The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious funding programs offered by the French government to attract top international students to study in France. Managed by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, this scholarship supports outstanding candidates pursuing Master’s and PhD degrees in leading French institutions.
If you are aiming to study in France with full or partial financial support, this guide provides everything you need to know about eligibility, benefits, application process, and how to apply.
Overview of Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026
Host Country: France
Funded By: French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs
Study Levels: Master’s and PhD
Eligible Applicants: International students
Scholarship Type: Fully/Partially Funded
Participating Institutions: French universities and higher education institutions
The Eiffel Scholarship aims to develop future global leaders in both public and private sectors by supporting high-achieving students from around the world.
Fields of Study
The scholarship primarily supports programs in key areas such as:
Engineering and Technology
Economics and Management
Law and Political Science
These fields are prioritized to align with France’s academic and economic development goals.
Benefits of the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
For Master’s Degree:
Monthly allowance of approximately €1,181
International travel expenses covered
Health insurance
Cultural activities
Housing support (in some cases)
For PhD Degree:
Monthly allowance of approximately €1,800
Round-trip airfare
Health insurance
Additional research-related support
Note that tuition fees are not directly covered, but most French institutions offer tuition waivers to Eiffel scholars.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026, applicants must:
Be a non-French citizen
Apply through a French higher education institution (not directly)
Meet the age requirements:
Master’s: Maximum 25 years
PhD: Maximum 30 years
Demonstrate strong academic performance
Not be a current recipient of another French government scholarship
Application Process
Unlike many international scholarships, candidates cannot apply directly. Instead, they must be nominated by a French institution.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Choose a Program:
Select a Master’s or PhD program offered by a recognized French university.
Apply to the Institution:
Submit your application for admission to the chosen university.
Request Nomination:
If selected, the institution will nominate you for the Eiffel Scholarship.
Institution Submits Application:
The university submits your scholarship application on your behalf.
Wait for Results:
Final results are announced by the French Ministry.