Looking for a scholarship to study in France? Several schemes exist for international students: French government scholarships, embassy programmes, Erasmus Mundus joint master’s and school scholarships. Here is how each one works and how to apply in 2027.
The main scholarships for international students
| Scholarship | For whom | What it covers | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| France Excellence Eiffel | International master’s and PhD students with an excellent academic record | A monthly allowance and other benefits from the French government | Through a participating French institution, which nominates candidates |
| French government scholarships (embassies) | Students in many countries, depending on local programmes | Varies: tuition, allowance, insurance or travel | Through the French embassy or Campus France office in your country |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s | Students admitted to a joint master’s run by several European universities | Full scholarships covering tuition, travel and living costs | Directly through each Erasmus Mundus programme |
| Charpak (India) | Indian students | Several programmes for master’s and exchanges | Through Campus France India |
| School scholarships | Students admitted to a given school | Tuition reductions | Through the school’s admission process, e.g. the AI2 scholarship |
Amounts, deadlines and eligibility change every year: always check the official pages, and use the CampusBourses search engine on the Campus France website to find the scholarships open to your country and level.
France Excellence Eiffel
The Eiffel programme is run by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to attract excellent international students to master’s and PhD programmes. Students do not apply directly: participating French institutions nominate their best candidates, so ask your institution early whether it takes part.
Embassy and Campus France scholarships
French embassies run their own scholarship programmes in many countries, often with local partners. Contact the Campus France office or the French embassy in your country, and see our guides by country.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s
Erasmus Mundus programmes are joint master’s degrees taught by several European universities. Admitted students can receive full scholarships. Each programme runs its own selection, usually with deadlines between October and February.
School scholarships and lower tuition
Many schools offer their own scholarships. At AI2, the MSc costs from €10,500 a year after the AI2 scholarship instead of €12,500, and the Bachelor from €9,000 a year. See AI2 scholarships and scholarships for Indian students.
How to maximise your chances
Start 9 to 12 months before your intake: many government deadlines fall in the autumn or winter before.
Prepare a strong academic file: transcripts, recommendation letters and a clear study and career plan.
Apply to your programme early, since many scholarships require an admission or a nomination.
Combine options: a school scholarship plus part-time work (up to 964 hours a year) can make the budget work; see the cost of studying AI in France.
Finding a place to live: read student accommodation in Paris for international students (options, rent, CAF aid, Visale).
Frequently asked questions
Are there full scholarships to study in France?
Yes, but they are competitive: the Eiffel programme, some embassy scholarships and Erasmus Mundus joint master’s can cover a large part or all of the costs.
Can I apply for the Eiffel scholarship myself?
No. French institutions taking part in the programme nominate their candidates. Ask your institution whether it participates.
How do I find scholarships for my country?
Use the CampusBourses search engine on the Campus France website and contact the Campus France office or the French embassy in your country.
Does AI2 offer scholarships?
Yes. The AI2 scholarship reduces MSc tuition from €12,500 to from €10,500 a year; conditions are on the AI2 scholarships page.
Is studying in France free?
No. Public universities charge low, regulated fees and most non-EU students pay higher fees; private schools charge tuition. See is studying in France free.
Apply online: the academic team reviews your file and invites you to an online interview.
