Consular considerations for student visa applications
Consular officers are required to consider various general factors, including the likelihood that the applicant’s training in France will lead to professional success, the potential contribution of the student’s plans to the economic and social development of their home country, and the nature of France’s relationship with that country.
Please note that the following criteria are taken into consideration when making a decision to grant a student visa (Source: Campus France)
Criterion 1: academic background
Priority is given to applicants who:
• Are prepared to enter a master’s or doctoral program
• Hold a French baccalauréat
• Have been admitted to a program preparing students for the grandes écoles
• Have been admitted to selective short programs (IUT, STS)
Criterion 2: level of preparation
This includes:
• The applicant’s ability to assemble and submit necessary documents to French institutions to support their admission
• The reliability of the grades and evaluations claimed by the applicant
• The overall alignment between the applicant’s study plans and their prior academic background
Criterion 3: institutional framework of the study plan
Priority is given to:
• Applicants participating in exchange programs governed by agreements between French and foreign institutions
• Recipients of French government scholarships
• Students who have graduated in their home country from a degree program offered by or involving a French institution
Criterion 4: language proficiency
The applicant’s command of French is assessed, except for applicants demonstrating exceptional academic potential.
Additionally, there are three other factors considered, which are not limited to student visa decisions:
• The absence of any threat to France’s security or public order
• The authenticity of documents submitted (e.g., diplomas and grade reports)
• Proof of sufficient financial resources
The last point is addressed in general visa guidelines, as France’s immigration code (CESEDA) does not specify a minimum required amount. However, prospective students must demonstrate resources equivalent to the monthly base amount paid to French government scholarship recipients, approximately €615. France’s consulates have discretion in applying these guidelines.
Application timeline and processing
It is strongly recommended that students planning to study in France contact their nearest French Consulate or Campus France office at least three months before their intended departure date.
Please note that visa processing times vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin.
For short-Stay Visas, students participating in programs of less than three months, such as summer programs, may only require a short-stay visa. Applicants should verify the requirements with their nearest French Consulate or Campus France office.