🎓 Schengen Student Visa

Want to study in Europe for a short period? A Schengen student visa lets you attend short courses, summer programs, language classes, and training programs across 29 European countries.

Short-Stay vs. Long-Stay Student Visa

Schengen Student Visa (Type C)

  • Up to 90 days stay
  • Short courses, summer schools, workshops
  • Language courses under 3 months
  • Valid across all Schengen countries

National Student Visa (Type D)

  • More than 90 days stay
  • Full degree programs, semester abroad
  • Applied directly to specific country
  • Different requirements per country

This guide covers the short-stay Schengen student visa (Type C).

Who Can Apply?

You can apply for a Schengen student visa if you're:

  • Attending a summer school or short program
  • Taking language classes (under 90 days)
  • Participating in workshops or training
  • Attending conferences as a student
  • Doing a short research visit
  • Taking entrance exams at European universities

Required Documents

From Your School/Institution

  • ✅ Enrollment/admission letter from European institution
  • ✅ Course details - name, duration, dates
  • ✅ Fee payment proof or scholarship letter
  • ✅ Institution registration (accreditation proof)

Standard Visa Documents

  • ✅ Valid passport (6+ months validity)
  • ✅ Visa application form
  • ✅ Passport photos (35×45mm)
  • ✅ Travel insurance (€30,000 minimum)
  • ✅ Flight itinerary
  • ✅ Accommodation proof

Financial Proof

  • ✅ Bank statements (6 months)
  • ✅ Sponsor letter if someone else is paying
  • ✅ Scholarship letter (if applicable)
  • ✅ Proof of tuition payment

Additional Documents

  • ✅ Current enrollment proof (if already a student)
  • ✅ Academic transcripts
  • ✅ No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current institution
  • ✅ Purpose/motivation letter

Popular Study Destinations

  • 🇩🇪 Germany - Engineering, science, language courses
  • 🇫🇷 France - Fashion, culinary arts, French language
  • 🇳🇱 Netherlands - Business, technology courses
  • 🇪🇸 Spain - Spanish language, arts programs
  • 🇮🇹 Italy - Art, design, cooking courses

Tips for Student Visa Success

  1. Apply early - at least 4-6 weeks before course starts
  2. Get proper admission letter - should be from recognized institution
  3. Show strong ties home - you'll return after course
  4. Sufficient funds - for living + tuition + emergency
  5. Clear purpose - explain why this course, why this country
  6. Accommodation sorted - student housing, hostel, or apartment

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work on a student visa?

A short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) does NOT allow work. For working while studying, you need a national student visa (Type D) which may permit part-time work.

Can I travel to other countries during my course?

Yes! Your Schengen visa allows travel to all 29 Schengen countries during validity.

What if my course gets extended?

You cannot extend a short-stay visa beyond 90 days. If your program extends, you may need to apply for a long-stay visa before your Type C expires.

All Visa Types → Documents →