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Every Indian student who wants to study in France must go through the Campus France process — an online pre-visa verification procedure managed by the French Embassy. It is mandatory for all Indian students applying to a French university. Here is the complete step-by-step guide for 2026.
What Is the Campus France Process?
Campus France is the official French agency that manages international student applications. Indian students must create a Campus France file, submit documents, attend an interview at the Campus France office (New Delhi, Mumbai, Pondicherry, or Chennai), and receive a Campus France clearance before applying for a French student visa.
Campus France Step-by-Step Process for Indian Students 2026
Step 1: Create Your Campus France Account
Go to etudiant.campusfrance.org and create your profile. This is your central file where you upload all documents and select up to 7 French universities.
Step 2: Upload Required Documents
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| 10th, 12th Marksheets | Certified copies with English translation if needed |
| Degree certificate and transcripts | All semesters, certified copies |
| Valid passport | First and last page |
| Curriculum Vitae (CV) | Academic and professional |
| Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Why France, why this program |
| Language proof | IELTS/TOEFL for English programs or DELF/DALF for French programs |
| Letter of admission or pre-admission | From French university, if available |
| Financial proof | Bank statements showing ₹5–8 lakh minimum |
Step 3: Choose Up to 7 Universities
Select up to 7 programs/universities through the Campus France portal. Apply to a mix of target, moderate, and safe options.
Step 4: Pay Campus France Fee
Pay approximately ₹12,000 online to activate your file review. This fee is non-refundable.
Step 5: Campus France Interview
You will be called for a personal interview (30–45 minutes) at the nearest Campus France office. Offices in India: New Delhi, Mumbai, Pondicherry, Chennai. The interviewer assesses your motivation, French language knowledge (if applicable), financial readiness, and academic background.
Step 6: Campus France Approval
After the interview, your file is reviewed and you receive a Campus France agreement number (if approved). This takes 2–4 weeks. This number is mandatory for your visa application.
Step 7: Apply for French Student Visa (VLS-TS)
With your Campus France number, apply for a Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS) at the French visa application centre (VFS Global) in your city. Documents needed: Campus France number, university admission letter, blocked account/financial proof, accommodation proof.
Campus France Interview Tips for Indian Students
- Know your chosen university well — research it before the interview
- Be clear about why France specifically (not just “good education”)
- Explain your career plan after the degree — work in France or return to India
- Have financial proof ready and be prepared to discuss funding sources
- Basic French phrases show initiative and impress interviewers
Read: Complete France Study Guide → | Charpak Scholarship → | Eiffel Scholarship Guide →
Is Campus France mandatory for all Indian students going to France?
Yes. Campus France clearance is mandatory for all Indian students applying to French public or private higher education institutions. Without a Campus France agreement number, the French Embassy in India will not process your student visa application.
How long does the Campus France process take for Indian students?
The complete Campus France process typically takes 4–8 weeks from creating your account to receiving the agreement number. Allow additional time for the student visa — total timeline from starting Campus France to visa approval is approximately 3–4 months. Start at least 4 months before your intended semester start.
What is the Campus France fee for Indian students in 2026?
The Campus France processing fee is approximately ₹12,000 (updated amount — check the official Campus France India website for exact current fees). This fee is paid online when you activate your file and is non-refundable regardless of outcome.
What happens in the Campus France interview for Indian students?
The Campus France interview is a 30–45 minute session at one of four offices in India (Delhi, Mumbai, Pondicherry, Chennai). The interviewer asks about your chosen program, why France, your career goals, language skills, and financial situation. Preparation is key — know your university and program thoroughly.
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Saumitra Rajput
Saumitra Rajput is the founder and lead counsellor at Kadamb Overseas, India's trusted Europe education consultancy based in Ahmedabad. With 14+ years of hands-on experience, he has personally guided 500+ students to universities across Germany, Switzerland, France, Italy, Austria, and Spain. Saumitra has visited partner universities across Europe, holds deep expertise in European visa processes, scholarships, and student life, and has achieved a 97% visa success rate for his clients. He is the host of the YouTube channel "Europe with Saumitra", where he shares first-hand insights on studying and living in Europe. His mission: make Europe accessible to every Indian student, with zero consultancy fees.
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