Studying in France is a dream for many international students, and the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity to turn that dream into reality. Sponsored by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, this prestigious scholarship supports talented international students pursuing Master’s and PhD degrees at leading French universities, including the renowned Paris-Saclay University.

Recognized as one of Europe’s top research institutions, Paris-Saclay University provides an exceptional academic environment, innovative research facilities, and strong international partnerships. The Eiffel Scholarship not only covers significant living expenses but also connects scholars with world-class researchers, global professional networks, and career-enhancing opportunities.

Whether you are interested in engineering, science, economics, law, or health sciences, this scholarship can help you gain an internationally recognized degree while studying in one of the world’s most respected education systems.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship 2026, including eligibility requirements, scholarship benefits, required documents, application procedures, and important deadlines.

France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship 2026 Overview

Why Choose Paris-Saclay University?

Paris-Saclay University has earned an international reputation for excellence in education, scientific research, and innovation. Every year, thousands of talented students from around the world choose the university because of its outstanding academic standards and modern research facilities.

Students selected through the Eiffel Scholarship benefit from:

• Access to internationally recognized professors and researchers
• Advanced laboratories and research centers
• Strong collaborations with industries and research organizations
• Membership opportunities within the European University Alliance (EUGLOH)
• International networking events and academic collaborations
• A multicultural learning environment that prepares graduates for global careers

The university also manages the initial scholarship selection process before forwarding nominated candidates to Campus France for final evaluation.

France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Benefits

The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship provides generous financial support, allowing students to focus on their studies and research without significant financial stress.

Master’s Scholarship Benefits

Students enrolled in a Master’s program receive:

• Monthly allowance of €1,200
• Various support services provided by the French Government
• Additional assistance during the study period

PhD Scholarship Benefits

Doctoral candidates receive:

• Monthly allowance of €2,100
• Government-funded support services
• Academic and research assistance throughout the scholarship

Besides financial assistance, recipients gain international recognition that strengthens their academic and professional profiles worldwide.

Eligible Academic Fields

Applicants must apply for programs related to one of the scholarship’s approved disciplines, including:

• Biology and Health
• Ecological Transition
• Mathematics
• Digital Technologies
• Science
• Engineering
• French Language
• French Civilization
• French History
• Law
• Political Science
• Economics
• Management

Choosing an eligible program is one of the key requirements for receiving the scholarship.

Eligibility Criteria

Before beginning your application, carefully review the eligibility requirements.

Master’s Degree Applicants

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be an international student.
• Be born after March 31, 1996.
• Apply for the Eiffel Scholarship for the first time.
• Submit their application through only one French institution.
• Not currently be studying in France.
• Not receive another French Government scholarship.
• Apply for an eligible Master’s program offered at Paris-Saclay University.

PhD Applicants

Doctoral applicants must:

• Be an international student.
• Be born after March 31, 1990.
• Submit only one Eiffel Scholarship application.
• Apply through a single higher education institution.
• Not receive another scholarship funded by the French Government.
• Apply within one of the approved academic disciplines.
• Also submit an application for the University of Paris-Saclay International Chemistry Track Scholarship, where applicable according to university requirements.

Meeting every eligibility condition is essential, as incomplete or ineligible applications are generally not considered during the selection process.

Scholarship Duration

The funding period varies depending on the level and type of study.

Master’s Programs

Scholarship duration includes:

• 12 months for students entering M2
• 24 months for students entering M1
• 12 to 36 months for engineering programs, depending on the admission year

PhD Programs

Funding is available for:

• 36 months for first-year PhD candidates beginning research in France
• 18 months for students undertaking co-supervised doctoral studies
• 12 months for eligible second- or third-year co-supervised doctoral students

The duration depends on the applicant’s academic situation and the structure of the doctoral project.

Priority Countries

Although students from many countries may apply, Paris-Saclay University gives particular attention to candidates whose latest degree was completed in selected countries across different regions.

Priority regions include:

Asia and Oceania

• Australia
• China
• India
• Indonesia
• Japan
• Kazakhstan
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Vietnam

Europe

• All European countries
• Georgia
• Ukraine
• EUGLOH Alliance member countries

North America

• Canada
• United States

Latin America

• Argentina
• Brazil
• Chile
• Colombia
• Mexico

North Africa and the Middle East

• Algeria
• Egypt
• Lebanon
• Morocco
• Palestine
• Tunisia

Sub-Saharan Africa

• Benin
• Cameroon
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Ghana
• Kenya
• Madagascar
• Nigeria
• Senegal
• South Africa

Being from a priority country does not guarantee selection but may align with the university’s international recruitment objectives.

Required Documents

Preparing complete and well-organized application documents can significantly improve your chances of success.

Applicants should prepare:

• Valid passport or national identity card
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English or French (1–2 pages)
• Official academic transcripts
• Degree certificates or graduation documents
• Personal statement or motivation letter (1–2 pages)
• Up to three academic or professional recommendation letters
• Language proficiency certificate, when required
• Current enrollment certificate (if applicable)
• Optional evidence of academic excellence, such as awards, rankings, Dean’s List recognition, or merit scholarships

Additional Documents for PhD Applicants

Doctoral candidates must also provide:

• PhD funding plan
• Research proposal and progress report
• Scientific evaluation written by an independent professor or research director
• Cotutelle or co-supervision agreement, if applicable

Before uploading your documents, ensure they are clearly scanned and combined into the required PDF format specified by the university.

How to Apply for the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship 2026

The application process involves both admission to the university and the scholarship nomination process.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Carefully review all eligibility requirements, including nationality, age limits, academic discipline, and scholarship restrictions.

Step 2: Select an Eligible Degree Program

Choose a Master’s or PhD program offered by Paris-Saclay University that falls within one of the approved academic fields.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all required documents and organize them according to the university’s submission guidelines. Ensure every file is complete, accurate, and easy to read.

Step 4: Apply for University Admission

Submit your application for admission to your chosen academic program. Receiving consideration for the Eiffel Scholarship requires applying for admission; the scholarship application alone is not sufficient.

Step 5: Complete the Scholarship Application

Submit your Eiffel Scholarship application through the appropriate online portal within the designated application period.

• Master’s applicants: October 1 – November 9, 2025
• PhD applicants: October 1 – November 30, 2025

After the university reviews eligible applications, selected candidates will be nominated to Campus France for the final scholarship selection.

Application Deadline

Applicants should carefully note the official deadlines:

Late submissions are generally not accepted, so applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their documents well in advance.

Tips to Improve Your Selection Chances

The Eiffel Scholarship is highly competitive, making a strong application essential. Consider these strategies:

• Maintain excellent academic performance.
• Write a clear and personalized motivation letter that aligns your goals with your chosen program.
• Secure recommendation letters from referees who know your academic or research abilities well.
• Submit all required documents accurately and before the deadline.
• Demonstrate how studying in France will contribute to your future career and benefit your home country.
• Carefully proofread your application to avoid errors or missing information.

A complete, well-prepared application can significantly strengthen your candidacy.

Final Thoughts

The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship 2026 at Paris-Saclay University is one of France’s most prestigious funding opportunities for outstanding international students. Beyond financial support, it offers access to exceptional academic resources, internationally recognized researchers, and valuable global networks that can shape your future career.

If you meet the eligibility requirements and are committed to pursuing advanced studies in France, this scholarship is an excellent opportunity to receive a world-class education while developing the skills and experience needed to make a lasting impact in your field. Start preparing your application early, ensure your documents are complete, and submit everything before the relevant deadline to maximize your chances of success.

Apply here https://www.universite-paris-saclay.fr/en/admission/bourses-et-aides-financieres/france-excellence-eiffel-scholarship

Explore More Fully Funded Scholarships

If you’re interested in this scholarship, you may also want to explore these fully funded opportunities for international students. Comparing multiple scholarships can increase your chances of securing financial support for your studies.

• Chevening Scholarship 2027 (Fully Funded) – Study in the UK
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• Boston University Presidential Scholarship 2026
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Tip: Apply for multiple scholarships rather than relying on a single opportunity. Many universities and governments offer fully funded programs for talented international students each year.