Latest update May 2024

      Student Visa

      student

      Living in France as a student lets you create special memories and work on your language skills, all whilst studying. We know that applying for a visa can seem overwhelming at first, so we’ll guide you through the process. 

      If you’re travelling to France as part of your university studies, an exchange scheme, or a cooperation programme, you should first: 

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      Planning to stay with a family in France?

      If you’re planning to stay with a family in France to study French, or want to apply for your child (aged under 18) to study in France, you can find more guidance online. 

      We’ve listed some useful resources that can help you to prepare for your student visa application.

      Campus France

      Campus France is the French national agency for promoting higher education. On their website, you can check opportunities for accessing a Campus France near you.

      Etudes en France

      See Etudes en France for guidance on the formalities and visa application forms you’ll need to study in France.

      ONISEP

      ONISEP (in French only) offers general information about careers and training in France.

      OFII

      OFII is the Office Français de l'Immigration et de l'Intégration (meaning the French immigration and integration office).

      Which visa will I need to study in France? 

      Depending on how long your course is, you could apply for a short-stay visa or a long-stay visa. 

      • If your training course is shorter than 3 months, you could apply for a short-stay visa.
      • If your training course is longer than 3 or 6 months, you could apply for a temporary long-stay visa, which won’t require any further formalities when you arrive in France.
      • If your training course is longer than 6 months, you could apply for a long-stay visa, equivalent to a residence permit. This will require further formalities when you get to France. 
      Last updated 2 May 2024