Fully Funded Scholarships in France 2026

Fully funded scholarships in France for 2026 offer international students a chance to pursue Master’s and PhD programs at top institutions without financial pressure. For those planning to study abroad in France, options like the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program, Erasmus+ Programme grants, and university-specific funding can cover tuition fees, monthly stipends (€1,181–€2,000 ≈ ₹1L–₹1.8L), airfare, accommodation, and health insurance.

These scholarships are highly competitive and typically awarded to students with strong academic performance and leadership potential. Since most applications open around October for the 2026 intake, starting early can make a real difference. Planning your next step with a Masters in France can help you take full advantage of these funding opportunities and build a global career.

Also read: Study in France for Free: Top Scholarships Every International Student Should Know About.

Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in France 2026

International students can apply for prestigious fully funded scholarships in France that cover tuition, monthly stipends, housing, travel, and insurance. Programs like the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, Charpak Scholarship for Indian students, and Ampère Scholarships of Excellence make France one of the most attractive destinations for higher education.

External Fully Funded Scholarships

External scholarships are funded by governments, organizations, or the EU. They provide full scholarships in France for international students, including tuition, living costs, and travel.

Also read:  Universities Offering 50% Scholarships for International Students.

University‑Specific Scholarships

French universities also offer masters scholarships in France for international students, MBA scholarships in France, and PhD scholarships in France for international students.

Also read: Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students.

Types of Fully-Funded Scholarships in France

France offers a wide range of fully funded scholarships tailored to attract talented international students and promote academic excellence across disciplines. From government-funded programs to university-specific and research-focused scholarships, these opportunities make studying in France more accessible while encouraging global collaboration.

1.French Government Scholarships

The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs awards numerous government-funded scholarships to international students studying at a bachelor’s, master's, or doctoral level, as well as Research Internships

Exchange Programs.

Examples:

• France Excellence Charpak Scholarship Program
• France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program
• Make Our Planet Great Again (MOPGA)
• Scholarships for French Language Teachers

2.Erasmus+ Mobility Scholarships

Erasmus+ is a European Union program that supports education, training, youth, and sports. The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's program offers scholarships to top students from around the world to study for one or two years in any field..

Examples:

• The Erasmus Mundus joint Master's offer
•  Erasmus+ mobility scholarships from and to France

3.Franco-Indian Education Trust

Franco- Indian Education Trust that supports the exchange of students, teachers, researchers, and young professionals between India and France. Students can participate in academic or training programs with the assistance of grants, scholarships, or fellowships.

Examples:

• Legrand Empowering Scholarship
• AMBA Damia Scholarship

Also read: Cost of Living in France for Indian Students: A Budget Guide.

4.Co-Financed Scholarships

The students selected for this scholarship receive the status of French government scholarship holder and several benefits, including a tuition fee waiver offered by French institutions, social security coverage, and exemption from visa fees.

Example:

• Sciences PO
• The Neemrana Music Foundation
• Paris Tech
• END de LYON

5.Institutional Scholarships

These are scholarships offered by most higher education establishments in France to international students enrolled in their courses. 

Example:

• École de Management de Normandie
• Emile-Boutmy scholarship 
• ENS Paris Saclay

Also read: Scholarship to Study in France: Benefits, Eligibility & How to Apply.

Eligibility Criteria for Fully Funded Scholarships in France 

The eligibility criteria for fully funded scholarships in France for international students vary depending on the university or organization. Prestigious programs like the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship often target students from developing countries, while scholarships such as the Charpak Scholarship are designed specifically for Indian students.

1. Université Paris‑Saclay International Master’s Scholarship

• Open to international students under 30 years of age
• Must not have studied in France as a degree‑seeking student
• No study gap longer than 3 years 

2.  France Excellence Charpak Bachelor Scholarship 

• Must be an Indian citizen or OCI card holder
• Age limit: 23 years or younger
• Must apply to a French institution before scholarship application
• French language skills preferred but not mandatory
• For full‑time bachelor’s programs; 2nd/3rd year funding possible 

3. PSL University Scholarships

• Open to all international students applying to PSL member schools 

4. Émile Boutmy Scholarship – Sciences Po

• First‑time applicants only
• Must be from a non‑EU country
• Household must not pay EU taxes
• Admission to Undergraduate or Master’s program at Sciences Po 

5. ENS de Lyon – Ampère Scholarships of Excellence

• For Master’s programs (M1 or M2)
• M1 applicants: Bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS) or equivalent
• M2 applicants: Master’s degree (240 ECTS) or equivalent 

Also read: Top Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students in 2026

Application Process for Fully Funded Scholarships in France 

Applying for fully funded scholarships in France requires careful planning and thorough preparation. You must confirm your eligibility for the scholarship, must have all the required documents, and apply in advance to avail of the best benefits. 

 Here's a simple step-by-step guide:

• Research and shortlist universities: Explore universities in Paris and check their scholarship options on the official websites to get all the details.
• Check your eligibility: Make sure to check your eligibility before applying.
• Prepare your documents: Ensure you have all the required documents, such as:
  • Academic transcripts
  • English test scores (like IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo)
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• Apply early: Be mindful of the application deadline and ensure to meet it.
• Customize each application: Give your application a personalized touch and show how you fit the scholarship’s mission and values.

Also read: How to Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad: A Simple Guide.

Conclusion

Fully funded scholarships in France open doors for international students to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs at world‑class institutions without financial burden. Covering tuition, monthly stipends, housing, travel, and insurance, programs like the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, Charpak Scholarship, and Ampère Scholarships of Excellence make studying in France accessible and rewarding. By meeting eligibility criteria, preparing strong applications, and applying on time, students can secure life‑changing opportunities to advance their education and career in France.

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