Student Visa France 2027 for Indian Students: Full Guide

Student Visa France 2027: The Complete Guide for Indian Students Each year, France draws a large and growing number of students from India. Many are attracted by its internationally recognised universities, its leading business schools and the low cost of public education compared with many other study destinations. The rising number of degree programmes taught in English adds to the appeal, as do the flexible opportunities to remain in the country and gain work experience once studies are complete. The first step towards studying in France is securing a student visa that French authorities will accept. While the application process is clearly laid out, it moves through several distinct stages, and each one comes with its own timeline, fees, and documentation. Overlooking even a single requirement can delay your admission by a full academic year, so careful preparation is essential. Students should also be aware that the requirements were updated in 2026. From 1 August 2026, applicants need to show access to €877.50 per month to cover living costs, a significant increase from the earlier figure of €615 that had been in place for many years. Tuition at public universities has also risen for most students from outside the European Union. Anyone planning to join the 2027 intake should base their budget and preparations on these revised amounts right from the start. This guide walks you through the various types of French student visas and helps you identify the one that matches your plans. It explains who is eligible and the precise level of funds you must demonstrate, and it provides a complete list of the documents you will need. You will also learn how the application works through Campus France and the France-Visas portal, along with the costs involved, typical processing times, your rights to work while studying, and the options available for staying on after you graduate. At Vision International Educational Consultants , we guide Indian students through each stage of this process, from choosing the right course to landing in France. Let's get started. Understanding the Types of French Student Visas Your visa category depends on two things: how long your course runs and why you are travelling. India is outside the EU, EEA and Switzerland, so Indian students need a visa even for short programmes. Short-Stay Student Visas (Up to 3 Months) For students planning a brief period of study in France, there are two short-stay visa options. The first is the short-