Admission to France

France is an attractive destination: affordable tuition at state universities, strong business and engineering schools, and the opportunity to work during your studies.

Visa types

The long-stay student visa VLS-TS (from 6 months to a year). After arrival, you must register online within 3 months.

Affordable tuition

State universities are very inexpensive compared with the USA or the UK. Private schools (business, engineering, design) are more expensive, but offer high quality and internships.

Language requirements

For French, you need a DELF/DALF at level B2, and C1 for some programmes. For programmes taught in English — IELTS 6.0–6.5.

Academic requirements and documents

A school-leaving certificate is required for a Bachelor's, and a Bachelor's degree for a Master's. Many programmes require an interview. Document package: international passport, diplomas with notarised translation, language certificate, motivation letter (very important), references, and proof of finances.

Admission

Bachelor's — via the Parcoursup platform, Master's — via Mon Master. Deadlines for the autumn semester are January–March. Private schools have more flexible timelines.

Applying for a visa

Obtain an offer from a university, apply through Campus France, attend an interview, and submit the visa application at the embassy (in person). Processing time — 2–8 weeks.

Work for students

Up to 20 hours a week during your studies, and full-time during the holidays.

Admission plan (over 12–14 months)

12 months out — choosing a university and language. 10 months out — preparing for DELF/IELTS. 8 months out — gathering and translating documents. 6–7 months out — writing the motivation letter. 5–6 months out — applying via Parcoursup / Mon Master. 4 months out — registering with Campus France. 3 months out — submitting the visa application. 1 month out — receiving the visa and flying out.

The biggest mistakes

A low level of French. A weak motivation letter. Missing Parcoursup deadlines. Ignoring Campus France. Incorrect translation of documents.

How Edunation can help

We will select a university and programme free of charge, help with your motivation letter and documents, prepare you for the Campus France interview, arrange your visa, and organise transfer and accommodation.

With Edunation, admission to France is realistic and affordable. Start with a free consultation.