France is a popular place for international students. It has top French schools, low tuition, and a lively culture. If you want to study in Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, or Toulouse, knowing the French university application process is important. This knowledge will help you get into a good school.
This guide explains how to submit your application to universities in France. It covers Campus France, important deadlines, documents required, and language requirements for admission.
🎯 Step 1: Research Programs and Universities
Before starting your application, take time to explore programs that match your career and academic goals.
Key points to consider:
- Degree level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD
- Language of instruction: Many postgraduate programs are taught in English, but undergraduate degrees are often in French.
- Location: France has universities in bustling cities like Paris and Marseille as well as quieter regions.
- Tuition fees: Public universities charge low tuition fees: €2,770/year for a Bachelor’s and €3,770/year for a Master’s. Private schools cost more.
- Program rankings & accreditation: Choose French institutions recognized by the French Ministry of Higher Education.
Helpful resources:
- Campus France website
- Individual university portals
📝 Step 2: Understand the Campus France Application Process
Most international students, including those from India, will apply through Campus France. This is the official platform for getting into higher education in France.
How it works:
- Create an account on Campus France’s Études en France portal.
- Choose your programs (apply for up to 7 universities).
- Upload the documents required:
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Passport copy
- Language certificates (DELF/DALF or TOEFL/IELTS for English-taught programs)
- Pay the applicable fee (around €50–€100, varies by country).
- Book an interview at your local Campus France office for verification.
- Track your application status as Campus France forwards your file to universities.
📌 Note: If your country is not part of the Études en France program, apply directly on the university’s website.
📂 Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Most French institutions require:
- Completed online application form
- Valid passport (covering your entire study period)
- Academic transcripts and certificates (translated into French or English)
- CV or résumé
- Motivation letter (Statement of Purpose)
- 2 Recommendation letters
- Proof of language requirements (French or English)
- Portfolio (for creative fields such as art, design, and architecture)
💡 Pro Tip: Start translating and notarizing your documents required early, as this can take time.
⏳ Step 4: Know the Application Deadlines
Typical Campus France deadlines for the academic year:
- Bachelor’s: Applications open in October; deadlines around January–March
- Master’s: Applications open in December; deadlines around March–April
📌 Some Grandes Écoles and private universities have earlier deadlines, so always check the official websites.
🌍 Step 5: Apply for Your France Student Visa
Once you receive acceptance, apply for a Type D long-stay student visa.
Visa Requirements:
- Campus France confirmation
- University acceptance letter
- Valid passport
- Proof of accommodation in France
- Proof of financial resources (€615/month minimum)
- Health insurance coverage
- Passport-size photos
Visa processing usually takes 4–8 weeks, so apply early.
✈️ Step 6: Prepare for Life in France
- Accommodation: CROUS student residence halls are affordable and widely available.
- Budgeting: Average living costs range between €800–€1,200/month (Paris is more expensive).
- Language preparation: Learning basic French will help you with part-time jobs and daily interactions.
- Healthcare: Register for student social security to access France’s excellent healthcare system.
💡 Final Tips
- Start preparing your application a year in advance.
- Rely on Campus France for detailed guidance and program choices.
- Apply for scholarships like Eiffel Excellence or Erasmus+ to reduce costs.
- Keep digital and printed copies of all documents required.
📢 Want expert guidance to submit your application to top French institutions?
Inforens offers:
✅ Personalized university shortlisting
✅ Campus France application support
✅ Visa documentation guidance
✅ Scholarship advice
✅ Pre-departure planning for Indian students and other internationals
💡 Start your academic journey in France stress-free — Book your consultation with Inforens today!