France has emerged as a preferred destination for international students pursuing management and business studies, thanks to its stable policies, industry-focused courses, and cultural richness. Sivaprakasam Sockalingam, a student in the MSc in Project and Programme Management for Business Development (PPMBD) at SKEMA Business School, sheds light on his academic journey, the challenges of transitioning to a new country, and the steps he took to make his experience rewarding.
Why did you choose France for your master’s program?
Initially, Europe wasn’t on my radar, but when I did consider it, France stood out as the ideal choice. It offers immense scope for management-related courses like my MSc in PPMBD. The internship opportunities here are also a major advantage, as they often lead to permanent roles — something not as common in the UK.
Additionally, I had a foundation in French from school, which made the transition slightly easier. That said, mastering the language has still been a challenge!
Did you face any initial concerns or challenges while planning your studies abroad?
Language was definitely a major concern for me. Beyond that, the overall cost of living and tuition fees in France were more affordable compared to the UK, which was the other country I had in mind.
One big factor was the visa process. France has a relatively stable and straightforward process for international students, unlike the UK, where policy changes — such as restrictions on dependents or minimum salary requirements — added a lot of uncertainty.
How did you manage the administrative and logistical challenges of moving to France?
It’s all about preparation and persistence. One key lesson I’ve learned is to start early. Here are some tips based on my experience:
- Administrative Tasks: Be prepared for delays and follow up proactively. For example, opening a bank account in France can be time-consuming. I had to go directly to the bank to resolve an issue with my debit card — it turned out there had been a technical issue that wasn’t communicated to me.
- Accommodation: Finding housing was my biggest challenge. Many landlords either wanted immediate occupancy or had long waiting periods. If you don’t secure accommodation early, it can delay your visa process. My advice is to start looking as soon as you finalize your decision to study in France, even if it means paying an extra month’s rent to secure a place.
Did you apply for any scholarships or financial aid?
Unfortunately, I didn’t receive any scholarships, even though I was eligible based on my professional experience and performance. The main reason? I started the application process late. This is another area where starting early makes all the difference.
What advice would you give to prospective students planning to study in France?
- Learn French: Even a basic understanding of the language will make your transition smoother.
- Start Early: Whether it’s applying for Campus France, securing accommodation, or exploring scholarships, give yourself plenty of time.
- Be Proactive: Administrative processes can be slow, so don’t hesitate to follow up.
- Financial Planning: Understand the costs involved and be prepared for unexpected expenses.
For Sivaprakasam, studying in France has been a journey of growth, adaptation, and opportunity. Despite the challenges, his proactive approach and meticulous planning have allowed him to navigate the hurdles effectively. His story underscores the importance of preparation, cultural adaptability, and persistence for any student considering studying in France.
If you’re inspired by Sivaprakasam’s journey, take his advice to heart: start early, learn the language, and embrace the adventure. As he puts it, “Be prepared for anything, but enjoy the process — it’s all part of the experience!”
Ready to explore the exciting opportunities France has to offer? Visit Ask Sétu or email hello@asksetu.com to start your French educational journey today!
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