The pre-consular interview is a necessary step in obtaining a long-stay (>90 days) student visa. A representative of the French Embassy's cultural department will conduct a brief online interview to gain more context on an applicant's educational and professional background, as well as how these relate to the study program that the candidate wishes to pursue.
Your student visa application includes a mandatory pre-consular interview for you to have an open discussion about your plans to study in France and ask questions about your incoming trip in an informal, stress-free setting. On rare occasions, the applicant will be exempted from taking this interview after an initial assessment, of which they will be informed accordingly.
This interview focuses on the academic side of the visa application process and is distinct from the usual evaluation process of the consulate. Thus, neither Campus France nor the Cultural Department could follow up on or appeal an applicant's visa application, nor are we informed of its outcome.
Who is concerned by the pre-consular interview?
Anyone applying for a Visa de Long Séjour - Titre de Séjour (VLS-TS) or a long-stay student visa must undergo the pre-consular interview. The exceptions are:
- French state scholars / Boursiers du Gouvernement Français
- Joint program scholars of the European Union (ERASMUS)
- Students under an established exchange program
What do I need to provide for my pre-consular interview?
The documents to be sent are the following:
- A one-page CV (PDF format) detailing your academic and professional background
- A copy of your acceptance letter issued by the French school/university (or registration/enrollment certificate)
- A clear copy of the data page of your valid passport
- A clear copy of your latest diploma from your most recently-completed studies
- A clear copy of your latest transcript of records/official grades from your most recently-completed studies
How do I set an appointment for my pre-consular interview?
Pre-consular interviews are entirely online and are conducted in the mornings from Tuesday to Thursday.
If you wish to set a date and time for your pre-consular interview, or if one of the examples of exemption applies to you, let us know by e-mail at manille@campusfrance.org.
