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Eiffel Excellence Scholarship in France for International Students
Introduction & History of the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program was established in 1999 by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. Its main purpose is to attract top international students to pursue higher education in France, especially in areas vital to global cooperation such as science, technology, law, economics, and political science.
Unlike a university-specific scholarship, the Eiffel Scholarship applies to multiple French universities, allowing international students to choose programs at some of France’s most prestigious institutions, including Sciences Po, Sorbonne University, École Polytechnique, and Université Paris-Saclay.
Over the years, the Eiffel Scholarship has become one of the most competitive and recognized scholarships in Europe, funding both Master’s and PhD-level studies.
Benefits of the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
The Eiffel Scholarship offers outstanding benefits for international students:
Financial Coverage – Monthly stipend of €1,181 for Master’s students and €1,700 for PhD students.
Additional Allowances – Travel costs, health insurance, and cultural activities included.
Top Universities Access – Opportunity to study at France’s leading universities and grandes écoles.
Cultural Experience – Live in one of the world’s most vibrant countries while learning French culture.
Career Growth – Strong international recognition and alumni network for global opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, students must:
1. Be a non-French citizen (international applicant).
2. Be 25 years or younger for Master’s programs, and 30 years or younger for PhD programs.
3. Apply through a French university (students cannot apply directly to the French Ministry).
4. Demonstrate academic excellence in previous studies.
5. Show leadership qualities and motivation for international cooperation.
6. Choose a field of study supported by the Eiffel program (see below).
Documents Required
Applicants generally need to prepare the following:
Passport or national ID
Academic transcripts and certificates
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Statement of purpose / study plan
Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
Recommendation letters from professors/employers
Proof of English or French proficiency (depending on program requirements)
Application Process
The Eiffel Scholarship application follows a specific process:
1. Choose a French University– Apply to an institution that participates in the Eiffel Scholarship Program.
2. University Nomination – Only universities can submit your application to Campus France, the official body.
3. Prepare Documents – Submit transcripts, essays, recommendation letters, and research plans to your chosen university.
4. Selection by Campus France – The French Ministry reviews and announces the results.
5. Final Decision – Selected students receive confirmation and start preparing for their studies in France.
Deadlines for Eiffel Scholarship 2025/26
The application period generally opens in October each year.
French universities usually have their internal deadlines between November and December.
The final submission deadline for universities to forward applications to Campus France is around January 2026.
Results are usually announced in April 2026.
Students must check with their target universities for exact internal deadlines.
Courses Covered under the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
The program focuses on strategic fields for global development, including:
Science & Technology – Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Health Sciences.
Law – International Law, Human Rights, and Comparative Law.
Economics & Management – Business, Finance, and Development Studies.
Political Science – Public Policy, International Relations, and Governance.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: Can I apply directly to Campus France?
No. Applications must be submitted through French universities.
Q2: Is the Eiffel Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers stipends, travel, health insurance, and cultural activities, though it does not cover tuition fees (some universities may waive tuition).
Q3: Can undergraduate students apply?
No, it is only for Master’s and PhD programs.
Q4: Do I need to know French?
Not necessarily. Many programs are offered in English, but knowing French is helpful for daily life.
Q5: How competitive is the Eiffel Scholarship?
Highly competitive. Only top-ranked international applicants are selected.
Final Thoughts
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is one of the most respected opportunities for international students who want to study in France. With its financial support, international recognition, and access to leading universities, it opens doors for future leaders in science, law, economics, and politics.
If you are aiming for a world-class education in Europe, start early by applying to a French university and preparing all required documents.
