Student Visas

Student Visa: Steps and Calendar

We break down the process from program search to the validation of your VLS-TS Étudiant in France.

Roadmap: from application to visa

Program selection

Research 5/6 programs compatible with your profile and check if they require CampusArt, Parcoursup or direct application.

Campus France

Upload the dossier, pay the fee and prepare for the interview. Bring official translations and justify your financing plan.

Consulate

Gather originals + copies, insurance, accommodation and acceptance letter. The passport takes between 7 and 15 working days after the appointment.

We recommend starting the search 9 months in advance. Many private schools respond in 2 weeks, but public universities and selective programs (Sciences Po, BTS, specialized masters) can take 2/3 months.

How to prepare the Campus France dossier

Upload diplomas, transcripts and sworn translations in PDF. In the "Motivation" section explain why you chose France, what your professional goals are and how you will finance yourself. The interview usually lasts 15 minutes: bring your printed CV and project, they ask you questions in French and check that you understand the academic plan.

After the interview, Campus France sends the endorsement directly to the consulate. Only then can you book an appointment for the visa; that's why it is key not to leave the interview for the last minute.

Documentation for the consulate

Final acceptance letter or attestation de pré-inscription

Language certificate (DELF B2, TCF, IELTS) depending on the program

Updated academic CV + study project

Travel medical insurance (later you will activate the sécurité sociale)

Proof of accommodation for at least 3 months

Financial means: 7,380 € per year as a reference

Accepted financing options

Own account

Bank statements with balance ≥ 615 € per month of stay

Family sponsor

Commitment letter, copy of ID and proof of stable monthly income

Scholarship/contract

Official certificate detailing amounts, duration and whether it covers accommodation/meals

If you combine your own savings + sponsor, clarify the amounts provided by each and attach a summary table. The more clarity, the fewer requests for extra information you will receive.

After arriving in France

Validate the VLS-TS on ANEF within the first 3 months.
Register with the sécurité sociale (international students) and choose a mutuelle.
Open your bank account and ask for housing assistance (APL) if applicable.
If your visa allows working, register the contract on the appropriate platform and monitor your hours.

Exclusive alerts and resources

Receive reminders of consular deadlines, notices of calls and ready-to-use tools for your immigration process.

Key remindersCalls before anyone elseTemplates and checklists

Need help with your visa?

Our team can review your case, prepare your dossier, and accompany you to the consular appointment.

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