Our FAQ

Find the answer you need

We have listed the main questions you ask us about Bioforce's activities as a training center (Learn), as an NGO (Build), and as an actor in the evolution of the humanitarian sector (Share)!

  • Application, registration and cancellation

  • Fees, funding and accommodation

  • About open training courses

  • About diploma courses

  • About individual career guidance

  • About recognition of prior learning

  • Can I request a price quote for the training I'm interested in?

    • For the “Humanitarian Programme Manager” diploma course at Bioforce: once you have applied,  you can download the quote on your Application Platform (“Infos” menu, then “Formations diplômantes Europe et VAE : mes devis personnalisables”).
    • For open training courses, please note that we cannot issue individual price quotes until your application has been received and accepted. Should you need an official document mentioning the cost of the training before you even apply, please feel free to download the course webpage (training programme, dates, cost…).

  • What should I do to secure my place on the course I have chosen?

     

    If you have chosen an open course, paying the training fees will secure your place, as there is no selection process.

    For diploma courses, once your application has been accepted, we will guide you through the registration process, which includes signing a training contract, providing a deposit, as well as uploading some additional documents to your Application Platform.

  • I need to apply for a visa. How can Bioforce help me?

     

    Open courses in France

    Once your application has been accepted and we have received the signed quote and proof of payment, you will receive a visa support letter, along with the convocation letter and practical details such as accommodation and the itinerary. If you request it, the visa support letter can be sent directly to the French embassy in your country. Please feel free to share the French Embassy’s email address with us.

    Please allow enough time for your visa application to be processed. We also advise you to book your flight and accommodation and take out an insurance policy before applying for a visa.

    Diploma courses in France

    Once you have been admitted, you will need to obtain a “Long Séjour Type D Etudiant ” visa (a long-stay Type D student visa) in order to enter the training programme. No other type of visa is valid for entry.

    Once full payment for the training programme has been received, Bioforce can send you an official letter to support your visa application. We can also email the French Embassy handling your application if you provide us with the contact details of the relevant embassy staff member.

    Please note that the visa application process can be lengthy, so allow 5–6 weeks. In addition to a letter of support from Bioforce, embassies generally request the following documents: the paid training invoice (which is why we ask for full payment before the start of the training), copies of airline tickets,
    proof of accommodation, and proof of insurance.

    Please note that, apart from providing the letter of support and the email to the embassy, Bioforce cannot assist with formalities. These steps must be taken by you.

    In the event of a visa refusal, the cancellation conditions indicated in your professional training contract apply.

    As for the field assignment following your training period, contact your host organisation (the aid organisation sending you on the assignment) for assistance with the visa application formalities.

  • What does the Bioforce course fee cover?

     

    The fee for our courses, whether open or diploma, covers the cost of training facilitation only. Accommodation, meals, transport and other miscellaneous expenses are not included.

  • Does Bioforce offer financial support for its training courses?

    Below are some funding opportunities for your training course at Bioforce:

    For EU residents

    • Humanitarian programme manager” online diploma course: region, department, county, city, employment agency, employer. You can also request an instalment payment agreement from Bioforce (please note that we must receive full payment of the course fee before the training ends).
    • Open courses: region, department, county, city, employment agency, employer.

    For non-EU residents

    • “Humanitarian programme manager” online diploma course:  employer, French embassy in your country, Campus France agency in your country, private sponsor. Bioforce is supported by the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Regional Authority, which enables us to cover the training costs of a limited number of candidates each year. If you wish to apply for this specific scholarship, please let us know in your cover letter.
    • Open training courses: employer, French Embassy in your country, Campus France agency in your country, private sponsor.

    Please note that this list only includes the opportunities of which we are aware. It is your responsibility to contact the organisations from which you wish to request funding. If you discover a new opportunity, please inform us so that we can publicise it to future candidates!

  • How do I find accommodation for my course in Europe?

     

    Open courses in Europe

    Once you have registered, we will provide you with a list of places where you can book accommodation near the training venue.

    Diploma courses in France

    Once your application has been accepted, we will provide you with a list of places where you can book accommodation, either in the centre of Lyon or near the Bioforce campus in Vénissieux, a suburb of Lyon. We advise you to start looking for a place to live as soon as possible, as Lyon is a very busy city!

     

     

  • How do I get to the Bioforce training centre for Europe in Vénissieux?

    PUBLIC TRANSPORT (Lyon public transport website)
    • From Part-Dieu train station (40 minutes) > Take Tram T4 towards « Hôpital Feyzin Vénissieux » > Stop at « Darnaise »
    • From Perrache train station (50 minutes) > Take Metro line A towards « Vaux-en-Velin La Soie » > Stop at « Bellecour » > Take Metro line D towards « Gare de Vénissieux » > Stop at « Gare de Vénissieux » Terminal
      Exit the Metro station and take the Tram T4 towards « Hôpital Feyzin Vénissieux » > Get off at « Darnaise » stop
    • From the airport > Take the airport tramway “Rhône Express » to Lyon’s main train station : Gare de la Part-Dieu > Take Tram T4 towards « Hôpital Feyzin Vénissieux » > Stop at « Darnaise »

    CAR

    • From Lyon
      Take Highway A7 direction St-Etienne / Marseille.
      Exit and Follow Vénissieux Boulevard Urbain Sud (B.U.S.)
      Exit Vénissieux Minguettes.
      At 1st roundabout, Follow direction Vénissieux Minguettes / Saint Fons.
      At 2nd roundabout, Follow direction Vénissieux Minguettes / Saint Fons.
      Immediately after this roundabout, take the 1st street on your right “Avenue du 11 Novembre 1918”
      Continue straight until the 2nd traffic lights, you’ll see our training centre!

  • Should I bring my own equipment to Bioforce training courses?

     

    You will need to bring your own materials (such as sheets of paper and a pencil) to Bioforce training courses. Please note that laptops are not usually permitted in training sessions, except for certain modules and practical exercises. Bioforce will inform you if laptops are necessary.

  • What is the application process for Bioforce open courses?

    Step1: application
    Click on the “Sign up” button on the course webpage, and complete the form. You will then receive an email (remember to check your Spam folder) giving you access to your Application Platform, where you can complete your application and pay your training fees (or download your training funding agreement). Get a video preview of your Application Platform
    Please note:
    • The application deadline is usually two weeks before the start of the course.
    • Given the limited number of places available, we recommend that you apply as early as possible (particularly if you intend to benefit from financial support).

    Step 2: registration

    Once we have received payment of the training fees (or funding agreement), and subject to availability of places, you are registered! You will then receive confirmation by e-mail, including all the practical details of the training course (location, detailed schedule, etc.). Enjoy your training!

  • Is there an application deadline for Bioforce open training courses?

    Applications are carried on a permanent basis. As the number of participants is limited, you are advised to apply as soon as possible. However please note that registration process usually closes two weeks prior to the start of the training.

    If you need to apply for a visa, it is more than advised to apply for the training at least 4 weeks prior to the course.

  • I have applied online for an open training course: what is the next step?

    Once you’ve applied online for a Bioforce open course , you will receive an email (remember to check your Spam folder) giving you access to your Application Platform, where you can complete your application, track its progress and pay the training fees or download your training funding agreement. Get a video preview of your Application Platform

    Once we have received payment of the training fees (or funding agreement), and subject to availability of places, you are registered! You will then receive confirmation by e-mail, including all the practical details of the training course (location, detailed schedule, etc.). Enjoy your training!

  • Following the open course, will I be given the training materials?

    You will find all content uploaded on Bioforce’s learning platform (BioMoodle).

  • What is the cancellation and refund policy for open training courses?

    Should you need to cancel your registration, please notify us by registered mail.

    Period of withdrawal

    Upon receipt of the signed quote with the mentioned date of signature, you have 10 days to cancel your participation. You have to inform Bioforce by registered mail.

    After this withdrawal period, the following charges will be payable depending on when you will inform us:

    • 10% of the course fees if you inform us at least 60 working days prior to the training start

    • 50% of the course fees if you inform us between 59 working days to 22 working days prior to the training start

    • 100% of the course fees if you inform us 21 working days or less prior to the training start

    Cancellation and refund policy will not apply in case of “force majeure” (death of a close relative, participant hospitalization, hurricane, and earthquake). Please note that if you have to cancel for failed visa request, our normal cancellation and refund policy will apply.

  • Are open courses available as online courses?

    Yes, some of our open courses are available as distant training courses. Have a look at them here!

  • Is it possible to combine several open courses to obtain a diploma?

     

    Yes! The “Humanitarian Programme Manager” online diploma course consists of 6 open training courses, followed by a 3-month workbased learning in the field with an aid organisation. You can hone your skills further and get this diploma at your own pace by attending all the open courses that it is made up of,  and the 3-month workbased learning, spread out over up to 4,5 years.

  • What diploma courses are offered by Bioforce?

    We offer many diploma courses, among them one is delivered in English: the “Humanitarian Programme Manager” online training programme. Please check the webpage for more details!

  • Can I get the "Humanitarian programme manager" diploma at my own pace?

    Yes! The “Humanitarian Programme Manager” online diploma course consists of several open training courses, followed by a 3-month field assignment.  You can now get this diploma at your own pace by attending all the open courses that it is made up of, and the 3-month fieldwork, spread out over up to 4,5 years.

  • What are the admission requirements for Bioforce diploma course in English?

    The “Humanitarian Programme Manager” online training programme requires the following:

    English language level: Minimum B2 (according to European language levels – Self Assessment Grid).

    Applicants with involvement in the non-profit sector, experience abroad, driving licence or first-aid certificate are particularly sought after. Strong computer skills are required.

    Education or work experience in one of the following areas:
    Team management, project management, budget management.
    Or in an area where you have demonstrated skills that are transferrable to the aid sector: health, media, social or education, civil engineering, renovation, international relations and politics, cooperation and development, agriculture, logistics…

    Required level of education or work experience in one of the above-mentioned areas:
    Minimum 2-year higher education diploma (“bac +2” in France or equivalent) and minimum 3 years of full-time work experience in one of the above-mentioned areas.

    Please note that these prerequisites provide a base for any validation of the application form. The final decision lies with Bioforce’s Admission Manager.

  • What is the application and selection process for the Bioforce diploma course in English?

    Step1: application

    Click on the “Register” button at the bottom of this page and complete the form. You will then receive an email (remember to check your Spam folder) giving you access to your Application Platform, where you can complete your application, track its progress and pay the selection and registration fees. Get a video preview of your Application Platform
    Please note: your application will be examined on receipt of payment of the selection fees. We undertake to inform you of the outcome of your application within 2 months of this date.

    Step 2: interview (if needed) Should Bioforce staff members require further information about your application, an interview can be organised (remote or in-person).

    Step 3: registration Selected candidates will receive an admission email within 15 days after their interview, or, if no interview is required, within 2 months upon receipt of your payment of the selection fees.

  • Is there an application deadline for the Bioforce diploma course in English?

    Applications are carried on a permanent basis. As the number of participants is limited, you are advised to apply as soon as possible. Apply here

  • I have applied online for a diploma course in Africa: what is the next step?

    Once you’ve applied online for a diploma course (duration: 3 months or longer) in Africa, you will receive an email (remember to check your Spam folder) giving you access to your Application Platform, where you can complete your application, track its progress and pay the selection and training fees. Get a video preview of your Application Platform

    Please note: your application will be examined on receipt of payment of the selection fees. We undertake to inform you of the outcome of your application within 2 months of this date. When reviewing your application, our teaching team will carefully study your background (level and field of training, nature, duration and level of responsibility of your professional experience, etc.), and may suggest that you reorient your application towards another diploma course, more suited to your profile.

    Should Bioforce staff members require further information about your application, an interview can be organised (remote or in-person).

    If you are eligible for admission, you will receive an email confirming this within 15 days of this interview. If no interview is required, you will receive the email within two months of paying the selection fee. Then, you will be guided by the team through the registration process!

  • I have applied online for a diploma course in Europe: what is the next step?

    Once you’ve applied online for a diploma course (duration: 3 months or longer) in Europe, you will receive an email (remember to check your Spam folder) giving you access to your Application Platform, where you can complete your application, track its progress and pay the selection and training fees. Get a video preview of your Application Platform

    Please note: your application will be examined on receipt of payment of the selection fees. We undertake to inform you of the outcome of your application within 2 months of this date. When reviewing your application, our teaching team will carefully study your background (level and field of training, nature, duration and level of responsibility of your professional experience, etc.), and may suggest that you reorient your application towards another diploma course, more suited to your profile.

    Should Bioforce staff members require further information about your application, an interview can be organised (remote or in-person).

    If you are eligible for admission, you will receive an email confirming this within 15 days of this interview. If no interview is required, you will receive the email within two months of paying the selection fee. Then, you will be guided by the team through the registration process!

  • What is the cancellation and refund policy regarding the Bioforce diploma course?

    Should you need to cancel your registration, we ask you to notify us by registered mail.

    Period of withdrawal

    Upon receipt of the signed quote with the mentioned date of signature, you have 10 days to cancel your participation. You have to inform Bioforce by registered mail.

    After this withdrawal period, the following charges will be payable depending on when you will inform us :

    • 10% of the course fees if you inform us at least 60 working days prior to the training start

    • 50% of the course fees if you inform us between 59 working days to 22 working days prior to the training start

    • 100% of the course fees if you inform us 21 working days or less prior to the training start

    Cancellation and refund policy will not apply in case of “force majeure” (death of a close relative, participant hospitalization, hurricane, and earthquake). Please note that if you have to cancel for failed visa request, our normal cancellation and refund policy will apply.

  • Will I receive a certificate at the end of the Bioforce diploma course?

    You will be awarded a “Coordinateur de programme humanitaire” level 7 qualification (equivalent to a five-year higher education diploma) registered by the French National Record of Professional Qualifications.

  • Will I receive the training contents after the diploma course?

     

    You will find all content uploaded on Bioforce’s learning platform (BioMoodle).

  • Is Bioforce diploma course in English available online?

     

    Yes, it is an online training programme! Over 8 months, follow weekly virtual classes, engage in self-study, and join us for a two-week face-to-face group session (including a life-size simulation, to develop, through a field scenario-based exercise, your operational capacity and autonomy). Find out more

  • I have applied online for an individual career guidance interview: what is the next step?

    Once you’ve applied online for an individual career guidance interview: please check your mailbox for the automatic email that sums up your application number and the next application steps. Check your spam folder if you have not received it.

    Got the automatic email? Great. You are done for now: within 10 days, we will contact you by email to schedule an appointment with one of our career guidance counsellors, and will inform you about payment terms.

  • I have applied online for Recognition of Prior Learning: what is the next step?

    Once you’ve applied online for Recognition of Prior Learning (which is not a training programme but an assessment of the skills and knowledge you’ve already gained through work and life): please check your mailbox for the automatic email that sums up your application number and the next application steps. Check your spam folder if you have not received it.

    Got the automatic email? Great. You are done for now: within 10 days, we will send you a complete application file by email, for you to fill in and send back, and will inform you about payment terms.