It is a European destination known for its cuisine, culture, architectural marvels, people, and education. France has boomed over the years for quality education and is a student-chosen destination with the best universities for multiple interests.
France requires many cultural adjustments, from learning the language to working according to the norms there. Surprisingly, studying in France is cheaper than studying in London or the USA. The Government provides financial support for students pursuing their degrees. Considering the job opportunities and the presence of some of the greatest brands in the world, France is an excellent choice to pursue your career and build a future.
Latest Update On France Student Visa – As Of August 2024
France has introduced an exciting new initiative to foster academic excellence, strengthen cultural ties, and enhance the friendship between France and India. By 2030, 30,000 Indian alumni will be eligible for a five-year Schengen visa. This significant move promotes educational opportunities and deepens connections between the two nations.
Five-Year Schengen Circulation Visa:
Under this new programme, Indian students will be granted a five-year Schengen circulation visa, facilitating easier travel and study within the Schengen area. French President Emmanuel Macron announced this initiative, highlighting its importance in his vision for a closer Franco-Indian relationship.
Classes Internationales Programme:
During his state visit to India on January 26, 2024, President Macron also launched the “Classes Internationales” programme. Beginning in September 2024, this programme will provide the brightest Indian high school graduates with the opportunity to study French for a year in France before starting their chosen courses. This immersive language programme aims to prepare students for success in the French education system.
Application Details:
Applications for the Classes Internationales programme are open until March 31, 2024. Interested students can apply by visiting the official website. According to the French Embassy, this specialised programme will offer comprehensive training in the French language and various academic disciplines. Additionally, there will be opportunities to earn scholarships at the end of the programme, ensuring students are well-equipped for their future studies in France.
Immigration Control Policies:
Like many other countries, France has immigration control policies to regulate the entry and stay of foreigners. This new initiative and the Classes Internationales programme are part of France’s broader strategy to manage immigration while fostering educational and cultural exchange.
Types Of Student Visa In France
France student visas can be distinguished into three categories that help students choose the right one depending on their studies and plans. They are:
Schengen Short-Stay Student Visa:
This visa allows you to study in France for up to three months without needing a separate residence visa. It’s ideal for those enrolling in language courses or short-term programmes.
Temporary Long-Stay Visa:
With this visa, you can study in France for three to six months without requiring a residence permit. However, it is non-renewable.
Long-Stay Visa:
You must apply for a long-stay visa for studies lasting longer than six months. This visa covers the duration of your course: three years for a bachelor’s degree, two years for a master’s degree, and four years for a PhD. Known as VLS-TS, these long-stay visas also serve as residence permits.
Submission of Visa Application and Passport Collection:
The applicant must complete visa applications and passport collections in person or through a travel agency authorised by the Embassy of France in New Delhi. The French student visa application process consists of two distinct stages: one at Campus France and another at the embassy. The France study visa requirements differ for each stage. Originals must be submitted to Campus France, while photocopies are needed for the embassy, consulate, or Visa Application Centres.
Cost Of France Student Visa
The price of a French study visa for the EEF procedure countries is €50, and for the rest of the countries, it is €99. The cost of a student visa to France from India is €50.
| What is the EEF Procedure? Etude en France is a global international student application platform for the French higher secondary education system. Students coming to France from around the world are supposed to complete this application before entrance. |
Documents Required For France Education Visa
Students applying for a France education visa can now optionally submit digital copies of their supporting documents while filling out the online visa application form. This option helps expedite the process with the External Service Provider (ESP) like VFS.
You should provide two sets of application photocopies containing the following documents:
- Long-stay application form for stays exceeding 90 days
- Two passport-size photographs
- A copy of your passport
- A printout of your Campus France NOC
- Appointment letter from the academic institution
- Cover letter explaining your study project and an updated CV/Resume
- Proof of funds (tuition fees + a minimum of 615 Euros/month for the entire academic term)
- Proof of medical insurance with coverage valid in France
- Copy of your round-trip airline ticket (if studying for six months or less) or a one-way ticket (if studying for more than six months)
- OFII form (Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration)
- Proof of residency in France (e.g., lease, electricity bill, property title) for a minimum of three months or a hotel reservation
- Copies of degrees, academic diplomas, and certificates
When attending your interview, you must carry all your original documents along with a copy of each document.
Steps To Apply For France Student Visa
Applying for a student visa to France is essential for international students wishing to pursue their education in this culturally rich and academically esteemed country. The process involves several key steps that ensure applicants meet the requirements set by the French authorities.
Step 1: Interview With Campus France
- Create an Account: Go to India Campus France and click on “Create Your Account” in the “Register Online” box.
- Complete Your Profile: Fill in your academic records, language skills, CV, and SOP sections. Upload required documents, photographs, and academic records. Ensure all fields in the Validation tab are marked “Complete.”
- Send Your File Number: Contact your assigned Campus France office to have your file reviewed and request an appointment.
- Attend the Interview: Appear in person for an academic interview with a Campus France advisor. Bring all mandatory documents, a set of photocopies, and the Campus France fee payment receipt.
- Receive Interview Certificate: You will receive an interview completion certificate at the end of the interview.
Step 2: Submit Documents To VFS
- Schedule an Appointment with VFS-France: After completing the academic interview, schedule an appointment to submit your documents, photocopies, receipts, and passport.
- Submit Your Documents: Visit the VFS centre at the appointed time to submit all required materials.
Details On Passport Collection
As of December 8, 2014, the Embassy of France in New Delhi has updated the arrangements for collecting processed passports from visa application centres. Third parties are generally not allowed to collect documents on behalf of an applicant except in the following cases:
- Immediate family members (parent, child, or sibling)
- One member of a group collecting for the entire group
- A person collecting on behalf of government officials with authorisation on government letterhead or department ID
- A company representative with an authorisation letter on company letterhead and the representative’s official ID card.
Post Visa Work Opportunities
France offers attractive post-study work opportunities for international students, making it a popular destination for those seeking to build their careers abroad. After completing their studies at a French university, graduates have several options to remain in the country and seek employment.
a. Part-Time Opportunities
France offers many part-time job opportunities for international students, allowing them to gain valuable work experience while studying. This helps students manage living expenses, enhances their skills, and provides networking opportunities within their fields of study.
| Aspect | Details |
| Work Hours | French law allows students to work 964 hours of part-time work per year. |
| University Jobs | International students can work in student jobs at universities, such as assisting incoming students, helping disabled students, tutoring, IT support, and career centre assistance |
| Work Schedule | Student employees must follow a work schedule that does not interfere with their studies. Employment terms are adapted to each student’s programme to ensure academic success while providing work experience. |
b. Full-Time Opportunities
Internships are a similar option to full-time employment for students in France. They provide practical experience in a specific field related to a student’s academic program, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. This could enhance their chances of gaining employability later on.
| Aspect | Details |
| Eligibility | Students with at least a master’s degree or equivalent can apply for a one-time, non-renewable temporary residency authorisation called APS (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour) or Post Study Work Permit. |
| Validity | The APS is valid for 24 Months. |
| Full-Time Employment | Students who obtain a job related to their academic programme can apply for a status change to enter full-time employment. |
FAQs
1. Is a French student visa easy to get?
In 2021, Indian students applying for a French student visa experienced different rejection rates depending on their location. Those applying from certain parts of India had an average rejection rate of 8.16%, whereas applicants from Delhi faced a higher rejection rate of 15.9%. This suggests that it is neither too difficult nor too easy to obtain a visa.
2. How much does a French student visa cost?
The cost of the French student visa in Euros is 50, while in USD, it is 55.60.
3. Is IELTS required for a French Visa?
No, IELTS is not mandatory for French visas. There are better options for you to consider, such as TOELFS, educational transcripts, admission interviews, etc.
4. How much is the bank balance required for a French student visa?
The required funds in your bank account should cover the tuition fees for your first semester at the university and at least 615 EUR for your first month’s expenses. Additionally, medical coverage valid in France is necessary, which costs approximately 311 EUR to 714 EUR per year.
5. How can a student get PR in France?
After residing legally in France for five years, you can apply for long-term resident status, a common path to permanent residency. This applies to various groups, including workers, students who have finished their studies, and family members of French residents.
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I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further