Studying in France is a way of living for many Indian youth. France has some of the best universities in the world and offers an affordable option for higher education, as well as the opportunity for working on an international basis.
If you intend to study in France in 2026, the first step is to understand how to apply for a French student visa. Here, Golden Future has prepared a complete guide that answers all of your questions about French visas for Indian students, including the types of student visas, what documents you need to obtain one, total fees and the estimated time it will take before you receive your visa, and our best recommendations for avoiding being refused a visa.
|
Visa Type |
Who Should Apply |
Validity |
|---|---|---|
|
Short-Stay Student Visa |
Short courses, summer programs, training courses (less than 90 days) |
Up to 90 days |
|
Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS) |
Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, diploma or long-term programs |
More than 90 days |
|
Visa for Language/Foundation Courses |
French language or foundation programs before main degree |
Based on course duration |
Most Indian students apply for the Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS).
Students from India will need the following in order to obtain their VFS student visa for France: Examinations must have been taken (completed) before applying for the France Student Visa.
1) Completion of necessary education (e.g., a high school diploma or a university degree, etc.) from an accredited institution.
2) A letter of acceptance from a French educational institution (university, etc.).
In addition to the above, applicants will also need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover the costs of tuition and monthly living expenses while on a France visa for Indian students. Currently, applicants must prove that they have an income of at least €615/month.
Regarding the language requirement: If you are applying for a program taught in English, you will need to show proof of English language proficiency through either an IELTS exam or another type of assessment that the university accepts; however, if the university does not require an English language assessment for admission purposes, then applicants do not have to provide IELTS results as part of their visa application.
Alternatively, if the program is taught in French, applicants will be required to demonstrate that they understand the French language (DEL/F's, DAL/F's, or other proprietary/internal assessments).
To apply for a student visa, you must submit the following documents:
|
Type of Payment |
Estimated Amount |
|---|---|
|
Visa Fee for Students from France |
€ 99 (approx.) |
|
Campus France Fee |
₹ 18,000 - ₹ 20,000 |
|
Charges for the VFS Service (Visa Facilitation Services) |
₹ 2,000 - ₹ 3,000 |
|
Health Insurance |
₹ 4,000 - ₹ 6,000 |
Annual changes in all fees may occur. Golden Future shares periodic updates with students about all official fee updates as they become available.
Step-by-Step France Visa Application Process from India
1️⃣ Securing Admission
Obtain an acceptance letter from a university in France. france visa for indian students
2️⃣ Register for Campus France
Create a profile and upload documents on the Campus France website and participate in an informational session through a phone interview.
3️⃣ Complete Visa Application,
After Campus France's approval, apply for your France visa by submitting the visa application online.
4️⃣ Make Appointment with VFS
Schedule your VFS appointment with the closest VFS office.
5️⃣ Submit your documents.
Submit your required documents.
6️⃣ Visa Interview (if Necessary)
If requested, some students may have a brief interview on their education and goals.
7️⃣ Receive a decision made regarding your visa application.
Once the visa decision is reached, you will get a response regarding your application status by mail or e-mail.
How to Avoid Delays:
Golden Future places high value on having quality SOPs and providing proof of funding, therefore reducing an applicant's chances of being denied admission.
Each student’s educational journey is unique to them, and we at Golden Future recognize that fact.
Our consulting staff is well-versed in assisting France visas for indian students
with their overseas education.
We provide students with complete guidance and support throughout the application process, from selecting an appropriate course to receiving a student visa.
Our support includes personalized assistance from Campus France as well as providing students with realistic expectations regarding their chances of obtaining a France visa for Indian students.
How Golden Future Helps Indian Students (Trust & Experience)
1. Do I need to take the IELTS test in order to obtain my French student visa?
The IELTS test is only necessary if your university requires it.
2. Can Indian students work on their French student visa?
Indian students are permitted to work while studying in France as long as they do not exceed 20 hours a week.
3. How much money do I need to show in my bank account in order to get my French student visa?
Approximately [Euro] 615 per month plus tuition fees.
4. Am I required to register with Campus France before obtaining my French student visa?
Campus France registration is required for most long-term degree programs.
5. Can my French student visa be renewed if I wish to continue studying in France after I complete my current degree program?
Yes, it is possible to renew your student visa if you wish to continue studying in France.
In 2026, Indian students can find quality education, opportunities for global exposure, and successful careers in France; with careful planning and professional help, the process of obtaining visa approval will be without stress or problems. France visas for Indian students
👉 Schedule Free Counseling w/ Golden Future
👉 Obtain a comprehensive checklist of required documents.
👉 Submit applications as soon as possible rather than waiting until later to avoid being rejected or delayed.
Golden Future—Helping You Achieve Your Dreams of Studying Overseas!