10 things you need to know about the CVEC in France

Understanding the Student and Campus Life Contribution (CVEC) in France

Planning to study in France? The Student and Campus Life Contribution, known as CVEC (Contribution Vie Étudiante et de Campus), is a mandatory fee you need to understand before starting your academic journey. This annual contribution of 105€ helps fund essential campus services and student activities across French schools.

Whether you're a French or international student, understanding the CVEC requirements is crucial for your enrollment process. From payment methods to exemption cases, many students have questions about this contribution that directly impacts their registration in French higher education institutions.

We've gathered the most important information about the CVEC to help you navigate this requirement for the 2025-2026 academic year.

What is the CVEC in France?

Established by the French government to enhance student life, the CVEC serves as your gateway to comprehensive campus services. This annual contribution directly funds social support programs, cultural events, and health services across French institutions.

When you pay your CVEC, you're investing in a better campus experience. The funds support everything from student organizations to sports facilities, ensuring you have access to essential resources throughout your academic year.

Before completing your registration, you'll need to obtain either a proof of payment or notice of exemption through the official CVEC platform. This document becomes your key to accessing all student services, whether you're studying at a university or a specialized institution.

CVEC cost and payment methods

For the 2025-2026 academic year, the CVEC fee is set at 105€. You can pay this mandatory contribution through several convenient methods: online payment on cvec.etudiant.gouv.fr using a credit card, or in cash at authorized payment points across France.

Before proceeding with your payment, make sure to create your account on MesServices.Etudiant.gouv.fr. The platform will guide you through a simple three-step process: registration, payment, and certificate download. Your payment confirmation arrives within 48 hours via email.

Remember to keep your payment certificate safe, as you'll need it for your academic registration. The CVEC must be paid only once per academic year, even if you're enrolling in multiple programs.

How to register on the CVEC website

Start your registration process by creating an account on MesServices.etudiant.gouv.fr. Your unique INE number will be required during this step, though first-time international students can proceed without one. Choose your institution from the dropdown menu and verify your student status.

Connect to the CVEC platform through your account dashboard. The system guides you through identity verification and payment selection.

After completing payment, download your official certificate directly from the platform. This document contains your unique attestation number, which you'll need to finalize your school registration. Save both digital and printed copies of this certificate for your records.

Obtaining your CVEC certificate

Once you've made your payment, the CVEC platform automatically generates your certificate within 48 hours. You'll receive an email with a secure link to download your document, which includes your unique attestation number.

Keep both digital and printed versions of your CVEC certificate. Our schools require this document during the enrollment process, and you might need to present it multiple times throughout the academic year for various administrative procedures.

If you're exempt from payment, such as scholarship recipients or asylum seekers with subsidiary protection status, you must still obtain your certificate through the CVEC website. The platform recognizes your status and provides an exemption certificate that carries the same validity as a payment certificate.

Campus services funded by CVEC

Your CVEC payment unlocks access to essential support services across French campuses. Students benefit from comprehensive health services, including medical consultations and mental health support. We've seen how the funds enhance campus life through modern sports facilities and cultural events that bring together international and local students.

Social support services provide financial aid and housing assistance when needed. The contribution also supports career development through professional workshops and networking events. These resources help you fully integrate into French academic life while focusing on your studies.

Sports enthusiasts can access well-equipped facilities and join teams, while art lovers enjoy subsidized cultural activities and campus exhibitions.

Student registration requirements

Registering for the 2025-2026 academic year requires careful attention to new CVEC regulations. Under French law, students must obtain their CVEC certificate before completing any school enrollment. We recommend starting this process at least two weeks before your school's registration deadline.

Make sure to prepare your identification documents and proof of student status when creating your CVEC account. For international students, a valid passport and acceptance letter from your French institution will suffice. The 105€ payment must be processed through the official platform, with confirmation typically arriving within two business days.

First-time applicants should note that certain documents, like proof of health insurance coverage, may be requested during registration.

How to connect to your CVEC account

Accessing your CVEC account requires a few simple steps through the official platform. Start by visiting cvec.etudiant.gouv.fr and selecting your preferred language option at the top of the page.

Enter your email address and password associated with your MesServices.etudiant.gouv.fr account. If you've forgotten your login credentials, use the password recovery option, which sends a reset link to your registered email within minutes.

For new users, the platform offers a streamlined registration process. Click on "Create Account" and provide your personal information, including your valid student status documentation. The system automatically validates your details, allowing immediate access to manage your CVEC contribution and download certificates.

Contact support for CVEC issues

For immediate help, contact your local Crous office through their online assistance portal. They provide specialized support in both French and English. Remember to have your student ID number and any relevant documentation ready when reaching out.

Phone support is available Monday through Friday during business hours. For complex situations requiring in-person assistance, Crous offices welcome students for face-to-face consultations. We recommend scheduling an appointment through their online booking system to minimize wait times.

CVEC payment deadlines 

The CVEC payment system operates year-round but includes scheduled maintenance periods, typically occurring during the winter break in December. During these maintenance windows, both cash and card payment options are temporarily suspended.

The Crous establishes annual deadlines to ensure smooth processing of your CVEC contribution. Students planning to start their studies in the second semester should verify the specific payment windows, as the platform usually resumes operations in early January.

Since obtaining your CVEC certificate is a mandatory prerequisite for enrollment, it's recommended to complete your payment at least two weeks before your registration deadline. For those who prefer in-person transactions, payments can be processed at any Post Office throughout France during regular business hours.