# Study in France from India

Country guide · For students from India. Checked 17 October 2026; next check January 2027. Researched by the UNIFER research team. Reviewed by Devjot Singh, founder, UNIFER. Rules change: always confirm with the official body before applying.

Page: https://uniferedu.com/study-in/france

## In short

- **€3,950** a year for a public-university master’s (non-EU, 2026-27), plus the €105 CVEC
- **12 + 12** months of post-study stay (APS) after a master’s-level diploma: 1 year, renewable once
- **964 hours** a year of work while studying (about 20 hours a week)
- **18 months** in France before you can apply for family reunification; there is no family-of-a-student visa

## What changed recently

- 21 May 2026: no more blanket fee exemptions; an exemption now needs a French government scholarship, a reciprocal agreement or an individual request.
- 1 Jul 2026: housing aid (APL) narrowed; a non-EU student gets it only with a CROUS scholarship, a job or an apprenticeship.
- 1 Aug 2026: proof of funds rose to €877.50 a month (was €615), and the EEF fee is INR 20,000.
- 1 Sep 2026: the business-school evaluation body (CEFDG) was abolished; Hcéres now runs its evaluations.

## Studying in France from India: 8 things to know

France suits Indian students who want low public tuition and a route to work after a master’s: a public master’s costs €3,950 a year, and master’s-level graduates get a 12-month APS, renewable once.

1. **Études en France (EEF) is mandatory from India.** Steps: online file → Campus France validation → fee → academic interview → France-Visas + VFS. **Fee INR 20,000** (from 1 Aug 2026), non-refundable, paid only through the platform's own link, never an agency's link.
2. **Proof of funds: €877.50 a month** from 1 Aug 2026 (was €615). It is 47% of the gross monthly minimum wage on the filing day, so it rises with the SMIC. The accepted forms of proof are listed in the France-Visas visa wizard.
3. **Public tuition for non-EU students (2026-27): €2,902 a year for a licence (bachelor's), €3,950 for a master's**; doctorate at the national rate. Plus the **CVEC, €105 a year**. A university page still showing the EU rate is unconfirmed. **Business schools and Grandes Écoles: about €6,000–18,000+ a year; check each school.**
4. **New since 21 May 2026: no more blanket fee exemptions.** An exemption now goes only to French government scholarship holders, students under reciprocal agreements, or individuals who apply and qualify on their personal (mainly financial) situation.
5. **Check state recognition:** only a national diploma (licence, master, doctorate), a CTI engineering title, a "diplôme visé" / grade de master, or an RNCP title gives recognised equivalence. A school's own diploma does not.
6. **VLS-TS student visa: validate it online (ANEF) within 3 months of arrival** (€100). Otherwise a trip abroad needs a new visa.
7. **Housing aid (APL) narrowed on 1 Jul 2026.** A non-EU student gets it only with a CROUS social-criteria scholarship, a job, or an apprenticeship.
8. **After a master's-level diploma: Indian graduates get a 12-month APS, renewable once** (at most 24 months), working in a job linked to their studies at €2,800.53 gross a month or more. **No post-study permit after a general bachelor's (licence)**; a licence professionnelle gives the general 1-year job-seeker permit.

## How do French universities and master’s degrees work?

A French master’s takes 2 years (M1 + M2, 120 ECTS). Only national diplomas, CTI engineering titles, visé diplomas and RNCP titles are state-recognised; a school’s own diploma is not.

- **Types:** public universities (national degrees of equal value; 63% of foreign students) · **Grandes Écoles** (engineering, business, ENS, institutes of political studies (IEP); public and private, very selective, higher fees) · about 3,000 specialised schools, whose degrees may or may not be state-recognised. About 21% of students are in private institutions.
- **Degrees:** licence 3 years (180 ECTS) → master 2 years (M1 + M2, 120 ECTS) → doctorate. A master's is a *mention* with *parcours* (tracks). Some programmes admit directly to M2.
- **Recognition:** national diplomas, CTI engineering titles (grade de master), *visé* diplomas and RNCP titles are state-guaranteed. Mastère Spécialisé and MSc are Conférence des Grandes Écoles labels. AACSB/EQUIS/AMBA are private accreditations, not state recognition. The business-school evaluation body (CEFDG) was abolished from 1 Sep 2026; Hcéres now runs its evaluations.
- **Admission:** each institution decides. Platforms: EEF (all public-university applications from India, including master's, instead of MonMaster) · DAP for first-year licence · Parcoursup for selective first-year tracks · CampusArt for art and design. Private schools run their own applications; EEF is still needed for the visa.
- **Language:** more than 1,600 programmes are taught in English. French-taught programmes need DELF/DALF/TCF/TEF; first-year licence needs B2. French matters for daily life, and B1 is needed later for a resident card.
- **Intake:** September/October (a few in January).

Official sources:

- [Campus France, How higher education works in France (28 Oct 2025)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/French-higher-education) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, The different types of institutions (29 Oct 2025)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/institutes-higher-education-France) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Tuition fees in France (upd. 25 Jun 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/tuition-fees-France) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, French degrees, LMD system and equivalences](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/French-degrees-LMD-equivalences) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, How can you evaluate the quality of a degree or institute?](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/certification-labels-institutes-France) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [CEFDG, home page (abolition by decree 2026-551; "activities now conducted by the private higher-education department of Hcéres"; archive online until 31 Aug 2027)](https://www.cefdg.fr/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Légifrance, Décret n° 2026-551 du 26 juin 2026 portant suppression d'une commission administrative à caractère consultatif (CEFDG; arts 3–5 in force 1 Sep 2026), and code de la recherche art. D114-2 (version from 1 Sep 2026)](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000054323278) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Carte de séjour ou VLS-TS recherche d'emploi / création d'entreprise (vérifié 01 Jun 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F17319) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Légifrance, Décret n° 2021-1321 du 11 octobre 2021 portant publication de l'accord de partenariat pour les migrations et la mobilité entre la France et l'Inde, signé à New Delhi le 10 mars 2018 (in force 1 Oct 2021; arts 2–4, 9, Annex II)](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000044193646) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, "Job seeker / new business creator" residence permit](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/job-seeker-business-creator-residence-permit) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Finding the right program](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/finding-the-right-program-1) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Carte de résident de longue durée-UE (vérifié 01 Jun 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F17359) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Carte de résident de 10 ans (vérifié 01 Jul 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2208) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Naturalisation française par décret (vérifié 16 Jul 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2213) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, How to apply in an institute of higher education (25 Sep 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/application-higher-education-france) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Preparing your budget (07 Jul 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/preparing-budget-student-France) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Preparing your budget](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/preparing-your-budget) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Where to live during your stay (26 Jun 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/student-housing-france) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Ministry of Higher Education and Research, FAQ: differentiated fees for non-EU students (decree 2026-385; read via r.jina.ai)](https://www.enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr/fr/faq-droits-d-inscription-differencies-pour-les-etudiants-extra-communautaires-103043) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Université de Lille, Exonération des droits d'inscription (2026/2027 campaign)](https://www.univ-lille.fr/formation/exoneration) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Légifrance, Décret n° 2026-385 du 19 mai 2026 relatif aux modalités d'exonération des droits d'inscription des étudiants étrangers (arts 1–2)](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000054113646) (checked 2026-10-17)

## Can I apply with an Indian degree, and is a 3-year bachelor’s accepted?

Yes: under the India–France mutual recognition agreement, an Indian bachelor’s is comparable to the licence, the entry level for a French master’s, but each institution still decides admission.

- **India–France mutual recognition agreement** (in force 2019) covers AIU members and Indian-recognised institutions. Class XII (CBSE or other recognised board) = baccalauréat; bachelor's = licence; master's = master's; PhD = doctorate. Regulated professions (law, medicine) are excluded.
- **Master's with a 3-year bachelor's:** the Indian bachelor's is comparable to the licence, the entry level for a French master's; each institution still decides admission. No national grade-conversion formula exists.
- **Bachelor's from Class XII:** DAP through EEF, 1 Oct–15 Dec, 3 universities; answers by 30 Apr, reply by 31 May. French B2 required.
- **Tests:** set by the programme; the visa file needs the language test matching the programme's language (English or French). ENIC-NARIC comparability attestation is optional (some institutions ask for it): online, €20 + €100, about 4–6 months; English documents need no translation.

Official sources:

- [Campus France, How to apply in an institute of higher education (25 Sep 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/application-higher-education-france) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, "Etudes en France" procedure (28 Sep 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/application-etudes-en-france-procedure) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, How higher education works in France (28 Oct 2025)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/French-higher-education) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Mutual Recognition of Academic Qualifications](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/mutual-recognition-of-academic-qualifications-0) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, French degrees, LMD system and equivalences](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/French-degrees-LMD-equivalences) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [France Éducation international (ENIC-NARIC France), Comment demander une attestation (fees, documents, 4–6 months)](https://www.france-education-international.fr/article/comment-demander-une-attestation) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, First things first! (documents to carry)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/node/39) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [France-Visas, Student (EEF country list, visa fee €50/€99, work 964 h, health cover)](https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/etudiant) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Étudiant étranger en France: VLS-TS ou titre de séjour (vérifié 01 Aug 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2231) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Assurance Maladie, Étudiants internationaux: home and Assistance pages (free and mandatory registration, documents)](https://etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr/assistance) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Health, social security and insurance](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/healthcare-student-social-security) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Checklist: prepare your arrival in France (21 Aug 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/organise-arrival-France) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, VISALE free rental deposit](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/VISALE-free-rental-deposit-for-students) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Where to live during your stay (26 Jun 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/student-housing-france) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, France Excellence Charpak Master Scholarship](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/charpak-master-s-program) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Scholarships for Indian students](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/scholarships-for-indian-students) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Légifrance, Décret n° 2021-1321 du 11 octobre 2021 portant publication de l'accord de partenariat pour les migrations et la mobilité entre la France et l'Inde, signé à New Delhi le 10 mars 2018 (in force 1 Oct 2021; arts 2–4, 9, Annex II)](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000044193646) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Ministry of the Interior (DGEF), Les accords bilatéraux en matière de mobilité professionnelle (read via r.jina.ai)](https://www.immigration.interieur.gouv.fr/limmigration-en-france/accords-internationaux/accords-bilateraux-en-matiere-de-mobilite-professionnelle) (checked 2026-10-17)

## How do I apply to a French university?

From India you apply through Études en France (EEF): an online file, Campus France validation, the INR 20,000 fee and an academic interview. Private schools run their own applications, but EEF is still needed for the visa.

- **EEF file:** personal details, academic records (mark sheets and certificates), language skills, CV, statement of purpose, passport, photo, a motivation per programme → corrections → validation → pay INR 20,000 → **academic interview** (if applicable) in person with originals (explain the study project and why France and this institution).
- **Fee exemptions** (EEF and visa fees): Eiffel, Charpak, MOPGA, Erasmus Mundus and listed co-financed scholarships; the VFS service fee is still payable.
- **Birth certificate:** authenticated by the issuing State/UT, apostilled by the Ministry of External Affairs, and translated into French. An affidavit or notarised substitute is not valid.
- **Enrolment:** pay the CVEC first, then complete the administrative and course registration; the student card is issued after fees are paid.

Official sources:

- [Campus France, "Etudes en France" procedure (28 Sep 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/application-etudes-en-france-procedure) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, How to apply in an institute of higher education (25 Sep 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/application-higher-education-france) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Preparing the visa application](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/node/46) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Application and Admission Procedure (steps, fee exemptions, refunds)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/application-and-admission-procedure) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Increase in "Etudes en France" fees (published 04/09/2024, upd. 01/07/2026)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/increase-in-etudes-en-france-fees) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [France Éducation international (ENIC-NARIC France), Comment demander une attestation (fees, documents, 4–6 months)](https://www.france-education-international.fr/article/comment-demander-une-attestation) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, French degrees, LMD system and equivalences](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/French-degrees-LMD-equivalences) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Tuition fees in France (upd. 25 Jun 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/tuition-fees-France) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [France-Visas, Student (EEF country list, visa fee €50/€99, work 964 h, health cover)](https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/etudiant) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [VFS Global, France visa in India: Fees (service fee €22; visa fee payment)](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/fra/fees) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [France-Visas, The visa application process (passport, biometrics, decision usually 15 days, up to 45)](https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/la-demarche) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Embassy of France in India, Applying for a visa](https://in.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/applying-for-a-visa) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, First things first! (documents to carry)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/node/39) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Assurance Maladie, Étudiants internationaux: home and Assistance pages (free and mandatory registration, documents)](https://etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr/assistance) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, The different types of institutions (29 Oct 2025)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/institutes-higher-education-France) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, 10 things you need to know about the CVEC (31 Jul 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-student-and-campus-life-contribution-cvec) (checked 2026-10-17)

## How much does it cost, and how much money must I show?

Public tuition for non-EU students is €3,950 a year for a master’s (2026-27) plus the €105 CVEC; business schools charge about €6,000–18,000+. For the visa you show €877.50 a month (about €10,530 for 12 months).

- **Tuition 2026-27** (public, under the higher-education ministry): non-EU licence €2,902, master €3,950. Engineering diplomas and schools under other ministries set their own fees. Apprentices pay no differentiated fees.
- **Exemptions (decree of 19 May 2026):** automatic for French government (incl. Charpak) and CROUS scholarship holders and reciprocal agreements. Otherwise only **on request**, on personal/financial grounds, within a cap (30% of students in 2026-27). A pre-21 May exemption lasts to the end of the cycle **at the same institution only**. An admission letter is not an exemption.
- **CVEC €105** a year, paid online before enrolment; foreign-government and private scholarships don't exempt.
- **Funds:** €877.50/month (about €10,530 for 12 months). The accepted forms of proof, and whether an education loan counts, are not confirmed on a current official page (France-Visas wizard).
- **Living costs:** food about €300 a month, university meal €1, Paris student transit pass €374.40 a year (€250–300 elsewhere). Rent: CROUS about €450 in Paris / €350 elsewhere; private studio €800+ in Paris / €400+ elsewhere. No TV licence fee (abolished 2022); home insurance is compulsory.
- **Scholarships:** Charpak Master (€860/month, age ≤30, Indian or OCI, apply after applying for admission); Eiffel (nominated by the institution, €1,181/month); university excellence awards (e.g. Paris-Saclay €10,000 a year).

Official sources:

- [Campus France, Tuition fees in France (upd. 25 Jun 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/tuition-fees-France) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Ministry of Higher Education and Research, FAQ: differentiated fees for non-EU students (decree 2026-385; read via r.jina.ai)](https://www.enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr/fr/faq-droits-d-inscription-differencies-pour-les-etudiants-extra-communautaires-103043) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Légifrance, Décret n° 2026-385 du 19 mai 2026 relatif aux modalités d'exonération des droits d'inscription des étudiants étrangers (arts 1–2)](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000054113646) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Université de Lille, Exonération des droits d'inscription (2026/2027 campaign)](https://www.univ-lille.fr/formation/exoneration) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, France Excellence Charpak Master Scholarship](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/charpak-master-s-program) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [France-Visas, Student (EEF country list, visa fee €50/€99, work 964 h, health cover)](https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/etudiant) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, 10 things you need to know about the CVEC (31 Jul 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-student-and-campus-life-contribution-cvec) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Légifrance, Décret n° 2026-526 du 22 juin 2026 (resources for study permits; CESEDA R. 422-2; in force 1 Aug 2026)](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000054300340) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, France Visa – Important announcement (24 Jul 2026)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/france-visa-important-announcement) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, How to renew your residence permit (25 Jun 2026; cites decree 2026-526)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/renew-residency-permit) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Étudiant étranger en France: VLS-TS ou titre de séjour (vérifié 01 Aug 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2231) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Smic (vérifié 01 Jun 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2300) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, First things first! (documents to carry)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/node/39) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Preparing your budget (07 Jul 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/preparing-budget-student-France) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Preparing your budget](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/preparing-your-budget) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Where to live during your stay (26 Jun 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/student-housing-france) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Scholarships for Indian students](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/scholarships-for-indian-students) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Application and Admission Procedure (steps, fee exemptions, refunds)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/application-and-admission-procedure) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Increase in "Etudes en France" fees (published 04/09/2024, upd. 01/07/2026)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/increase-in-etudes-en-france-fees) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [VFS Global, France visa in India: Fees (service fee €22; visa fee payment)](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/fra/fees) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Checklist: prepare your arrival in France (21 Aug 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/organise-arrival-France) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Health, social security and insurance](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/healthcare-student-social-security) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Redevance télé (contribution à l'audiovisuel public) (vérifié 20 Nov 2025)](https://www.service-public.gouv.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F88) (checked 2026-10-17)

## How do I get a French student visa from India?

After the Campus France interview email you apply on France-Visas and give biometrics at VFS, at least 3 months before the intake. The visa costs €50 plus a €22 VFS fee; a decision usually takes 15 days.

- **VLS-TS "étudiant"** (4 months–1 year; it is the residence permit). Short-stay visas cannot be converted; an "étudiant-concours" visa is for sitting an entrance exam.
- Apply on France-Visas **after** the Campus France interview email, then biometrics at **VFS**. Apply as soon as you have an **unconditional acceptance**, at least 3 months before the intake (up to 6 months before departure). A decision usually takes 15 days (up to 45).
- **Fees:** visa €50 (EEF countries such as India) + VFS service fee €22, both paid in rupees; never refunded. Scholarship holders exempt from the visa fee still pay VFS.
- **Checklist:** passport (<10 years old, valid 3 months beyond the visa, 2 blank pages), admission letter, degrees and transcripts, language test, proof of funds, proof of accommodation, travel insurance with repatriation, apostilled and translated birth certificate, photos.
- **Refusal:** consulates must give reasons. Informal appeal to the consul, then the visa appeals commission (CRRV, Nantes) within 30 days, then the Nantes administrative court; or re-apply (new fee).
- **Spouse and children:** there is no "family of a student" visa. A student can apply for family reunification after 18 months in France, with income of at least the SMIC (€1,867.02 gross a month for 2–3 people) and suitable housing. Before that, the only general route is a long-stay **visitor** visa, whose holder must not work; whether consulates grant it to students' spouses is unconfirmed: **confirm with the consulate before applying.** Families of Talent card holders come with the holder and may work. Family rights during the APS are unconfirmed.

Official sources:

- [Campus France, Long-stay visa VLS-TS (05 Aug 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/student-long-stay-visa) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, The different types of visas](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/the-different-types-of-visas) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, The student-in-competition short-stay visa](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/short-student-competition-visa) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, FAQ (individual answers opened under /faq/…; most carry no date and several are pre-2021). **Not used as a source from pass 2 (ruling 4); cited only in §15 contradictions:**](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/faq) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Preparing the visa application](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/node/46) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [France-Visas, Student (EEF country list, visa fee €50/€99, work 964 h, health cover)](https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/etudiant) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [France-Visas, The visa application process (passport, biometrics, decision usually 15 days, up to 45)](https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/la-demarche) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [VFS Global, France visa in India: Fees (service fee €22; visa fee payment)](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/fra/fees) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Application and Admission Procedure (steps, fee exemptions, refunds)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/application-and-admission-procedure) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, First things first! (documents to carry)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/node/39) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Assurance Maladie, Étudiants internationaux: home and Assistance pages (free and mandatory registration, documents)](https://etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr/assistance) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Embassy of France in India, Applying for a visa](https://in.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/applying-for-a-visa) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Health, social security and insurance](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/healthcare-student-social-security) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Checklist: prepare your arrival in France (21 Aug 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/organise-arrival-France) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, How to appeal a visa refusal](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/appeal-visa-refusal) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Étudiant étranger en France: VLS-TS ou titre de séjour (vérifié 01 Aug 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2231) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [France-Visas, Family of foreign national residing in France (family reunion after 18 months)](https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/famille-d-etranger-residant-en-france) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Regroupement familial (vérifié 01 Jun 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F11166) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [France-Visas, Tourist stay of more than 3 months (long-stay visitor visa, no professional activity)](https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/sejour-touristique-de-plus-de-3-mois) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Carte talent (vérifié 01 Jun 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F16922) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Légifrance, Décret n° 2021-1321 du 11 octobre 2021 portant publication de l'accord de partenariat pour les migrations et la mobilité entre la France et l'Inde, signé à New Delhi le 10 mars 2018 (in force 1 Oct 2021; arts 2–4, 9, Annex II)](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000044193646) (checked 2026-10-17)

## When should I start preparing?

Start about 12 months before a September intake: open the EEF file between September and December, then Campus France validation, the interview and the visa application follow.

| When | Step |
|---|---|
| Sep–Dec (12–9 months before) | Shortlist recognised programmes; open the EEF file; DAP (bachelor's) 1 Oct–15 Dec; follow school rounds. |
| Dec–Mar | Campus France validation → pay INR 20,000 → academic interview. Language test if needed. Apostille + translate the birth certificate. Charpak application. |
| Mar–May | Offers (DAP answers by 30 Apr). Ask about fee exemptions (individual request). |
| May–Jun | Unconditional acceptance → France-Visas + VFS (at least 3 months ahead). Funds €877.50/month for the year; accommodation proof; insurance. |
| Jun–Aug | Visa decision. CROUS room request (from early July); Visale guarantee; pay the CVEC. |
| Weeks 1–2 in France | Enrol; bank account; register on ameli (free); home insurance. |
| Within 3 months | **Validate the VLS-TS on ANEF (€100).** |
| 4–2 months before expiry | Renew on ANEF (€100, or €150 multi-year; +€180 if late). |

## Can I work while studying, and what happens on arrival?

You can work 964 hours a year (about 20 hours a week) without a work permit. Within 3 months of arrival you must validate your VLS-TS visa online on ANEF (€100).

- **Work: 964 hours a year** (about 20 hours a week); no permit needed, but the employer declares the hire to the préfecture. Exceeding it can cost the permit. Degree internships don't count; on-campus jobs max 670 h (Sep–Jun) + 300 h (Jul–Aug). No self-employment on a student card. Minimum wage €12.31 gross per hour.
- **Health:** register with social security on etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr after enrolling (free and mandatory; passport, apostilled birth certificate, visa, enrolment certificate, residence permit, IBAN; costs reimbursed about 60%). France-Visas says this applies to students under 28; ameli states no age limit. A mutuelle is recommended. Emergency numbers: 112, 15 (SAMU), 18 (fire).
- **Housing:** CROUS rooms are scarce. Landlords want a French guarantor: **Visale** is free for ages 18–30 with a VLS-TS. Deposit is about 1 month's rent; home insurance is compulsory. Never pay before signing. **APL** only in the three July 2026 cases.
- **Renewal:** multi-year card for the rest of the cycle if studies are "real and serious" (attendance, results); one repeated year per cycle is accepted; €877.50/month again.
- **Indian students** (India–France agreement): after the first-year VLS-TS, a multi-year permit to the end of the study cycle; renewal can be filed in the 3 months before expiry.

Official sources:

- [Campus France, Where to live during your stay (26 Jun 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/student-housing-france) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, VISALE free rental deposit](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/VISALE-free-rental-deposit-for-students) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Checklist: prepare your arrival in France (21 Aug 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/organise-arrival-France) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, How to validate your long-stay visa (12 Aug 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/how-to-validate-your-long-stay-visa-visa-long-sejour-upon-your-arrival-in-france) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Étudiant étranger en France: VLS-TS ou titre de séjour (vérifié 01 Aug 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2231) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, First things first! (documents to carry)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/node/39) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [France-Visas, Student (EEF country list, visa fee €50/€99, work 964 h, health cover)](https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/etudiant) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [France-Visas, The visa application process (passport, biometrics, decision usually 15 days, up to 45)](https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/la-demarche) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Long-stay visa VLS-TS (05 Aug 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/student-long-stay-visa) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Preparing the visa application](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/node/46) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, How to renew your residence permit (25 Jun 2026; cites decree 2026-526)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/renew-residency-permit) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Légifrance, Décret n° 2021-1321 du 11 octobre 2021 portant publication de l'accord de partenariat pour les migrations et la mobilité entre la France et l'Inde, signé à New Delhi le 10 mars 2018 (in force 1 Oct 2021; arts 2–4, 9, Annex II)](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000044193646) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Assurance Maladie, Étudiants internationaux: home and Assistance pages (free and mandatory registration, documents)](https://etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr/assistance) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Health, social security and insurance](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/healthcare-student-social-security) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Getting a bank account](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/getting-a-bank-account) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, How to apply in an institute of higher education (25 Sep 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/application-higher-education-france) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, 10 things you need to know about the CVEC (31 Jul 2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-student-and-campus-life-contribution-cvec) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, The "Bienvenue en France" label (news 17/09/2026)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/the-bienvenue-en-france-label) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Un étudiant non européen peut-il travailler en France ? (vérifié 07 Oct 2025)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2713) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Working while studying in France](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/working-student) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Ministry of Higher Education and Research, FAQ: differentiated fees for non-EU students (decree 2026-385; read via r.jina.ai)](https://www.enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr/fr/faq-droits-d-inscription-differencies-pour-les-etudiants-extra-communautaires-103043) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Smic (vérifié 01 Jun 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2300) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, How higher education works in France (28 Oct 2025)](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/French-higher-education) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Carte de résident de longue durée-UE (vérifié 01 Jun 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F17359) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Carte de résident de 10 ans (vérifié 01 Jul 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2208) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Naturalisation française par décret (vérifié 16 Jul 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2213) (checked 2026-10-17)

## Can I stay and work in France after graduating?

Yes, after a master’s-level diploma: Indian graduates get a 12-month APS, renewable once (at most 24 months), for a job linked to their studies paying at least €2,800.53 gross a month. A general bachelor’s gives no post-study permit.

- **India: APS of 1 year, renewable once** (12 + 12, at most 24 months; not 24 months outright), for a diploma at least equivalent to the master from a nationally accredited French institution. During it: a job **related to the studies, paid at least 1.5 × the monthly SMIC (€2,800.53 gross)**. With such a job or job offer at the end, the graduate can stay on to work with no labour-market test.
- **Bachelor's:** the India agreement gives no post-study stay to bachelor's or general licence graduates. A **licence professionnelle** (vocational bachelor's), Mastère Spécialisé, CGE MSc or master's opens the general **job-seeker permit**: 1 year, not renewable, also available from abroad within 4 years of the diploma.
- **Young professionals (India–France):** ages 18–35, 6–12 months of salaried work, extendable to 24; at most 500 a year.
- **Work permits:** "salarié" from €2,800.53 gross/month in a job linked to your studies; **Talent – salarié qualifié** from €39,582 a year (French master's-level diploma); **EU Blue Card** from €59,373 a year. Talent families come with the holder.
- **Long-term:** 10-year EU long-term resident card after 5 years on qualifying permits (student years appear not to count) with B1 French. **Citizenship** after 5 years, or 2 years with a French diploma earned after 2 years of study; India does not allow dual citizenship (OCI is the alternative).
- **Back in India:** recognised under the mutual agreement; AIU equivalence online. Indian alumni (one semester or more in France) can get a **5-year multiple-entry short-stay visa** (no work).

Official sources:

- [Légifrance, Décret n° 2021-1321 du 11 octobre 2021 portant publication de l'accord de partenariat pour les migrations et la mobilité entre la France et l'Inde, signé à New Delhi le 10 mars 2018 (in force 1 Oct 2021; arts 2–4, 9, Annex II)](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000044193646) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Ministry of the Interior (DGEF), Les accords bilatéraux en matière de mobilité professionnelle (read via r.jina.ai)](https://www.immigration.interieur.gouv.fr/limmigration-en-france/accords-internationaux/accords-bilateraux-en-matiere-de-mobilite-professionnelle) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Getting an alumni visa](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/getting-an-alumni-visa) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Carte de séjour ou VLS-TS recherche d'emploi / création d'entreprise (vérifié 01 Jun 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F17319) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, "Job seeker / new business creator" residence permit](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/job-seeker-business-creator-residence-permit) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, Temporary Resident Permit ("APS") ("This page is being updated")](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/temporary-resident-permit-aps) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Carte talent (vérifié 01 Jun 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F16922) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Carte de résident de longue durée-UE (vérifié 01 Jun 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F17359) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Carte de résident de 10 ans (vérifié 01 Jul 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2208) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [service-public, Naturalisation française par décret (vérifié 16 Jul 2026)](https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2213) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Ministry of Home Affairs (India), Online OCI Services (dual citizenship statement, OCI eligibility and benefits)](https://ociservices.gov.in/onlineOCI/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France, The travel / Schengen visa](https://www.campusfrance.org/en/Schengen-travel-visa-degrees) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, 5-year validity short-stay visa](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/5-year-validity-short-stay-visa) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Mutual Recognition of Academic Qualifications](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/mutual-recognition-of-academic-qualifications-0) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [AIU, Equivalence of degree](https://aiu.ac.in/frontpage/equivalence-of-degree/) (checked 2026-10-17)

## Common mistakes Indian students make

The costliest mistakes: paying the EEF fee through an agent’s link, assuming the old blanket fee exemption, and showing €615 a month as funds when the amount is now €877.50.

1. Paying the EEF fee through an agent's link.
2. Assuming the old blanket fee exemption: budget €3,950/year for a master's unless the exemption is confirmed in writing.
3. Showing €615/month as funds (the amount is now €877.50 and follows the SMIC).
4. Picking a programme that is not state-recognised (a private school's own diploma).
5. Not validating the VLS-TS within 3 months.
6. Counting on CAF/APL housing aid.
7. Late housing search; no guarantor; housing scams.
8. Working more than 964 hours, or freelancing.
9. Birth certificate not apostilled or translated.
10. Relying on old Campus France India FAQ answers (19.5 h/week, APL for all, Rs 18,000 fee).
11. Promising a post-study permit after a general bachelor's, or 24 months outright after a master's.
12. Planning for a spouse to work in France during the student's first 18 months.

Official sources:

- [Campus France India, Increase in "Etudes en France" fees (published 04/09/2024, upd. 01/07/2026)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/increase-in-etudes-en-france-fees) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Application and Admission Procedure (steps, fee exemptions, refunds)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/application-and-admission-procedure) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Campus France India, Important Notice: Collège de Paris (07 Jul 2026)](https://www.inde.campusfrance.org/important-notice-college-de-paris) (checked 2026-10-17)

## Job market

- [Jobs in France for international graduates](https://uniferedu.com/job-market-research/france): pay and visas, by field.