The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious opportunities for international students who dream of studying in France. Established by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, this scholarship allows outstanding students from around the world to pursue Master’s or PhD programs in priority fields such as science, technology, engineering, law, economics, and social sciences. With a focus on developing future leaders and decision-makers, this scholarship offers generous monthly stipends, travel support, insurance, and cultural enrichment activities, making it one of the most attractive fully funded awards in Europe.

About the France Excellence Eiffel Program

The France Excellence Eiffel Program was designed by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to strengthen France’s global influence in higher education and to attract top-tier international talent. It allows French universities to nominate excellent international candidates for advanced studies, especially those aiming to contribute to their home countries after graduation.

This program stands out for its dual focus on science & technology and humanities & social sciences, offering opportunities in fields ranging from biology and health to law and political science. By funding only the very best international students, France aims to build a strong global network of leaders who promote peace, cooperation, and development.

France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship 2026 Overview

Field	Details
Scholarship Name	France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship 2026
Host Institution	French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (through French higher education institutions)
Study Levels	Master’s and Doctoral programs
Eligible Fields	Sciences, Engineering, Health, Mathematics, Ecology, Law, Political Science, History, Economics, Management
Student Type	International students only (non-French)
Application Deadline	January 8, 2026
Results Announced	March 30, 2026
Scholarship Value	€1,200/month (Master’s), €2,100/month (PhD) + travel, insurance, housing support, cultural activities
Duration	Up to 36 months (depending on program level)
Application Submission	Only by French institutions via Campus France

Scholarship Benefits

The Eiffel Scholarship provides an excellent financial and cultural support package, allowing recipients to focus entirely on their studies and research.

• Master’s students receive €1,200 per month (from Jan 2026).
• Doctoral students receive €2,100 per month (from Jan 2026).
• International travel support to and from France.
• Domestic transportation within France.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Housing assistance to find suitable accommodation.
• Cultural activities to enrich the study experience in France.
• Exposure to a vibrant academic and professional network.

⚠ Note: Tuition fees are not covered by this scholarship.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Be a non-French international student.
2. Master’s candidates: must be under 30 years old at the time of application (born after March 1996).
3. PhD candidates: must be under 35 years old at the time of application (born after March 1991).
4. Must apply through a French higher education institution, as direct student applications are not accepted.
5. Must intend to pursue a Master’s, engineering degree, or joint doctoral program in France.
6. Cannot hold another French government scholarship (e.g., Erasmus+, AUF).
7. Must begin studies between September and November 2026.

Application Process

The Eiffel Scholarship application process is institution-driven, meaning students cannot apply directly. Instead, they must first secure admission or support from a French institution.

• Step 1: Research French universities offering your field of study.
• Step 2: Contact the international relations office of the university and express your interest in applying for the Eiffel Scholarship.
• Step 3: If selected, the university will submit your application via Campus France.
• Step 4: Wait for results, which will be announced by March 30, 2026.

Comparison with Similar Scholarships

Scholarship	Host Country	Level	Monthly Stipend	Tuition Coverage
Eiffel Scholarship	France	Master’s/PhD	€1,200–€2,100	❌ (Not covered)
DAAD Scholarships	Germany	Master’s/PhD	€934–€1,300	✅ Covered
Fulbright Program	USA	Master’s/PhD	$1,000–$2,500	✅ Covered
Chevening Scholarship	UK	Master’s	£1,347	✅ Covered
Erasmus Mundus	EU (various)	Master’s	€1,000–€1,400	✅ Covered

FAQs About France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship 2026

1. Can I apply directly for the Eiffel Scholarship?
   No, applications must be submitted by French universities, not individual students.
2. Does the Eiffel Scholarship cover tuition fees?
   No, tuition fees are not included, but most French universities offer affordable tuition or waivers.
3. What is the age limit for applicants?
   Under 30 for Master’s and under 35 for PhD applicants.
4. Can I combine the Eiffel Scholarship with Erasmus+?
   No, you cannot combine Eiffel with other French government scholarships.
5. What documents do I need to prepare?
   CV, academic transcripts, research proposal (PhD), statement of purpose, and references.
6. Are English-taught programs eligible?
   Yes, many French universities offer English-taught Master’s and PhD programs.
7. How long does the Eiffel Scholarship last?
   Up to 36 months for Master’s engineering, up to 36 months for PhD, and shorter durations for M1/M2.
8. Can I apply if I’m already studying in France?
   Yes, if you get a nomination by your institution and you meet the eligibility criteria.
9. When will I get the results?
   From March 30, 2026.
10. How competitive is the Eiffel Scholarship?
    Highly competitive, as it is one of the most prestigious scholarships in France, awarded to top students worldwide.

Important Notes

• Committee will reject direct student applications.
• Study start date must be between September 1 and November 30, 2026.
• Students holding dual French nationality are not eligible.
• Eiffel Scholars must to return to their home countries after their studies.

If you are an ambitious student with dreams of studying in France, the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship 2026 could be your gateway. Begin researching French institutions now and secure their support before the January 8, 2026 deadline. APPLY NOW.

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