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France is one of the most popular destinations for international students thanks to the quality of its higher education. Each year, several French universities are ranked among the best in the world, including Université Paris-Saclay, Sorbonne Université, and École Polytechnique.
French business schools also enjoy an excellent international reputation. Institutions like HEC Paris and ESSEC Business School are regularly ranked among the best management schools globally.
If you wish to pursue your studies in France, you may need to obtain a student visa. The procedures vary depending on your country of origin and can seem complex. Here's everything you need to know to prepare for your project with peace of mind.
The requirement to obtain a visa primarily depends on your nationality.
If you are a national of a European Union country, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland, you do not need a student visa to study in France.
A valid national identity card or passport is usually sufficient. However, some universities may request additional documents during your enrollment.
If you come from a country outside the European Union, you must apply for a student visa before your departure.
This requirement particularly applies to students from Africa, Asia, the Americas, or the United Kingdom since Brexit.
France offers several visa categories depending on the duration and nature of your study project.
This visa allows you to undertake training for a maximum duration of 90 days.
It is particularly suitable for:
This visa is not renewable.
Depending on your nationality, you may be exempt from a visa for stays shorter than 90 days.
This visa is for students coming to take a competitive exam or an entrance exam for a French institution.
If successful, it is then possible to apply for a student residence permit at the prefecture.
This visa is valid for three to six months.
It is primarily intended for short courses that do not require a long-term stay.
It cannot be renewed.
This is the most common visa for international students.
The Long-Stay Visa equivalent to a Residence Permit (VLS-TS) allows you to legally reside in France for the entire duration of your studies.
Its duration depends on your course of study:
With a few exceptions, particularly for Algerian nationals subject to specific regulations, this visa is mandatory for all students from outside the European Union.
The procedure depends on your country of residence.
In many countries, visa applications must be submitted through Campus France, the official organization responsible for promoting French higher education.
After creating your Campus France application and receiving your admission, you can proceed with your visa application.
You can check if your country is covered by this procedure on the official Campus France website.
You will need to apply directly to the French university of your choice.
Once you have been admitted, you can make an appointment with the French consulate or embassy to submit your visa application.
To obtain your student visa, several documents are generally required.
You will need to provide an official admission letter issued by a recognized French institution.
This letter must specify:
You must demonstrate that you have sufficient resources to live in France.
The minimum amount required is currently €615 per month.
This proof can be provided through:
TheStudely AVI is now one of the most recognized and simplest solutions to meet this requirement.
Authorities may also request an airline ticket reservation or a declaration stating your intended return date.
You will need to have health insurance covering a minimum of €30,000 in medical expenses.
You can purchase Studely student health insurance before your departure.
You must prove where you will be staying upon your arrival.
Depending on your situation, this could be:
If you are looking for accommodation before your arrival, Studely can also assist you with this process.
Yes.
The French student visa allows international students to work during their studies.
You can work a salaried job for up to 964 hours per year, or about 60% of full-time.
It is also possible to work directly within a university or higher education institution under certain conditions.
However, this work must never jeopardize your academic success.
Obtaining a student visa can seem complex when preparing to leave for the first time. However, with good preparation and the right documents, the process becomes much simpler.
To help you settle in France, Studely assists you at every stage of your project through several services:
By preparing your application in advance and with proper support, you will maximize your chances of obtaining your visa and starting your studies in France under the best conditions.