Thinking about study in France from India in 2025? Whether you’re applying for a bachelor’s, masters, or PhD program, getting your France student visa is the first and most important step. This country offers top-quality education, lively cities, and a diverse cultural experience—making it a great option for Indian students planning to study abroad. This guide will help you understand the entire process in a simple and clear way.
France student visa types explained
Before diving into applications, it’s important to understand the type of visa you’ll need. France issues different student visas based on the duration of study. For Indian students pursuing degree programs (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD), the long-stay student visa (VLS-TS) is the primary and officially recommended option. Whether you’re enrolling in a short course, a semester exchange, or a full degree program, choosing the right visa is essential for a smooth study experience in France. Knowing which visa fits your academic plans will help you prepare the correct documents and avoid delays.
| Visa Type | Duration | Purpose | Renewable in France? |
| Short-stay visa | Up to 90 days | Short courses, language schools, internships | No |
| Temporary long-stay visa | Up to 6 months | Short academic stays not leading to a degree | No |
| Long-stay visa (VLS-TS) | More than 90 days | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, full academic year | Yes |
Most Indian students enrolled in full-time degree programs apply for the VLS-TS student visa, which also acts as a residence permit after validation in France.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a France Student Visa
The process of obtaining a student visa for France involves several stages, from securing admission and completing Campus France requirements to submitting your application through France-Visas and validating your visa after arrival. Each step is crucial and must be completed thoroughly to avoid delays or rejections.
Step 1: Secure Admission and Prepare with Campus France
To apply for a France student visa, you first need admission to a recognized French institution.
- Choose your program
Find a course that matches your goals—whether that’s in business, engineering, design, or the arts. - Get an official admission letter
French institutions will issue an “attestation d’inscription” confirming your enrollment. - Register on Campus France
Register through the Études en France (EEF) platform managed by Campus France, which is mandatory for Indian students applying for long-stay student visas. Create an account, upload your documents, and schedule an academic interview. This step helps verify your educational background and motivation. - Campus France interview
You’ll need to explain your study plans, career goals, and reasons for choosing France. The tone is friendly, but be clear and prepared.
Once validated, Campus France will issue an Études en France confirmation certificate, which is required for the visa application.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
A complete set of documents ensures a smooth visa process. Here’s what you need:
| Category | Required Documents |
| Identity | Valid passport (minimum validity of one year) |
| Photos | Recent passport-size photos (as per Schengen specifications) |
| Application Form | Printed France-Visas application form |
| Admission | Official acceptance letter from a French institution |
| Campus France | NOC and interview completion receipt |
| Financial Proof | Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover living expenses in France (as assessed by French authorities) |
| Accommodation | Proof of housing in France (university or private) |
| Health Insurance | Health or travel insurance covering the initial period of stay in France, as required by France-Visas |
| Educational Documents | Transcripts, certificates, resume |
| Motivation Letter | Personal statement explaining your academic goals |
Ensure your documents are well organized. Incomplete files are the top reason for visa delays.
Step 3: Apply for France student visa via France-Visas and VFS
Once your documents are ready, the next phase is the actual visa application.
- Create an account on France-Visas
Fill in your personal information and details about your stay. Download the completed form. - Book an appointment with VFS Global
Choose a date and center to submit your documents and biometrics. - Pay the visa fee
The visa fee varies based on the applicant’s nationality and program and is displayed during the France-Visas application process. Additional VFS service charges apply. - Attend the appointment
Submit your application, provide biometric data, and answer any questions if asked. - Track your application
Processing usually takes 2–6 weeks. You’ll be notified once your passport is ready for collection.
Step 4: Arrive in France and Validate Your Visa
Congratulations! Once you receive your France student visa, you’re ready to begin your academic journey.
- Validate your VLS-TS visa online
Do this within three months of your arrival. The validation serves as your residence permit. - Health check (if required)
Some students may be asked to attend a medical check as part of the process. - Get your student benefits
After validation, students may apply for housing assistance (CAF), access student health coverage under French regulations, and work part-time within the permitted limits.
Remember, timely validation is essential. Delays may affect your legal status in France.
Managing Finances and Living Expenses
Studying in France can be affordable with proper planning. Here’s a quick comparison of typical monthly costs:
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost (€) |
| Accommodation | 300 – 600 |
| Food | 150 – 250 |
| Transport | 30 – 50 |
| Miscellaneous | 50 – 100 |
| Total | 530 – 1000 |
You’ll need to prove you can support yourself—usually about €820 per month. Financial proof can include bank statements, scholarships, or education loans.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While the application is straightforward, a few missteps can delay your plans:
- Applying too late: Start at least three months in advance.
- Incomplete documents: Double-check every requirement before submission.
- Unclear motivation: Your statement of purpose should be personal, logical, and future-focused.
- Not validating your visa: Don’t forget this step after arrival—it’s critical.
- Ignoring Campus France protocol: Skipping this step will halt your process entirely.
Avoid these pitfalls, and your application will be smooth and successful.
Tips for a Smooth Study in France Experience
- Learn basic French to ease daily life and academic communication.
- Join student forums and social groups before arrival.
- Keep digital and printed copies of all your documents.
- Attend orientation programs—they offer crucial local guidance.
FAQs
Q1: How early should I apply for my France student visa?
Apply at least three months before your course begins to allow ample processing time.
Q2: Can I work while studying in France?
Yes, the VLS‑TS allows up to 964 hours of part-time work per year.
Q3: How long does visa processing take?
Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks, so planning ahead is essential.
Q4: What’s the minimum bank balance required?
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay, as assessed by French authorities at the time of application.
Q5: What happens if I miss online validation of the VLS-TS student visa via the official French administration portal?
You risk losing legal residency status—validate within three months of arrival.
Final Thoughts
By now, you have a clear picture of what it takes to get your France student visa—from choosing your course to settling in after arrival. Each step plays a key role in making your study in France smooth and successful. Stay prepared, follow the process carefully, and don’t leave things until the last minute.
Need help along the way? Just ask our AI assistant for support anytime.
