Schengen Student Visa
Last verified: 2 min read
For short academic courses and university visits
About the Short-Stay Student Visa
The Schengen short-stay student visa is a Type C visa for academic purposes that fit within the 90-day limit. It's not for full degree programs — long-term study requires a national student visa from the specific country.
This visa is suitable for short courses, academic conferences, entrance exams, research visits, and similar educational activities lasting less than 90 days.
Student Visa Quick Facts
Purpose Short-term study Courses under 90 days
Cost €80 May be reduced/waived
Max stay 90 days Per 180-day period
Work allowed No Study only
What This Visa Covers
- Short courses: Language courses, summer schools, workshops
- Academic conferences: Presenting or attending scholarly events
- Research visits: Short-term research at universities or institutions
- Entrance exams: Taking admission tests at European universities
- Exchange programs: Short academic exchanges under 90 days
- Training programs: Professional development courses
For Long-Term Study, You Need a Different Visa
If your course or degree program is longer than 90 days, you need a national student visa (Type D) from the specific country, not a Schengen visa. Each country has its own application process for long-term student visas.
Required Documentation
In addition to standard Schengen visa documents, student visa applicants need:
- Acceptance/enrollment letter: From the educational institution
- Course details: Dates, location, curriculum
- Proof of tuition payment: Or scholarship letter if funded
- Accommodation proof: University housing or hotel bookings
- Academic credentials: Degrees, transcripts from previous education
Fee Exemptions for Students
Many Schengen countries offer reduced or waived visa fees for students:
- Students traveling for educational purposes may qualify for the reduced fee (€40 instead of €80)
- Some countries have bilateral agreements waiving fees for certain nationalities
- Scholarship recipients may be exempt
- Participants in EU exchange programs (like Erasmus+) may be exempt
Check with your specific embassy for applicable fee reductions.
Student Visa FAQs
Can I study for a full semester on this visa?
Only if your program is 90 days or less. A full semester (typically 4-5 months) exceeds the 90-day limit, so you'd need a national long-stay student visa instead.
Can I work while studying?
No. The short-stay student visa doesn't permit any employment. For work rights, you'd need a long-stay student visa, which some countries allow for part-time work.
Which embassy do I apply to?
Apply to the embassy of the country where your educational institution is located. If taking courses in multiple countries, apply to the country where you'll spend the most time.
Do I need to prove I'll return home?
Yes, like all Schengen visas. Show ties to your home country: enrollment in a home university, family, property, or job waiting for you.
Can I extend my visa if my course is extended?
Extensions are difficult and only granted for exceptional circumstances. If you know your course might exceed 90 days, apply for a national student visa instead.
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