Study in France Student Visa 2026

This spoke covers the France student visa path. For the full country guide, see Study in France.

How Do I Apply for a French Student Visa (VLS-TS)?

The VLS-TS process runs through these stages:

1. Complete the Études en France procedure through Campus France if your country has an office, this includes an academic verification and, in many cases, an interview
2. Receive your official letter of acceptance from a recognised French institution, which anchors the dates on your entire visa file
3. Gather your proof of financial means, at least €615 a month for the full duration of your stay
4. Submit your visa application online through France-Visas, then book and attend your consulate appointment for biometrics and document submission
5. Pay the visa fee, €50 for applicants going through the EEF/Campus France procedure, €99 for those outside it
6. Validate your VLS-TS online through the ANEF portal within 3 months of arrival, and pay the OFII validation fee, in the range of €50 to €60 depending on the source, at which point your visa functions as your residence permit

How Long Does the French Student Visa Process Take?

Budget 4 to 6 weeks for standard consulate processing, though this can extend during peak season between May and August. Starting too late is the single most common mistake, since the Campus France procedure itself typically needs to begin 4 to 5 months before your intended start date to leave enough time for both academic verification and the consulate appointment that follows.

What Are the Financial Requirements for a French Student Visa?

France sets a clear, government confirmed minimum, one of the more precise figures in this entire guide:

• Minimum living costs: at least €615 a month, roughly €7,380 for a full academic year, a figure that has not increased for 2026 and remains one of the lowest thresholds in Western Europe
• Realistic Paris budget: consulates are aware that €615 a month doesn't stretch far in Paris specifically, and a more realistic monthly figure once rent, food, and transport are included is closer to €1,000 to €1,200, worth showing if you're applying to study in the capital

Acceptable evidence: bank statements covering the last 3 to 6 months, a scholarship award letter, a blocked account (compte bloqué) opened in France, or a formal sponsor guarantee (attestation de prise en charge) from a financial guarantor based in France.

A note on treating €615 as a floor, not a target: consulates look for consistent, regular financial history rather than a single large deposit shortly before applying, which is one of the most common reasons for refusal.