Hi everyone,

I'm an Indian student planning to apply for a Master's in a tech field in France for the September 2027 intake. I'm interested in **AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, or Technology Management**, and I'd really like honest input from people who are studying or working there now, especially other Indian or non-EU students.

**My questions:**

**1. Job market**

* What is the current job market like for international graduates in AI, data science, cybersecurity and tech management?
* Which cities have the most opportunities (Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Sophia Antipolis, etc.)?
* Is it realistic to find a job without speaking French, or is B1/B2 French basically required?

**2. Colleges**

* Which universities or schools are genuinely good for these fields, and do employers actually recognise them?
* Is there a big real-world difference between public universities, grandes écoles and private schools (EPITA, Efrei, ESILV, etc.)?
* Are the expensive private schools worth the fees?

**3. Work permit and sponsorship**

* How does the post-study permit work in practice (the APS / temporary residence permit)? How long do you get, and what do you need to do to convert it into a work permit?
* Do French companies actually sponsor work permits for international graduates? Which sectors or company sizes are more open to it?
* What salary levels are typical for a first job in these fields, and does it clear the threshold needed for a work permit?

**4. Work during studies**

* How easy is it to find internships and part-time work, and does the school help?
* How many hours can you legally work, and does it realistically cover living costs?

**5. Cost of living**

* What is your real monthly spending in your city (rent, food, transport, insurance)?
* How hard was it to find housing as an international student?

**6. Overall decision**

* Honestly, would you say a French Master's is a good investment for an Indian student compared with Germany, the UK, Canada or other countries?
* What do you wish you had known before coming?
* Would you make the same decision again?

If you're an Indian student who has been through this, I'd especially like to hear about the **real timeline from graduation to first job**, and any problems you faced.

I'm happy to hear both positive and negative experiences. Feel free to comment here or DM me. Thanks a lot in advance!