Study in France

Why Study in France

Top Reasons to Study in France with Arise Visa Consultancy

France, one of the most significant nations in Europe and the globe, known for its rich history, culture, and influence. France is located in Western Europe and shares borders with Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Andorra and Monaco. Its geographical diversity includes the rocky shores of Brittany, the rolling vineyards of Bordeaux, the towering peaks of the Alps, and the sun-kissed beaches of the Côte d'Azur.

Paris, the capital is a global hub for fashion, art, and culture, as well as an essential centre for education and innovation. Paris, known as the "City of Light," boasts famous landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. Beyond its capital, France has major cities such as Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, and Nice, each with its own distinct blend of history, culture, and modernity.

France has had a great impact on the arts, science, philosophy, and politics, making it an important element of both European and global culture. The French language, used by millions of people worldwide, represents France's cultural achieve and the country's contributions to literature, cinema, and gastronomy are still recognised around the world.

Education System:

Education is compulsory and free in France from the age of 3 to 16 years old. The French education system is highly structured, with three main types of higher education institutions:

• Public Universities: These universities provide a diverse range of academic programmes covering multiple fields, from undergraduate to doctoral degrees. Tuition prices at public colleges are generally affordable, particularly for EU students, making them a popular choice for international students.
• Grandes Écoles: These top colleges focus on specialised subjects like engineering and business. Admission is extremely difficult, frequently requiring grueling admission tests. Grandes Écoles are well-known for their educational excellence, significant industry contacts, and students' success in the workforce.

France's academic year normally covers from September to June, with two semesters. The education system belongs to the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), which makes sure that degrees are recognised throughout Europe and makes it easier for students to transfer credit.

Popular Courses in France:

Types of Student Visa in France

1). Short stay visa

A short-stay visa to France gives foreign people to stay in France for up to 90 days out of a 180-day term. It is usually provided for tourist, business, or family visits.

It may also be used for:

• Short training programmes, internships, conferences, and business meetings
• Paid activities that are under 90 days.

There are two categories of short-term visas:

• Ordinary short-stay visa: This visa, also known as a "uniform stay visa" or a "Schengen type C visa," permits the holder to freely travel within the Schengen Area.
• Special short-stay visa: This visa allows access to overseas areas.

There are further student short-stay visas, such as the "short stay for studies" and "student in competition" visa. The "student in competition" visa is for non-European students who have been invited to France for an exam or interview at a higher education institution. A short-stay visa costs up to 90 €.

2). Long stay visa

A long-stay visa (VLS) for France is required for stays of more than 90 days. The visa is valid for 1month to 1 year and has the same validity as a Schengen visa. This enables the holder to:

• Explore and stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days each 180-day period.
• Work
• Study
• Join family members

A long-stay visa working as a residence permit (VLS-TS) in France is a visa that allows a foreign citizen to stay in France for three to twelve months and is comparable to a residency permit. The VLS-TS must be registered in France and undergoes an online validation procedure upon arrival.

Here are some things to know about the VLS-TS:

• Validity: The VLS-TS is valid for 3–12 months.
• Application: If the intended stay is more than 12 months, a long-stay visa (VLS) is usually issued, which allows the holder to apply for a residence permit upon arrival in France.

Requirements for Studying in France

To study in France, international students must meet several requirements:

• Academic Qualifications: To register in undergraduate programmes, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Postgraduate studies require a qualifying bachelor's degree or equivalent.
• Language Proficiency: Depending on the programme, students may be required to demonstrate skills in French or English. Most universities need a minimum B2 level of French for French-taught programmes. English proficiency is necessary for English-taught programmes, and particular tests such as the IELTS or TOEFL are accepted.
• Student Visa: Non-EU students must get a student visa (VLS-TS) before studying in France. The application process requires verification of registration in a French institution, financial stability, and health insurance coverage
• Financial Requirements: Students have to show that they have sufficient financial resources to meet living expenses throughout their stay in France. This usually costs about €615 per month.
• Health Insurance: All students must carry health insurance. EU students are able to use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), however non-EU students must either join the French student social security system or get private health insurance.

Universities & Colleges

Educational Requirements to Study in France:

Higher Study Options	Minimum Educational Requirement	IELTS/PTE/ TOEFL Score
Bachelors	12 Years of Education (10+2), 10+3 years diploma	Overall, 5.5 in each band
Masters (MS/MBA)	3/4 Years of Graduate Degree	Overall, 6.5 with no band less than 6

Details of IELTS Band Requirement for France

Top Ranking Universities

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