How To Get A France Student Visa In 2023

If the dream of studying in France is on your horizon, then you've come to the right place. Obtaining a France Student Visa may seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance and preparation, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the entire process, from understanding the requirements to acing your visa interview.

Just take your time and read through this article, as the Internet Parrot team has arranged every detail you need to be a participant in France Student Visa.

So, let's embark on this exciting journey together!

Table of Contents

About the France Student Visa
Why Choose France for Your Studies?
Types of France Student Visas
Steps on How to Obtain a France Student Visa
FAQs
Summary

About the France Student Visa

A France Student Visa, also known as a French Long-Stay Visa for Studies, is a legal permit that allows international students to reside in France for the purpose of pursuing higher education.

This visa is issued to foreign students who wish to undergo an Educational study or internship in one of France's higher institutions of learning.

This visa not only grants you access to world-class education institutions but also provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and language of France.

Why Choose France for Your Studies?

France is renowned for its prestigious universities, diverse academic programs, and a welcoming environment for international students.

Studying in France opens doors to a wide range of academic disciplines, from art and humanities to science and technology.

Plus, you get to savor delectable French cuisine, explore historic landmarks, and experience the vibrant lifestyle.

Types of France Student Visas

There are 3 different types of France student visas and they include the following:

#1. Visa de court séjour pour etudes (‘Schengen' short-stay student visa)

This visa is meant for students who do not intend to spend more than 3 months in France. For their studies. These are students who either come for short-term professional courses or internships.

With this visa, there is no need for a separate residence visa.

#2. Visa de long séjour temporaire pour etudes (temporary long-stay visa)

This visa is for those students who intend to study in France for a period between three and six months. It does not require obtaining a residence permit and it is non-renewable.

#3. Visa de long séjour etudes (long-stay visa)

This third type of France student visa is for students who intend to study in France for a period of more than six months.

The length of validity of the Visa depends on the duration of the program for which the student is applying.

This could be either a three-year bachelor's degree program, two years for a master's, or four years for a Ph.D. These types of Long-stay visas act as residence permits and are called VLT-TS.

Steps on How to Obtain a France Student Visa

Step 1. Apply and secure admission to a French University

Before you can apply for a France Student Visa, you must secure admission to a recognized French educational institution. This is the first and crucial step on your journey.

After being accepted at a French university, you'll receive an admission letter offer from the institution required for the visa application.

Step 2. Find out what type of visa you need to study in France

From the three different types of France student visas, you need to find out which one is best applicable to you. This is determined by the type of study program or internship offer you receive from the university you applied to.

There are different types of France Student Visas as mentioned above, and they are based on the duration and nature of your study program.

They include:

Short-Term Visa (Visa de Court Séjour): For programs lasting less than 90 days.
Long-Term Visa (Visa de Long Séjour): For programs exceeding 90 days.
Visa for Internship or Apprenticeship: If your course includes work experience.

Step 3. Apply for the study visa

You can get a student visa either at a French consulate in your area or through Campus France (an institution promoting higher education in France, having a local office in almost all countries).

Some countries require you to register first with Campus France in order to get a student visa.

You can schedule an interview/appointment through the official website of the French consulate in your country.

You must have scheduled this visa interview at least 90 days before your departure to France. Visit https://www.campusfrance.org/en

Step 4. Take Language Proficiency Tests

Language requirements are not necessary for one who has already been offered admission by a French university as it is assumed that that has been sorted out with the school.

However, in a case where admission is yet to be offered, you have to present a language proficiency test score at the French Consulate.

The type of language proficiency test score you provide depends on the program you have applied for in France. You should also see the GRE to GMAT Conversion Guide, and learn Everything you Need to Know

You will need to provide proof of:

French language proficiency—if you apply for French-taught degrees (accepted tests are: DELF/DALF or TCF)

English language proficiency—if you apply for English-taught degrees (accepted tests are: IELTS, TOEFL or Cambridge)

Step 5. Required application documents for France study visa

The following documents are to be submitted including a visa fee payment receipt of 99 EUR which is to be paid at the visa section of the consulate:

Visa application form
Two passport-type photos
Valid passport and copies of your previous visas
Official enrolment or acceptance letter from the university
Proof of financial means (around 615 EUR per month) to cover all your expenses during your study period
Airline ticket/reservation showing date of departure
Medical insurance (might cost between 311 and 714 EUR/year)
Documents stating the accommodation arrangement during your studies
French or English language proficiency certificate (where necessary)
Proof of payment of the visa fee (99 EUR).
Proof of civil status (if applicable)

Step 6. Attend your Visa Interview

It is mandatory for you to attend the visa interview in person.

You must also carry all the required documents plus one set of photocopies along with the Campus France fee payment receipt.

At the end of the interview, they will issue you an Interview completion certificate, after which you will go ahead to schedule an appointment with VFS-France, to submit the necessary documents along with their photocopies.

Step 7. Visa Fees and Processing Time

Pay the required visa fees, which may vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa. Visa processing times can also vary, so it's advisable to apply well in advance.

FAQs

How long does it take to get a France Student Visa?

The processing time for a France Student Visa can range from a few weeks to a few months, depending on your nationality and the volume of applications.
It's advisable to apply at least three months before your intended departure.

What happens after I collect my Student Visa?

First of all, let me say congratulations! You finally got the student visa.
Once you have gotten your student visa, you are now free to go and pursue your degree in France.

It is important to note that during the first year of your stay in France as a student, your student visa is enough to serve as proof of your residency status.

Within a month of your arrival in France, you will have to register at the local French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII) and have a medical examination to validate your visa.

For those who plan to stay for more than a year (i.e. those that travel on a Visa de long séjour etudes visa), you will need to apply for a Carte de Séjour (CDS) or ‘titer de séjour' beginning from your second year of studies; this is an official residency card in France. who

Can I work while studying in France with a student visa?

Yes, you can work part-time (up to 964 hours per year) with a France Student Visa. This allows you to gain valuable work experience while funding your studies.

You are legally only allowed to work part-time (around 60 percent of full-time employment for a year) and only starting from your second year of studies after you must have gotten a valid residency permit.

When you apply for a job, make sure to inform your employer you are an international student so they will only consider your application for a part-time position.

Is health insurance mandatory for a France Student Visa?

Yes, you are required to have health insurance that covers your medical expenses during your stay in France. Many institutions offer health insurance packages for students.

What are the language requirements for studying in France?

The language requirements vary depending on the program and institution. Some courses are taught in English, while others may require proficiency in French.
Check the specific language requirements of your chosen program.

Can I bring my family with me on a France Student Visa?

Yes, you can bring your spouse and dependent children with you on a France Student Visa. They will need to apply for their own visas, but it's a relatively straightforward process.

What happens if my visa application is rejected?

If your visa application is rejected, you will receive a rejection letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply after addressing the issues mentioned in the letter or consider seeking legal advice.

Summary

Embarking on a journey to study in France is an exciting endeavor. With the right guidance, preparation, and determination, obtaining a French student Visa can be a smooth and rewarding experience.

So, start your preparations early, and soon you'll be sipping coffee at a charming Parisian café while pursuing your dreams of higher education in one of the most enchanting countries in the world.

Remember, the key to success is thorough research, timely application, and a positive attitude. Bon voyage!

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