If you’re planning to study in France, you’ve likely come across two important names: Campus France and VFS Global. While both are essential to your visa process, they serve very different roles.
So, what’s the difference between Campus France and VFS Global?
Let’s break it down simply so you understand who does what and when.
What is Campus France?
Campus France is the official French government agency in charge of promoting higher education and supporting international students. It’s often the first step for students applying to French universities or scholarships.
What Campus France Does:
- Promotes French higher education globally
- Provides information on Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs
- Maintains databases of courses (including English-taught programs)
- Offers personalized guidance on choosing the right school or course
- Manages French government scholarships (like Eiffel, Charpak, etc.)
- Conducts academic evaluations for student visa applications
- Organizes educational fairs, webinars, and city-specific welcome guides
In short: Campus France helps you plan your academic journey and prepares your file for the visa process.
What is VFS Global?
VFS Global is a visa application outsourcing company that works with governments (including France) to handle the logistics of visa processing.
Once your file is approved by Campus France, you’ll go to VFS Global to submit your visa application.
What VFS Global Does:
- Accepts visa application forms and supporting documents
- Takes your biometric data (photo and fingerprints)
- Manages appointment scheduling
- Offers services like SMS updates, courier return, and premium lounges
- Returns your passport with the visa once processed by the embassy
- Allows you to track your visa application status online
Important: VFS Global does not make visa decisions. It only collects and forwards your application to the French embassy or consulate.
Key Differences Between Campus France and VFS Global
| Feature | Campus France | VFS Global |
| Type of Organization | French government agency | Private visa outsourcing company |
| Role in Visa Process | Academic evaluation and pre-visa approval | Visa submission and logistics |
| Handles Student Interviews | Yes | No |
| Accepts Visa Documents | No | Yes |
| Manages Biometric Collection | No | Yes |
| Makes Visa Decisions | No | No |
| Offers Scholarships | Yes | No |
| Provides Course & University Info | Yes | No |
How Campus France and VFS Global Work Together
Here’s how the process typically unfolds:
- Apply to French universities via the Campus France portal.
- Campus France reviews your academic file and may invite you for an interview.
- If approved, Campus France issues an attestation or approval letter.
- You then book an appointment with VFS Global.
- Submit your visa application, documents, and biometrics to VFS.
- VFS sends your file to the French embassy/consulate.
- Once approved, you receive your passport with a student visa.
And voilà; you’re ready to study in France!
Conclusion
The difference between Campus France and VFS Global lies in their responsibilities:
- Campus France helps you choose the right academic path and ensures your educational documents meet French requirements.
- VFS Global handles the logistical side of your visa submission from collecting documents to tracking your passport.
Both are crucial, but Campus France comes first, followed by VFS Global. Understanding this sequence helps you avoid confusion and delays in your student visa process.