Table of Contents
- Visa requirements and immigration
- Cost of living in France
- Student accommodation
- Cultural and social life
- Job opportunities for students
- Support services & pre-departure
- Frequently Asked Questions
Key takeaways
- VLS-TS Visa: The primary long-stay visa for students, requiring online validation via the ANEF portal within three months of arrival
- Living costs: Expect to budget between EUR 880 and EUR 1,750 monthly, depending on whether you choose Paris or provincial cities
- 2026 wage rates: The gross minimum wage (SMIC) has risen to EUR 12.02 per hour, providing a net take-home of roughly EUR 9.52
- Housing aid changes: Under the 2026 Finance Act, CAF (APL) eligibility has been restricted for many non-EU, self-funded students
France has evolved into a global powerhouse for STEM, Business, and Innovation. For an international student, life in France is a balance of rigorous academic standards and the famous art de vivre. Whether you are sipping coffee in a Parisian bistro or studying in the tech hubs of Lyon, the French student status grants you extensive rights, from universal healthcare to significant travel discounts.
However, moving to France requires precise planning. From navigating the Campus France portal to securing a guarantor for your apartment, the administrative hurdles can be high. This guide breaks down the complexities of the French system to ensure your focus remains on your degree and your future career.
Visa requirements and immigration
Securing your legal right to stay is the first and most critical step. For most non-EU students planning to stay longer than six months, the VLS-TS (Visa de Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour) is the standard requirement.
Types of visas for students
- VLS-TS (Long-stay): This is the most common visa; it acts as a residence permit. Once you arrive, you must validate it online via the ANEF portal and pay a digital tax stamp (EUR 50).
- VLS-T (Temporary Long-stay): Usually for short programmes (4–6 months). It is non-renewable and does not require validation.
- Short-stay (Schengen): For courses lasting less than 90 days.
How to apply for a French Student Visa
The process is primarily digitised through the France-Visas official portal.
- Campus France interview: Complete your academic interview and receive your Etude en France certificate
- Digital application: Submit your forms via the France-Visas website
- VFS global appointment: Attend a physical appointment for biometrics
- Validation: Upon arrival in France, validate your visa within 90 days via the ANEF portal
Visa rejection risks
The French consulate is strict regarding financial and intent-based documentation.
| Risk factor | Prevention strategy |
| Insufficient funds | You must prove a minimum of EUR 615 per month. In 2026, EUR 800+ is recommended for faster approval. |
| Weak SOP | Clearly define why you chose France and how the course aligns with your career outcomes. |
| Incomplete files | Ensure your proof of accommodation covers at least the first three months. |
Common mistake to avoid: Do not book non-refundable flights before your visa is issued. French visa processing times can vary between 2 and 6 weeks during peak seasons.
Also read: Intakes in France
Need help with your visa documentation? Speak to an Edvoy counsellor for expert guidance
Cost of living in France
While tuition in public universities remains remarkably low compared to the UK or the USA, the daily cost of living requires careful management.
Tuition fees and financial aid
For the 2026/27 academic year, public university rates for non-EU students generally sit at:
- Bachelor’s (licence): Approximately EUR 2,850 per year
- Master’s: Approximately EUR 3,879 per year
- Private schools (Grandes Écoles): Fees can range from EUR 10,000 to EUR 25,000 per year
Financial aid: Look for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship or regional grants. Additionally, every student must pay the CVEC fee, which is EUR 105 for 2026, to fund campus services.
If you are looking for financial support, check our guide on scholarships for international students to see how to offset your tuition costs.
Monthly cost breakdown
| Expense category | Paris | Lyon/Toulouse |
| Average rent | EUR 850 – EUR 1,300 | EUR 500 – EUR 800 |
| Food & groceries | EUR 300 | EUR 250 |
| Transport | EUR 38 (Imagine R) | EUR 25 – EUR 35 |
| Total estimate | EUR 1,200 – EUR 1,750 | EUR 880 – EUR 1,200 |
Student accommodation
Securing a place to live is often the most challenging part of student life. The market is competitive, especially in Paris.
University dormitories (CROUS) vs. private accommodation
The CROUS manages public student residences. These are highly sought after for their affordability.
| Feature | CROUS residences | Private residences | Shared flats |
| Monthly cost | EUR 200 – EUR 450 | EUR 600 – EUR 1,000+ | EUR 400 – EUR 800 |
| Availability | Very limited | High | Moderate |
| Best for | Budget-conscious | Convenience | Social immersion |
The CAF benefit: 2026 policy changes
Historically, students claimed APL (housing aid) from the CAF.
Important 2026 update: Under the 2026 Finance Act, from July 1, 2026, non-EU students who are not scholarship holders may no longer be eligible for APL. Independent students should budget an additional EUR 150–200 monthly to account for this change.
Edvoy Stays: Finding a safe place to live is vital. Explore our student accommodation partners to secure your housing before you land.
Cultural and social life
Your student ID is a golden ticket in France.
- Culture: National museums (like the Louvre) are free for residents under 26
- The Resto U: University cafeterias offer three-course meals for just EUR 3.30
- Travel: Use the Imagine R pass in Paris or the Carte Avantage Jeune (EUR 49/year) for 30% off SNCF trains nationwide
Related articles
Job opportunities for students
You are legally permitted to work 964 hours per year (approx. 20 hours/week).
Wage rates
- Gross SMIC (minimum wage): EUR 12.02 per hour
- Net take-home: Approximately EUR 9.52 per hour
- Internships (stages): If an internship lasts over 2 months, you receive a mandatory gratification of roughly EUR 4.35 per hour
Support services & pre-departure
- Healthcare: Registration for L’Assurance Maladie is mandatory and free via etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr. This provides you with a Carte Vitale.
- Language: From 2026, renewing for a multi-year residency permit may require a B1 level of French.
- Banking: Open a French bank account (or use digital options like Revolut) as soon as you arrive to receive reimbursements and pay rent.
Ready to start your French adventure? Get expert help with your application at Edvoy
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work on a student visa in France?
Yes, you can work up to 964 hours per year. As of 2026, the gross minimum wage (SMIC) is EUR 12.02 per hour.
How much bank balance do I need for a French student visa in 2026?
The official requirement is EUR 615 per month, but showing EUR 800+ is highly recommended for a smoother application process.
What is the post-study work visa for international students?
Graduates can apply for the RECE permit, which allows a 12-month stay to find employment or start a business.
Is the CAF (APL) housing aid still available?
As of July 2026, this aid is restricted primarily to EU nationals and students with official French government scholarships.
How do I get French health insurance?
Registration is free and done online at ameli.fr once you have your university enrollment and French bank details.
