Minimum TOEFL iBT® Score Requirement for France Student Visa

"Learn the TOEFL score needed to apply for a France long-stay student visa (VLS‑TS) for English-taught programs and ensure visa eligibility."
Key Highlights
France is one of the most sought-after study destinations, known for its top-ranked universities, vibrant culture, and affordable tuition compared to other European countries. Every year, thousands of Indian students choose France for programs in business, engineering, arts, and hospitality.
If you are planning to study in an English-taught course, you must prove your language proficiency. The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is widely accepted across French institutions. For a France student visa, the minimum TOEFL iBT score usually ranges between 79 and 90, depending on the university and program.
TOEFL Accepting Universities in France for Indian Students
If you’re planning to study in France, knowing the TOEFL requirement for your target university is essential. Below is a list of popular universities in France that accept TOEFL scores:
University |
Location |
Minimum TOEFL iBT Score |
HEC Paris |
Jouy-en-Josas |
100 |
Sciences Po |
Paris |
90 |
ESSEC Business School |
Cergy |
90 |
École Polytechnique |
Palaiseau |
90 |
Grenoble Ecole de Management |
Grenoble |
85 |
NEOMA Business School |
Reims/Rouen |
83 |
SKEMA Business School |
Lille/Paris |
79 |
Toulouse Business School (TBS) |
Toulouse |
79 |
Audencia Business School |
Nantes |
80 |
Paris School of Business |
Paris |
79 |
Note: Some programs taught in French may not require TOEFL but instead ask for proof of French language proficiency such as DELF/DALF.
General Admission Requirements for Indian Students in France
Besides TOEFL, students must meet other admission requirements when applying to French universities. These include:
Requirement |
Description |
Academic Records |
High school diploma (for undergraduate) or bachelor’s degree (for postgraduate). |
TOEFL Score |
Minimum 79–90 iBT depending on the university and program. |
Application Form |
Online application via university website or through Études en France portal. |
Statement of Purpose (SOP) |
Written essay explaining academic background, career goals, and why you chose France. |
Letters of Recommendation |
1–2 letters from academic or professional referees. |
Financial Proof |
Bank statements or sponsorship letters showing funds to cover tuition and living costs. |
Passport |
Valid for the entire study duration. |
Other Tests |
GRE/GMAT may be required for specific master’s programs. |
Student Visa Requirements for France
To study in France, Indian students must apply for a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS). TOEFL scores are part of the academic admission process, but the visa office also checks your eligibility. Here’s what you need:
- Valid passport.
- University admission/acceptance letter.
- TOEFL score report or other proof of language proficiency.
- Proof of financial means (approx. €8,000–10,000 per year).
- Proof of accommodation in France.
- Medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage).
- Passport-size photographs.
- Completed visa application form and receipt of fee payment.
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
After arriving in France, you must validate your visa online within 3 months and may also be asked to undergo a medical examination.
How to Apply to French Universities with TOEFL Score
Applying to French universities with a TOEFL score involves a few structured steps:
1. Research Universities and Programs: Shortlist universities in France that accept TOEFL scores, focusing on English-taught programs.
2. Check TOEFL Requirements: Verify the minimum TOEFL iBT score required (usually between 79 and 100).
3. Prepare Academic Documents: Collect transcripts, SOP, LORs, and financial documents. Translate them into French or English if necessary.
4. Take the TOEFL Exam: Schedule your TOEFL iBT test early and aim for a score higher than the minimum requirement.
5. Apply via Études en France Portal: Most Indian students apply through this centralized platform that connects directly to French universities.
6. Upload TOEFL Score Report: Submit your TOEFL results via ETS to the chosen universities.
7. Wait for Admission Decision: Universities typically take 4–8 weeks to respond.
8. Receive Acceptance Letter: Once admitted, confirm your enrollment by paying tuition or deposit fees.
9. Apply for a France Student Visa (VLS-TS): Submit your documents at the French embassy or VFS center in India.
10. Prepare for Departure: Arrange housing, insurance, and travel before your academic session begins.
France is one of the best study destinations for Indian students, offering high-quality education, global exposure, and vibrant cultural experiences. Meeting the minimum TOEFL score requirement for a France student visa is a crucial step in securing admission to English-taught programs.
Most universities in France require a TOEFL iBT score between 79 and 90, though elite institutions may demand higher scores. Alongside TOEFL, students must prepare academic records, SOP, financial proof, and visa documents carefully.
By planning early, aiming for a competitive TOEFL score, and following the application process diligently, Indian students can unlock excellent opportunities in France. Studying in France not only enhances your knowledge but also builds a strong foundation for a global career.
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