How to Apply to Study in France

It's easy to apply for a position at a higher education institution in France, with international students being able to apply to as many as twenty different universities with a single application on the web. Since you can not apply to colleges in person while you're in another country, this will make it much easier for all students who wish to enroll in a French university.

France has more than 3,500 Higher Education institutions. When you visit the website of the university that you are interested in, you will learn so much about it and decide whether it suits your particular needs well.

Once you have made your choice, you can follow this application process:

Prepare your application

You can apply for some universities directly on their website.

Carefully review admission requirements: standardized tests such as GRE, GMAT, or LSAT are required for most undergraduate and graduate courses to be admitted.

To boost your chances of being accepted apply to at least three separate institutions.

Where to apply

EU and EEA students may easily apply directly at university in the same conditions as French students,

Non-EU/EEA students can apply through an electronic application program formerly known as CEF and currently referred to as the 'Studying in France Procedure.' You can also apply for your visa online through this system, and track the progress of your application.

If you already live in Europe but have no European citizenship, you will need to apply through the French embassy or consulate in the European country where you live.

Language requirements

Proof of English proficiency will be required. This can be obtained via a TOEFL test. This test can be completed online, on the computer, or through a printed examination sent via postal mail. You should submit the results of this examination along with your application.

Required documents

• Valid passport
• Passport size photo
• Campus France authorization
• Copies of passed examination transcripts and diplomas
• A copy of your European health card (for students from EU countries)
• Application fees
• A Certification on Civil Liability
• A cover letter
• Proof of French and/or English language proficiency
• Evidence that you have the finance to fund your stay in France

University intakes

The application process for international students starts in the months of February and March at all the major universities in France.

January intake: The January or Spring Intake in France starts at the beginning of the year in January.

September intake: The September or Fall Intake in France starts from September and is considered the main intake by many students.  Many courses have their admission process during the September intake.

Based on the intake you are targeting it is better to start the admission process a year before the actual intake.

Prepare for departure

Institutions inform students of their admission decisions for programs starting in October between June 15 and September 15. So, you will have only about a month to prepare all the arrangements for your departure to France. You'll be able to apply for a France student visa.

If you plan to study in France for more than six months, you will be required to apply for a residence permit from French local authorities.

Book your tickets. Start looking for accommodation on or off-campus according to your preference.

When you have arrived in France, register in person at your French university. You have to pay about 90 Euros as a contribution to campus and student life at your university.