The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program 2026 offers fully funded Master’s and PhD scholarships for top international students to study at prestigious French institutions, covering tuition, living allowances, and travel. Launched by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, this program targets emerging global leaders in key fields like engineering, sciences, and humanities.

Basic Information and Application Deadline

The call for applications for the 2026 round is open until January 8, 2026. About 350 scholarships are awarded annually for Master’s and Doctoral degree studies at all French higher education institutions participating in the program. Applicants for Master’s level must be 27 years or younger, while Doctoral candidates must be 32 or younger at the time of application.

Duration of the Scholarship:

• Maximum of 36 Months for PhD.
• Maximum of 12 Months for Master M1 Level
• Maximum of 24 Months for Master M2 Level

Length of Scholarship

Master’s Level

• 12 months → If entering M2 (2nd year of Master’s)
• 24 months → If entering M1 (1st year of Master’s)
• 36 months → For engineering programs
• Study must start between Sept 1 – Nov 30 (no postponement)

Doctoral Level

• Scholarships last 12, 18, or 36 months, starting Sept 1
• 36-month → Only for new PhD students not studying in France
• 18-month → For PhD students in 1st or 2nd year
• 12-month → For PhD students in 2nd or 3rd year

University/Institution Details

All French universities and select higher education institutions participate in the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship program. Students can choose from a wide range of accredited French academic institutions based on their study preferences. Applications are processed through institutional nomination via Campus France offices worldwide; direct applications by students are not accepted.

Available Study Areas and Programs

The scholarship supports programs primarily in:

For Science and Technology:

• Biology and Health
• Ecological Transition
• Mathematics and Digital
• Engineering Sciences

For Humanities and Social Sciences:

• History, French language and civilization
• Law and political science
• Economics and management

Programs covered include Master’s degrees and Doctoral/PhD programs, some of which may be joint doctoral programs with partner institutions abroad.

France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program 2026 Benefits

The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship provides generous benefits including:

• A monthly stipend
  • Approximately €1,181 for Master’s students and
  • €1,700 for Doctoral students
• International return airfare to and from France
• Domestic travel support within France
• Assistance with housing and cultural activities to enrich the student experience
• Tuition fee exemption at participating French institutions (benefit varies by institution)
• Funding duration of up to 24 months for Master’s and up to 12 months for Doctoral programs.
• Monthly Allowance
  • Master’s: €1,200/month
  • Doctoral: €2,100/month
  • First payment via Western Union, next via French bank account
• Tuition & Fees
  • No tuition paid by Eiffel.
  • But students are exempt from tuition in French public institutions for national diplomas.
• Travel
  • Arrival airfare (cheapest class) covered
  • Reimbursement up to 50% of official rate
  • Domestic travel in France (2nd class train/bus) reimbursed
  • Return ticket covered within 12 months after scholarship ends
    (only after submitting final academic results)
• Health Insurance
  • Temporary health insurance provided on arrival
  • Must join French national health insurance (free) within 2 months
  • Then free supplemental insurance provided
• Housing
  • Campus France offers rooms in CROUS dorms or private housing options
• Recreation
  • Cheap cultural trips, tours, events, and weekend outings organized regularly

Benefits Not Included

The scholarship does not cover tuition fees in all cases, although many French institutions offer tuition waivers for Eiffel scholars. Other personal expenses, such as additional travel beyond the award, visa fees, or family support, are not included.

Eligibility Criteria for France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program 2026

To qualify for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, applicants must:

• Master’s Level:
  • Born after March 31, 1996 (under 30 years old)
  • Non-French nationality, not residing in France currently
  • First-time Eiffel applicant, no dual French citizenship​
• PhD Level:
  • Born after March 31, 1990 (under 36 years old)
  • Enrolling in first-year thesis or co-supervised PhD
  • Outstanding academic record and leadership potential​
• Have strong leadership potential in the chosen field
• Be applying for a Master’s or Doctoral degree program at a French University or participating institution
• Submit their application through the nomination of their host French institution via Campus France.
• Must follow the academic program and sit for all exams
• Must submit:
  • Proof of academic enrollment
  • Proof of health insurance enrollment
  • Semester evaluations and annual performance reports
  • Must notify Campus France before internships, travel abroad, or gap year
  • Must acknowledge support in publications

Required Documents for Application

The application package typically includes:

• Proof of identity (passport copy)
• Academic transcripts and diplomas
• Detailed research or study project proposal
• CV or resume
• Statement of Purpose explaining goals and academic intent
• Language proficiency certificates (French and/or English if required)
• Two academic recommendation letters.

France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program 2026 Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Identify a French institution and program that matches your study goals using the Campus France portal.
2. Contact the Campus France office in your home country to understand nomination procedures.
3. Secure an acceptance or intention letter from a French university willing to nominate you.
4. Submit your application through your institution’s nomination on the dedicated Campus France website.
5. Applications sent directly by students without institutional nomination are not considered.
6. Await selection results, which are typically announced starting April 2026.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Begin your preparation early due to the nomination-based application procedure.
• Demonstrate clear academic excellence and leadership qualities in your supporting documents.
• Prepare a compelling and detailed study or research project proposal aligned with the strategic priorities of the scholarship.
• Secure strong recommendation letters that highlight your achievements and potential.
• Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and submitted via the proper channel.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in France (in USD)

Living costs vary by city and lifestyle but on average, international students can expect:

• Accommodation: $320 to $700/month depending on city and housing type
• Food and dining: $210 to $320/month
• Transportation: $32 to $75/month
• Health insurance: $28 to $45/month
• Utilities and Internet: $55 to $110/month
• Leisure and miscellaneous: $105 to $210/month
  Total estimated living expense ranges between $650 to $1,300 per month, with Paris being at the higher end.

Why Choose This Scholarship? Five Reasons

1. Prestigious Government-Backed Program: Backed by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, it enhances your academic profile.
2. Comprehensive Financial Support: Covers living stipend, travel, insurance, and more, reducing financial burdens.
3. Access to Top French Institutions: Enables study at renowned universities with strong academic and research reputations.
4. Cultural and Professional Network: Provides opportunities to engage in cultural activities and networking within France.
5. Career Advancement: Equips scholars with qualifications and international exposure poised to open global career opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I apply directly for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship?
A: No, applications must be nominated and submitted by French institutions via Campus France.

Q: Are tuition fees covered?
A: Tuition fees are generally not covered but may be waived by the institution.

Q: What is the age limit for applicants?
A: 27 or younger for Master’s, and 32 or younger for Doctoral applicants.

Q: How long is the scholarship valid?
A: Up to 24 months for Master’s and 12 months for Doctoral programs.

Q: Are language proficiency tests necessary?
A: Depending on the program, proof of French or English proficiency may be required.

Timeline

• Opening of the call for applications: October 1, 2025
• Deadline for the reception of applications by Campus France:  January 8, 2026 included.
• Publication of results: from the 30th of March, 2026

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For aspiring international students seeking quality higher education and a fully funded opportunity in France, the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026 remains one of the top options worldwide to consider.