Minimum TOEFL Score Requirement for France Student Visa

If you're aiming to study in France through an English-taught program, you’re probably managing two parallel requirements: university admission and visa eligibility. A key question is: What TOEFL score do you need for a France student visa (VLS‑TS)?

For English-medium programs, French visa authorities generally require proof of language proficiency, which includes English. While they accept scores from tests like IELTS or TOEFL, they don’t set a hard national minimum—this is largely determined by your university’s admission criteria. Let’s break down how France student visas and TOEFL scores connect, and how to ensure your application ticks all the right boxes.

Why Visa Authorities Care About TOEFL

Here’s why demonstrating English proficiency matters for your visa:

• Academic Readiness: You need to show you can follow courses taught entirely in English—lectures, discussions, reading, writing—all in a foreign country.

• Legal Requirement: Visa regulations require proof of language ability to prevent dropout and ensure integration.

• University Validation: Most programs ask for a minimum TOEFL iBT score, which also serves as evidence for your visa application.

In short, the visa office relies on your university's requirements as a trusted benchmark.

Typical TOEFL Score Requirements at French Universities

French institutions offering English-taught programs set their own TOEFL thresholds. Visa authorities accept these scores in place of setting a national standard.

Here are some examples based on recent admissions data:

So, depending on your chosen program, your minimum TOEFL may range from 79 to 100+, and visa approval hinges on meeting that benchmark.

France Student Visa Criteria for English-Taught Programs

Here’s how the visa requirements connect to your TOEFL score:

1. University Admission First
   You need a formal acceptance letter from a French institution teaching in English.

2. Meet the TOEFL Minimum
   Your score must match or exceed the university's requirement (e.g. 90, 95, 100).

3. Include Results with Visa Application
   Submit the TOEFL report alongside documents like proof of funds (~€615 per month), insurance, housing, and passport.

4. Visa Approval Depends on University Criteria
   A visa officer will check your application. If your TOEFL meets the institution’s standard, it supports your eligibility your program.

How TOEFL Scores Align with Degree Levels

Let’s see typical TOEFL targets by level:

• Undergraduate (English-medium Bachelor’s): Aim for 80–90 iBT

• Graduate (Master’s/PhD): Required range is usually 90–100 iBT

• Top schools or competitive programs: Expect 95–100+ iBT

Aiming above the minimum gives you leeway and strengthens your visa application.

Strengthening Your Application with TOEFL

Follow this plan for best results:

• Research Your Program’s TOEFL Criteria
  Universities like Sorbonne or Sciences Po usually publish minimum scores—check their program pages .

• Aim for a Higher Score
  If the cutoff is 90, targeting 95 or higher enhances your credibility.

• Apply Early
  Submit your TOEFL at least 2–3 months ahead so scores arrive before your visa appointment.

• Upload Official Report
  Share a certified TOEFL iBT score via ETS or include the physical copy in your visa documents.

• Translate if Needed
  Although TOEFL is English, other information like transcripts or passports may need French translation.

Sample Workflow for TOEFL + Visa

1. Select program → Confirm TOEFL minimum (e.g., 95 iBT)

2. Register and prepare for TOEFL → Take test early

3. Apply to university → Submit all documents, including TOEFL

4. Receive admission letter → Official document required for visa

5. Collect visa documentation → Academic acceptance, TOEFL, funds, housing, insurance

6. Submit to French consulate/VFS → Interview if required

7. Obtain VLS‑TS → Validate it upon arriving in France

I hope this blog on the minimum TOEFL score for a French student visa clarified how your academic and immigration paths intersect. It’s simple: match or exceed your program’s TOEFL requirement, submit the score with your visa application, and you meet the language eligibility criteria.

With thorough planning and a strong TOEFL score—ideally above the minimum—you’ll be well on your way to securing your VLS‑TS and starting an exciting academic journey in France. Bon voyage!