Getting a student visa to study in France is a great way to get a taste of European culture and history. You’ll be able to earn an accredited degree while gaining valuable international experience, all while exploring one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
France is a popular destination for international students. The country offers an excellent quality of education and the opportunity to learn the French language and culture. This guide will walk you through the steps necessary to obtain your student visa for France, so you can begin planning your trip!
#1 Apply to a French university and get your acceptance letter
If you’re looking to study in France, the first step is to make sure you’ve found a university that’s right for you. Once you’ve decided on a school, apply and get accepted!
Once you’ve been accepted at a French university, it’s time to apply for your student visa. You’ll need to provide some documents as part of this process:
– Your acceptance letter from the university
– Proof of your financial resources (e.g., bank statement)
– Proof of accommodation (e.g., rental agreement)
– Proof that you have health insurance
#2 Find out what type of visa you need to study in France:
The French government offers various types of Student Visas to international students around the world. It is important to note that different types of French student visas are available based on the duration of study or how long the individual wishes to stay in France. Listed below are some examples of French visa types.
- Schengen Student Visa (Short-Stay):
- Visa To Sit Entrance Exams:
- Temporary Long-Stay France Student Visa:
- Long Stay France Student Visa:
#3 When and where to apply for the student visa
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A French student visa may be obtained either at a French consulate in your country or through Campus France (an institution promoting higher education in France, having a local office in almost all countries worldwide). Depending on your country, you may be required to register first with Campus France in order to obtain a student visa.
Simply follow the steps below:
- Visit the website of the French consulate in your area to schedule an in-person interview/appointment
- – you will find information regarding available dates and hours on the online calendar
- Make sure to schedule the appointment at least 90 days before your departure for France
- You are required to pay the visa processing fees of 50-100 euros, depending on your nationality
- Wait for the visa to be issued. Processing times will vary depending on your nationality, the current number of students seeking visas, and so on. Therefore, the earlier you submit your application, the better.
#4 Language requirements for studying in France
- Having a proficiency in French language – if you apply for French-taught degrees (accepted tests are: DELF/DALF or TCF)
- A proficiency in the English language is required – if you apply for English-taught degrees (accepted tests are: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic or C1 Advanced)
The French consulate will not require any additional language requirements for a study visa if you have an acceptance letter from a French university.
#5 Required application documents for the French student visa
Visa requirements for French students vary based on their age, education level, and country of origin.
Applicants must submit the following documents to apply for a student visa for France:
1. A valid passport or other travel document (valid for at least three months from the date of travel)
2. An application form (available from the French embassy in your home country, or online)
3. Proof of enrollment in an accredited school or institution recognized by the French government (if applying as an undergraduate)
4. A letter of acceptance from the school or institution (if applying as an undergraduate)
5. Proof of financial support during your time in France (such as bank statements, scholarship letters, etc.)
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#6 Residence permit in France
In order to gain a residence permit in France, you must meet certain requirements.
Here are the requirements for getting a residence permit as a student:
You need to be enrolled in an educational program that is recognized by the French government. (The program can be in the form of a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, PhD program or another type of higher education.) You also need to have proof that you can afford your living expenses while you’re studying in France. This includes having enough money to pay for food and housing as well as other needs like clothing and transportation to campus. If you are married or have children, they need to be accepted into French schools at the same time that you apply for your residence permit.
#7 Working in France as an international student
Working in France with a France student visa is one of the most exciting things you can do while studying abroad. You’ll be able to have an authentic experience, explore the city and culture, and get paid for it.
Working in France allows you to gain more independence than if you were just studying there. You will also be able to save money when you return home. A student visa allows you to work up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full-time during holidays.
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