Last Updated: 28-May-2026

Scholarships in France: Types, Eligibility and Application Process

France is a popular study destination for international students. It has top universities, strong research centers, and degrees that are recognized worldwide. Students can study courses in engineering, business, arts, science, and social studies at some of the best institutions in Europe. Many students choose France because of its high-quality education, good lifestyle, and strong job opportunities after graduation.

However, living in France can be expensive. Students need money for accommodation, food, health insurance, travel, and study materials. This is why scholarships in France are very helpful. There are many scholarships available for international students at Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels. These scholarships are offered by the French government, universities, private organizations, and foundations. Some scholarships cover full costs, including tuition fees and living expenses. Others provide partial support or monthly financial help. Scholarships reduce the financial burden on students and allow them to focus on their studies and career goals. With proper planning and early application, studying in France can become more affordable and achievable.

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Types of Scholarships in France for International Students

France offers many scholarship options for international students who want to study Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD programs.

Tuition fees in public universities in France are already low compared to countries like the USA or the UK. However, students still need money for living expenses such as accommodation, food, health insurance, travel, and study materials. Scholarships help reduce these costs and make studying in France more affordable, especially for Indian students.

Scholarships in France are mainly divided into three types:

• Government-funded scholarships are supported by the French government or the European Union. These are usually highly competitive and merit-based. They often provide monthly stipends, travel allowances, health insurance, and sometimes full funding. Programs like the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship and Erasmus+ fall under this category.
• Non-government scholarships are funded by political foundations, research organizations, religious institutions, or private companies. These scholarships may focus on academic excellence, leadership qualities, social commitment, or specific fields of study.
• University-specific scholarships are offered directly by French universities and grandes écoles to attract talented international students. These scholarships are usually merit-based or need-based and provide partial financial support for a limited duration.

Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme

The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is one of the most popular and highly respected scholarship programs in France. It is managed by Campus France on behalf of the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs. The program supports many international students every year and aims to attract talented students to study in French universities.

The Eiffel Scholarship is mainly available for Master's and PhD programs in different fields. These include engineering, economics, management, law, political science, science, and many other subjects. The main goal of the program is to promote international education and support talented students from different countries, including India.

The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship provides good financial support to help students manage their living expenses in France.

• €1,181 per month for Master's students
• €1,700 per month for PhD students
• Return flight tickets to France
• Health insurance
• Access to cultural activities and events

Why the Eiffel Scholarship is Important?

France has low tuition fees in public universities compared to many other countries. With the financial support from the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, students can study in France without worrying too much about living costs. This makes it a very good option for Indian students.

However, the Eiffel Scholarship is highly competitive. Students are selected based on their academic performance, relevant experience, leadership skills, and clear career goals. Students cannot apply for this scholarship directly. They must first get admission to a French university, and the university will nominate them for the scholarship.

Since the competition is high, students should start preparing early, check the eligibility carefully, and submit a complete and strong application. With good planning and strong determination, the Eiffel Scholarship can help students get quality education and better career opportunities in France.

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Government-Funded Scholarships in France

French Government Scholarship (BGF)

The French Government Scholarship (Bourse du Gouvernement Français or BGF) is managed by the French Embassy in the student’s home country. It is meant for international students who have already received admission to a French university and need financial support for their studies.

Scholarship Amount:

• Monthly stipend between €700 and €1,500, depending on the level of study
• In many cases, students do not have to pay tuition fees at public universities
• Health insurance is provided
• Accommodation support is given in some cases

Students need to apply through the French Embassy or Consulate in their home country. Indian students can apply through the French Embassy in New Delhi or the nearest regional consulate.

Erasmus+ Scholarship

Erasmus+ is funded by the European Commission and supports students who want to study in Europe, including France. It is especially popular among students who are enrolled in Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree programs. Students from outside the EU, including Indian students, can apply for Erasmus Mundus Scholarships.

Scholarship Amount:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• €1,000 to €1,400 per month for living expenses
• Travel and initial setup allowance

This scholarship allows students to study in different European countries during their course. It is a fully funded scholarship and is highly competitive.

Charpak Scholarship (India-Specific)

The Charpak Scholarship is specially designed for Indian students who want to study in France. It is managed by the French Embassy in India and Campus France India, and it is named after Nobel Prize-winning scientist Georges Charpak.

Scholarship Amount:

• Monthly grant of around €500 to €700 for Master’s students
• Partial tuition fee coverage at selected institutions
• Health insurance support
• Internship support for engineering and science students (Lab Programme)

The Charpak Scholarship is very useful for Indian students because it is created specifically for them and has a simple application process through Campus France India.

Non-Government Scholarships in France

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)

The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions scholarship is funded by the European Commission and is mainly for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers who want to do advanced research in Europe, including France.

Scholarship Amount:

• €3,400 to €4,000 per month
• Extra allowance for researchers moving from another country
• Research funding to cover project expenses

This is a fully funded research scholarship and offers one of the highest monthly payments among European scholarships. It is a great option for Indian students who want to build a strong research career in fields like science, engineering, medicine, social sciences, and other advanced areas.

Fondation de France Scholarship

The Fondation de France offers different scholarships in fields such as arts, science, social studies, and environment. These scholarships are given based on academic performance, quality of research, and social contribution. Some programs are specially designed for PhD students or young researchers working on specific topics.

Scholarship Amount:

• The amount depends on the program and field of study
• Usually covers living expenses and research costs

Indian students with strong academic records and good research or social work experience are encouraged to apply for Fondation de France scholarships.

Campus France Excellence Scholarship

Campus France supports different scholarship programs in partnership with universities and institutions in France. These programs help international students get extra financial support for their studies.

Scholarship Amount:

• The amount varies depending on the program and university
• Covers part of living expenses or tuition fees
• Some programs also include health insurance and travel support

These scholarships are useful for students who need additional financial help while studying in France.

University-Specific Scholarships in France

Sciences Po Paris – Émile Boutmy Scholarship

Sciences Po offers the Émile Boutmy Scholarship for non-EU international students who have strong academic performance and financial need. It is one of the most popular university scholarships in France.

Scholarship Amount:

• Up to €12,700 per year for Master’s students
• Also available for undergraduate (Bachelor’s) students at Sciences Po
• Selection is based on academic performance and financial need

HEC Paris – Merit Scholarship

HEC Paris offers merit-based scholarships to international students who are admitted to its MBA and Master’s programs. The scholarship amount depends on the course and the student’s profile.

Scholarship Amount:

• Covers part or a large portion of tuition fees
• Available for MBA, Master in Management (MiM), and specialised Master’s programs
• Selection is based on academic performance, leadership skills, and interview performance

Paris-Saclay University – International Master's Scholarship

Paris-Saclay University, ranked among the top universities in France and Europe, offers an international scholarship program for outstanding non-EU students applying to Master's programs.

Scholarship Amount:

• Annual award of €10,000 for living expenses
• Available across various faculties — engineering, natural sciences, life sciences, and more
• Must apply directly through the university admissions office

Université Grenoble Alpes – International Scholarship

Université Grenoble Alpes offers scholarships for international students enrolled in its Master's programs, particularly in science, technology, and engineering. The monthly support helps students manage living costs.

Scholarship Amount:

• Approximately €700 per month for the duration of the Master's program
• Available to non-EU students with strong academic records

Université Paris Cité – International Excellence Scholarship

Université Paris Cité provides merit-based scholarships to international students applying to its Master's programs. These scholarships support talented students who show strong academic potential and a clear research or career objective.

Scholarship Amount:

• Monthly stipend for 10 to 12 months
• Amount varies based on the program and available funds
• Selection is based on academic performance and motivation letter quality

Requirements to Apply for Scholarships in France

• Strong academic records with good marks in previous studies
• Admission letter from a French university or grande école
• English language test score like IELTS or TOEFL (for English-taught programs)
• French language test score like DELF, DALF, or TEF (for French-taught programs)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your study goals and why you need the scholarship
• One or two Letters of Recommendation (LOR) from teachers or an employer
• Updated CV or résumé with your education and work details
• Research proposal (required for PhD and research-based scholarships)
• Proof of financial need such as income certificate or bank statement (for need-based scholarships)
• Valid passport copy

How to Apply for Scholarships in France from India?

Step 1: Choose Your Course and University

First, decide which course you want to study in France and at what level — Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD. Then choose universities or grandes écoles that offer your course. Check the eligibility, required marks, and language requirements like IELTS, TOEFL, DELF, or DALF. Choosing the right course and university is important because some scholarships are linked to specific programs or universities.

Step 2: Research Available Scholarships

After selecting your university, search for scholarships available for international students. Look for government, private, and university scholarships. Read the eligibility, benefits, and deadlines carefully on official websites before applying. For example, the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship requires nomination from your university, so check this process early.

Step 3: Check Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, make sure you meet all the requirements. This may include minimum marks, language test scores, work experience, age limits, or financial proof. Checking this early helps you avoid rejection and saves time.

Step 4: Prepare Required Documents

Most scholarships need documents like academic transcripts, certificates, passport copy, language test scores, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LOR), and a CV. Some scholarships may also ask for a research proposal or financial proof. Keep all documents updated and ready before deadlines.

Step 5: Register on Campus France India

Indian students must register on the Campus France India platform and complete the Études en France process. This step is required for student visa applications and many scholarships.

Step 6: Apply for University Admission

In many cases, you need to get admission to a French university before applying for scholarships like the Eiffel Scholarship. Apply through the university website or Campus France India and wait for your admission letter.

Step 7: Submit the Scholarship Application

Once your documents are ready, apply through the official scholarship portal. For the Eiffel Scholarship, your university will nominate you. For scholarships like Charpak or BGF, apply through Campus France India or the French Embassy. Fill the form carefully and write a clear motivation letter explaining your goals.

Step 8: Attend Interview if required

Some scholarships may require an interview. You may be asked about your studies, future plans, why you chose France, and your interests. Prepare well and answer confidently to improve your chances.

Step 9: Receive Scholarship Confirmation

If you are selected, you will get an official scholarship letter with details like amount, duration, and conditions. Keep this letter safe because you will need it for your visa process.

Step 10: Apply for a French Student Visa

After getting your admission and scholarship, you can apply for a French long-stay student visa (VLS-TS) at the French Consulate. Your scholarship letter will act as proof of financial support, which is important for your visa application.

Indian Government Scholarships to Study in France

Apart from French government and university scholarships, Indian students can also apply for scholarships offered by the Government of India or those available only for Indian citizens. These scholarships either directly support study abroad or provide financial help that can be used to study in France.

National Overseas Scholarship (NOS)

The National Overseas Scholarship is one of the most important scholarships offered by the Government of India for students who want to study abroad, including in France. It is managed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (for SC, DNT/SNT, Landless Agricultural Labourers, and Traditional Artisans) and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (for ST students).

Scholarship Amount:

• Yearly maintenance allowance of USD 15,400
• Extra allowance for research and equipment
• Return flight ticket to the country of study
• Medical insurance

Eligibility:

• Must belong to SC, ST, Denotified Nomadic Tribes (DNT), Landless Agricultural Labourers, or Traditional Artisans categories
• Family income should be less than ₹8 lakh per year
• Must have admission in a foreign university ranked in the top 500 of the QS World University Rankings (many French universities are included)
• Minimum 60% marks in Master’s degree
• 125 scholarships were given for 2025–26

Charpak Scholarship (India–France Bilateral)

The Charpak Scholarship is a special scholarship for Indian students who want to study in France. It is managed by the French Embassy in India and Campus France India. Since it is supported by both India and France, it is one of the best direct scholarship options for Indian students.

Scholarship Amount:

• Monthly support of around €500 to €700 for Master’s students
• Partial tuition fee support at selected universities
• Health insurance support
• Internship support for engineering and science students (Lab Programme)

State Government Overseas Scholarships

Many state governments in India also offer scholarships for students who get admission in foreign universities, including those in France. The amount and eligibility are different for each state.

• Telangana: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Overseas Vidya Nidhi: Offers up to ₹20 lakhs along with flight ticket and visa costs. France is included. This is for SC/ST/BC/Minority students from Telangana.
• Andhra Pradesh: AP Ambedkar Overseas Vidya Nidhi (SC): Provides funding up to ₹10 lakhs for SC students from Andhra Pradesh who get admission to foreign universities.
• Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala also offer overseas scholarships for SC/ST/OBC students. Students should check their state government websites for the latest updates and details.

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Selection

To improve your chances of getting a scholarship in France, follow these simple tips:

• Start your preparation at least 12 to 15 months before your course starts. Scholarship deadlines in France can be as early as January for courses that begin in September.
• Choose a course that clearly matches your previous studies and background. The selection team should easily understand why you chose that program.
• Register on the Campus France India platform early, as the Études en France process is required and takes time to complete.
• If you have done any research work, internships, or published papers, make sure to include them clearly in your application.
• Try to learn basic French, even if your course is in English. It shows your interest in the culture and can help during interviews.
• Write a clear and honest motivation letter. Explain why you deserve the scholarship, your career plans, and how studying in France will help you reach your goals.
• Apply for more than one scholarship at the same time to increase your chances of getting selected.

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Final Thoughts

Studying in France is a great option for international students. It offers good education, a rich culture, and strong career opportunities. There are many scholarships available, such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, Charpak Scholarship, Erasmus+, and university scholarships from Sciences Po, HEC Paris, and Paris-Saclay University.

Scholarships usually provide between €500 and €1,700 per month, depending on the program. Research scholarships like Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions may offer higher amounts. Many scholarships also include health insurance, travel support, and sometimes free tuition.

However, these scholarships are competitive, so students must prepare well. Make sure you meet all requirements, submit the right documents, and clearly explain your goals. It is best to start preparing 12 to 15 months in advance.

There are many scholarship options available. Apply early, check deadlines, and apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances. With good planning, studying in France with a scholarship is possible.

How Can We Help You Secure Scholarships in France?

We provide complete support for students who want to apply for scholarships in France and reduce their financial burden while studying abroad. Our team guides you at every step, from selecting the right scholarship program to successfully obtaining your student visa.

We offer:

• Guidance to help you choose the right scholarship programs such as Eiffel, Charpak, Erasmus+, and university-specific funding based on your academic background.
• Coaching support to improve your IELTS, TOEFL, DELF, or DALF test scores.
• Complete assistance with scholarship applications, including form filling and document submission.
• Support in preparing strong SOPs, LORs, CVs, and research proposals to improve your selection chances.
• Guidance for university admission, Campus France India registration, and French student visa (VLS-TS) process.
• Assistance with blocked account and financial documentation requirements for the visa.