France remains one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe, but tuition and living costs can still exceed €12,000 per year for international students. The good news is that several fully funded scholarships now allow you to study in France for free at Bachelor, Master’s, and PhD levels.
These programs cover tuition, offer stipends, and sometimes include travel and accommodation. Below are the most reliable scholarships opening in 2026 and early 2027:
1. France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program
The Eiffel Scholarship is funded by the French government to attract top international students into strategic fields. You cannot apply directly. A French university must nominate you after admission. This makes early preparation essential.
The scholarship covers living expenses and provides institutional support. It is particularly strong for students targeting research careers or leadership roles in international organizations.
Important Dates
- Opens: October annually
- University nomination deadline: January
- Results announced: April
- Intake: September
This scholarship is best suited for Master’s and PhD candidates with strong academic backgrounds.
2. Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarship
Paris-Saclay is one of Europe’s top research universities. This scholarship supports high-achieving international students pursuing Master’s degrees. You must first gain admission before being invited to apply.
Recipients receive a yearly stipend and travel allowance. The program encourages students to continue into doctoral research, making it a strong pathway to PhD study in France.
Important Dates
- Applications open: February
- Deadline: March
- Results: May
- Start of studies: September
Students in STEM, economics, and data science often have strong chances.
3. Ampère Excellence Scholarship
The Ampère Excellence Scholarship is offered by ENS de Lyon, one of France’s most selective institutions. The program focuses on academic excellence and research preparation.
It funds Master’s students in science, humanities, and social sciences. The stipend helps cover accommodation and living expenses in Lyon. Many recipients continue into PhD programs afterward.
Important Dates
- Opens: December
- Deadline: January
- Selection results: March–April
- Program start: September
This scholarship is ideal for students seeking research-focused training.
4. ENS International Selection Scholarship
This scholarship is unique because it supports rigorous academic tracks that can lead to both undergraduate-level and postgraduate study. Students benefit from mentorship, small classes, and research exposure.
The program is highly competitive but provides strong academic networks and future doctoral opportunities. It is particularly attractive for students planning long-term academic careers.
Important Dates
- Opens: December
- Deadline: January–February
- Interviews: March
- Intake: September
Applicants must demonstrate exceptional academic performance.
5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
Erasmus Mundus programs allow you to study in multiple countries, including France. These scholarships are fully funded and highly prestigious. Students typically spend one semester in France and others in partner universities.
The program covers tuition, travel, and living expenses. It is ideal for students seeking international exposure.
Important Dates
- Opens: October
- Deadlines: January–March (varies)
- Results: April–May
- Intake: September
Conclusion
These scholarships make it possible to study in France for free at Bachelor, Master’s, and PhD levels. The Eiffel Scholarship, Paris-Saclay funding, Ampère Excellence, ENS programs, and Erasmus Mundus are the most reliable opportunities opening between October and March.
If you are exploring more opportunities across Europe, also consider these scholarships: 15 Fully Funded Masters Scholarships in Europe.
