How To Apply For A Student Visa in France

France is home to some of the world’s most prestigious business schools, with strong international connections and entrepreneurship and innovation at their core. A student visa is required to study in France. Visa applications must be submitted at a France embassy or consulate abroad. 

The Student Visa is valid for up to a year and allows for multiple entries and exit points. Visas will also be granted to spouses and children.

France currently has 36 entries in the QS World University Rankings 2021, with 10 of them ranking among the top 300 in the world.

France has some of the most competitive and affordable tuition fees in Europe. It is currently the world’s third most popular international student destination (it is also the most popular non-English speaking international student destination).

France is the world’s third most innovative country, trailing only the United States and Japan (Reuters 2022)

Moreover, France provides an unparalleled cultural experience, including weekend trips to famous museums and galleries, window shopping at some of the world’s most recognizable fashion houses, a world-class food scene, and, without a doubt, some of the most diverse and beautiful landscapes.

Why Study Abroad in France?

France is not only a fantastic foodie destination. The country is also a popular study destination. After all, France’s universities are world-renowned for their excellence. This article will teach you everything there is to know about studying in France.

Universities in Europe are serious about the quality of education they provide, and they have some of the best education systems in the world.

The quality of your education should be a top priority, and as previously stated, Europe is regarded as a global hub of academic excellence. However, academics are not the only reason you should relocate abroad.

Check out this: How Long Does It Take to Get a Student Visa in the US, Canada, & UK?

7 Reasons to Study Abroad in France 

Are you looking for some reasons to Study Abroad in France? This Article will detail 7 good reasons for you to study Abroad in France.

These reasons include;

1. Diversity of institutions 

With 50 countries spread across its land mass, Europe provides many academic options, and nearly all European countries welcome international students. 

SUMAS is proud to be the first university in Italy and Switzerland to offer BBA and MBA programs in Sustainability Management. 

According to a recent study by www.study.eu, Germany, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Italy are among the most appealing study-abroad destinations for international students.

2. Global Reputation for Academic Excellence 

Universities in Europe take their commitment to providing high-quality education very seriously, and their educational systems are among the best in the entire world. 

The same is true of SUMAS. Their courses are tailored to the rapidly changing world. They are members of international organizations like the United Nations Global Compact and have been granted global accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

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3. Quality of Education and life 

Your education should be of the highest caliber possible, and as was already mentioned, Europe(France) is regarded as a center of academic excellence on a global scale. 

You should relocate abroad for more reasons than just academics, though. Europe is praised for the variety of its cultures and ways of life. 

For instance, our Milan campus puts world-class museums, exciting social scenes, and a wide range of cultural experiences at your fingertips.

Read also: How To get a short-term student visa in United Kingdom

4. Rich Culture and Compelling History

There is no doubt that the world has been impacted by Europe’s rich history. In addition to academia, other fields like politics, philosophy, economics, and more also explored and/or solidified a number of ideas, theories, and concepts in Europe. 

Numerous European cities are renowned for their top-notch architecture and extensive histories, making studying there an unforgettable educational experience in and of itself.

5. A Focus on the Future 

France continues to look toward the future. Modern facilities and cutting-edge technology are provided at its universities to students in an effort to develop tomorrow’s leaders. 

At SUMAS, they are dedicated to equipping their future leaders with sustainable tools because they believe that sustainable practices will shape the world of tomorrow.

6. Career Opportunities 

In recent years, having international experience has become increasingly important. 

Both large and small businesses seek out employees who have ventured outside of their “comfort zone,” whether it will be for study or employment abroad. 

Numerous organizations assist international students in finding internships and job opportunities. Through their programs at SUMAS, we provide internship opportunities.

7. Travel 

Even for those on a tight budget, France has a ton of travel options. With a few exceptions, most European nations will grant you a student visa that entitles you to travel to other Schengen nations.

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What Are The Best Places To Study Abroad In France?

You must have heard a lot about France as you grew up. If not for France, Paris would have been mentioned with its Eiffel Tower and promise of romance, art, and culture. 

As you learn more about the world, France comes into focus, and you begin to consider what it might be like to attend school there. Let us assist you if you are having trouble visualizing it. 

Below are the top places in France where you can Study and enjoy yourself even as you study.

• Grenoble
• Nice
• Lyon
• Bordeaux
• Aix-en-Provence 
• Montpellier 
• Rennes
• Lille

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What are the Requirements to Study Abroad in France?

Start assembling the required paperwork as soon as possible. This process takes a lot of time. Keep in mind the unique documentation requirements based on your nationality, study level, and preferred university. 

Keep in mind that you might require French translations of your original documents. These services may be obtained from the French Embassy in your nation of residence. The majority of university applications to France include:

• A completed application form signed by the official authoritiesCampus France authorization
• A civil liability certificate
• ID photos
• Passport
• High school transcripts
• An essay (if asked by the university)
• Proof of language competency in either English or French depending on the program
• Proof of payment of the application fee

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Do I Need A Visa To Study Abroad In France in 2024?

If you are not a citizen of a country in the European Economic Area (which includes Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and the European Union), you must apply for a student visa in order to study in France, regardless of how long your stay will be.

There are two different kinds of short-term visas: “short stay for studies” and “student in competition” which you should apply for if a French institution contacts you for an exam or interview.

Note that if their stay does not exceed 90 days, citizens of some non-European nations are exempt from needing a visa.

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Do You Have To Speak French To Study Abroad in France?

Yes, it is possible to study in France without knowing any French. To draw in more foreign students, universities in France offer a number of courses that are entirely taught in English. 

These programs are made to assist international students in keeping up with their coursework and honing their French.

You can certainly find ways to study in France in English unless learning French is required for your studies. This is an excellent opportunity for international students to advance their careers.

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How Much Does It Cost To Study Abroad In France in 2024?

Depending on your chosen study level, public universities in France charge different tuition rates.

The typical annual tuition for bachelor’s programs is around 170 EUR.

Higher tuition costs for engineering degrees are around 620 EUR per academic year.

The typical annual tuition for medical studies can be up to 450 EUR.

The average cost of a Master’s degree is about 260 euros per year, while the average cost of a Ph.D. is 396 euros per year. Higher costs are typical for some specialized degrees.

In addition to the tuition, you will also have to contribute 91 EUR to campus and student life.

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What Are Scholarships To Study Abroad In France?

Numerous scholarships are available for international students to help them pay for their studies in France and Europe through public institutions in France and the Erasmus+ program.

1. The former Military’s s scholarship

Numerous scholarships are given to international students by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

25% of these fellowships are directly funded by the Ministry through the Major or Eiffel programs (for Master’s or Doctoral level studies) (for the best foreign students who have graduated from French high schools abroad). France’s embassies abroad provide the remaining items.

2. SCHOLARSHIPS FROM REGIONAL AUTHORITIES

Foreign students enrolled in programs in French regions and towns receive scholarships. 

Additionally, they give out postdoctoral and doctoral grants, which are handled by universities and research centers. In accordance with exchange agreements with foreign institutions, regional scholarships may also be given to international students.

3. THE ERASMUS+ MOBILITY SCHOLARSHIPS FOR FOREIGN STUDENTS

The European Union’s Erasmus + program promotes youth, sports, education, and training. Students can gain access to a mobility bursary in Europe through it.

Regardless of their field of study, the top students in the world are given scholarships for one or two years through the Erasmus Mundus joint Master’s offer. 

These students must complete their master’s degree in at least two participating nations in order to be eligible for one. A number of French universities provide joint Master’s degree programs.

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4. The Fellowship of Chateaubriand

 The fellowship, offered by the French Embassy in the US, provides funding for PhD candidates from US universities who want to conduct research in France for four to nine months. 

Successful candidates will receive a monthly stipend of up to $1,230 USD, a roundtrip flight to France, and assistance with international health insurance.

5. AIFS Study Abroad Scholarships, Grants, and Financial Support 

A range of financial aid options is available to international students of all academic levels who want to study in France and fulfill certain academic requirements.

6. THE FULL BRIGHTSCHOLARSHIP

The Fulbright Scholarship is for recent university graduates looking to go on to study for a master’s or a Ph.D. in a French university. Up to 20 grants are awarded annually and fund eight to ten months of studying in France.

7. Alexandre Yersin Scholarships for Masters Programme in France

Residents of Hong Kong or Macau who want to pursue a master’s degree or its equivalent at a French university are eligible for the Alexandre Yersin Scholarship.

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8. Civil Society Leadership Awards (CSLA) 

The CSLA offers fully funded master’s degree study to people who clearly exhibit academic and professional excellence as well as a commitment to driving positive social change in their communities.

9. Stephen M. Kellen Scholarship 

Any student accepted into Sciences Po’s dual BA with Freie Universität Berlin program is eligible for this merit-based scholarship, which is given out each year by Sciences Po. 

The scholarship pays for two years of Sciences Po tuition, a US$6,000 annual living allowance for the two years spent at Sciences Po’s French-German European Campus in Nancy, and a US$7,000 annual living allowance for the two years spent at the Otto-Suhr-Institut of Freie Universität.

Read also: How To get a short-term student visa in United Kingdom

10. Emile Boutmy Scholarship 2020 

The Emile Boutmy Scholarship is once again given out by Sciences Po University to non-European students who want to study for their Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in France.

11. ENS International Selection Scholarships

– Scholarships for master’s degree and diploma programs at École Normale Supérieure are available to ten students in the arts and humanities and ten students in the sciences each year (ENS). 

International students who are under 25 and have not resided in France for more than 10 months are eligible for this scholarship. The chosen candidates will be given a room on one of the ENS campuses as well as a grant of 1,000 euros per month for three years.

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12. Ampère Excellence Scholarships for International Students 

These scholarships are available to international students who want to enroll in one of the eligible Masters programs at ENS de Lyon. They offer 1,000 euros per month for up to two years.

13. INSEAD Africa Leadership Fund Scholarship 2019/2020 for African Students

A 50,000 euro scholarship is available for an African student who has been accepted to or is currently undergoing the interview process for an INSEAD MBA program. 

Candidates must exhibit exceptional professional and personal accomplishments along with a dedication to adding to the program’s diversity.

14. Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarships

160 master’s scholarships are available from Université Paris-Saclay to international students enrolled in its courses. Each scholarship is worth 10,000 euros per year, and successful applicants will also receive a maximum of 1,000 euros to cover travel and VISA costs.

15. Foundation Rainbow Bridge MBA Scholarships for African and Asian Women

This scholarship is available from HEC Paris to female applicants who have been accepted into the MBA program. 

Candidates must be from an Asian or African nation that has recently experienced a natural disaster, a drought, or a famine, and they must be able to show that they are dedicated to addressing some of the social and economic problems in those nations while working to ensure the long-term security of the local populace.

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What Are The Best Programs To Study Abroad In France?

There are now countless study-abroad opportunities available for international students interested in learning about anything from ancient history to shoemaking.

Below is a list of some of Italy’s top programs.

• Computer Science and IT
• Engineering 
• Business management 
• Banking and Finance 
• Biosciences and Biotechnology 
• Data Science / Al and Business Analytics 

Read also: How to Apply for a Student Visa in Japan: Requirements, Cost, Eligibility, & Process.

How To Pack For Study Abroad In France?

Considering that you will have to carry your luggage while traveling, carefully consider what to pack. As the saying goes, this means “TRAVEL LIGHT.” This must be emphasized again and again! Avoid duplication by carefully selecting each item.

Below are the major things to pack while you study Abroad in France:

• Passport and Student Visa [+ copies]
• Airline ticket/itinerary [+ copies]
• U.S. Student ID Card
• International Student Identity Card
• Debit/Credit cards
• A copy of your GeoBlue insurance card
• Medications in their original containers
• Clothing 
• Toiletries 
• Linens (bed Linens and towels)
• Prescriptions ((Medications that are not available in France)
• Electrical Appliances
• Technology (laptops)

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Steps To Prepare You For Study Abroad In France

Are you interested in studying abroad in France but unsure of where to begin? This article outlines everything you need to do in order to be well-prepared for your study abroad experience.

Your best option will probably be to enroll in a French language program in France if your main objective is to experience living there. 

The key to making the most of a visit to France is to learn the language, and a typical course at a language school is frequently less demanding than university work, giving you plenty of time to explore the city.

1: Eat their food

2: Don’t Skip Attractions 

3: keep a budget /Mind your money

4: public transportation should be your friend 

5: Blend in /Be local

6: keep in touch with Fam but make friends 

Read more: Student Visa Attorney | Applying for a Student Visa in the U.S.

FAQs

Conclusions 

There is no doubt that studying abroad in France will increase your chances of becoming a better person and an outstanding student because France is a wonderful country with many beautiful cities and a variety of programs they offer to their students.

Reference 

• https://www.topuniversities.com
• https://www.goabroad.com
• https://www.mastersportal.com/

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