France is one of the most exciting study-abroad destinations for Indian students — rich in history, diverse in culture, and home to some of the world’s finest universities. But while the academic journey is inspiring, the financial reality can feel overwhelming at first. That’s where part-time work comes in, helping students manage their living expenses while gaining international work experience. At SEICCO, we know that Indian students need the right balance of academic focus and practical exposure. This guide brings you insider tips on how to study smart and work part-time effectively in France. Work Rights for Indian Students in France If you’re moving to France with a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS), you’re legally allowed to work part-time. Here are the essentials: You can work up to 964 hours per year (about 20 hours per week). The French minimum wage (SMIC) is around €11.65/hour (before deductions). Paid internships lasting more than 2 months must pay at least €600/month. Job opportunities include cafés, retail, tutoring, hospitality, and university campus jobs. Our team at SEICCO often helps students understand these regulations in detail during the counselling process, so you can avoid confusion once you arrive. Finding Part-Time Work Securing your first job abroad can be intimidating. SEICCO advises students to use these proven pathways: University Career Services: Most French universities post campus-based opportunities. Networking: Indian student associations and alumni can point you to flexible jobs. Local Businesses: Cafés, bookstores, and restaurants near campuses frequently hire students. Online Platforms: Websites like Indeed and StudentJob regularly list part-time roles. Remember, while jobs are available, fluency in French is often the key to expanding your options. We encourage students to begin basic language lessons well before departure. Balancing Work and Studies At SEICCO, we remind students that working in France should complement, not compromise, their education. To strike the right balance: Prioritise academics – Strong performance keeps your long-term career goals on track. Plan schedules carefully – Use apps to organise classes, assignments, and shifts. Look for flexible roles – University jobs often adapt to student timetables. Avoid overworking – The 964-hour cap isn’t just legal, it also protects your health. Working part-time teaches discipline and time management — skills that will serve you far beyond your degree. Financial Realities Working in France can cover part of your living expenses, but it’s not a substitute for solid financial planning. Typical monthly costs include: Rent: €300–€700 depending on the city. Food: About €200 per month. Transport: €30–€70 with student discounts. Living Costs Overall: €900–€1, 200/month. With part-time work, you can earn €700–€900/month, which will help significantly with rent and food. At SEICCO, we advise students to arrange primary funding (savings, loans, or scholarships) for tuition and rely on part-time jobs mainly for living support. Cultural Adjustment at Work Working in France is not just about income — it’s also about integrating into a new culture. Expect: Formality in the workplace – Always use polite greetings like “Bonjour.” Punctuality – Being late is considered unprofessional. Work-life balance – Employers usually respect study commitments. Diversity – You’ll meet people from many backgrounds, enriching your experience. SEICCO encourages students to embrace these cultural nuances early, as they add immense value to your international journey. Support Beyond Part-Time Jobs France also offers generous scholarships to Indian students, such as: Charpak Scholarship (for Indian students via Campus France). Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (for master’s and PhD students). Regional and university-specific scholarships. At SEICCO, we guide you through these applications to ensure you maximise both academic and financial opportunities. Final Thoughts Studying in France is about more than earning a degree — it’s about shaping your personal and professional future in a truly global environment. Working part-time while studying not only eases financial pressure but also helps you gain practical skills and cultural fluency. At SEICCO, we prepare Indian students to step into this journey with confidence. From helping you choose the right course and apply for scholarships to advising you on part-time work regulations and cultural adaptation, we are here to make sure your time in France is both productive and fulfilling. Your academic future matters, but so does the experience that surrounds it. With SEICCO’s guidance, you can study smarter, work responsibly, and thrive in France.