France
France flagEurope

Study in FranceFrance flag

Low public-university tuition, globally ranked business schools, central European location.

Capital

Paris

Currency

EUR ()

Languages

French, English

Intakes

September

Quick Summary — Study in France

Studying in France offers world-class education in Paris. Average monthly living costs range from EUR 800 to 1200. Students apply for the VLS-TS (Long-Stay Student Visa, valid as residence permit) (application fee: ~€99), with work rights allowing Up to 964 hours/year (~20 hrs/week average) and post-study options: APS (Autorisation Provisoire de Sejour) — up to 12 months post-graduation job search..

Why Study in France?

France has established itself as one of the most sought-after study abroad destinations for international students. Low public-university tuition, globally ranked business schools, central European location. With a population of ~68 million and its capital in Paris, the country offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural richness, and career opportunities that few destinations can match.

Renowned grandes ecoles and business schools alongside public universities. The primary languages of instruction include French, English (growing number of taught programmes), ensuring accessibility for a diverse student body. Whether you're pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral studies, France's higher education system is designed to prepare you for a globally competitive career.

Capital

Paris

Population

~68 million

Currency

EUR ()

Region

Europe

Academic Intakes
September (main)January (some Master's/business schools)

Cost of Living for Students

Monthly budget estimates and expense breakdown for international students

Living in France as an international student typically costs between 800 and 1,200 per month (EUR). This budget covers accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Your actual costs will vary depending on the city you choose to study in, your lifestyle preferences, and whether you opt for university housing or private accommodation.

New official financial-resources requirement is €878/month from 1 August 2026 (up from €615); Paris runs well above this baseline.

Where Your Money Goes

Accommodation40-50%
Food & groceries20-25%
Transport & other20-25%
Monthly Budget Range

8001,200

EUR per month

Visa Application Fee~€99
Processing Time2–4 weeks after Campus France procedure
Work RightsUp to 964 hours/year

Additional: Mandatory OFII validation stamp after arrival (~€60-200 depending on visa length)

Student Visa & Immigration Guide

Everything you need to know about the VLS-TS (Long-Stay Student Visa, valid as residence permit)

To study in France, international students need to obtain the VLS-TS (Long-Stay Student Visa, valid as residence permit), issued by the Campus France / French Consulate. The application process requires proof of admission, adequate financial resources, and several supporting documents. It is critical that you begin your visa application well in advance, as processing times average 2–4 weeks after Campus France procedure.

The financial proof requirement is a key component of your application. €878/month of financial resources from 1 August 2026 (€615/month for applications before that date) — linked to French minimum wage (SMIC) and reviewed periodically.

Student Work Rights

Up to 964 hours/year (~20 hrs/week average)

Post-Study Work Options

APS (Autorisation Provisoire de Sejour) — up to 12 months post-graduation job search.

Required Documents Checklist

Ensure you have all of the following ready before submitting your visa application to avoid delays or rejection.

1
Campus France (Etudes en France) approval
2
Admission letter
3
Proof of financial resources
4
Accommodation proof
Verify on Official Government Portal

Visa fees, financial thresholds, and document requirements change frequently. Always verify the latest requirements on the official immigration portal before applying.

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