Applications for the Eiffel Scholarship Program of the French Government are now accepted for the 2026/2027 academic year.
Application Deadline: January 8, 2026
Study Level: Master’s and Doctoral programs
Location: France
Monthly Allowance: €1,800 (Master’s) or €2,100 (PhD)
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program is one of France’s most prestigious scholarship initiatives, established by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. Designed to attract the world’s brightest international students, this program enables French higher education institutions to recruit exceptional talent across key academic disciplines.
The scholarship specifically targets future leaders and decision-makers from both the public and private sectors, offering them an opportunity to pursue advanced studies at French universities and institutions renowned for their academic excellence and research capabilities.
Who Can Apply?
The Eiffel program welcomes applications from international students with specific eligibility criteria based on academic level:
Master’s Level Applicants
- Age limit: Maximum 29 years old
- Priority regions: Students from developing countries are given priority
- Programs: Master’s degree programs (M1 or M2) or engineering degrees
Doctoral Level Applicants
- Age limit: Maximum 39 years old
- Regions: Students from both developing and industrialized countries are eligible
- Programs: Doctoral programs with joint supervision or co-supervision arrangements between French and foreign institutions
Important note: You cannot apply directly to this scholarship. Applications must be submitted by French higher education institutions on behalf of candidates (see Application Process section below).
Eiffel Scholarship Benefits
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support that goes beyond just tuition coverage:
For Master’s Students
Monthly allowance: €1,800
Additional services include:
- International round-trip airfare
- Domestic transportation coverage in France
- Health insurance
- Housing search assistance
- Access to cultural activities and events
For Doctoral Students
Monthly allowance: €2,100
Additional services include:
- International round-trip airfare
- Domestic transportation coverage in France
- Health insurance
- Housing search assistance
- Access to cultural activities and events
Eiffel Scholarship Duration
The funding period varies based on your program level and enrollment:
Master’s Level:
- Maximum 12 months for M2 (second year Master’s) enrollment
- Maximum 24 months for M1 (first year Master’s) enrollment
- Maximum 36 months for engineering degree programs
Doctoral Level:
- The scholarship is awarded for 12 months of study in France
Eligible Fields of Study
The Eiffel program focuses on two major disciplinary areas covering seven specific fields of study that align with France’s strategic priorities and global challenges:
Science and Technology
- Biology and Health – Medical sciences, biotechnology, public health, pharmaceutical sciences
- Ecological Transition – Environmental sciences, sustainable development, climate studies, renewable energy
- Mathematics and Digital Technology – Computer science, data science, artificial intelligence, applied mathematics
- Engineering Sciences – All engineering disciplines, applied physics, materials science
Humanities and Social Sciences
- History, Language, and French Civilization – French studies, linguistics, cultural studies, history
- Law and Political Science – International law, comparative law, political science, public policy
- Economics and Management – Economics, business administration, finance, management sciences
Important: Your chosen program must fall within one of these seven fields to be eligible for Eiffel funding.
How to Apply for the Eiffel Scholarship
The Eiffel Scholarship has a unique application process that differs from most scholarship programs. You cannot apply directly. Instead, you must be nominated by a French higher education institution. Here’s how the process works:
Step 1: Research and Contact (Your Responsibility)
Identify potential French institutions:
- Research French universities and institutions offering programs in your field of interest
- Visit institutional websites to understand their programs, faculty, and research areas
- Ensure the programs align with the seven eligible Eiffel fields listed above
Seek guidance:
- Contact the Campus France office in your home country for orientation and advice on study plans
- Reach out to the Cooperation and Cultural Action Department at the French Embassy in your country
- These organizations can help you understand the French education system and identify suitable programs
Contact institutions directly:
- Reach out to the International Relations Department of your chosen French institutions
- Inquire about their Eiffel nomination process, internal deadlines (which are often earlier than the official deadline), and required materials
- Each institution has its own internal selection process for deciding which candidates to nominate
Step 2: Institution Nomination (Institution’s Responsibility)
If a French institution decides to support your candidacy:
- The institution formally accepts your application for admission
- The institution agrees to nominate you for the Eiffel scholarship
- The institution submits your complete application online through the dedicated Campus France platform
- They must submit by the official deadline: January 8, 2026
Critical reminder: Applications sent directly by students or submitted by foreign institutions will be automatically declared ineligible. Only French higher education institutions can submit Eiffel applications.
Selection Process
Understanding how candidates are evaluated can help you prepare a stronger application package for the French institutions you contact:
Who evaluates applications?
The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs appoints expert committees to review all applications. Each expert is:
- A research professor with doctoral research authorization
- Internationally recognized in their field
- Appointed for a four-year non-renewable term to ensure objectivity
Evaluation criteria:
Applications are assessed using standardized evaluation grids that consider factors such as:
- Academic excellence and previous achievements
- Quality and relevance of the proposed study project
- Candidate’s professional and academic trajectory
- Potential impact and leadership qualities
- Alignment with program priorities and strategic fields
For detailed evaluation criteria: French institutions nominating candidates can access the official grading grids for Master’s and Doctoral programs through Campus France.
Important Dates – 2026 Cycle
- 📅 October 1, 2025: Call for applications opens
- 📅 Mid-October 2025: Information webinar for French institutions
- 📅 January 8, 2026: Final deadline for institutions to submit applications (no extensions)
- 📅 Starting March 30, 2026: Results announced – winners and institutions notified by email
Important timing note: While the official deadline is January 8, 2026, individual French institutions typically have internal deadlines in November or December 2025 to allow time for their selection process. Contact institutions as early as possible, ideally in September or October 2025.
Tips for Prospective Applicants
Since you need institutional nomination, here are strategies to maximize your chances:
Start early: Begin researching programs and contacting institutions by September 2025 at the latest. The best candidates often secure nominations by October or November.
Target multiple institutions: Apply to several French universities and institutions that offer programs in your field. Each institution can only nominate a limited number of candidates, so casting a wider net improves your chances.
Demonstrate excellence: Prepare a strong academic profile including outstanding grades, relevant research or work experience, publications if applicable, and compelling letters of recommendation.
Articulate your project clearly: Be prepared to explain why you want to study in France, why this specific program and institution, and how it fits into your long-term professional goals.
Show leadership potential: The Eiffel program seeks future decision-makers. Highlight leadership roles, community involvement, and your potential to contribute to your home country or field after graduation.
Perfect your French (if applicable): While many programs are offered in English, demonstrating French language proficiency can strengthen your application, especially for humanities and social sciences.
Follow up professionally: After initial contact with institutions, follow up respectfully if you haven’t heard back within 2-3 weeks. Persistence (without being pushy) demonstrates genuine interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply to multiple programs at different French institutions?
Yes, and it’s actually recommended. Each institution makes its own nomination decisions, so applying to several increases your chances of receiving a nomination.
Do I need to speak French?
Not necessarily. Many programs, especially at the Master’s and PhD levels in science and technology, are offered entirely in English. However, French language skills are valuable for daily life and may be required for some programs in humanities and social sciences.
Can I work while holding the Eiffel scholarship?
The scholarship is designed to allow you to focus on your studies. Check with your host institution and the scholarship terms regarding part-time work limitations.
Does the scholarship cover tuition fees?
The Eiffel scholarship provides a monthly allowance and various services, but tuition fees are typically waived or covered separately by the host institution. Confirm tuition arrangements with your specific institution.
What happens if I’m nominated but don’t win the scholarship?
If a French institution nominates you, they’ve already accepted you for admission. You can still attend the program even without Eiffel funding, though you’ll need to find alternative funding sources. Some institutions may offer their own scholarships to nominated candidates who aren’t selected for Eiffel.
Can I extend the scholarship beyond the initial period?
The Eiffel scholarship is awarded for the specified duration only (12-36 months for Master’s, 12 months for PhD). Extensions are not possible, but some scholars arrange alternative funding for remaining study time if needed.
Why Choose the Eiffel Program?
Beyond the generous financial support, the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship offers several advantages:
- Prestigious recognition: Being an Eiffel scholar is a mark of excellence recognized internationally, enhancing your academic and professional credibility
- Access to top institutions: Study at some of France’s most renowned universities and grandes écoles
- Networking opportunities: Join a community of exceptional scholars from around the world
- Cultural immersion: Experience French culture, language, and lifestyle while pursuing your studies
- Career opportunities: Eiffel alumni often have access to unique professional networks in France and internationally
- Comprehensive support: Beyond financial assistance, receive help with housing, integration, and navigating French administrative systems
Official Resources
For the most current and detailed information about the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program:
🌐 Official Program Website: Campus France – Eiffel Program
📧 Contact Campus France: Reach out to the Campus France office in your country for guidance on your application strategy and institution selection
🏛️ French Embassy: Contact the cultural affairs section of the French Embassy in your country for additional support and orientation
⚠️ Important Verification Note: While PhDme.com carefully verifies all scholarship information before publication, program details can change. Always confirm eligibility requirements, deadlines, benefits, and application procedures directly with Campus France and your target French institutions before investing significant time in your application.
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship represents one of the most prestigious opportunities for international students to pursue advanced studies in France. With comprehensive financial support, access to world-class institutions, and a unique application process, it’s an opportunity worth pursuing for exceptional students with clear academic and professional goals.
Good luck with your application! Remember to start early and contact multiple institutions to maximize your chances of receiving a nomination.
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