Studying abroad can be one of the best decisions of your life. You’ll discover a new civilization, another language and meet people from all over the world!
You’re tempted to study in France, but the administrative formalities seem too daunting? Don’t panic, here are the key steps and a timetable for applying to university in France:
Stage 1. Take the language exams (September – November)
For further information, please contact the Registrar’s Office of the universities you are interested in. You’ll need to pass DELF B2 to apply for a Licence degree, and DALF C1 for a Master’s or Doctorate degree.
If your course of study is internationally oriented, you’ll need to prove your English language skills. Most universities require a C1 level in English, which can be demonstrated by an international TOEFL or IELTS certificate.
NB: IELTS and TOEFL results are valid for 2 years after the exam.
Step 2. Prepare the necessary documents (October-December)
Although requirements vary from one university to another, the following documents are generally required to register at a university in France:
- Language certificates (in English and French)
- Secondary school leaving certificate (equivalent to baccalaureate)
- Grades from all years of higher education
- Letters of recommendation
- The cover letter
- The CV
- Photocopies of your passport
Please note that if your document is written in a language other than French, you will need to have your documents translated by a sworn translator.
Step 3. Apply at
You can apply by post or online. It varies from one nationality to another, so check directly with your university’s Registrar’s Office.
Step 4. Get your acceptance letter (March-June)
Once you’ve sent your documents, you’ll need to wait for the acceptance letter from the French university. The letter will contain all the information relating to your enrolment.
Step 5. Take out student insurance for France
If you’re a university student, you’ll be covered as soon as you register. However, sometimes you have to wait before finalizing your administrative registration. If this is the case, it’s best to take out an international student insurance policy in France in advance, to ensure that your stay is risk-free. If you come from outside the EU, you are not covered in France.
Please note! If you are enrolling on a language course, you must take out international student insurance in France to obtain your visa.
Mondassur offers you a complete insurance package tailored to your needs, meeting the requirements of a student visa in France and offering excellent value for money: Gold Student.
This insurance covers hospitalization, consultations, tests and pharmacy at 100% of actual costs*.
The benefits of GoldStudent international student insurance :
- Insurance compliant with Schengen Visa and Long Stay Visa requirements
- Coverage throughout the European Union
- 100% reimbursement of medical and hospital expenses
- Repatriation assistance
- Third-party liability and accident cover
- 24/7 medical assistance platform
- Immediate issue of membership certificate
Insurance requirements for student visas (language courses, studies) in France :
- Letterhead from an insurance company, in the applicant’s name, indicating country(ies) covered, duration, validity, including medical care, hospitalization and repatriation, valid for all Schengen countries.
- An insurance value of €30,000
It’s very important to choose a student insurance policy in France that meets all these criteria, as the duration and validity of your student visa in France will depend on that of your studentinsurance.
Step 6. Take the Campus France interview (May – July)
Once you’ve received your letter of acceptance to a university in France, make an appointment for an interview with Campus France in your country. This interview verifies your motivation to study in France.
Step 7. Apply for your student visa for France (June – July)
Once you’ve passed the Campus France interview, apply to the French Embassy for your student visa. For details of how to apply, please consult the official website of the French Embassy in your country. The visa fee is 99 euros.
Once in France
Step 8. Send the letter to OFII (September)
Your long-stay visa is only valid as a residence permit if it has been validated by OFII. As soon as you arrive in France, you must :
1. Complete the form entitled “OFII attestation request” given to you with your visa.
2. Send this form to OFII as soon as you arrive in France
NB! It is not advisable to change your home address when submitting your OFII form.
Step 9. Register for university in France (September)
Come to the university with all your documents to finalize your administrative and pedagogical registration. A letter of acceptance from your university in France is required for registration.
Step 10. Appointment at your local Préfecture (October-November)
Within two to three months of sending your letter to OFII, you will receive your summons from the Prefecture. An OFII sticker will be affixed to your passport. The sticker authorizes you to reside in France until your visa expires.
Don’t forget to take out student insurance in France that covers you at 100% of actual costs! Our guarantees are exceptional, with medical expenses coverage adapted to studies in France. Save money while benefiting from Long Stay Visa insurance!
