The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Programme is one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships available to international students who wish to pursue Master’s or PhD studies in France.
Funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and administered by Campus France, the Eiffel Scholarship aims to attract outstanding students from around the world and prepare future global leaders in priority academic fields.
If you are planning to study in France and
looking for significant financial support, the Eiffel Scholarship can make your
academic journey both affordable and highly prestigious.
What Is the France Excellence Eiffel
Scholarship?
The Eiffel Scholarship Programme was created to strengthen France’s international
academic influence by supporting high-achieving foreign students. Unlike many
scholarships, students do not apply
directly to Campus France. Instead, French higher education institutions nominate candidates
they consider academically excellent and strategically aligned with the
scholarship’s objectives.
The programme supports studies at:
·
Master’s
level
·
Doctoral
(PhD) level
It is designed for students who demonstrate
exceptional academic performance and strong leadership potential.
Why Choose the Eiffel Scholarship?
The Eiffel Scholarship stands out because it
is:
·
Government-funded
and highly prestigious
·
Open to students from all countries except France
·
Focused on strategic academic fields
·
Designed to support future decision-makers and
professionals
Being selected as an Eiffel Scholar
significantly enhances your academic profile and international career prospects.
Who Is Eligible for the Eiffel Scholarship?
To be eligible for the France Excellence
Eiffel Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Nationality Requirements
·
You must be a non-French citizen
·
Dual nationals including French citizenship are not eligible
Age Requirements
·
Master’s
applicants: Generally must be under
29 years old
·
PhD
applicants: Must be under 35
years old
Academic Excellence
·
Strong academic record, usually among the top students in your class
·
Clear academic and professional goals
·
Excellent recommendations and academic
consistency
Institutional Nomination
·
You must be nominated by a French university
·
Only one
institution may nominate you
·
Direct applications by students are not accepted
Eligible Fields of Study
The Eiffel Scholarship focuses on priority
academic fields that align with France’s development and global strategy.
Science and Technology
·
Engineering Sciences
·
Mathematics and Digital Sciences
·
Biology and Health
·
Environmental Sciences and Ecological Transition
Humanities and Social Sciences
·
Economics and Management
·
Law
·
Political Science and International Relations
Applicants must ensure their chosen Master’s
or PhD programme falls within these approved areas.
What Does the Eiffel Scholarship Cover?
The Eiffel Scholarship provides generous financial support, making it
easier for international students to focus fully on their studies.
Monthly Allowance
·
Master’s
students: Approximately €1,181
per month
·
PhD
students: Approximately €1,700–€2,100
per month
Additional Benefits
·
International round-trip airfare
·
Domestic travel allowance within France
·
Health
insurance coverage
·
Support with visa and administrative procedures
·
Cultural activities organized by Campus France
Duration of Funding
·
Master’s:
12 to 36 months depending on the program
·
PhD:
Up to 36 months
Important note: The Eiffel Scholarship usually does not cover tuition fees, but tuition
at French public universities is already very low due to government subsidies.
How Competitive Is the Eiffel Scholarship?
The Eiffel Scholarship is highly competitive. Only a limited
number of candidates are selected each year, and universities carefully screen
applicants before submitting nominations.
Key selection factors include:
·
Academic excellence
·
Quality of the study or research project
·
International profile and leadership potential
·
Strategic relevance of the program
Being admitted to a French university alone
does not guarantee nomination — institutions often have internal selection processes.
How to Apply for the Eiffel Scholarship
(Step-by-Step)
Because students cannot apply directly, the
application process requires careful planning.
How to apply for
the France Excellence Eiffel scholarship
First Step
·
Contact Campus France in your country of origin or the French
Embassy's Cooperation and Cultural Action Department, who can guide you and
advise you on your study plans.
·
To learn about the procedures and deadlines for submitting an
application, contact the international relations department of a French
institution via its website, by e-mail or by telephone.
·
It's up to you to choose the school or university that best fits
your plans for studying in France.
All French higher education institutions can submit applications.
Second Step
·
The institution accepts and supports your application for the
France Excellence Eiffel scholarship
·
The institution submits your application online via the dedicated
Campus France website
If you are in Sierra Leone vist the Below center to inquire.
Centre CAPAGO de Freetown
Contact details
L'antenne diplomatique de Freetown
39 Loop Rd
Freetown
Sierra Leone
L'antenne diplomatique de Freetown
39 Loop Rd
Freetown
Sierra Leone
Applications sent directly by students or by foreign institutions will be declared ineligible.
Key Application Timeline
Although dates may vary slightly each year,
the typical timeline is:
·
October –
December: Universities open internal calls
·
January:
Deadline for universities to submit nominations
·
March –
April: Results announced by Campus France
·
September:
Studies begin in France
Early preparation is essential, as many
universities close internal applications weeks before the official deadline.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
·
Apply to academically
strong programs that match your background
·
Prepare a clear
and focused study or research plan
·
Secure strong
academic recommendation letters
·
Contact universities early about Eiffel nomination opportunities
·
Avoid applying to multiple institutions for
nomination — only one is allowed
Why the Eiffel Scholarship Is Worth It
The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship is
more than just financial support. It offers:
·
International recognition
·
Access to elite academic networks
·
Strong professional credibility
·
Long-term career advantages
For students aiming to study in France at a
high academic level with strong government backing, the Eiffel Scholarship is
one of the best opportunities available.
Reminisce Thoughts
The France
Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Programme is a life-changing opportunity
for talented international students who aspire to study in France. With
generous monthly stipends, travel support, and international prestige, it enables
scholars to focus on academic excellence without financial stress.
If you have an outstanding academic profile
and a clear vision for your future, pursuing an Eiffel-supported Master’s or
PhD in France could be the gateway to a successful global career.