Every year, about 300,000 international students from both EU and non-EU nations go to France to study. One of the key reasons for France's popularity is that its institutions have significantly lower tuition prices than those in other European countries. If you want to study at one of France's colleges or universities, you're definitely interested in learning more about the application procedure.

How to apply

1.       You can apply to several institutions directly through their websites.
2.       Check entry requirements carefully: some undergraduate and graduate courses need standardised tests such as the GRE, GMAT, or LSAT.
3.       To maximise your chances of admission, apply to at least three different colleges.
4.       Non-EU/EEA students must complete the mandatory Preliminary Admission. Apply for DAP through the Culture and Cooperation Service of your own country's embassy.

Where should you apply for a French university programme?

The application procedure varies based on your nationality.

1.       Students from the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA) can apply directly to the university under the same requirements as French students.
2.       Non-EU/EEA students should apply online through the 'Studying in France procedure,' which was formerly known as CEF. You can also use this system to apply for a visa online and track the status of your application.
3.       If you are already in Europe but do not have European citizenship, you must apply to the French embassy or consulate in the European country where you are resident.

Steps to take after receiving your acceptance letter

1.       Admission decisions for programmes beginning in October are communicated to students between June 15 and September 15. As a result, you will only have about a month to finalise all of your plans for your trip to France.
2.       If you are not a citizen of the EU/EEA/Switzerland, you must apply for a student visa.
3.       If you intend to study in France for longer than six months, you must apply for a residence visa with French authorities.
4.       You must demonstrate that you have sufficient cash to support yourself.

You can use the European health insurance card if you are from the EU/EEA. If you are a non-EU citizen, you are eligible for France's national health insurance. To receive French social security and health-care reimbursements, you must first register on the website.

When you arrive in France, go to your university and register in person. As a contribution to campus and student life, you must pay approximately 90 EUR.

France's university application deadlines

French university applications are open twice a year, with the following deadlines:

•          For fall admission, the deadline is either January 17th or April 1st, depending on the degree type and other circumstances.
•          For spring admission, the deadline is September 15th, and admission will be granted after that date based on available spots.
•          Post-Bac applications will be accepted from January 22nd to March 13th.
•          TCF applications during the DAP process: from November until January 22nd