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Example Explanatory Letter to the Prefecture for Students

7 Apr 2025·8 min read
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[SENDER FIRST NAME] [SENDER LAST NAME] sends a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt to [RECIPIENT]. He requests a "student" residence permit in France to study in [specify your field].

He attaches all necessary documents as proof of regular residence and nationality. He also includes a proof of address, his enrollment at school, and transcripts. The letter clearly states that the applicant will come to the prefecture after receiving the acknowledgment of receipt.

Main key ideas:

  • Writing an explanatory letter for a "student" residence permit application in France
  • Providing the necessary supporting documents (regular residence, nationality, address, schooling, etc.)
  • Mentioning the applicant's presence at the prefecture's counters for the submission of the file
  • Recommendation to have witnesses accompany during the application submission
  • Keeping the letter and acknowledgment of receipt for tracking the file

What is an explanatory letter for the prefecture?

The explanatory letter for the prefecture is an official document. It is sent to the prefectural services for formalities. It serves to explain one's situation and justify one's request. Especially for foreign students, it is essential.

This allows them to explain their academic background. And to have what is needed for their residence permit. It shows how seriously they take their studies in France.

Presentation of the explanatory letter

This letter is crucial for foreign students in their procedures. They describe their personal life, their education, and their financial situation. This helps justify their request to the prefectures.

Importance of the letter for foreign students

It is vital for foreign students. Through this letter, they can show what they have done at university. Their investment in studies in France stands out. It is a key document for obtaining or extending their student residence permit.

Content of an explanatory letter for the prefecture

The letter for the prefecture must provide details about the applicant. Detailed information about their civil status is important. Also, one must specify the purpose of the request (new permit or its renewal).

You must explain your situation in detail. For example, talk about your field of study or the institution attended. You should also discuss your academic results.

Supporting documents to attach

It is essential to add certain supporting documents to your letter. Such as your proof of regular residence or nationality. These are key elements for your application.

Don't forget to attach documents like a bill for your proof of address. You should also include your enrollment certificate and your transcripts. These papers help the prefecture process your file properly.

Type of supporting documentExamples
Proof of regular residenceResidence permit, receipt of residence permit application
Proof of nationalityPassport, identity card, consular certificate
Proof of addressBill, rent receipt, accommodation certificate
Academic documentsEnrollment certificate, transcripts, attestations, diplomas
Proof of financial resourcesBank statements, employment contracts, scholarships

These documents help the prefecture better assess your situation. Collecting and sending them with your letter is important.

How to write an effective explanatory letter?

For an effective letter to the prefecture, be polite. Clearly explain your situation. Highlight your seriousness in studies, your good results, and your attendance.

Don't forget to state why you want to study in France. Attach all necessary documents with your letter.

Writing tips

Here are some useful tips for writing your explanatory letter prefecture student:

  1. Speak politely and respectfully.
  2. Clearly explain your situation while being brief.
  3. Emphasize your commitment to studies and your successes.
  4. Show that you are motivated to study in France.
  5. Check that you have added all necessary documents.

Key elements to highlight

writing tips for explanatory letter prefecture, emphasize:

  • Your academic background and high results
  • Your attendance and desire to continue your studies
  • Your professional goals and future projects
  • Your relationship with France and desire to live here

These points demonstrate your involvement and seriousness in the metropolitan regions. They help the prefectural authorities better consider your request.

explanatory letter prefecture student

Example of an explanatory letter prefecture student

To illustrate the content of an explanatory letter to the prefecture for a student residence permit, here is a typical template:

Subject: Application for "Student" residence permit

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to request a "Student" residence permit. This would allow me to continue my studies in France.

I am currently enrolled in a [specify field of study] degree at [name of the institution]. My grades and attendance are good, as evidenced by the documents I am attaching.

I am also sending the required supporting documents. This includes my proof of nationality, proof of address, enrollment certificate, and the latest diplomas obtained.

If you need more information, I am available. And after receiving the acknowledgment of receipt, I will come to see you at the prefecture.

Specific cases for foreign students

Foreign students sometimes face difficulties in France with the administration. Two important cases are: the renewal of the residence permit and changes in the student life.

Renewal of residence permit

When it is necessary to renew the residence permit, the student must present documents as at the beginning. It is crucial to show that one continues to study and the results obtained.

Change of situation

If the student's situation changes, such as changing courses or encountering problems in their studies, it is necessary to explain this change. Evidence must be provided. What matters is to prove that one can continue their studies successfully.

Administrative procedures related to the letter

The administrative procedures with the prefecture are clear. One must submit a complete file. Then, the student receives a summons to discuss their case. It is good to come accompanied for more security.

Submission of the file to the prefecture

When bringing the file to the prefecture, one must have all the useful supporting documents. Coming with witnesses can help. This can be practical for receiving important documents.

Summons and interview

At the summons for the interview, nothing should be forgotten. All papers must be there. And one must be able to speak well about their situation. After the interview, one will know whether they can keep their residence permit or not.

Possible additional justifications

Sometimes, foreign students need additional justifications at the prefecture. This happens if they have encountered problems during their studies. For example, health issues or family events can be valid reasons. Absences or delays in exams also require an explanation.

Encountered difficulties

If the student has had difficulties in their studies, they must explain them clearly. For this, providing evidence is crucial. This can be medical certificates or testimonies from outside individuals.

Absences or delays

In case of absences or delays in exams, an explanation is required. The student must show why this happened. They can provide death certificates to explain absences related to their family. The idea is to prove their sincerity and show the legitimacy of their request to the prefecture.

Financial resources for foreign students

To study in France, foreign students must prove that they have enough money. They must show that they can pay for their needs. The prefecture requires a minimum of 615 euros per month. This money can come from a scholarship, help from another person, or a job.

Proof of resources

The student must show evidence, such as bank statements or a scholarship letter. These papers are to see if the student has enough money to stay in France. They help to renew the residence permit.

ExampleProof of resources
Example 1Reservation of temporary hotel accommodation for the first three months in France before finding student housing or private accommodation.
Example 2Hotel reservation pending response from CROUS for university housing, with a plan to search for private accommodation if necessary.
Example 3Hotel stay reserved until receiving the keys to university accommodation assigned by CROUS.
Example 4The student will initially stay with a family member before looking for accommodation with CROUS or privately if needed.

No matter how one finances their studies, it is necessary to prove that they have enough money. These proofs show that one can live in France during their studies. They are necessary to extend the residence permit.

Response from the prefecture and residence permit

After analyzing your file and discussing with you, the prefecture will inform you whether you obtain your foreign student residence permit or not. The timeframes for this response may vary. However, they try to provide an answer in a reasonable time.

Processing times

The speed at which your application is processed depends on the quality of your file. Make sure you have all the requested documents before submitting your application.

Validity of the granted permit

If you receive it, your residence permit will often be valid for one academic year. Sometimes, it can be valid for several years. Check your situation and the validity period of your permit to ensure everything is in order. In some cases, an exceptional residence admission may be necessary to extend your stay.

response prefecture residence permit student

Additional tips

If you are a foreign student, you should seek assistance. From whom? Your school or associations can help you. They ensure that your papers are well prepared. They also make sure everything goes smoothly.

Assistance and support

Students coming from elsewhere can count on help. Where? In their school or with groups that take care of them. These people help them fill out forms and write letters. They ensure that the entire process goes well.

Conclusion

The letter to the prefecture is essential for foreign students in France. It helps clearly explain their situation, especially regarding the cathedral of Moulins. This increases their chances of success with the authorities.

It is crucial to obtain the right support for these procedures. Schools and associations can offer valuable assistance. Thus, students will find their way more easily.

Knowing how to organize well and remain proactive is important. This helps students obtain or renew their residence permit. The last part of the letter is crucial. It ensures a smooth course of their study stay in France.

FAQ

What is an explanatory letter for the prefecture?

The explanatory letter for the prefecture is a document for communicating with the prefectural services. It is important to explain what one wants and why. For foreign students, it is crucial. It shows where they stand in their studies. It also helps to obtain or renew the residence permit.

Why is the explanatory letter important for foreign students?

It is key for foreign students to show that they take their studies seriously in France. They provide details about their academic results. This helps with the residence permit.

What information should an explanatory letter for the prefecture contain?

The letter should state who the applicant is and why they are writing (for a residence permit, for example). It should also explain their academic situation and what places are attended. Results and diplomas are important.

The papers to send with the letter are proofs of residence, nationality, housing, enrollment, grades, as well as attestations and diplomas.

What are the tips for writing an effective explanatory letter?

Writing politely and directly is recommended. Showing that one takes their studies seriously and is motivated matters a lot. Don't forget to attach all necessary documents.

What are the specific cases for foreign students?

Some foreign students need to renew their permit or change their status. For renewal, the importance of studies and their successes should be emphasized. If they change their course, they must clearly describe the situation with the necessary documents.

What are the administrative procedures related to the explanatory letter for the prefecture?

The administrative steps include submitting all documents and possibly meeting with the authorities. Coming with someone can help during the file submission. At the interview, everything must be explained clearly.

What are the cases where additional justifications may be necessary?

Sometimes, more explanations are needed. This happens if one misses school a lot due to health issues or family trials. Justifications like medical certificates are needed to explain what is happening.

What are the financial resource requirements for foreign students?

One must show that they have enough money to live in France. 615 euros per month is the minimum required by the prefecture. This can come from a scholarship, assistance, or employment. Proofs, such as bank statements or an employment contract, must be provided.

What happens after the prefecture reviews the file?

After reviewing the file and speaking with the student, the prefecture decides on the residence permit. Responses can take some time. If it is yes, the permit often lasts for one year. But for some, it can be longer.

What are the additional tips for foreign students?

In addition to the letter, students can seek help. Schools and student associations are there for that. It is good to be accompanied to avoid mistakes and ensure everything goes well.

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