Have you guys been in contact with the prefecture, are they providing any solutions for international students ?

Or not be allowed to come back at all.

Dear Charlotte, thank you for joining the chat!
What type of visa do you have?

I currently have a working holiday visa that expires in June and need to change to a student visa

Unfortunately, this type of visa cannot be changed for another one here in France, so you should go back to Canada in order to apply for a student visa.

I am also interested in some "insider" information if there is any. Usually student visas for international students (in my case - Ukrainians) through the summer (that really makes a difference) takes lots of time, now with covid situation there is no information (at least here) when and how they will issue student visas... there is a big change of simply not getting the visa
Do you maybe know anything in this regards? When will France allow visa applications?

Chance*

Thanks for your response Elena! I am afraid as Mariia that I won’t be able to get a visa with the embassy being closed. Seems silly to go back to Canada When I’m already here but not much you can do about that 🤷‍♀️

Dear Mariia and Charlotte,
For the moment we are waiting for further updates, as well as you, and hope that French consulates will open soon!

Is it possible in case of delay in getting visa to enter France under a visa-free regime and proceed with obtaining visa in France?

Dear Anastasiia,
In order to study in France it is obligatory to apply for a student visa.