upcoming APAIE conference will feature the French Pavilion, coordinated by Campus France. This will bring together 35 French higher education institutions, nearly 120 delegates, and representatives from five French diplomatic offices in Asia. The French institutions attending will showcase their educational offerings and highlight the significant role France plays in international higher education.
The conference, which has been held annually since 2004, has grown into the largest professional fair for higher education in the Asia-Pacific region. The 2025 event is expected to attract over 2,000 participants from more than 60 countries. The conference will focus on the important role higher education plays in shaping global citizens who can help solve common challenges in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
Olivier Chiche-Portiche, the Director of Geographic Coordination at Campus France, emphasized the significance of the Asia-Pacific region in the context of student mobility. He noted, “The Asia-Pacific region remains the main driver of student mobility growth worldwide. It is also a strategic area for scientific and technological research, and the strong presence of French institutions will reflect this importance”.
There are over 400 active Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) between French and Indian institutions, promoting academic exchanges, dual-degree programs, and credit transfers. The Embassy of France in India actively supports these partnerships, offering guidance and connecting institutions with potential partners.
As part of the scientific program of the conference, Campus France will present a poster session that highlights the career paths of Asia-Pacific alumni who studied in France. This will provide valuable insights into the long-term benefits of studying in France and the impact it has on career development and success.
