The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious and fully funded program created by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to attract top international students to French universities. Designed for future global leaders, this highly selective scholarship supports exceptional applicants who wish to pursue master’s or PhD degrees in France in priority academic fields. It offers world-class education, generous financial benefits, and strong professional development opportunities.
Overview of the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026 enables international students up to 29 years old (Master’s) and 35 years old (PhD) to study at accredited French higher education institutions.
Applications are submitted only by French universities, not by students directly, making the program institution-driven and competitive.
funded areas include:
- Science & Engineering
- Political Science
- Law
- Economics & Management
Key Dates & Timeline
| Phase | Date |
|---|---|
| Call for Applications Opens | October 1, 2025 |
| Deadline for Universities to Submit Applications | January 8, 2026 |
| Results Announcement | March 30, 2026 onward |
| Studies Begin | Between September 1 – November 30, 2026 |
Table of Contents
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be foreign nationals (French citizens are not eligible)
- Apply through a French university
- Be under 29 years old (Master’s) or 35 years old (PhD)
- Hold strong academic records
- Not previously received an Eiffel scholarship for the same level
- Apply for programs that match the eligible academic fields
Benefits & Funding Coverage
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026 offers one of the most generous funding packages in Europe:
For Master’s Students
- €1,200 monthly allowance
- Health insurance
- Cultural activities
- International travel support (partial reimbursement)
- Exemption from tuition fees at public institutions
For PhD Students
- €2,100 monthly allowance
- Same similar benefits as master’s
- Research mobility can be split (minimum 6 months per stay)
Accommodation support through CROUS or private housing networks is also available.
Available Fields of Study
Master’s Level
- Engineering & Sciences
- Biology & Health
- Environmental Sciences
- Mathematics & Digital Sciences
- Economics & Management
- Political Science
- Law
PhD Level
All research areas aligned with the priority themes of the French Ministry.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
Important: Students cannot apply directly. A French university must nominate them.
Step 1 – Choose Your Program
Select a French institution and academic program that matches your field.
Step 2 – Contact the University
Request nomination for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship.
Step 3 – Submit Your Documents
Universities upload the application to Campus France.
Step 4 – Wait for Results
Campus France announces results in March 2026.
Step 5 – Begin Studies in France
Scholarship holders arrive between September and November 2026.
Required Documents
Typical documents requested by universities include:
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Transcripts & diplomas
- Passport copy
- Research proposal (PhD)
- Reference letters
- Proof of language proficiency (depending on program)
Important Rules & Conditions
- The scholarship cannot be deferred.
- Only study periods in France are funded.
- Internship mobility is permitted only if required by the degree.
- Gap years suspend all benefits.
- Scholarship recipients must maintain academic performance.
- Students must enroll in French national health insurance within 2 months.
Official Links (Dofollow)
- Official Program Website: https://www.campusfrance.org/en/france-excellence-eiffel-scholarship-program
- Campus France Contact Page: https://www.campusfrance.org
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can students apply directly?
No. Only universities submit applications.
What is the age limit?
29 (Master’s) and 35 (PhD).
Does the scholarship cover tuition?
Tuition at public universities is waived.
Can PhD stays be split?
Yes, into 6–36 month segments.
