How to Prepare for Your Campus France Interview
Just like a job interview, the Campus France interview requires advance preparation. First, be presentable: wear a sober, classic outfit, and avoid any extravagant accessories like caps or hats. The goal is to remain professional and simple; you never know who you might be dealing with. You will also be asked to introduce yourself during the Campus France interview.
Next, make sure to bring all original documents that you uploaded to your personal account on the “Études en France” platform. During the interview, the advisor will verify the authenticity of these documents.
Finally, arrive 20 minutes early to avoid any delays that could penalize you or even result in the cancellation of your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions for the Campus France Interview
Motivation for the Campus France Interview
During your Campus France interview, you will be questioned about your choice of France as your future study destination and your Campus France application. No need to panic; here are some arguments that might help you during the Campus France orientation interview:
- The quality of French higher education.
- The recognition of French diplomas in your home country.
- The ease of finding a job in your home country with a French diploma.
- The French system takes the reception of international students seriously, and they benefit from many advantages similar to French students.
- Discuss France’s strengths as a global power that generates wealth.
Discuss Your Background in the Interview
The advisor will likely ask you to explain what you are currently studying. Don’t hesitate to highlight your studies by giving examples of subjects you consider important.
Make sure to mention any internships or student jobs you have held and the skills you acquired from those experiences.
Tip: Focus on experiences and skills that relate to your professional project. Also, any experience is worth discussing. If you’ve done telemarketing or were a camp counselor, don’t hesitate to highlight it.
Present Your Study Project in Relation to Your Professional Project
You cannot discuss your study project without addressing your professional project and vice versa.
Indeed, these two projects are linked. Your study project stems from your professional project. Specifically, when the advisor asks you to explain your choice of programs, you should discuss your professional aspirations and the careers you are targeting in the short, medium, and long term. Thus, the chosen programs will enable you to access these careers.
Very Important: The coherence between the studies you wish to pursue and the job you aim for is crucial. If the advisor does not see a connection between your chosen programs and your future job, they will note this in their report, which can negatively impact your application process after the Campus France interview.
In fact, this can prevent you from obtaining admission to a university in France, and more importantly, it can hinder your foreign student visa application at the consulate. In short, an incoherent study project = visa refusal.
Don’t forget: When you discuss your future job, talk about what motivates you, what you want, and what you enjoy doing. Motivation is palpable, so infuse enthusiasm into your presentation and believe in your project so that others believe in it too, in order to succeed in the Campus France interview.
Tip: Visit the websites of the programs you’ve chosen and mention some subjects that seem interesting to you during the interview. Also, check out the job prospects associated with the programs.
Self-Confidence: A Key to Succeeding in Your Campus France Interview
Never lose confidence or underestimate yourself in the face of academic setbacks (repeating a year, poor grades, etc.); it can happen. It’s not about being perfect but about honestly explaining these failures and the lessons learned from them.
The advisor may also ask you some general knowledge questions. Therefore, have at least a minimal understanding of your future host country (current president, population, etc.). Pay attention to mistakes when you speak. We all make mistakes; one or two errors are not critical, but too many could penalize you.
If you are asked to explain your choice of city, prioritize discussing the program itself rather than the climate or the beauty of the city. You should prioritize your study project before discussing the cities. Also, research the cost of living for students in France in case you are asked.
If you have family in France, feel free to mention it, as it can help with your integration in France, particularly regarding student housing.
Always stay positive: The advisor may ask you if you have considered the possibility of not receiving any admissions. You should demonstrate that you are motivated and that you learn from your failures by discussing refusals as opportunities for improvement.