How to Apply for Higher Education in France

The education systems in India and France are very much different. You will have to apply to universities and let them decide on the applicability of your previous academic background and experience to the course you are interested for. It would be useful for you to visit The French Information Resource Centre at the Embassy of France in Delhi or at the Alliances Franchisee in your city to get help in selection of courses and Institutes suitable for your background.

For admission to a university, after you have been advised by one of the French Information Resource Centres, you should directly contact the selected university to get a provisional admission form, fill out the form and send the same along with attachments to the university. The university will decide on the recognition of your academic background. Based on the recommendations of an education committee you will be allowed for a particular level for entry. You will receive a letter of confirmation from the university, which can be used to apply for a long-stay student resident visa.

For admission to a "Grande Ecole", you have to appear for a competitive exam - "Concours". The exam is held in France for which you can apply and obtain a special three-month competitive exam visa (visa concours). You will be entitled to a residence permit to take the course you have been admitted to after you clear the exam.

When to apply?

The academic year in France starts in September or October. Some institutions may also enroll students for spring, summer or winter semesters as well. You can ask for application forms from the universities or from the French Embassy in Delhi between November 15 and January 15. The completed application forms along with all attachments must reach the university by 1st February.