France is a top destination for international students, thanks to its prestigious universities, vibrant culture, and relatively affordable tuition. However, even with low public tuition, living expenses can add up. This is why securing a France scholarship can make your academic journey more affordable and rewarding.
In this article, you will find a comprehensive guide to the best scholarships in France, how to apply, eligibility criteria, and links to official sources.
Why Study in France?
France offers high-quality education across a broad range of disciplines. Top universities include:
- Sorbonne University
- Sciences Po Paris
- École Normale Supérieure
- Université PSL
- HEC Paris
- INSEAD
In addition to academic excellence, France offers:
- Affordable tuition at public universities (around €243 per year for Master’s degrees, ~€3,770 per year for non-EU students)
- A vibrant multicultural environment
- The opportunity to work part-time (up to 964 hours per year)
- Subsidized student housing, healthcare, and meal plans
France also offers generous scholarship programs designed to attract talented international students.
Top Scholarships to Study in France
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program is a prestigious scholarship offered by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to attract the best international Master’s and PhD students.
Benefits include:
- Monthly stipend of €1,181 (Master’s) or €1,700+ (PhD)
- Round-trip airfare
- Health insurance
- Housing assistance
- Cultural activities support
Eligibility: Applicants must be under 25 (Master’s) or 30 (PhD) and nominated by a French institution. Direct applications are not accepted.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees are funded by the European Union and offer scholarships for joint Master’s degrees delivered by a consortium of European universities, many of which are based in France.
Benefits include:
- Tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel and installation costs
- Insurance
Applications must be submitted directly to each Erasmus Mundus program.
CROUS Scholarships and Social Aid
CROUS provides need-based scholarships to international students enrolled in public institutions in France.
Grants are awarded based on family income, academic progress, and other criteria. Additional support includes:
- Subsidized student housing
- Low-cost dining (CROUS restaurants)
- Healthcare support
Applications are submitted through your French institution or local CROUS office.
Sciences Po Emile Boutmy Scholarship
The Sciences Po Emile Boutmy Scholarship targets top international students outside the EU enrolling at Sciences Po.
Benefits include:
- €3,000 to €12,300 per year (tuition reduction)
- In some cases, additional living allowances
Applicants must apply through the Sciences Po admission platform.
École Normale Supérieure International Selection
The École Normale Supérieure (ENS) International Selection scholarship is one of the most prestigious in France for students aiming for top academic careers.
Benefits include:
- Monthly grant of €1,000
- Access to ENS student housing
- A pathway toward competitive academic and research careers
Applicants must pass a rigorous selection process involving written and oral examinations.
Grenoble University International Master’s Scholarships
The Grenoble Alpes University Master’s Scholarship is aimed at international Master’s students.
Benefits include: Up to €8,000 for the academic year to support tuition and living expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
Each scholarship has its own eligibility requirements, but common criteria include:
- Excellent academic performance
- Proficiency in English or French (DELF/DALF, IELTS, or TOEFL certificates)
- Acceptance or admission to a French institution
- For Eiffel: nomination by a French institution
- For CROUS: demonstrated financial need
Age limits may apply (e.g., under 25 or 30 for certain programs).
How to Apply
- Start early: Begin 9 to 12 months before your target start date.
- Prepare documents: Academic transcripts, language certificates, personal statement, letters of recommendation, CV, and research proposal (if applicable).
- Contact your university: For scholarships like Eiffel or Erasmus Mundus, your chosen institution must nominate or submit your application.
- Submit your application: Follow the specific instructions for each scholarship.
- Prepare for interviews: Some programs require interviews.
Cost of Living in France
- Tuition fees: €243 to €3,770 per year depending on the program and institution
- Living costs: €800 to €1,200 per month (depending on location)
- Part-time work: allowed up to 964 hours/year
With scholarships such as Eiffel or Erasmus Mundus, many of these costs are significantly reduced.
Success Story
Maria from Brazil won an Eiffel Excellence Scholarship to pursue a Master’s in International Relations at Sciences Po Paris. The scholarship covered her monthly living expenses, airfare, and housing. Upon graduation, she returned home to work in public policy, advancing diplomatic relations between France and Brazil.
Official Scholarship Pages
To learn more and apply, visit:
- Campus France – Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
- CROUS Grants and Social Aid
- Sciences Po Emile Boutmy Scholarship
- École Normale Supérieure International Selection
- Grenoble Alpes University Master’s Scholarship
Conclusion
Studying in France is more accessible than many students think, thanks to a wide range of scholarship programs. With proper planning, a strong application, and the right motivation, you can secure funding to pursue your academic goals in France.
Start your application journey today and open the door to world-class education in France.
