Thousands of students around the world dream to study in France. With its world-class educational institutions, modern research environment and rich cultural heritage, France has become an important center of international education. The best part is that there is no need to bear the heavy cost of education. Fully funded scholarships can cover not only your fees but also accommodation and travel expenses.
This guide will inform you of the most popular scholarships, eligibility rules, benefits, application times, and practical methods of success for 2025–2026.
Reasons for choosing education in France
France is one of the best countries in the world in terms of educational quality and sustainable educational development. Some of the main reasons for this are:
- World-renowned institutions: Sorbonne, Sciences Po, and Ecole Normal Superior are globally recognized.
- Reduced living costs for students: CAF housing allowances, subsidized meals and discounted travel facilities reduce costs.
- Broad academic sector: There are opportunities in every field from engineering and business to political science and arts.
- Strong system of scholarships: Both the government and universities provide scholarships to attract talented foreign students.
France’s famous fully funded scholarships
These are some of the prominent scholarships that can fully cover your educational expenses.
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program (Masters and PhD)
The Eiffel Scholarship is a high-quality program of the French Foreign Ministry, which aims to bring the world’s best students to French educational institutions.
Main benefits:
Monthly stipend for living expenses
Return air tickets and travel expenses within France
Health insurance and opportunities for cultural activities
Help with accommodation
Note: This scholarship does not pay tuition fees directly, but most French universities waive fees for Eiffel scholarship holders, making it virtually fully funded.
Eligibility:
Masters or PhD candidates who are not French citizens.
Subjects: Science, Technology, Economics, Law, or Political Science.
Age Limit: Less than  30 years for Masters, less than 35 years for PhD.
Method of application:
Direct application is not possible. First enroll in a French institution that will nominate you.
Applications usually open in October and the university’s internal deadlines are in the fall.
Erasmus Mandes Joint Master’s Degrees
Erasmus Mandus is the best choice if you want to experience studying in more than one country. France is also involved in many programs.
Main benefits:
Full tuition fee coverage
Monthly stipend
Travel and setup expenses
Health Insurance
Features:
This program gives you a joint or double degree from more than one university and gives you the opportunity to spend at least one academic year in France.
University of Paris-Scully Masters Scholarship
This scholarship is for the best foreign students from select master’s programs of the University of Paris-Scully.
Main benefits:
 €10,000 per academic year
Up to  €1,000 for travel and visa
Modern research facilities and networking opportunities
Eligibility:
Admission to master’s program is mandatory.
Priority is for students coming to France for the first time.
Sciences Po Emile Botami Scholarship
Sciences Po is a leading university in French political science, public affairs and international relations. The Emile Botami scholarship is for non-European students.
Main benefits:
For undergraduates: up to €14,720 per year
For Masters: Program and Funding as Needed
It is possible to renew the scholarship on specific terms
This scholarship can also be taken with the Eiffel Scholarship, which can create a fully funded package.
Ecole Normal Superior the Lyon Excellence Scholarship
This scholarship is for talented foreign students enrolled in master’s programs.
Main benefits:
Approximately €1,000 monthly stipend (for 10 months)
Possibility of renewal for the second year
Suitable for students in research and academic fields
Other Opportunities
Campus France Scholarship Search Tool: List of National and Institutional Scholarships.
France Excels Europa: At master’s level for EU students.
Regional and institutional advantages: such as PSL, Paris Seate, and Grenoble INP.
 “Fully funded” means in France
A fully funded scholarship typically provides these facilities:
Monthly stipend
Health insurance and travel expenses
Housing Assistance (under CAF Scheme)
Full or partial exemption in tuition fees
You can also explore our GPA to CGPA Calculator  to prepare your academic profile before applying.
Application Procedure
Program Selection: Choose programs consistent with your educational background and future goals.
Look at scholarship paths: Find out if the program nominates for Eiffel or provides internal funding.
Prepare strong application: Add the best statement of purpose, short and effective CV, and standard reference letter.
Take care of deadlines: Scholarships like Eiffel have deadlines before normal admissions.
Confirmation of tuition policy: Ask the university directly if the scholarship fee is not mentioned.
Proposed Schedule for 2025-2026
August-September 2025: Research of programs and scholarships, preparation of statement of purpose and CV.
October-November 2025: Application in programs for Eiffel nomination.
December 2025–February 2026: Applications to Erasmus Mandus Programs.
March-May 2026: Applications for IDX and other university scholarships.
June–August 2026: Waiting for results, visa application, and accommodation arrangements.
Expert Advice on Success
Focus on specialization: Select programs according to your strongest field.
Highlight results: Add measurable achievements to the application.
Contact: Verify with the Eligibility and Tuition Policy Program Coordinator.
Show global thinking: Explain how you will contribute globally after education.
Are fully funded scholarships available at bachelor's level?
 In small numbers, but institutions such as Sciences Po offer large undergraduate scholarships.
Does the Eiffel Scholarship pay tuition fees?
Not directly, but most companies waive fees for eiffel holders.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Yes, as long as there is no conflict between the terms.
Is French compulsory?
Many Masters and PhD programs are in English, but French programs must give a certificate of language.
Concluding Words
If you follow this approach, achieving fully funded education in France can turn into an achievable goal. Choosing the most suitable program, knowing the scholarship process, and preparing a well-prepared application in advance are essential steps toward success. Whether you’ve been awarded a unique scholarship offered by Eiffel, Erasmus Mandes, or a university, studying in France can give you a rich educational journey and an unforgettable cultural experience.For more guides like this, check out our Study Abroad Scholarships in germany page.
