France is one of the most sought-after study destinations for international students, offering world-class education, rich culture, and a chance to experience life in one of Europe’s most vibrant countries. For students considering studying in France, scholarships are a great way to ease the financial burden. Among these, fully funded scholarships stand out, as they cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and more.
This article explores the top 15 fully funded scholarships in France for international students, providing detailed information about each opportunity and how to apply. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. program, these scholarships offer a fantastic chance to study in one of the world’s leading academic systems.
1. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships offered by the French government. It aims to attract top international students for Master’s and Ph.D. programs in various fields, including science, economics, engineering, and humanities. The Eiffel scholarship covers a monthly allowance for living expenses, health insurance, and international travel.
- Eligibility: Non-European international students, under 30 years for Master’s, and under 35 years for Ph.D. programs.
- Benefits: Monthly allowance of €1,181 (Master’s) or €1,700 (Ph.D.), travel expenses, and health insurance.
- How to Apply: Apply through the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs or partner universities.
2. Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarships
The Université Paris-Saclay offers scholarships to international students applying for a Master’s degree program at the university. This scholarship is specifically designed to attract students from around the world, supporting those with strong academic potential.
- Eligibility: International students with a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) applying for a Master’s program.
- Benefits: €10,000 per year, as well as exemption from tuition fees.
- How to Apply: Apply directly through the university’s scholarship portal.
3. Ampère Excellence Scholarship by ENS de Lyon
The Ampère Excellence Scholarship is provided by the École Normale Supérieure de Lyon (ENS Lyon) to support high-achieving international students pursuing Master’s programs in science, humanities, and social sciences.
- Eligibility: International students (excluding French citizens) applying for Master’s programs.
- Benefits: €1,000 per month for up to two years.
- How to Apply: Apply via the ENS Lyon online portal.
4. The Erasmus+ Scholarship Program
The Erasmus+ Program is a European Union initiative that provides financial aid to international students pursuing education in Europe, including France. It supports students at all levels, from undergraduate to postgraduate, and fosters cross-cultural exchange.
- Eligibility: Students enrolled in a partner university or institution within the EU or from an eligible non-EU country.
- Benefits: Living allowance, travel reimbursement, and sometimes full tuition coverage.
- How to Apply: Check eligibility and apply through your home university’s Erasmus+ coordinator.
5. Sciences Po University Emile-Boutmy Scholarship
Sciences Po University offers the Emile-Boutmy Scholarship to exceptional international students from outside the European Union who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree at the university. This scholarship is a testament to Sciences Po’s commitment to fostering global talent.
- Eligibility: Non-EU international students applying for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
- Benefits: Up to €10,000 per year (varies depending on the program).
- How to Apply: Apply directly through the Sciences Po admissions portal.
6. Université de Paris International Scholarships
The Université de Paris offers scholarships for international students who wish to pursue Master’s and Ph.D. programs at the university. These scholarships cover living expenses and provide academic support.
- Eligibility: International students applying for graduate programs.
- Benefits: €8,000 per year for Master’s and Ph.D. students.
- How to Apply: Apply through the university’s official scholarship portal.
7. Charpak Scholarships for Indian Students
The Charpak Scholarship is a program by the French Embassy in India for Indian students who wish to study in France. It offers full funding for Master’s programs in science, technology, and humanities.
- Eligibility: Indian students applying for a Master’s program in France.
- Benefits: Full tuition fees, living allowance, and airfare.
- How to Apply: Apply via the French Embassy in India’s scholarship portal.
8. INSEAD Scholarships for International Students
INSEAD offers various scholarships to international students pursuing MBA programs. These scholarships are designed to promote diversity and provide financial support to students who demonstrate financial need and outstanding academic achievements.
- Eligibility: International students applying for the MBA program.
- Benefits: Varies from partial to full coverage of tuition fees.
- How to Apply: Apply directly through the INSEAD admissions portal.
9. Holland Scholarship for International Students
Though primarily for students wishing to study in the Netherlands, the Holland Scholarship also applies to students who plan to study in France as part of a joint-degree program with participating French universities.
- Eligibility: International students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) enrolled in a joint-degree program.
- Benefits: €5,000 towards tuition fees.
- How to Apply: Apply via your home institution.
10. The University of Montpellier International Scholarships
The University of Montpellier provides scholarships to international students at both undergraduate and graduate levels. The scholarships are aimed at attracting high-caliber students to study various disciplines, including science, technology, and economics.
- Eligibility: International students applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate program.
- Benefits: Varies, typically €5,000-€10,000 annually.
- How to Apply: Apply through the University of Montpellier scholarship portal.
11. The French Government Scholarship
The French Government Scholarship is another initiative aimed at fostering international academic exchange. Available to students from various countries, this scholarship supports those who wish to pursue both undergraduate and graduate-level programs in France.
- Eligibility: International students from countries with French diplomatic relations.
- Benefits: Full tuition coverage, living stipend, and other allowances.
- How to Apply: Application process is managed by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
12. Université Grenoble Alpes International Scholarships
Université Grenoble Alpes offers scholarships to international students wishing to pursue their studies at this leading French university. It is one of the top 10 universities in France and welcomes applications from around the world.
- Eligibility: International students enrolling in a Master’s or Ph.D. program.
- Benefits: Tuition fee waiver and living stipend.
- How to Apply: Apply through the university’s online portal.
13. The Rhône-Alpes Scholarship Program
The Rhône-Alpes region in France offers scholarships to international students enrolling in higher education institutions located within the region. This is an excellent opportunity for students who plan to study in one of the region’s top universities.
- Eligibility: International students admitted to a higher education institution in the Rhône-Alpes region.
- Benefits: Up to €10,000 per year.
- How to Apply: Apply through regional scholarship portals.
14. French Embassy Scholarships
The French Embassy in various countries offers scholarships for students planning to study in France. These scholarships are typically available to Master’s and Ph.D. students from non-EU countries.
- Eligibility: Varies depending on the country, but typically non-EU international students.
- Benefits: Full tuition coverage, travel expenses, and living allowance.
- How to Apply: Apply through your local French Embassy.
15. Bourses de Excellence Major Scholarship
The Bourses de Excellence Major is a French government-funded scholarship aimed at talented students from specific countries. This scholarship is ideal for students who want to pursue their studies in France at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
- Eligibility: International students from selected countries.
- Benefits: Monthly stipend, travel allowance, and health insurance.
- How to Apply: Apply through the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Conclusion
France remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students, offering a rich blend of cultural diversity, academic excellence, and scholarship opportunities. These top 15 fully funded scholarships in France open doors for talented individuals from around the world to pursue their academic dreams in one of the most vibrant and historically rich countries in Europe. With financial aid covering everything from tuition fees to living costs, these scholarships provide an excellent opportunity for deserving students to study in France without financial worry.