Eiffel Excellence Scholarship in France 2026 (Fully Funded)
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship in France 2026 is now open for applications, with a deadline of January 8, 2026. This prestigious scholarship is fully funded, allowing international students to pursue Master’s and Doctoral programs at top universities in France. Established by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, the scholarship aims to attract exceptional students worldwide and strengthen international collaboration in higher education.
Unlike other French scholarships, the Eiffel Excellence Program provides comprehensive financial support, including monthly stipends, airfare, housing assistance, and access to cultural activities. With approximately 350 scholarships awarded every year, it stands as one of the most competitive opportunities in Europe.
Summary of the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026
- Host Country: France
- Degree Levels: Master’s and PhD
- Funding Body: French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs
- Number of Awards: Around 350 annually
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully funded (stipend, airfare, travel, housing assistance, insurance, cultural activities, and tuition exemption)
- Application Deadline: January 8, 2026
- Eligible Applicants: Students from all nationalities nominated through French higher education institutions
Why Apply for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship in France 2026?
Studying in France has long been considered a gateway to academic excellence, cultural richness, and global career opportunities. The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship not only removes financial barriers but also provides international students with unique exposure to world-class universities, research facilities, and multicultural networks.
Unlike partial funding opportunities, the Eiffel Scholarship guarantees that recipients receive full financial coverage, allowing them to focus on academics and research without worrying about tuition or living expenses.
Key Details of the France Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026
- Host Country: France
- Degree Level: Master’s and Doctoral (PhD)
- Scholarship Provider: French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs
- Number of Scholarships: Approximately 350 per year
- Deadline: January 8, 2026
Financial Benefits of the Eiffel Scholarship
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026 in France provides full financial support that includes:
- A monthly allowance of around €1,181 for master’s students.
- A monthly allowance of around €1,700 for doctoral students.
- Round-trip international airfare from the student’s home country to France.
- Domestic travel support within France.
- Health insurance coverage for the entire duration of the program.
- Housing assistance and support in finding accommodation.
- Access to cultural enrichment programs organized for international scholars.
- Tuition exemption for students enrolled in accredited national diploma programs (Master’s, Doctorate, Engineering).
This comprehensive package makes the Eiffel Scholarship one of the most generous and attractive scholarships in Europe.
Eligible Fields of Study under the Eiffel Scholarship 2026
The program covers a wide range of academic disciplines to ensure inclusivity and relevance. Eligible fields include:
Master’s and Doctoral Level Studies in:
- Science and Technology
- Biology and Health
- Ecological Transition & Environmental Sciences
- Mathematics and Digital Science
- Engineering and Applied Sciences
- Social Sciences and Humanities
- History, French Language, and Civilization
- Law and Political Science
- Economics and Management
This diversity ensures that scholars from both STEM and non-STEM fields can benefit from the program.
Duration of the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
- Master’s Programs:
- 12 months maximum for M2 (second year).
- 24 months maximum for M1 (first year).
- 36 months for Engineering degrees.
- Doctoral Programs:
- Eiffel Scholarships are awarded for 12 to 36 months, depending on the duration of the research project.
Eligibility Criteria for the Eiffel Scholarship 2026
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a national of a non-French country (students with dual nationality including French are not eligible).
- Apply through a French higher education institution that supports the application.
- Age requirements:
- Under 27 years old for Master’s applicants.
- Under 32 years old for PhD applicants.
- Hold an appropriate Bachelor’s degree or equivalent before starting the program.
- Demonstrate an excellent academic record.
- Submit a strong research or study proposal.
- Agree to return to their home country after completing the degree to contribute to development.
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How to Apply for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship in France 2026
The application process is unique because students cannot apply directly to the Eiffel Scholarship program. Instead, applications must go through French universities.
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Research French universities and programs on the Campus France website.
- Choose a program that aligns with your academic goals and check if it is eligible under the Eiffel Scholarship.
- Contact the international office of your chosen French institution to express your interest in being nominated for the Eiffel Scholarship.
- Prepare all required documents (transcripts, CV, motivation letter, research proposal, recommendation letters, proof of English/French proficiency).
- The French institution reviews applications and nominates candidates for the Eiffel Program.
- Nominated applications are submitted online via the dedicated Campus France portal.
- The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs reviews applications and announces selected scholars.
Important: Applications submitted directly by students will be rejected. Only universities in France can nominate candidates.
Eiffel Scholarship Deadline 2026
- Application Deadline: January 8, 2026
- Result Announcement: Usually in April 2026
- Program Start: Academic year 2026/2027
Eiffel Scholarship vs Other French Scholarships
| Feature | Eiffel Excellence Scholarship | Other French Scholarships (MOPGA, Erasmus Mundus, etc.) |
| Funding | Full (stipend, travel, housing, insurance, cultural programs) | Partial or full (varies) |
| Degree Levels | Master’s and PhD | Mostly Master’s or PhD |
| Application | Through universities only | Direct application possible |
| Prestige | Flagship French Government Scholarship | Competitive but less recognized internationally |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I apply directly to the Eiffel Scholarship program?
No, students cannot apply directly. Applications must be submitted by French higher education institutions on behalf of candidates.
Q2: Can I apply for multiple programs in different universities?
Yes, you may contact multiple institutions, but each institution will decide whether to nominate you.
Q3: Is there an age limit for applicants?
Yes, applicants for master’s must be under 27, and PhD applicants must be under 32 years old.
Q4: Are tuition fees covered by the scholarship?
Yes, tuition for accredited diploma programs is fully covered or waived.
Q5: Do I need French language proficiency to apply?
Not always. Some programs are offered in English, but knowledge of French is an advantage.
Q6: How competitive is the Eiffel Scholarship?
Very competitive, with around 350 awards granted annually from thousands of applications.
Conclusion
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship in France 2026 stands as one of the most sought-after opportunities for international students aspiring to study in Europe. By providing full financial coverage, prestigious recognition, and access to France’s world-class universities, the program empowers future leaders, researchers, and innovators to excel in their academic and professional journeys.
If you are looking for a fully funded scholarship in France in 2026, this program is an unmissable chance. With the deadline set for January 8, 2026, students are encouraged to start preparing their applications early and reach out to French universities for nomination.
Visit the Official Website of the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship to apply.