France promising study destination for Pakistani students
LAHORE: Pakistani students are increasingly eyeing France as an affordable and high-quality destination for higher education, according to Prof Dildar Hussain, a Pakistani-French academic currently serving as Professor of Marketing at Rennes School of Business.
During his visit to Pakistan, Prof Hussain met with renowned educationist and international career counselor Syed Abidi to discuss growing opportunities for Pakistani youth in the French education system. Highlighting the rising student mobility between the two countries, he noted that French institutions-including Rennes-now offer a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that appeal to international students.
“France is still an under-explored yet highly attractive destination for Pakistani students,” Prof Hussain remarked.
“Not only are tuition fees in public universities modest by European standards, but the living costs are also comparatively affordable. The quality of instruction ranks among the best in Europe.” Graduates of French institutions are entitled to a one-year post-study work visa, which Prof. Hussain noted is a valuable opportunity for gaining international experience.
“Most students secure permanent roles, and many go on to acquire French nationality,” he said. Beyond business education, French universities are offering trending programmes in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Environmental Studies, Sustainable Development, International Relations, and Luxury Brand Management. Prof Hussain also emphasised the availability of both paid and unpaid internships, along with a range of merit-based scholarships.
During his visit, Prof Hussain expressed interest in strengthening institutional ties with leading Pakistani universities. He highlighted Rennes School of Business’s ongoing collaborations with the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) and the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), particularly in the areas of student transfer, academic exchange, and research partnerships.
Syed Abidi, who has long advocated for expanding global education options for Pakistani students, described the conversation as “insightful and timely.” He praised the growing educational prospects for Pakistani youth in France and welcomed the idea of increased academic collaboration. However, Prof. Hussain also advised students to carefully check whether their chosen programmes are offered in English, as many public institutions in France still primarily teach in French.
English-medium programmes are more commonly found in private business schools and specialised institutions. With evolving visa policies, increasing institutional partnerships, and a broadening academic portfolio, France appears poised to become a key destination for Pakistani students seeking affordable, world-class education and career growth.
