France has become one of the most coveted higher education destinations among Indian students. Since 2017, there has been a 54% hike in student inflow, and French institutes are keen to welcome Indian students.
The Institut français en Inde partnered with Campus France India are working together on raising awareness of possibilities to study in France. With more than 400 French companies looking for young talents in India, the prospect of finding a job is also positive.
If you are considering receiving a degree in a French institute, here are the steps to follow.
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Find Your Program with CampusFrance
Campus France is the official agency set to promote French higher education abroad. Their services include personalized counseling, application review, and providing scholarships.
Check CampusFrance India’s official website to find all the relevant information you would read. You can also find many useful tips on how to start a statement of purpose and how to compose the application. You will find extensive data on different training programs and a directory of courses to choose from.
Once you have an idea of the programs you want to apply to, visit the nearest Campus France Office in India. There are 13 branches located in various cities.
Admission Requirements
The requirement for French institutes will vary depending on which program you are planning to apply for. There are several courses offered in both French and English. You might need to prove your knowledge of languages based on the specific admission requirements set by campuses.
If you would like to learn French, Alliances Françaises has several institutions across India. You can joinї different levels and get language certifications in French. This will prove to be extremely helpful during both the admission procedures as well as future life in France.
Check the Scholarships
French government awards a sum of 1.1 million Euros on scholarships to more than 500 Indian students to pursue a degree in France. The option is offered at both Bachelor’s and Master’s levels as well as for Ph.D. candidates.
It is recommended that all students check whether they are eligible to apply for any scholarships.
Visa Application
It is mandatory for Indian students to have a student visa that permits them to study in France. The different types of visas to choose from are:
● Visa de court séjour pour études
This short-stay student visa is applicable for those visiting France for a period of three months to study. It is best for not long programs or language courses.
● Visa de long séjour temporaire pour études
This temporary long-stay visa permits one to study in France for a duration between three to six months without a residence permit. This visa is non-renewable.
● Visa de long séjour études
This is the most common visa type if you are attending a program for six months or more. The long-stay student visa called VLS-TS, which is a residence permit, lasts for the term of a chosen program.
How to Apply
The visa procedure comprises of two stages. The first is with Campus France and then with the VFS Global. If you are planning to attend a French university that is not partnered with CampusFrance, you will have to contact the institution directly.
Here’re the steps to follow:
● Create an account on the Campus France website;
● Fill in the personal details, upload the documents, and pay the fees;
● Send your file to the designated Campus France office to request an appointment;
● Attend the personal interview at Campus France to discuss your study plans;
● Upon successful completion of the interview, you will be provided an Interview Completion certificate;
● Schedule an appointment with VFS-France. Here you will have to submit your documents, which include photographs, OFII form, flight tickets, proof of accommodation, and funds availability. Candidates will also be asked to provide biometrics and attend an interview;
● Once you arrive in France, you should register and validate your visa to get legal residency in the country.
Visa Renewal
The VLS-TS would be valid for three months or more. Depending on this factor, you might have to renew it from time to time.
After completing your course, if you meet certain conditions, you can appeal for a change of status based on the type of residence.
Wrapping Up
As a world-famous destination, France is one of the best places in the world to consider for getting a degree. The universities propose different programs, including English-taught ones.
In particular, this encourages international students from India. French higher education institutions present a wonderful opportunity for Indian students. They can pursue their dreams of studying abroad and immerse themselves in the magnificent culture.
