Paris-Saclay University International Scholarship 2026 in France is a highly competitive funding program that supports top international students to study a master’s degree at Université Paris-Saclay, one of Europe’s strongest research universities. This guide covers all key details you need for a strong understanding of the 2026 intake.
Basic Information about the Scholarship 2026
The Paris-Saclay University International Scholarship 2026 (also known as the Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarships – IDEX) is designed for outstanding international students who want to pursue a master’s program in France.
- Host country: France.
- Host institution: Université Paris-Saclay and its component schools.
- Level: Master’s (M1 or M2 – first or second year of master’s).
- Duration: 1–2 years depending on program length.
- Scholarship type: Fully funded living grant with travel and visa support (tuition is generally covered by the French public system or separate waivers).
- Supports outstanding international students to study master’s programs
- Especially encourages students aiming to continue to a PhD
For the 2026 intake, many major scholarship platforms announce a deadline of 16 March 2026 for applications, so candidates should target applying by mid-March 2026 and always confirm exact dates on the official Université Paris-Saclay website.
University and Institution Details
Université Paris-Saclay is a leading French public research university located on the Paris-Saclay cluster, just south of Paris. It brings together several top engineering schools and institutes under one umbrella.
Key institutions under Université Paris-Saclay include:
- Université Paris-Saclay (central university).
- AgroParisTech.
- CentraleSupélec.
- École Normale Supérieure (ENS) Paris-Saclay.
- Institut d’Optique Graduate School (IOGS).
- INSTN-CEA and other associated institutions.
The university is especially strong in science, engineering, computer science, life sciences, health, and social sciences, and consistently ranks among the world’s top universities in mathematics and physics. Studying here gives you access to cutting-edge laboratories, strong industry links, and the Paris region’s dynamic job market.
Study Areas and Available Programs
The Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarship covers almost all master’s programs offered by the university, with only one major restriction.
- Engineering, Sciences and Information Technologies
- Social Sciences
- Biodiversity, Agriculture and Food, Society, Environment
- Biology, Medicine, Pharmaceutical studies
- Sport and Human Motion Sciences
- Law, Political Science
- Humanities
- Basic Sciences.
- All master’s programs except vocational/apprenticeship programs
Paris-Saclay University International Scholarship Benefits
The Paris-Saclay University International Scholarship 2026 provides generous financial support to help you cover living and study-related costs.
Main benefits include:
- Living Grant
- €10,000 per year
- Paid monthly (September–June)
- Amount reduced if studying or interning abroad
- Travel & Visa Support
- Up to €900 per year (based on country of origin)
- Payment Details
- Paid in 10 monthly installments
- Paid only after arrival in France and registration
- No advance payment
- Additional Support
- Help with:
- Visa & residence permit
- Administrative procedures
- Accommodation search (housing not guaranteed)
- Access to international student services
- Guidance for PhD pathway
- Help with:
Benefits Not Included
Despite its strong package, the Paris-Saclay University International Scholarship does not cover every possible expense. Typical items not included:
- Tuition and registration fees are not covered
- Jury decisions are final and non-appealable
- Health insurance beyond what is offered
- Housing is not automatically included
Eligibility Criteria for the Scholarship
The Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarships target new international students who have never or rarely studied in France and who show strong academic potential.
Key eligibility points:
- Be international (non-French nationality)
- Be admitted to a master’s program at Université Paris-Saclay or one of its partner institutions:
- AgroParisTech
- CentraleSupélec
- ENS Paris-Saclay
- INSTN-CEA
- IOGS
- Université Évry Paris-Saclay
- Université Paris-Saclay
- UVSQ
- Be first-time enrolled in France
- (Exchange programs, internships, language programs excluded)
- Be under 30 years old in the year of application
- Not receive other funding over €600/month
- Not combine with Eiffel, Europa, or Erasmus Mundus scholarships
Always verify the updated regulations for the exact 2026 call on the university website or official scholarship regulations PDF.
Required Documents for the Application
To build a strong Paris-Saclay University International Scholarship 2026 application, you will usually need:
- Valid passport or national ID.
- Academic transcripts for all university studies (bachelor and, if applicable, previous master’s studies).
- Degree certificates or provisional certificates.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting academic excellence, research, and relevant experience.
- Motivation letter or personal statement explaining your study plan, career goals, and why you chose Université Paris-Saclay.
- One or more recommendation letters (referees submit them through an online system with a separate deadline).
- Proof of admission or conditional admission to a master’s program at Université Paris-Saclay.
- Proof of language proficiency (English and/or French), depending on program requirements.
Some programs or departments may ask for additional materials such as a research proposal, portfolio (for design-related programs), or standardized test scores, so always check the program’s specific page.
Paris-Saclay University International Scholarship Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Applying for the Paris-Saclay University International Scholarship is a two-stage process: admission to the master’s program and then scholarship selection.
- Step 1: Apply to a Master’s Program
- Apply before the scholarship deadline
- Late applications are not accepted
- Step 2: Pre-selection by Program Coordinators
- Selected candidates receive:
- Email with scholarship application link
- Request for 2 academic references (if applicable)
- Selected candidates receive:
- Step 3: Final Selection by Jury
- Evaluation based on:
- Academic background
- Personal project
- Motivation (especially for PhD, for M2 applicants)
- 📌 Bonus points for:
- Refugee students or those with subsidiary protection (UNHCR supported)
- Evaluation based on:
Tips for a Successful Application
To increase your chances for the Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarship 2026:
- Highlight academic excellence: Strong grades, ranking in your class, and any awards or distinctions strengthen your case.
- Show a clear research or professional project: Explain how the master’s program fits your long-term goals and, for M2, how it supports a potential PhD or high-impact career.
- Tailor your motivation letter to Paris-Saclay: Mention specific labs, courses, professors, or projects that attract you to this university.
- Choose strong referees: Ask professors or supervisors who know you well and can write detailed, positive recommendations about your potential.
- Respect deadlines and instructions: Incomplete or late applications are often rejected automatically, so submit early.
- Demonstrate international readiness: Language skills, international experience, and adaptability can show that you will integrate well into life in France.
A clear, honest story about who you are, what you want to do, and why Paris-Saclay is the right place for you can set you apart from other applicants.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)
The scholarship provides 10,000 euros per year (about 1,000 euros per month) for 10 months. To plan better, here is an estimated monthly budget for a student near Paris-Saclay in USD (approximate):
- Accommodation (shared student residence or small studio): 500–800 USD per month, depending on location and housing type.
- Food and groceries: 250–350 USD per month (cooking at home, occasional campus restaurant meals).
- Transportation (public transport pass, campus shuttle): 60–90 USD per month.
- Health insurance top-up and basic medical costs: 40–70 USD per month (some costs covered under French system).
- Study materials, phone, internet: 60–100 USD per month.
- Personal and leisure expenses: 100–200 USD per month.
Overall, many students live with a monthly budget of around 1,000–1,400 USD, which aligns closely with the scholarship grant when converted from euros. Students from lower-cost backgrounds should still plan modest savings to be comfortable, especially during the first months in France.
Why Choose This Scholarship? (At Least 5 Reasons)
Choosing the Paris-Saclay University International Scholarship 2026 offers many academic and personal advantages.
- Generous financial support
- With 10,000 euros per year plus up to around 900–1,000 euros for travel and visa costs, you receive strong financial backing compared to many other European scholarships.
- World-class research environment
- Université Paris-Saclay is recognized globally for its excellence in STEM, life sciences, and social sciences, and sits at the heart of a major research and innovation cluster near Paris.
- Wide choice of master’s programs
- Almost all master’s programs across all academic fields (except vocational/apprenticeship tracks) are eligible, which gives you exceptional flexibility to study what fits your profile.
- Strong career and PhD prospects
- Many programs connect directly to research labs and industry partners, and M2 students are encouraged to continue to PhD, which is highly supported in France.
- International and multicultural experience
- You join a diverse community of international students in an English- and/or French-speaking academic environment, gaining both academic and cultural growth in France.
- Strategic location near Paris
- Living near Paris gives access to global companies, international organizations, cultural institutions, and a powerful alumni network.
These reasons make the Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarship 2026 one of the most attractive options for ambitious students looking to study in France on a funded program.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the Paris-Saclay University International Scholarship 2026 fully funded?
The scholarship provides a 10,000-euro annual living grant plus up to around 900–1,000 euros for travel and visa, which effectively covers main living costs for most students, while tuition is typically low at French public universities and may be handled separately.
2. Do I apply directly for the scholarship?
You must first apply and be admitted to a master’s program at Université Paris-Saclay; only admitted students can be nominated and receive an email invitation to complete the scholarship application form.
3. Can I apply if I already studied in France?
You are generally not eligible if you have already been enrolled in a French higher education institution for a degree, except in certain cases such as being enrolled in a French institution abroad or having only participated in non-certifying mobility programs.
4. What is the age limit for the Paris-Saclay scholarship?
Most recent calls require candidates to be 30 years old or younger during the year of selection.
5. Can I combine this scholarship with other funding?
You cannot usually receive the Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarship if you are already benefiting from another scholarship or financial aid exceeding about 600–650 euros per month, and it cannot be combined with major French government schemes such as the Eiffel scholarship.
6. Is French language mandatory?
Many master’s programs are taught in English, especially in science and engineering, while some require French or are bilingual; language requirements depend on the specific master’s program rather than the scholarship itself.
7. How competitive is the scholarship?
The scholarship is highly competitive and targets top international applicants with strong academic records and motivated study plans, so an excellent application and clear goals are essential.
Important Dates (2026 – Paris Time)
- Coordinator selection deadline: 16 March 2026 (11:59 pm)
- Scholarship application deadline: 20 March 2026 (11:59 pm)
- Recommendation deadline: 23 March 2026 (11:59 pm)
- Results announced: Early May 2026
