France is one of the world’s most attractive destinations for international students, offering respected universities, internationally recognized degrees, research opportunities, and a diverse academic environment. For students concerned about the cost of studying abroad, there are numerous scholarships in France for international students offered by the French government, universities, research organizations, foundations, and international programs.
Among the most prestigious opportunities is the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship, which supports outstanding international students pursuing master’s and doctoral studies in selected fields. However, Eiffel is only one option. Students can also explore university scholarships, regional funding, Erasmus+ opportunities, research grants, and scholarships offered through French embassies and other organizations.
This guide explains the best scholarships in France for international students, their eligibility requirements, potential benefits, and how to apply successfully.
Why Study in France With a Scholarship?
France has a strong reputation in areas such as business, engineering, science, technology, arts, fashion, social sciences, medicine, and research.
Studying with a scholarship can reduce the financial pressure associated with accommodation, transportation, food, insurance, and other living expenses.
Scholarships can also make prestigious French universities and specialized institutions more accessible to talented students who might otherwise find international education difficult to afford.
Campus France maintains Campus Bourses, a scholarship search tool that allows international students to filter funding opportunities by nationality, field of study, and academic level. (Campus France)
1. France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship
The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship is one of the most prestigious government-funded scholarships available to international students in France.
It was created by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to help French higher education institutions attract outstanding international students to master’s and doctoral programs. (Campus France)
The scholarship focuses on selected priority fields, including:
- Biology and health
- Ecological transition
- Mathematics and digital sciences
- Engineering sciences
- History, French language and civilization
- Law and political science
- Economics and management
For the 2026 campaign, the age limit was up to 29 years for master’s applicants and 35 years for doctoral applicants, subject to the program’s detailed eligibility rules. (Campus France)
Eiffel Scholarship Benefits
For 2026, Eiffel scholarship recipients receive a monthly allowance of €1,200 at master’s level and €2,000 at doctoral level, along with several services and allowances depending on the program. (Campus France)
Additional support can include:
- International transportation
- National transportation
- Insurance
- Assistance with finding accommodation
- Cultural activities
- Other services associated with the scholarship
One important point is that the Eiffel program itself does not simply pay tuition fees as a universal benefit. Its financial and tuition arrangements should be reviewed according to the applicable rules and institution.
2. France Excellence Scholarships Through French Embassies
The French government and French diplomatic missions also support international students through different scholarship programs.
According to Campus France, many scholarships are provided through French embassies abroad, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs directly finances programs such as France Excellence Eiffel. (Campus France)
This means students should not search only for scholarships available globally. They should also check the French Embassy or Campus France office in their home country.
Available opportunities can vary according to nationality, academic level, field, and bilateral education agreements.
3. University Scholarships in France
French universities and higher education institutions offer their own scholarships and financial assistance programs.
University funding may be available for:
- Academic excellence
- International students
- Master’s programs
- Doctoral research
- Specific fields of study
- Research projects
- Social or financial criteria
- International mobility
Some scholarships are awarded automatically based on an admission application, while others require a separate application.
When selecting a university, visit its official international student and scholarship pages. Also check the relevant faculty or graduate school because some funding opportunities are managed at the department level.
4. Erasmus+ Scholarships
International students can also explore Erasmus+, the European Union’s education and mobility program.
Certain Erasmus+ opportunities provide funding for students participating in international study programs, exchanges, joint master’s degrees, or mobility projects.
The exact funding and eligibility conditions depend on the specific Erasmus+ program.
Students interested in joint European master’s degrees should pay particular attention to Erasmus Mundus opportunities because they can provide substantial financial support for selected students.
5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programs are another excellent option for students who want to study in France while participating in a multinational European degree.
These programs are delivered by international consortia of universities. Students may study in more than one European country during their degree.
Depending on the specific program, scholarships can provide significant support toward participation costs, travel, and living expenses.
Because eligibility and application deadlines vary by program, applicants should research individual Erasmus Mundus programs rather than relying on one general deadline.
6. University and Research Funding for PhD Students
France offers several funding routes for doctoral candidates.
PhD students can explore:
- Doctoral contracts
- University research funding
- Research laboratory positions
- Government scholarships
- Foundation grants
- International research scholarships
- Erasmus-related opportunities
Campus France notes that French doctoral schools manage doctoral contracts, while major public research organizations such as CNRS and other research institutions also contribute to France’s research ecosystem. (Campus France)
For doctoral applicants, contacting potential supervisors and research laboratories can be particularly useful.
A strong research proposal and a clear explanation of the project’s academic value can significantly strengthen a doctoral funding application.
7. Scholarships for Master’s Students
Master’s students have access to some of the most prominent scholarship opportunities in France.
The Eiffel Scholarship is particularly important for high-achieving international candidates whose programs fall within the eligible fields.
University scholarships and Erasmus Mundus programs can provide additional opportunities.
When searching for master’s scholarships, consider:
- Your nationality
- Academic background
- Intended subject
- Language of instruction
- University
- Career goals
- Scholarship deadline
- Funding duration
Choosing a scholarship that closely matches your profile is usually more effective than applying to every opportunity you find.
8. Scholarships for Undergraduate Students
Fully funded undergraduate scholarships can be more limited than postgraduate opportunities, but international bachelor’s students should still investigate available funding.
Potential sources include:
- University merit scholarships
- Country-specific scholarships
- French embassy programs
- Regional assistance
- Private foundations
- International exchange programs
Some scholarships are available only to students who have already been admitted to a particular institution.
Therefore, undergraduate applicants should research scholarships at the same time they research degree programs.
Eligibility Requirements for Scholarships in France
There is no single eligibility standard for all French scholarships. Each provider establishes its own criteria.
However, common requirements may include:
Strong Academic Record
Competitive scholarships generally favor students with strong academic performance.
Appropriate Academic Background
Your previous studies should be relevant to the degree or research program you plan to pursue.
Language Proficiency
Depending on the program, applicants may need French or English language qualifications.
Age Requirements
Some government scholarships have specific age limits. For example, the 2026 Eiffel program set different age limits for master’s and doctoral applicants. (Campus France)
Professional or Research Experience
Certain postgraduate scholarships may value or require relevant professional experience, research experience, or a clearly defined academic project.
Documents Required for French Scholarships
Although requirements differ, applicants may commonly need:
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Curriculum vitae
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letters
- Language certificate
- Research proposal
- Study plan
- Passport or identification
- University admission information
- Proof of professional experience, where required
Always check the official scholarship or university website for the exact document requirements.
How to Apply for Scholarships in France
Step 1: Select Your Academic Program
Begin by identifying the degree and field you want to study.
Step 2: Research Scholarships
Use Campus Bourses, university websites, French embassy resources, and official scholarship databases.
Step 3: Check Eligibility
Compare your academic qualifications, nationality, age, field, language ability, and other requirements with the scholarship criteria.
Step 4: Contact the University
This step is particularly important for the Eiffel Scholarship. Students cannot submit an Eiffel application directly themselves; applications are submitted by eligible French higher education institutions. (Campus France)
Therefore, prospective applicants should contact the international relations or relevant admissions office of their chosen institution.
Step 5: Prepare Your Documents
Prepare your CV, motivation letter, academic records, recommendations, and research documents well before the deadline.
Step 6: Submit the Application
Follow the exact submission instructions. Some scholarships require applications through universities, while others use dedicated online platforms.
Step 7: Monitor the Result
Keep track of your email and application portal for interview requests, additional document requirements, or final decisions.
How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
Competition for prestigious scholarships in France can be strong. The following strategies can improve your application.
Write a Specific Motivation Letter
Explain why you selected France, your chosen university, your academic field, and your long-term career goals.
Demonstrate Academic Excellence
Highlight strong grades, academic awards, research projects, publications, or other achievements relevant to the scholarship.
Show Your Future Impact
Government and international scholarships often want candidates who can make a meaningful contribution to their field or community.
Build a Strong CV
Include relevant education, internships, employment, research, volunteering, leadership, and extracurricular achievements.
Apply Early
Do not wait until the final week. University and scholarship deadlines may differ, and institutional applications may need to be submitted before the external scholarship deadline.
Are Scholarships in France Fully Funded?
Some scholarships provide substantial financial support, but students should not assume that every scholarship is fully funded.
The benefits can range from a monthly allowance to tuition assistance, transportation, insurance, accommodation support, research funding, or a combination of these.
The Eiffel Scholarship, for example, provides monthly allowances and several additional services, but its exact coverage should be considered alongside the rules of the relevant institution and program. (Campus France)
Students should prepare a realistic budget covering expenses that are not included in their scholarship.
Important Tips for International Students
Before applying, keep these points in mind:
- Always use official scholarship sources.
- Check whether your nationality is eligible.
- Verify the language requirements.
- Research the university before applying.
- Prepare your documents early.
- Customize every motivation letter.
- Keep track of separate university and scholarship deadlines.
- Do not assume that “scholarship” means all expenses are covered.
- Contact Campus France or the relevant French institution when clarification is needed.
Final Thoughts
France offers a diverse range of funding opportunities for international students at undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and research levels. The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship is one of the country’s most prestigious options, particularly for outstanding master’s and PhD candidates in eligible fields.
However, international students should look beyond Eiffel. University scholarships, Erasmus Mundus, doctoral contracts, research funding, foundation awards, and French embassy programs can provide additional pathways to financial support.
The best strategy is to begin your scholarship search early, identify programs that match your academic profile, and carefully follow each provider’s requirements.
With strong academic preparation, a focused motivation letter, and a well-planned application, studying in France with scholarship support can become a realistic opportunity for international students.