The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships offered by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. Designed to attract outstanding international students, it supports Master’s and PhD studies in France’s top universities.
Whether you want to pursue Engineering, Economics, Law, Sciences, Arts, or Social Sciences, the Eiffel Scholarship offers a fully funded pathway to study in one of the world’s most academically rich and culturally diverse countries.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026 — including eligibility, benefits, application process, deadlines, pro tips, mistakes to avoid, FAQs, and more.
What is the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship?
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program was created by the French government to support international students who demonstrate exceptional academic and leadership potential.
It enables French higher education institutions to attract top international talent to Master’s and Doctoral programs across France and provide them with the environment where they can excel in their fields.
Eligible Fields of Study
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship covers two broad disciplinary areas:
1. Science & Technology
- Biology & Health
- Ecological Transition
- Mathematics & Digital Sciences
- Physics, Chemistry & Engineering Sciences
2. Humanities & Social Sciences
- Law & Political Science
- Economics & Management
- History, Philosophy, Arts, and Language (in limited cases)
Eligible Study Levels
Master’s Level
You can apply for:
- Master 1 (M1)
- Master 2 (M2)
- Engineering programs (5-year courses)
Master’s funding duration is:
- 12 months (M2)
- 24 months (M1)
- 36 months (Engineering programs)
PhD / Doctoral Level
The Eiffel Scholarship also supports Doctoral research projects, with funding ranging from 12 to 36 months.
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Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be non-French nationals.
- All international students can apply.
- Dual citizens with France are not eligible.
- Master’s: Must be 27 years old or younger
- PhD: Must be 32 years old or younger
- Strong academic background
- Excellent GPA in previous degrees
- Relevant academic and professional achievements
Benefits
France offers one of the best fully funded packages through this scholarship.
Master’s Level Benefits
- Monthly stipend: €1,181
- International return airfare
- Domestic travel allowance
- Health insurance
- Housing assistance (€150–€200 per month)
- Cultural and professional activities
PhD Level Benefits
- Monthly stipend: €1,700–€2,100
- International round-trip flight
- Health and travel insurance
- Access to research facilities, labs & expert supervision
What the Scholarship DOES NOT Cover
- Tuition fees (some universities waive them)
- Daily personal expenses beyond the stipend
How to Apply for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step Process)
The key thing:
Students cannot apply directly. Only universities submit applications to Campus France.
Here is the exact process:
Step 1: Choose a French University
Find an institution participating in the Eiffel Scholarship and select an eligible Master’s or PhD program.
Step 2: Apply for Admission
Submit your application to the university or program.
(Each university has its own deadline, usually between October–December 2025.)
Step 3: Request the University to Nominate You
Tell the admissions department or program coordinator:
“I want to be nominated for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026.”
If they agree, they will prepare your dossier.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
Typical documents include:
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Motivation letter
- Study plan / research proposal (PhD)
- Language proficiency (English or French)
- Passport copy
Step 5: University Sends Application to Campus France
Deadline for universities to submit to Campus France is January 8, 2026.
Step 6: Final Results
Results usually come out in:
March or April 2026
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Tips to Increase Your Chances of Selection
1. Start Early
Universities have strict internal deadlines — apply at least 2–3 months before.
2. Write a Powerful Motivation Letter
Explain:
- Your career goals
- Why France
- Why this university
- How the Eiffel Scholarship will help you
- Your leadership potential
3. Choose a Program That Matches Your Background
A strong academic match increases your chances.
4. Contact Professors (for PhD applicants)
A supervisor’s support greatly improves nomination chances.
5. Highlight Achievements
Awards, publications, research experience, internships, leadership roles, etc.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection
❌ Applying directly to Campus France
❌ Missing deadlines
❌ Weak or generic motivation letter
❌ Choosing ineligible programs
❌ Lack of connection between past studies and future goals
❌ Poor communication with the university
What Happens After You Are Selected?
1. Receive your admission + scholarship letter
2. Apply for your French student visa
3. Travel to France (fully funded airfare)
4. Register at the university
5. Settle in with housing assistance and health insurance
You can also access:
- Free cultural trips
- Research networks
- Employment opportunities
Other Important Rules
- You cannot apply directly to Campus France.
- Only French universities can nominate students.
- You cannot receive an Eiffel Scholarship and another French government scholarship at the same time.
- Your application must match the program chosen at the French institution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply directly for the Eiffel Scholarship?
No. Only French universities can submit your application.
2. What language is required — English or French?
Both are acceptable depending on the program. Many universities offer programs entirely in English.
3. Is there an age limit?
Yes:
- Master’s: under 27
- PhD: under 32
4. Are tuition fees included?
Tuition is not directly covered, but many universities waive fees for Eiffel scholars.
5. When will applications open?
Official call starts in October 2025 for the 2026 intake.