Why France remains the number one choice#
France accounts for nearly 60% of departures among Tunisian students heading abroad. There are several reasons for this:
- Affordable tuition fees: €170 to €4,000 per year at a public university
- Geographic and cultural proximity: a shared French language and a strong Tunisian community
- Recognized quality: degrees that are valued worldwide
- A streamlined student visa for Tunisian citizens
Understanding Campus France#
Campus France is the official body that manages applications from international students to French universities. The essential steps:
1. Create your Études en France account#
The EEF (Études en France) account must be created between October 1 and the end of March for a September intake. Required documents:
- Your baccalauréat diploma (or a provisional certificate)
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of identity
- A photo
- Proof of language proficiency (TCF, DELF, DALF)
2. Build your application#
You can apply to a maximum of 7 choices, including at least 3 at different universities. The application includes:
- A motivation letter for each choice
- A CV
- Supporting documents specific to the program
3. The Campus France interview#
A crucial step. The officer assesses your study project, your language level, and your academic coherence. Prepare yourself:
- Master every detail of every choice
- Be able to justify why you chose France
- Anticipate the classic questions (career plan, financing)
The student visa#
Once you have secured your admission, you apply for a VLS-TS (Long-Stay Visa serving as a Residence Permit) at the consulate. Required documents:
- The Campus France pre-consular certificate (APC)
- Your university's letter of admission
- Proof of accommodation
- Financial guarantee (a minimum of €615/month over 12 months)
- Health insurance
The real cost of a year in France#
| Category | Monthly budget |
|---|
| Housing (Paris) | €600-900 |
| Housing (province) | €350-550 |
| Food | €250-400 |
| Transport | €30-90 |
| Leisure | €100-200 |
| Total province | €800-1,200 |
| Total Paris | €1,200-1,700 |
Scholarships available to Tunisian students#
- Tunisian University Mission Scholarship (Mission Universitaire de Tunisie): ~€300/month
- Eiffel Scholarship (Master's/PhD): €1,181/month
- Institutional scholarships (variable)
- Erasmus+ for mobility programs
Tips for success#
- Start early: beginning 12 months before the intake is ideal
- Aim broad: 7 complementary choices (selective + accessible)
- Polish your letter: it is your only chance to explain what makes you stand out
- Learn academic French: it is very different from everyday French
- Prepare your finances: a minimum of €6,000 in a blocked account
Need guidance? TISC offers a complete France admission service — book a free call to assess your profile.
