The white dossier

Preliminary application for enrolment by post: the white dossier

In order to enrol in a university first year, you must complete a hard copy preliminary pre-enrolment dossier called a white dossier (dossier blanc). Below are some indications regarding the procedure.

First of all: contact the French Embassy in your country

The French Embassy services will assist you in all the formalities to be accomplished: white dossier, application for study grants, student visa application, etc.
List of French Embassies in the world

The white dossier preliminary application for enrolment (DAP)

This dossier allows you to apply to three different universities. You must enter your choice of degree courses in order of preference. The dossier will be circulated to the three universities.
Important: in some countries, the preliminary application for enrolment is completed via Internet.

How can I obtain the white dossier (dossier blanc)?

You can:

• obtain it directly from the Cultural service at the French Embassy or Consulate;
• send your request by post to the Embassy or Consulate;
• download it from the Ministry of National Education site (http://www.education.gouv.fr/cid2476/-dossier-blanc-demande-prealable-a-une-inscription-en-1er-cycle-dans-une-universite-francaise.html#doc) (if this page is not accessible, enter “dossier blanc” in the site search engine).

You must request your dossier in French before 15th January (for courses starting in September ) and indicate the level and course of studies chosen and enclose a stamped addressed envelope with your full address and country of residence. Tip: send in your request as early as possible.

Where do I send my completed dossier?

Send your completed dossier to the Cultural service at the French Embassy or Consulate to arrive no later than 31st January. Do not send it directly to the university. The Embassy will forward the dossiers.

French language test

After sending in your dossier, you will be asked to sit a French language test to assess your level.
This test is organised by the C.I.E.P. (Centre international d'études pédagogiques).
Visit the C.I.E.P site (http://www.ciep.fr)
Also see: the level of French required in order to study in France (http://www.smeno.com/etudiants/etudier-en-france/tester-niveau-francais.html).

Important: once your dossier has been filled in completely, you need to attach a number of documents attesting to your situation. If any of the documents required are not included, your dossier will be systematically rejected.

Calendar: important dates

• 15th January: final date for obtaining the dossier from the French Embassy or Consulate or downloading via Internet.
• 31st January: final date for handing in your completed dossier to the Embassy or Consulate.
• Before 1st March: you will be invited to sit an exam to test your knowledge of French.
• Before 30th April: the 1st university will review your dossier and give you an answer. If this is negative, your dossier will be passed on to the 2nd university.
• Before 31st May: the 2nd university will review your dossier and give you an answer. If this is negative, your dossier will be passed on to the 3rd university.
• Before 30th June: the 3rd university will review your dossier and give you an answer. If this is negative, you cannot come and study in France for the next university year.

Important: If you have not received an answer by the dates indicated above, you should contact the university that has not replied directly. You should also write to the university even if you contact them by telephone: enclose a stamped addressed envelope and keep a copy of your letter.

Information updated: 31st August 2010