How to get a student visa for France: A comprehensive guide

Bienvenue en France

So, you have decided to study in France and pursue your higher education? Do you know France has an acceptance rate of over 80% for international student visas? This simply means you have a high chance of visa acceptance. The country is popular among international students for its endless learning opportunities and a diverse cultural environment.

According to Campus France, international student enrolment in France saw a significant rise in 2023-2024, with business schools experiencing the largest increase (11%). You too can pursue your dream in the land of bread and cheese, but first, you must obtain a student visa for France.

In this guide, we will walk you through all the relevant steps of the France student visa process. We will also talk about all the documents required and tips to apply easily.

Explore types of student visas in France 

Before you finalise going abroad, you need to understand the different types of visas and which one you need. You will require a student visa for France if your study programme lasts more than 90 days. The following is a simple breakdown of the different types of student visas available in France: 

• Schengen short-stay student visa: This student visa is suitable for studies that take three to six months to complete. It is ideal for short courses, language programmes or entrance exams. Moreover, there are no additional formalities required on arrival or upon departure. 

Note: Singaporean citizens do not require a visa to visit the country for a short period of time. 

• Visa de long séjour etudes (long-stay visa): Required for studies lasting more than six months. You also need to apply for a residence permit to extend your stay after this long-stay visa expires (one year). It can then be renewed for more years depending on your programme tenure. 

France student visa application process 

Students can apply for a French student visa up to three months before course commencement. During the peak period (April to August), it is recommended to apply as early as possible to avoid delays, as it may take up to two weeks to secure an appointment.  To apply for a student visa for France, follow these steps:  

1. Get accepted into your chosen business school or university: You need an official acceptance letter from a recognised French university or business school. This is the foundation of your application. 

2. Campus France registration (for long-stay visas): To apply for a long-stay visa, you need to register with Campus France in your country of residence. This organisation acts as an intermediary and streamlines the application process. This involves: 

• Creating an account on the Campus France website for your country. 
• Completing the online form with your academic records, language skills, CV and statement of purpose. 
• Paying Campus France fees. 
• Attending an academic interview with a Campus France advisor. 

3. Online visa application: Upon completing the Campus France application process (if applicable), visit the official France-Visas website (france-visas.gouv.fr) and create an account. Complete the online application form accurately and thoroughly. 

4. Book an appointment: Schedule an appointment at the French consulate or embassy in your country, or at a designated visa application centre (such as VFS-France). Make sure you do this well in advance of your travel date. Also, ensure that you submit your application on time by checking the average appointment wait time. 

Note: Long-stay visas should be applied for three months to two weeks before departure and short-stay visas should be applied for six months to two weeks before departure. 

5. Submit your application: Arrive on time for your appointment with all the required documents, including the CERFA form and receipt. Be prepared to answer questions about your study plans and intentions. Be clear about returning to your home country and long-term goals. 

At the visa centre, the consulate will review your application, collect the visa fee, take your biometric data (photo and fingerprints) and retain your passport along with copies of all supporting documents for forwarding to other officials. A visa application at the centre usually takes around 20 minutes. The service fee varies by country but will not exceed €40 per visa application.  

6. Visa validation: You must register and validate your visa online within three months of arriving in France with a long-stay visa (VLS-TS).  

Once you arrive in France, validate your visa to make your stay legal. Paying attention to each step will make your France study much smoother. 

Validating your visa and residence permits after arrival 

If you are applying for a long stay visa in France, you need to validate it on arrival. This is one of the most important France student visa processes for international students: 

1. Validate your long-stay visa (VLS-TS): Within the first three months of your arrival, you must register and validate your visa online at the French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII). 

• To validate your visa, you need: 
• A valid email address, 
• Information on your visa, 
• Your date of arrival in France, 
• Your home address in France, 
• A bank card to pay online the residence permit fee. 

2. Apply for a residence permit (if applicable): To remain in France beyond the validity of your long-stay visa, you must apply for a Carte de Séjour (residence permit) in the local prefecture. 

This will ensure that you are legally residing in France and can continue your studies without immigration issues. Moreover, with a residence card, you have the right to live, study and work part-time during your tenure of study. 

What documents are required for France student visa process  

 Student visa requirements in France can vary slightly depending on your nationality and the consulate you apply to. However, here is a general list of documents required for student visa for France: 

Visa processing time for France 

Visa processing time for France can vary depending on various factors, so apply early. It is generally recommended that you apply at least three months before your intended travel date.  

Application processing times can be affected by the volume of applications, the nationality of the applicant, and the completeness of the application. 

Important tips for a smooth application 

Applying for a French student visa can be a complex process. However, with careful planning and attention to detail, you can significantly increase your chances of success. The following are some essential tips to keep in mind: 

• Start early: Do not wait until the last minute to apply. 
• Be organised: Keep all your documents in order and easily accessible. 
• Be accurate: Double-check all the information you provide on your application form. 
• Be prepared for the interview: Be prepared to answer questions about your study plans, course relevancy, future plans after the course and incentives to return to your home countries. 
• Check the France-Visas website regularly: Stay up to date on any changes to student visa requirements in France. 
• Avoid unofficial websites: Use only the official France-Visas website and the Campus France website for information and application procedures. Be wary of third-party websites offering visa application assistance, as some may be fraudulent. 

By following these tips, you will be well-prepared to deal with the French student visa application process. With the right preparation, you can start your academic journey in France with confidence. 

Are you ready? 

Getting a student visa for France is not as difficult as it may seem. Follow these steps and plan ahead to make visa applications easier. Just remember to start early, be organised and refer to updated and latest resources for the latest information. Business schools, such as École de Management Appliqué,  offer consultation services and support to help students understand the France student visa process successfully. 

Bonne chance.