Eiffel Scholarship: Eligibility, Deadline & How to Apply

The Eiffel Scholarship, officially known as The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program, is a prestigious initiative developed by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. It is designed to attract the world's most talented international students to pursue Master's and PhD degrees in France. The program's core mission is to train future foreign decision-makers in both the public and private sectors, equipping them with the knowledge and networks to become leaders in their fields.

Unlike many scholarships, you cannot apply directly. Applications must be submitted by French higher education institutions that select and endorse outstanding candidates. If you have a strong academic record and a clear vision for your future, this scholarship offers an unparalleled opportunity to develop professionally and academically at top-tier French universities and Grandes Écoles.

For the 2025–2026 academic year, the application period for students to contact institutions is already open. The final deadline for institutions to submit applications is January 8, 2025. This guide will walk you through every step, including eligibility, how to apply, scholarship coverage, required documents, and the selection timeline.

The Eiffel Scholarship is applicable to Master's and PhD programs at all accredited French higher education institutions. This includes universities, engineering schools, and business schools. The key is that the institution itself must accept your application and choose to nominate you for the award.

The program focuses on two main disciplinary fields, broken down into seven key areas of study:

You can pursue your studies at any participating French institution, such as:

• Sorbonne University: A world-class public research university in Paris, leading in science, medicine, and humanities.
• Sciences Po: A renowned institution specializing in political science, law, economics, and history.
• HEC Paris: A top-ranked global business school offering prestigious Master's in Management and MBA programs.
• École Polytechnique: A leading French institute combining top-level research, academics, and innovation in science and technology.
• Université PSL (Paris Sciences & Lettres): A collegiate university merging several prestigious institutions in arts, science, and engineering.

Eiffel Scholarship Awards

The Eiffel Scholarship is a highly prestigious, fully-funded opportunity for international students to pursue a Master's or PhD in France. While it provides comprehensive financial support, it's important to note that it does not cover tuition fees in most cases (as public universities in France have low tuition fees, and the scholarship often includes a fee waiver component from the host institution).

The scholarship provides a monthly allowance and covers various expenses to ensure you can focus on your studies:

• A monthly stipend of €1,181 for Master's students and €1,700 for PhD students.

• International return airfare from your home country to France.

• National transportation support within France.

• Insurance coverage (health and liability).

• Housing search assistance and cultural activities.

• Additional allowance for those who require it.

Eiffel Scholarship Amount

The Eiffel Scholarship provides significant financial support for your entire study period in France. The breakdown of the award is as follows:

Eiffel Scholarship Benefits

Beyond the substantial financial coverage, the Eiffel Scholarship offers exceptional professional and cultural advantages. You become part of an elite network of future global leaders.

The eligibility criteria for the Eiffel Scholarship are specific and must be met fully. The program is highly competitive, focusing on academic excellence and future potential.

Countries Eligible Under Eiffel Scholarships

The Eiffel Scholarship is open to talented students from all around the world. The program aims to build a diverse and global network of leaders. Citizens from all countries except France are eligible to be nominated by French institutions.

The application process is unique and involves a crucial first step: securing a nomination from a French university or school. The entire process is completed online by the institution.

1. Research and Contact Institutions: Identify French universities offering your desired program and contact their international relations office. Express your interest and inquire about their Eiffel nomination process.
2. Apply for Admission: Submit a complete application for the Master's or PhD program directly to the institution, following their deadlines and requirements.
3. Secure Nomination: If the institution selects you for admission and deems you an excellent candidate, they will support your Eiffel application and request the necessary documents from you.
4. Institution Submits Application: The French higher education institution submits the complete application online via the Campus France portal before the national deadline.

Application Timeline for Eiffel Scholarship (2025-2026)

The entire process from application to starting your studies takes nearly a year. Adhering to the timeline is critical for success. Mark these key dates for the 2025 intake.

Eiffel Scholarship Interview

The Eiffel Scholarship selection process is primarily based on the academic and professional dossier submitted by the French institution. Unlike some other prestigious scholarships, there is typically no interview stage for the Eiffel Scholarship. The selection committee evaluates the written application to make its final decision. However, the nominating institution may choose to interview you as part of their own internal selection process. 

 International students aged 27 or under (born after March 31st 1997) who are not studying in France at the time of their application

Since the application is submitted by the French institution on your behalf, you will need to provide them with a complete application package. While the exact requirements may vary, you should typically prepare:

• A detailed CV or resume.
• Academic transcripts and certified copies of your degrees.
• A strong letter of motivation for your study project in France.
• A research proposal (for PhD applicants).
• Letters of recommendation from professors or employers.
• A copy of your valid passport.

FAQs about Eiffel Scholarship

Who is eligible for the Eiffel Scholarship?

You must be a non-French citizen under the age of 25 for a Master's or 30 for a PhD. You must have an outstanding academic record in one of the seven priority fields and be nominated by a French university.

What does the Eiffel Scholarship cover?

It provides a monthly stipend (€1,181 for Master's, €1,700 for PhD), international airfare, insurance, local transport support, and cultural activities. It does not cover tuition fees.

Can I apply directly for the Eiffel Scholarship?

No. Applications submitted directly by students are automatically declared ineligible. You must be selected and nominated by a French higher education institution.

Do I need to speak French for the Eiffel Scholarship?

For programs taught in French, proficiency is required. For programs taught in English, proof of English proficiency (like IELTS/TOEFL) is sufficient. However, learning French is encouraged for better cultural integration.

Other Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study Abroad