Living in France

Make sure to review available accommodation options and anticipate your financial organisation during your stay.

⚠️ This step is mandatory.
Without this document, you will NOT receive your admission documents and will NOT be able to apply for a visa.

This document includes important information about:

• your financial resources
• housing preferences
• your commitment to the full programme

Once your Letter of Commitment has been received and validated, the consortium will provide:

• A certificate of admission, signed by all partner institutions
• A certificate of residence, required for your visa application

These documents are essential for your administrative procedures.
Make sure to keep multiple copies (digital and printed).

Only book your flight after receiving your admission documents and confirming the official start dates of the programme.

European students
Students from the EU, EEA or Switzerland do not require a visa.
A valid passport or ID card is sufficient.
It is strongly recommended to bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
More information: European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

Non-European students
Non-EU students must apply for a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS).
Official information: Long-stay student visa (VLS-TS)

⚠️ Important:

• Visa procedures can take up to 3–4 months
• Start your application as soon as you receive your admission documents
• The visa application is your responsibility
• The consortium can support you but cannot guarantee approval

Required documents (indicative list):

• Valid passport (recommended validity: at least 2 years)
• Certificate of admission
• Certificate of residence
• Proof of financial resources
• Insurance certificate
• Flight booking

Requirements may vary depending on your country — always check with your local consulate.
Find your consulate: French diplomatic network

Practical advice:

• Always keep copies (digital and printed) of all documents
• Double-check requirements (photo format, passport pages, etc.)
• Some consulates may keep original documents
• Rules may change — stay informed

In some countries, you may need to apply through Campus France (CEF procedure).
Check if your country is concerned: Countries using the CEF procedure
Apply via Campus France: Études en France platform
Find your Campus France office: Campus France offices directory

Additional official resources:
EU Immigration Portal – Student in France

Make sure you prepare all necessary administrative documents before departure and keep them accessible during your travel.

Plan your journey from your arrival city in France to Saint-Étienne in advance.

Students will participate in an induction week before the start of the programme.

This week will help you:

• understand administrative procedures
• discover the university
• settle into student life

After arrival, you will receive guidance from the International Office for:

• residence permit validation
• administrative procedures
• student life integration