What is the process for me to apply to architecture colleges in France as an Indian student?
03 Nov 2026 · Answered by Soundarya M · 2 min read
Quick Answer
verified
Shortlist architecture schools, check language of instruction and deadlines, and prepare transcripts, a portfolio, SOP, recommendation letters and language scores. Public ENSA schools use Parcoursup or Etudes en France for undergraduate, depending on your profile, and direct portals for master's. After admission, apply for the VLS-TS visa. Verify details officially.
Applying to architecture colleges in France is a structured process. You choose schools, meet the language and academic requirements, prepare a design portfolio and then apply through the right portal.
Requirements at a Glance
| Item | What is typically needed |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's entry | 10+2 with relevant subjects such as Maths, Physics, Art or Design |
| Master's entry | Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a related field |
| French programs | DELF or DALF at B1 or B2 |
| English programs | IELTS around 6.0 to 6.5 or TOEFL iBT around 80 to 90 |
| Documents | Transcripts, portfolio of design work, SOP, LORs, language scores, CV and passport copy |
| Application fee | Could be anywhere from EUR 50 to 100 (approx INR 5,333 to 10,666) |
How to Apply
- Public ENSA colleges: for undergraduate, use Parcoursup or Etudes en France depending on your profile, and the university portal for master's.
- Private schools such as ESA: apply on the college website directly.
- A few colleges hold an online interview or a design aptitude test.
- Apply at the same time for scholarships such as Eiffel, Charpak or ESA grants, and watch for scholarship deadlines that could be earlier than course deadlines.
- After you receive your admission letter, apply for the France student visa (VLS-TS) through Campus France India or the concerned embassy.
My Advice
Build your portfolio early, because it usually takes the longest to prepare. Language scores, fees and deadlines vary by school, so confirm everything on each college's official page.
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