Are you searching for a fully funded scholarship in France to pursue your higher education? The France Excellence Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications. This prestigious program, established by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, aims to attract the brightest international minds to French higher education institutions.
Whether you are looking for Master’s scholarships in Europe or a PhD scholarship in France, the Eiffel program provides a unique opportunity to gain world-class education without the burden of tuition fees. This guide covers everything from the Eiffel Scholarship eligibility 2026 to the step-by-step application process.
Types of Eiffel Excellence Scholarships
The program is divided into two main components based on the level of study:
- Master’s Component: This covers 12 to 36 months of study leading to a Master’s degree or an engineering degree.
- Doctorate (PhD) Component: This provides funding for up to 12–36 months for students conducting research or a joint thesis in France.
Scholarship Benefits & Monthly Stipend
Students often ask about the Excellence Scholarship monthly allowance. For the 2026 cycle, the benefits are exceptionally competitive:
- Master’s Level: A monthly stipend of €1,200.
- PhD Level: A monthly stipend of €2,100.
- Travel: Includes one international round-trip airfare and local transportation.
- Health Insurance: Full social security and health coverage.
- Housing Assistance: Help with finding accommodation and access to cultural activities.
Note: While the scholarship covers living costs, it does not cover tuition fees directly. However, most French public universities waive tuition for scholarship recipients.
Excellence Scholarship Eligibility Criteria 2026 (Simplified)
To rank among the top candidates, you must meet these basic international scholarship requirements:
- Nationality: You must be a non-French citizen. If you have dual nationality and one is French, you are ineligible.
- Age Limit: * Master’s Level: Maximum 29 years old (born after March 31, 1996).
- PhD Level: Maximum 35 years old (born after March 31, 1990).
- Fields of Study: The scholarship focuses on seven priority areas including Biology and Health, Ecological Transition, Mathematics and Digital, Engineering Sciences, History/French Language, Law and Political Science, and Economics and Management.
- Location: For the Master’s level, you must be applying from outside France.
How to Apply: The Step-by-Step Process
One of the most important things to remember is that you cannot apply directly to Campus France. The application is a two-step process:
- Contact a French University: Find a university or “Grande École” in France that offers your desired program.
- University Nomination: Express your interest in the Eiffel Scholarship to the university’s International Relations department.
- Submission: If the university accepts your profile, they will submit the application on your behalf to Campus France.
Required Documents for Application
Prepare these documents in PDF format (English or French):
- Copy of Passport or national ID.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting academic excellence and professional goals.
- Statement of Purpose (Motivation Letter) detailing your “Professional Project.”
- Academic Transcripts for the last three years of study.
- Research Proposal (Mandatory for PhD applicants).
- Language Proficiency Certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, or DELF/DALF) if required by the host university.
Important Dates & Deadlines
Mark your calendar to ensure you don’t miss this fully funded study abroad opportunity:
- Call for Applications Opens: October 1, 2025.
- Internal University Deadlines: Usually between November and December 2025.
- Campus France Deadline: January 8, 2026.
- Results Announcement: Late March 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for the Excellence Scholarship myself?
No. Applications must be submitted by a French higher education institution. Direct applications from students are automatically rejected.
2. Is there an application fee?
There is no fee to apply for the Eiffel Scholarship itself, though individual universities may have their own admission processing fees.
3. Do I need to speak French?
Not necessarily. Many Master’s and PhD programs in France are taught in English. However, checking the specific requirements of your chosen university is vital.
Official Links
For more details and to browse participating institutions, visit the official pages below:
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