France is one of the most attractive study destinations in Europe, offering globally recognised degrees, affordable tuition at public universities, generous scholarships, and a high quality of life. Each year, thousands of international students choose France for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies.
To study in France, securing a French student visa is essential. While the process may seem complex at first, it becomes straightforward when you understand the steps, documents, and requirements clearly.
This guide explains how to get a student visa for France, including visa types, eligibility, documents, Campus France process, application steps, costs, timelines, and post-arrival formalities.
Who Needs a Student Visa for France?
You need a student visa for France if:
- You are a non-EU / non-EEA / non-Swiss citizen, and
- Your course duration is longer than 90 days
Students from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland do not need a visa but must register locally after arrival.
Types of Student Visas for France
France issues different student visas based on study duration and purpose.
1. Short-Stay Student Visa (Up to 90 Days)
This visa is suitable for:
- Short courses
- Summer schools
- Language programs under three months
It cannot be extended or converted into a long-term visa.
2. Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS) – Most Common
This is the standard visa for international students enrolled in:
- Bachelor’s degrees
- Master’s degrees
- PhD programs
- Long-term language courses
The VLS-TS also serves as a temporary residence permit and must be validated after arrival in France.
3. Student Visa for Entrance Exams (Visa “Concours”)
This visa is issued to students who need to:
- Attend entrance exams
- Appear for interviews or selection tests
If you pass the exam, this visa can be converted into a long-stay student visa while in France.
Eligibility Requirements for a France Student Visa
To apply for a student visa, you must meet the following conditions:
- Confirmed admission from a recognised French institution
- Proof of sufficient financial resources (minimum €615 per month)
- Valid passport
- Proof of accommodation in France
- Health insurance coverage
- Clear study plan and academic intent
- Willingness to comply with French immigration rules
Step-by-Step Process: How to Apply for a Student Visa for France
Step 1: Register on Campus France
For students from many countries (including India), Campus France registration is mandatory.
You need to:
- Create an account on the Campus France portal
- Upload academic documents
- Pay the Campus France fee
- Attend a Campus France interview
After verification, Campus France issues an approval or NOC, which is required for your visa application.
Step 2: Secure Admission from a French Institution
You must receive an official admission letter from:
- A public university
- A private institution recognised by the French government
- A Grand École or business school
The admission letter should clearly mention:
- Course name and level
- Duration of study
- Start date
- Tuition fees
Step 3: Prepare Student Visa Documents
Once Campus France approval is complete, you can prepare your visa application file.
Documents Required for a France Student Visa
The standard document checklist includes:
- Valid passport (with at least 12 months validity)
- Completed France student visa application form
- Campus France approval letter
- Official admission letter
- Proof of tuition fee payment (if applicable)
- Proof of accommodation in France
- Proof of financial means (bank statements or sponsor documents)
- Health and travel insurance
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Passport-size photographs
- Statement of purpose or study plan
Ensure all documents are accurate, complete, and consistent.
Step 4: Book Visa Appointment
You must submit your application through:
- VFS Global, or
- The French Embassy / Consulate in your country
Visa slots can fill quickly, so booking early is strongly recommended.
Step 5: Attend Visa Interview and Biometrics
At the visa centre:
- Submit documents
- Provide fingerprints and photographs
- Answer questions about your course, university, funding, and future plans
A clear and confident explanation of your study goals improves approval chances.
Step 6: Visa Processing and Decision
Processing time generally ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, though it may take longer during peak admission periods.
Once approved, your passport will be returned with the French student visa.
After Arriving in France: Mandatory Steps
If you hold a VLS-TS student visa, you must:
- Validate your visa online within three months of arrival
- Pay the residence permit validation fee
- Register with your university
- Apply for student health coverage
Visa validation is compulsory to stay legally in France.
Cost of a Student Visa for France
| Item | Approximate Cost |
| Campus France Fee | €50–€200 (country-specific) |
| France Student Visa Fee | €99 |
| VFS Service Fee | €20–€30 |
| Residence Permit Validation | €60 |
| Health Insurance | €50–€100 per month |
Can International Students Work in France?
Yes. Students are allowed to work:
- Up to 964 hours per year (around 20 hours per week)
Part-time work helps cover living costs and provides local work experience.
Common Reasons for France Student Visa Rejection
Applications are usually refused due to:
- Incomplete or incorrect documents
- Insufficient financial proof
- Weak or unclear study plan
- Admission from an unrecognised institution
- Poor interview performance
- Inconsistent information
A well-prepared application significantly reduces rejection risk.
Post-Study Options After Graduation
After completing studies, international students can apply for:
- Temporary residence permit (APS)
- Job-seeker or work visa
- Work permit after securing employment
France offers strong post-study opportunities, especially in business, technology, hospitality, engineering, and research.
Why Study in France as an International Student?
- Affordable education at public universities
- World-class institutions and research facilities
- Scholarships and student housing support
- Multicultural learning environment
- Access to the Schengen Area
- Flexible post-study work options
Conclusion
Obtaining a student visa for France is a structured process that becomes simple with proper preparation. From Campus France registration to visa validation after arrival, every step plays a vital role. With a strong admission offer, clear study goals, and complete documentation, international students can successfully secure their French student visa and begin a rewarding academic journey in France.
Related Blogs:
- Living Expenses for International Students in France
- Why Study in France: Key Advantages for International Students
- Top French Universities for International Students
- Top Scholarships in France for International Students
- Part-Time Job Opportunities for International Students in France
- Living in France as an International Student: Culture, Campus, and Beyond
FAQs
1. How can I get a student visa for France?
To get a student visa for France, you must first secure admission from a recognised French institution, complete the Campus France process (if applicable), prepare all required documents, and apply through VFS or the French Embassy. Most students apply for the long-stay student visa (VLS-TS).
2. Is Campus France mandatory for a France student visa?
Yes, for students from many countries including India, Campus France registration is mandatory. It validates your study plan and academic background before you are allowed to submit a visa application.
3. What type of student visa is required to study in France for more than 90 days?
You need a Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS) if your course duration exceeds 90 days. This visa also acts as a temporary residence permit and must be validated after arrival in France.
4. How much bank balance is required for a France student visa?
You must show proof of at least €615 per month, which equals €7,380 per year. This can be shown through personal bank statements, a sponsor letter, or a scholarship certificate.
5. What documents are required for a France student visa?
Key documents include a valid passport, admission letter, Campus France approval, proof of funds, accommodation proof, health insurance, academic transcripts, photographs, and a statement of purpose.
6. How long does it take to process a France student visa?
Visa processing usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, but during peak admission seasons it may take longer. Students are advised to apply at least 6–8 weeks before their course start date.
7. Can I work in France on a student visa?
Yes, international students can work up to 964 hours per year, which is approximately 20 hours per week. This allows students to support their living expenses while studying.
8. What is the visa fee for a France student visa?
The standard student visa fee is €99, excluding additional VFS service charges and Campus France fees, which vary by country.
9. Do I need health insurance for a France student visa?
Yes, health insurance is mandatory. Students under 28 can usually register for the French public health system after arrival, while others may need private insurance initially.
10. What happens after I arrive in France with a student visa?
Students holding a VLS-TS must validate their visa online within three months of arrival, pay the residence permit fee, register with their university, and complete health insurance formalities.
11. Can a France student visa be rejected?
Yes, visa rejection can occur due to incomplete documents, insufficient funds, unclear study plans, unrecognised institutions, or poor interview responses. Proper preparation greatly reduces rejection risk.
12. Is IELTS mandatory for a France student visa?
IELTS is not mandatory for the visa itself, but it may be required by the university depending on the language of instruction. French-taught programs may require French language proficiency instead.
13. Can I stay in France after completing my studies?
Yes, graduates can apply for a temporary residence permit (APS) or a job-seeker visa, allowing them to stay in France and look for employment related to their field of study.
14. Can I apply for a France student visa without paying tuition fees?
Yes, many French public universities have low or subsidised tuition fees. As long as you have a valid admission letter and proof of funds, tuition payment is not always required before visa approval.
15. Is France a good destination for international students?
Yes, France offers affordable education, globally recognised degrees, strong post-study opportunities, a multicultural environment, and access to the Schengen region, making it one of Europe’s top study destinations.