Study at world-renowned French universities with affordable tuition and excellent post-study work options.
The VLS-TS (Visa de Long Sejour valant Titre de Sejour) is a long-stay student visa that doubles as a residence permit for the first year. It allows international students to study at French universities and grandes ecoles.
France offers remarkably affordable tuition - public universities charge only around 170-380 EUR per year for most programs. With over 1,500 programs taught entirely in English, language barriers are minimal.
"France is the 4th most popular destination for international students worldwide, welcoming over 350,000 international students each year."
EUR/Year Tuition
Work Per Week
Housing Aid
For programs longer than 6 months. Serves as a residence permit for the first year. Must be validated online within 3 months of arrival.
For doctoral students and researchers with a hosting agreement from a French research institution. Includes spouse work rights.
Authorisation Provisoire de Sejour allows graduates to stay for 12 months to seek employment or start a business related to their studies.
Public universities charge only 170-380 EUR/year. Private schools offer scholarships.
All students can claim CAF housing aid, reducing rent by 100-200 EUR/month.
Work up to 20 hours/week during studies. Full-time during holidays.
Students under 28 get free healthcare through French social security.
Travel visa-free to 27 European countries during your studies.
Post-study visa can lead to work permit and eventually permanent residency.
Steps to obtain your France Student Visa
Apply and receive acceptance letter from a French university or school.
Register on Etudes en France portal, complete academic evaluation interview.
Submit application at VFS Global with required documents and pay visa fee.
Attend visa interview at the French Consulate if required.
After arrival, validate your visa online within 3 months and pay OFII tax.
Your family can join you in France
Your spouse can apply for a visitor visa or work visa depending on circumstances.
Children can attend French public schools for free.
Family members can access French healthcare system.
Family can stay if you obtain post-study work permit.
Public universities charge 170 EUR/year for Bachelor's and 243 EUR for Master's. Some schools charge differentiated fees for non-EU students (around 2,770-3,770 EUR/year).
Yes, student visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week (964 hours per year). During holidays, you can work full-time.
Campus France is mandatory for most countries. You register online, pay the fee, submit documents, and attend an interview before applying for the visa.
You must show approximately 615 EUR per month (7,380 EUR per year) to cover living expenses. This can be through bank statements, sponsor letter, or scholarship.
Yes, Master's graduates can apply for a 12-month APS (Recherche d'emploi) visa to find work. If employed, you can switch to a work permit.
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