France has opened applications for the 2026 Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, and students can apply until January 8th, 2026. The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs funds this prestigious program to attract top international students to Master’s and Doctoral/PhD studies. All French universities participate in the scholarship, giving students the opportunity to access world-class education without paying tuition or worrying about high living costs.
Overview of the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship program highlights academic excellence and leadership potential. Each year, the French government grants around 350 scholarships to outstanding students who want to study in France. Through this initiative, French institutions showcase their programs to international talent and give students a rich academic and cultural experience.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Master’s Degree Applicants: Must be 27 years old or younger.
- Doctoral/PhD Applicants: Must be 32 years old or younger.
This scholarship emphasizes not only academic performance but also the applicant’s ability to represent their home country and contribute to global development.
Financial Benefits of the Eiffel Scholarship
The scholarship provides comprehensive support to ensure students can focus on their studies:
- Monthly allowance for Master’s students
- Monthly allowance for Doctoral students
- International airfare
- Domestic travel support within France
- Health insurance
- Assistance in securing housing
- Cultural activity programs
Additionally, recipients are exempt from tuition fees for programs leading to a national diploma, including Master’s, Doctorate, or accredited engineering degrees.
Fields of Study for the 2026 Session
The 2026 Eiffel Excellence Scholarship covers the following key academic areas:
- Science and Technology
- Biology and Health
- Ecological Transition
- Mathematics and Digital
- Engineering Sciences
- Social and Human Sciences
- History, French Language, and Civilization
- Law and Political Science
- Economics and Management
These fields are designed to align with France’s strategic development priorities and global innovation trends.
Duration of the Scholarship
The scholarship duration varies depending on the program level:
- Master’s Level:
- 12 months maximum for M2 (second year)
- 24 months maximum for M1 (first year)
- 36 months maximum for Engineering degrees
- Doctoral Level:
- 12 to 36 months depending on the research program
This flexibility allows students to complete their degrees efficiently while enjoying a structured support system.
See also: Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026 in China – Fully Funded Master’s Opportunity
Application Deadline
Applicants must submit their 2026 Eiffel Excellence Scholarship applications by January 8th, 2026. The committee rejects late submissions, so prospective students should start preparing early.
How to Apply
Applying for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship involves several steps to ensure eligibility:
- Contact Campus France:
- Start by reaching out to the Campus France office in your country. Only nominations through Campus France are accepted.
- Use this portal to explore programs and universities: Campus France
- Select Your Program:
- Choose the Master’s or Doctoral program that aligns with your academic and career goals.
- All French higher education institutions are eligible to submit applications on behalf of students.
- Institution Nomination:
- Your chosen university must approve and submit your application online through the Campus France platform.
- Direct submissions by students or foreign institutions are ineligible.
- Official Documentation:
- Prepare all academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a strong motivation letter to strengthen your application.
Apply now
Tips for a Successful Application
- Highlight academic excellence and leadership qualities.
- Clearly explain your career goals and how studying in France supports them.
- Demonstrate cultural adaptability and international perspective.
- Seek guidance from Campus France advisors to avoid errors in submission.
Advantages of Studying in France
Studying in France offers more than just world-class education:
- Exposure to innovative research and technology
- Immersive French language and culture experience
- Opportunities to network with global experts
- Access to cutting-edge laboratories and facilities
These benefits create a well-rounded academic experience for international students.
Scholarship Benefits in Detail
- Monthly Allowance: Covers living expenses, allowing students to focus on studies.
- Travel Costs: Both international and domestic travel expenses are supported.
- Health and Insurance: Ensures students are protected while abroad.
- Cultural Activities: Provides opportunities to integrate into French society.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I apply for the Eiffel Scholarship if I am older than the age limit?
A1: No, Master’s applicants must be 27 or younger, and Doctoral applicants must be 32 or younger.
Q2: Are tuition fees covered by the scholarship?
A2: Yes, tuition fees are waived for programs leading to a national diploma or accredited engineering degree.
Q3: Can I apply directly without Campus France?
A3: No, applications must go through Campus France; direct submissions are ineligible.
Q4: How many scholarships are awarded each year?
A4: Approximately 350 scholarships are granted annually.
Q5: Can I choose any French university?
A5: Yes, all French higher education institutions participating in the program can submit applications.
See also: Tips for Passing Internship Interviews (Common Questions & Answers)
