Student visa in France | A comprehensive guide

Studying in France

Studying in France offers a unique and enriching experience for international students. With its academic excellence, renowned universities, and diverse range of programs, France provides a solid foundation for educational growth. The country’s rich cultural and artistic heritage, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene create an immersive environment for personal and intellectual development. France’s affordability, scholarships, and research opportunities further enhance the academic experience. Studying in France allows students to learn or improve their French language skills, opening doors to global career prospects. Let’s discuss the types of study visas in France.

Types of study visas in France

International students who want to study in France for a duration exceeding three months but not exceeding one year are categorized based on their age and area of study. Individuals planning to stay in France for a period of no more than three months should apply for a France Study Schengen visa instead. 

Following is an overview of each applicant category eligible for a study visa in France.  

Study visa in France for students over 18

The French Student visa is specifically for individuals who intend to enroll in a public or private educational institution in France. To be eligible for this long-stay study visa, the applicant’s chosen course of study must be directly related to their previous academic qualifications or their current professional occupation. It is important to note that acceptance into a higher education institution in France is a prerequisite for obtaining this visa. If an individual is only in the process of taking entrance exams or undergoing interviews for admission, they should apply for a short-stay study visa in France.

France study visa for students under 18 (mineur scolarisé)

For students under the age of 18 who plan to study in France at a public or private primary, secondary, or higher education institution, they have to apply for this type of French student visa. The maximum duration of this visa is 11 months. It is important to note that this visa is solely for minor international students whose parents do not currently reside in France.

France au pair visa

Individuals between the ages of 17 and 30 who seek to temporarily reside in France with a host family to study French for a period exceeding three months can obtain a long-stay study visa. This visa provides work protection in France and grants access to National Health Insurance.

The key requirement for both the applicant and the host family is to have an au pair placement agreement. The host family must submit the agreement to the DIRECCTE (Regional Directorate for Enterprises, Competition, Consumption, Labor, and Employment). The agreement should outline the services that the applicant will provide to the family. It should specify the maximum working hours per day (not exceeding five hours) and provide details regarding board and lodging arrangements. It should also designate the applicant’s weekly rest days (including one compulsory Sunday per month) and establish the agreed-upon amount of pocket money to be provided by the host family to the applicant.

France student trainee or intern visa

The French Student Trainee visa is for students who seek to undertake a professional work placement in France. To be eligible for this visa category, the applicant must be affiliated with one of the following-

• A training program established in their country of residence.
• An EU cooperation initiative.
• An intergovernmental program focusing on education, youth, or culture.

In order to obtain the French Student Trainee visa, applicants must meet these specific conditions related to their training or work placement arrangements.

France student visa application

To apply for a long-stay study visa for France, you must submit your application to the French consulate or embassy in your country of residence. A student should apply for the visa within a timeframe of three months to three weeks before their planned departure date. Adhering to this suggested timeline ensures the applicant has sufficient time for visa processing and to complete any necessary preparations for their travel to France.

Check if you need to apply for a France student visa

The requirement for a France long-stay study visa is determined by your nationality and the specific region of France you plan to visit.  If you hold citizenship in a European Economic Area country (European Union country (EU) and Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein) or Switzerland, then you do not need a student visa to study or intern in France. You can enter French territory without any restrictions, regardless of the duration of your stay or the nature of your studies. However, for all other individuals, obtaining a French long-stay student visa is mandatory to enter and remain in the country.

Documents required for a French student visa

When applying for a long-stay study visa in France, it is essential to prioritize the collection of the necessary documents. These documents must be submitted during an interview with a consular officer at the French embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country.

The applicant must fill out the application form accurately and provide the correct information. The applicant must also submit two recent photographs that meet the specified guidelines.

It is essential to possess a valid passport issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least three months beyond the planned end of the applicant’s stay in France. The passport should have a minimum of two blank pages to affix the visa sticker.

If the applicant has previously held visas for any country, then they should provide copies of those visas as well. Proof of purchased health insurance specifically designed for students is also necessary.

The French authorities will require evidence of the applicant’s financial means to support themselves during their stay in France. This could include bank statements, scholarship documents, or proof of sponsorship.

Proof of accommodation is another important document required for a study visa application. This can be in the form of a rental agreement or a letter from your accommodation provider in France.

The applicant might have to provide a certificate of no criminal record to demonstrate that they have a clean background.

Key takeaways

• Studying in France offers a unique and enriching experience with academic excellence, renowned universities, and diverse programs.
• Different types of study visas are available based on age, field of study, and duration of stay.
• Required documents for a French study visa include a completed application form, valid passport, photographs, previous visa copies, health insurance, proof of financial means, proof of accommodation, and a certificate of criminal record.

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FAQs

Q1. Is IELTS required for a France student visa?

Ans- In terms of the France study visa criteria, you do not need to take an IELTS exam in order to receive a student visa, especially if the university does not need you to submit the test results. Some universities might require another globally recognized exam in lieu of the IELTS.

Q2. How much money do you need to show as proof of funds for a France student visa?

Ans- Applicants need to show a minimum of 215 euros per month for living expenses as proof of funds to get a French student visa.

Q3. Can I work full-time in France with a student visa?

Ans- International students can work part-time while studying. The standard rule is that they can work up to 964 hours per year, which is approximately 20 hours per week. During holidays and breaks, they can work full-time.