How to apply for a French student visa?
Planning to study in France? Great choice. Known for its world-class education system, cultural richness, and stunning cities, France is one of the top destinations for international students. But before you pack your bags, you’ll need to go through a crucial step: getting a French student visa.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the French student visa application process — from eligibility and required documents to how and where to apply.
Step 1: Determine If You Need a Student Visa
If you’re not a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you will need a student visa to study in France.
There are different types of visas depending on your study duration:
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Short-Stay Visa (VLS-T): For courses less than 90 days.
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Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS): For courses longer than 3 months — this is the most common for full-time students.
Step 2: Get Accepted by a Recognized Institution
You must have an offer of admission from a French institution (university, college, language school, etc.) before applying for a visa.
Ensure you receive an official acceptance letter, which will be required during the visa application process.
Step 3: Register Through Campus France
If your country is part of the Études en France procedure (like India, Nigeria, Morocco, China, etc.), you must register on the Campus France platform.
What is Campus France?
Campus France is a government agency that manages the admission and visa process for international students.
What to do:
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Create an account at your country’s Campus France portal.
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Fill out your academic history and upload documents.
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Submit your application and pay the fee (if required).
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Schedule an academic interview if needed.
Visit: https://www.campusfrance.org/en
Note: If your country is not part of this procedure, you can directly apply at the French consulate or visa center.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Here’s a list of documents typically required for a long-stay student visa:
Required Documents:
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Valid passport
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Completed visa application form
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Passport-size photographs
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Official acceptance letter from a French institution
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Proof of financial resources (around €615/month)
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Proof of accommodation in France
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Proof of health insurance (for students under 28, student social security covers it)
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Flight itinerary or travel reservation
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If applicable: Campus France certificate (after academic interview)
Tip: Always check the most recent document list on your local French consulate website, as requirements may vary slightly.
Step 5: Schedule a Visa Appointment
Once you have all your documents:
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Book an appointment with the nearest French consulate or an official visa application center (e.g., VFS Global).
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Submit your documents in person and complete biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
You may also have to pay a visa fee.
Step 6: Wait for Visa Processing
Visa processing times vary but usually take 2–4 weeks. In peak admission seasons (June–August), it may take longer, so apply early.
You can track your application status via the visa center’s website.
Step 7: Validate Your Visa Upon Arrival
If you have a VLS-TS (long-stay visa), you must validate it online within 3 months of arrival in France.
How to do it:
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Go to: https://administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr
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Pay the visa validation fee (around €50)
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Enter your visa details and French address
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You’ll receive a confirmation email
Without this step, your visa may not be legally valid for your full stay.
Can You Renew Your Visa?
Yes. If your studies continue beyond your visa duration, you can apply for a residency permit (titre de séjour étudiant) at your local prefecture before your visa expires.
Final Tips for Success
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Start the visa process at least 2 to 3 months before your course begins.
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Double-check document requirements with your local consulate or Campus France office.
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Keep digital and hard copies of everything you submit.
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Stay informed about any visa updates or health protocols due to COVID or other situations.
Ready to Study in France?
Now that you know how to apply for a French student visa, you’re one step closer to living and learning in one of Europe’s most exciting countries. Good luck with your journey.
