Key facts
- Procedure
- Apply directly to the French institution, or come through Erasmus+ / a bilateral exchange agreement signed by your home university.
- Visa / permit
- No visa and no residence permit — free movement, you simply register with your school
- Erasmus & exchange
- Erasmus+ students keep their home enrolment, pay no French tuition, and receive a monthly Erasmus grant that varies by country pair. You still need a French address, a CVEC exemption check and European health cover (EHIC).
- Money to prove
- No proof of funds is required. Budget €700–€1,200 per month depending on the city; CAF housing aid is open to you from your first full month of rent.
- Region
- Europe
The procedure, step by step
1. Confirm your route
Erasmus+ / exchange through your home university, or a direct application to a French programme. The two calendars are completely different — exchange nominations close much earlier.
2. Apply and get your acceptance
Direct applications go through the school's own portal or Parcoursup for first-year licence. Exchange students are nominated by their international office.
3. Sort housing before you fly
CROUS, private residences or a private lease. Visale is the free state guarantor and it accepts EU students under 30.
4. On arrival: bank, CAF, health cover
Open a French account with proof of address, apply for CAF housing aid, and carry your EHIC. Long stays should also register with Assurance Maladie.
Frequently asked questions
Do students from Iceland need a visa to study in France?
No. As an EU/EEA/Swiss national you can study in France without a visa or residence permit. You only need enrolment proof, an address and health cover.
Is Campus France mandatory for Iceland?
No. Iceland is not connected to the Études en France platform, so you apply directly to the institution and then to the consulate.
How much money do I need to show from Iceland?
No proof of funds is required. Budget €700–€1,200 per month depending on the city; CAF housing aid is open to you from your first full month of rent.
Can I come to France on Erasmus+ from Iceland?
Erasmus+ students keep their home enrolment, pay no French tuition, and receive a monthly Erasmus grant that varies by country pair. You still need a French address, a CVEC exemption check and European health cover (EHIC).
Can students from Iceland work in France?
Yes, with no hour limit beyond normal labour law — EU students have full access to the job market.
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