Schengen Study Visa for Indians: How to apply & Requirements

This blog includes essential details about the Schengen visa for students, the required documents, and a simplified application process.

What is a Schengen Student Visa?

A Schengen Student Visa permits individuals to study in any of the 27 European countries within the Schengen Area. This visa is specifically designed for students pursuing academic courses, training programs, or research projects.

Eligible applicants include Indian students who have been accepted into a recognised educational institution in a Schengen country.

If you plan to study in Europe for less than three months, apply for a standard Schengen Visa. For longer study periods, opt for a Long-Stay National Student Visa directly from the visa application centre.

Required Documents for a Schengen Student Visa

Ensuring you have all the necessary documentation is crucial when applying for a Schengen study visa. Here's a detailed list of the required documents to streamline your application process:

• Completed Schengen visa application form. Make sure that you know how to complete the application form correctly.

• Two recent passport photographs for the Schengen visa. Remember to follow the visa photo specifications.

• A valid passport with more than three months' validity and at least 2 blank pages for a visa stamp.

• Itinerary of the trip, including round-trip flight tickets or itinerary with specified dates and flight numbers.

• Accommodation confirmation, which can be a confirmed hotel reservation or proof of staying with a relative or friend

• Proof of payment for the visa application fee.

• Travel and medical insurance to cover medical costs.

• Proof of financial means, such as a bank account statement (not over 3 months).

• Letter of acceptance. This is an official acceptance letter from an educational institution in the Schengen country.

Please be aware that additional documentation may be requested depending on individual circumstances. Bring any supporting documents that can aid your visa application.

How To Apply For A Student Schengen Visa For Europe From India?

Now that we've addressed the key aspects of Schengen Visa information, let's focus on the final topic, the process of applying for a Schengen visa for students.

• Determine the Schengen Country: Identify the Schengen country where you will submit your visa application based on your main destination or the first country you plan to visit.

• Gather The Required Documents: First, collect the required documents for your visa application, including all the documents we have discussed above. To be safe, make copies of all essential paperwork in case of misplacement.

• Complete The Application Form: Fill out the application form accurately and ensure all information provided matches your supporting documents. Filling out the application form is a simple process; you can even do it online in the comfort of your home. Once you've completed the online form, print it, sign it, and include it in your stack of necessary documents.

• Schedule A Visa Appointment: Schedule an appointment with the visa application centre to submit your visa application. This Schengen visa appointment will also include a short visa interview, so be prepared to answer some questions about your travel plans. You have the option to schedule an appointment through service providers like VFS Global.

• Attend Your Visa Appointment: Once your Schengen Visa Appointment is confirmed, you'll receive a date and time for the appointment. On the scheduled date, visit the visa application centre with all the required documents and be prepared for a personal interview.

• Pay the Schengen Visa Fee: Pay the applicable visa fee, which varies based on your age, the type of visa, and the specific Schengen country you're visiting. Check the fee structure from the consular authority or visa centre to understand the amount. Be prepared to use the accepted forms of payment, such as cash or card, as methods may vary.

• Wait For Your Visa To Be Processed: After you've submitted your application, patiently wait for it to be processed. The processing time for a Schengen Visa depends on the specific Schengen Country you plan to visit; however, you can usually expect to receive your Schengen Visa in about 15 days.

• Receive Feedback About Your Schengen Visa: Once your visa application is approved, collect your passport with the affixed visa from the visa application centre. Ensure all details are correct. If you do not hear anything after 15 days, please contact the VAC to find out your visa status.

Overview of the Student Schengen Visa for Indians

What Is The Schengen Visa Processing Time?

The processing time for the Schengen visa is 15 days, but starting the application well in advance is recommended. Collecting the necessary documents and potential processing delays may take time, so I recommend applying at least four weeks before your intended departure.

In exceptional situations, this duration may stretch from 30 to 60 days.

What is the Student Schengen visa validity?

The duration of stay under a student visa depends on the specific country's regulations. For a short-stay visa, individuals can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. On the other hand, a long-stay visa offers an extended validity period, as indicated on the visa sticker provided to the applicant.

Upon receiving your passport with the visa, carefully verify the validity period and the authorised duration of your stay.

What are the Schengen Student visa fees?

The Schengen visa fees vary based on the type of study visa. For short-stay study visas, the visa fee is EUR 80, while for longer visas falling under national visa types, different fees may apply based on the visa validity.

Please note that even if your schengen visa application gets rejected, there are no visa fee refunds.

Where Must I Apply For My Schengen Visa?

You must apply for your Student Schengen Visa at the relevant Embassy/Consulate/Visa Application Center (VAC) in your country of residence, corresponding to your primary Schengen destination.

Is it possible to work while holding a Student Schengen Visa in Europe?

No, it is not. None of the Schengen member states permit employment under a Student Schengen Visa. You will need to apply for the relevant visa (Work visa for Schengen) to take part in employment.

Common Reasons for Schengen Visa Rejection

Knowing these common reasons for visa rejection will help you know what to avoid; this will help improve your Schengen visa application.

Incomplete Documentation:

• Ensure all required documents are submitted as per the checklist.

• Double-check the completeness of your application package.

Insufficient Financial Proof:

• Clearly demonstrate your financial ability to cover your stay.

• Include bank statements, sponsorship letters, or any relevant financial documentation.

Unclear Travel Plans:

• Provide a detailed travel itinerary with specific dates, accommodations, and activities.

• Clearly state the purpose and duration of your visit.

Improving Chances of Visa Approval

Addressing these aspects can significantly improve your chances of a successful Schengen study visa application.

Accurate Documentation:

• Cross-verify all documents to ensure correctness and completeness.

• Seek guidance if uncertain about any document requirements.

Comprehensive Itinerary and Cover Letter:

• Present a detailed travel plan specifying each leg of your journey.

• Draft a cover letter using the Atlys cover letter tool, highlighting your trip's purpose, duration, and details.

Interview Preparation:

• Familiarise yourself with potential interview questions and how to answer them.

• Practice concise and clear responses to demonstrate the legitimacy of your travel intentions.

In Summary

I hope you found our guide on the Schengen Visa helpful. With this information, your upcoming travels to any Schengen Area can proceed smoothly with a successful application process.

Please remember that being truthful and transparent is vital during the application process. Wishing you the best of luck with your Schengen visa application.

Government Sources:

This blog relies solely on information from official government websites to ensure accuracy and authenticity. We consult the following websites to maintain reliable and credible content.

• European Commission

Please do note that information can change at any time without notice so please do some research and double-check some important information.