Study Abroad in France: Complete Guide for International Students
- Category:Student Visa
- Country:France
- View Counts:371
- Published on:15-Feb-2026
France is one of the most popular destinations for international students seeking world-class education, vibrant culture, and strong post-study opportunities. From undergraduate to postgraduate programs, France offers a variety of courses in English and French, with clear pathways for student visas, work rights, and healthcare access.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of student visa requirements, enrolment procedures, accommodation, working rights, and healthcare for students in France.
Eligibility to Study in France
To study in France as an international student, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
1. Age Requirement
- Students must be 18 years or older at the time of application.
2. Academic Requirements
For Bachelor’s Programs (Undergraduate / Grado):
- Minimum 60% aggregate marks in previous education (high school or equivalent).
- Students must provide proof of English medium of instruction in previous studies or a valid IELTS / TOEFL score.
- Strong English communication skills are required for classroom participation and assignments.
For Master’s Programs (Postgraduate / Master / Doctorate):
- Minimum 65% aggregate marks in undergraduate degree.
- Proof of English proficiency through medium of instruction letter or standard tests:
- IELTS Academic: 6.5+
- TOEFL iBT: 90+
- Good spoken and written English communication skills are essential for academic success.
Note: Some programs in France may be taught in French. Ensure you check the program language before applying.
Countries Eligible for the Online Enrollment Procedure
Students from the following regions can apply through the France online procedure:
Africa
Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Togo
Asia
Burma, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam
Americas
Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Haiti, Mexico, Peru, USA
North Africa / Middle East
Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates
Europe
Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, United Kingdom, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine
Student Visa for France
Types of Student Visas
France issues different visa types depending on the duration of study:
1. Short-Stay Visa
- For courses not exceeding three months
- Allows entry for short programs, language courses, or internships
2. Temporary Long-Stay Visa
- For courses exceeding three months but less than six months
- No additional formalities required on arrival
3. Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to a Residence Permit (VLS-TS)
- For courses exceeding six months
- Must complete validation upon arrival in France
France Visa Fees:
- Countries under EEF procedure: 50 €
- Other countries: 99 €
Note: Some special cases may have different rates
Required Supporting Documents For France Study Visa
When applying for a French student visa, the following documents are essential:
- Certificate of enrolment in a recognized higher education institution
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Proof of sufficient financial resources
- Proof of accommodation (temporary or permanent address for the first three months)
- Health insurance coverage
Student Examination Visa (Étudiant-Concours)
If your course requires an entrance examination in France, you may apply for a short-stay student examination visa:
- Valid for 90 days maximum
- Allows you to take exams in France
- If you pass, you can regularize your status at the local Préfecture without returning home
- Must provide proof of invitation to the exam and seriousness of study
Algerian nationals are excluded from this visa due to the Franco-Algerian Agreement of 1968.
Medical Students
Students pursuing specialized medical training in France (DFMS or DFMSA) must:
- Be selected by the French Embassy’s cultural services
- Provide proof of medical/pharmacy degree from home country
- Submit agreement signed by the French institution (e.g., University of Strasbourg)
- Receive a long-stay visa equivalent to a residence permit, validated upon arrival
Duration:
- DFMS: 1–3 years
- DFMSA: 6 months–1 year
More information contact OSAI Consultants.
Costs of Studying in France
The cost depends on the type of institution:
- Public universities: €200–€3,000 per year
- Private institutions: €5,000–€10,000+ per year
Additional costs may include:
- Course materials
- Lab fees
- Language courses
- Student services
Accommodation in France
- Contact the international relations office of your institution for guidance
- Some universities provide temporary accommodation for the first months
- Proof of address is required for visa applications
Working While Studying in France
- Foreign students can work up to 964 hours per year (~60% of full-time hours)
- Algerian nationals: limited to 50% of full-time hours
- Work should be secondary to studies, part-time work may not cover all expenses
- France’s minimum wage (SMIC) applies to students
Healthcare for Students in France
Healthcare is mandatory and free for all non-European students under 28:
- Register with the French Social Security system via the official health insurance website
- Students from EEA countries can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or valid private insurance
- Social Security covers approximately 60% of medical costs
- Student health insurance schemes cover the remaining costs, making healthcare largely free
Post-Graduation Benefits
- Students holding Master’s or equivalent degrees can apply for a travel visa to France for internships or work
- Students may transition to work permits or other residence permits depending on post-study plans
- France provides structured support for international students seeking employment after graduation
Benefits Studying in France for International Students
Studying in France offers international students:
- Access to world-class universities and programs in French and English
- Clear student visa pathways and simplified residence procedures
- Mandatory healthcare and strong social support
- Legal work rights during studies
Opportunities for internships, advanced training, and post-study employment