France

Guide for Student Visa to France

France, renowned for its rich culture, academic excellence, and innovation, offers a sophisticated higher education system. It's a popular choice for students interested in arts, humanities, business, and engineering, with a growing number of English-taught programs.

Top Courses to Study in France

French universities and Grandes Écoles are highly regarded for their programs across various disciplines, with a strong focus on research and professional application.

Popular Courses Among International Students:

Bachelor's Degree Programs: Include Business Administration, Luxury Management, Fashion Design, Hospitality Management, Engineering, French Language and Culture, Political Science, Art History.

Master's Degree Programs: Offer MBA, Supply Chain Management, Marketing, Engineering (Aerospace, Renewable Energy), International Relations, Public Policy, Fine Arts, Culinary Arts.

Leading French Institutions for International Students

France offers affordable tuition fees at public universities, and many institutions provide scholarships (e.g., Eiffel Excellence Scholarship). The opportunity to learn French and experience a vibrant European lifestyle adds to its appeal.

French Student Visa (Long Stay Visa VLS-TS "Étudiant") Guide

For studies exceeding 90 days, you will need a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS "Étudiant"). This visa acts as a residence permit for your first year.

Key Requirements:

i)Acceptance Letter/Enrolment Certificate: From a French educational institution.

ii)Proof of Funds: Evidence of sufficient financial means (?615 per month minimum, or proof of scholarship/sponsorship).

iii)Accommodation Proof: Rental agreement, dormitory confirmation, or attested lodging certificate.

iv)Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance covering your stay in France.

v)Valid Passport: With at least three months validity beyond your intended departure from France and at least two blank pages.

vi)Flight Reservation: Proof of a return ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one.

vii)Academic Qualifications: Copies of previous diplomas and transcripts.

viii)Campus France Attestation: If your country requires processing through Campus France.

Application Process:

1. Apply to a French institution and receive an acceptance letter.

2. For some countries, complete the Campus France procedure (online application, academic review, interview).

3. Gather all necessary documents.

4. Fill out the long-stay visa application form online.

5. Book an appointment at the French Embassy or Consulate or a VFS Global center.

6. Attend the interview and submit your documents.

7. Pay the visa fee.

8. Await decision. Upon arrival in France, you must validate your VLS-TS visa online with the OFII (French Office for Immigration and Integration) within three months.

Post-Study Work Opportunities:

International students graduating with a Master's degree or higher can apply for a "Job Search / Business Creation" residence permit (APS - Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour), allowing them to stay for 12 months to seek employment. If they find a job related to their studies, they can then apply for a work permit.