What the VLS-TS actually is
The VLS-TS ('Visa Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour') is the year-long French student visa. It doubles as your residency permit for the first year, which is why the ANEF online validation step within three months of arrival is not optional.
The Campus France step
Most American students go through Campus France USA. You create a profile, list your target universities, upload transcripts, and complete a short interview. Timing is everything: open your Campus France account by January for a Fall start.
Financial proof
You'll need to show roughly €615 per month of financial support, either through a parental affidavit, a French bank account statement, or a scholarship letter. Consulates are strict on the format — we share our template.
The ANEF validation nobody talks about
After you arrive in France with your VLS-TS visa sticker, you must complete the ANEF online validation within 90 days. Miss this and your visa is technically invalid. This is the single most common mistake we fix for families.
Timeline at a glance
T-9 months: Campus France account. T-6: applications submitted. T-4: offers arrive. T-3: visa appointment booked. T-2: financial proof + acceptance letter uploaded. T-0: arrive. T+30: ANEF validation.
A note on legal advice
This guide is educational. Every consulate has small differences and rules change. For anything binding, always confirm with your consulate or a licensed advisor.