The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity offered by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. Designed to attract top international students to study in France, this scholarship supports outstanding candidates pursuing Master’s and PhD degrees in a wide array of fields.
What sets the Eiffel Scholarship apart? It’s not just the funding. It’s the recognition, prestige, and access to one of the world’s top higher education ecosystems. Whether you’re aiming to study politics in Paris or engineering in Lyon, the Eiffel program opens doors.
Why It’s Unique
Unlike many scholarships, the Eiffel program targets future global leaders in priority areas, offering more than just financial support — it’s a bridge to building international influence, experience, and networks.
Benefits of the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
The Eiffel Scholarship is among the most comprehensive and generous scholarships in Europe. Here’s what selected students receive:
For Master’s Students:
- Monthly stipend of €1,181 (maintenance allowance + monthly stipend)
- Full tuition fee exemption at public institutions
- International round-trip airfare
- Health insurance coverage in France
- Cultural activities and field trips funded
- Access to housing support and priority accommodation
For PhD Students:
- Monthly stipend of €1,700
- All the above benefits also apply
Additional Perks:
- Opportunity to study in world-class French universities
- Network with global researchers and professionals
- Resume booster: highly regarded by employers and academic institutions
Eligibility Criteria for Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026
To apply for the Eiffel Program, you must meet several key requirements:
Who Can Apply:
- Nationality: Open to all non-French nationals. Dual nationals with French citizenship are not eligible.
- Age Limit:
- Master’s: under 25 years old (born after March 1999)
- PhD: under 30 years old (born after March 1994)
- Degree Level:
- Master’s: Applying to a master’s program (1 or 2 years)
- PhD: Enrolled in joint supervision (cotutelle) or dual degree PhD
- Language Proficiency:
- IELTS or equivalent recommended, but not mandatory. Each institution sets its own language requirements.
- Academic Merit: Strong academic background and leadership potential
Required Documents for Eiffel Scholarship Application
You’ll apply through the French institution of your choice, and they will submit your nomination. Be sure to prepare:
Mandatory Documents:
- Completed application form provided by the institution
- CV/resume (1-2 pages)
- Motivation letter (in French or English)
- Academic transcripts and certificates (translated if necessary)
- Passport copy or national ID
- Language proficiency proof (if required by host institution)
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
Optional but Recommended:
- Letters of recommendation
- Published research (for PhD)
- Work experience certificates
📌 Tip: Make sure documents are scanned and legible; certified translations may be required if originals are not in French or English.
Application Timeline for Eiffel Scholarship 2026
- Institution Deadline: Varies by university (typically October to November 2025)
- Official Campus France Deadline: January 10, 2026
- Results Announcement: End of March 2026
🕒 This is not a rolling scholarship. You must adhere to university-specific deadlines well before the January cut-off.
How to Apply for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
Follow these steps carefully — you cannot apply directly to Campus France!
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Research eligible French universities and programs.
- Contact the admissions office to express interest in being nominated for the Eiffel Scholarship.
- Submit your application (including all documents) directly to the institution.
- If selected, the university will submit your nomination to Campus France.
- Await results by March 2026.
Application Tips:
- Start early: Institutional deadlines are often much earlier than the final date.
- Craft a powerful motivation letter — show how your goals align with France’s global objectives.
- Ensure your documents are complete and translated as needed.
FAQs about the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026
Is IELTS mandatory for the Eiffel Scholarship?
Not necessarily. Some French universities waive this if you studied in English previously, but requirements vary. Always check with your target institution.
Can students from Asia or Africa apply?
Yes, the program is open to all non-French citizens, including students from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.
Can I apply to more than one university?
Yes, but only one institution can nominate you for the Eiffel Scholarship.
Do I need an admission offer first?
No, but you must be applying to a program at a university willing to nominate you.
Final Thoughts on the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship 2026
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is more than just financial support — it’s an entry into France’s rich academic, cultural, and professional networks. If you’re a driven student with global ambitions, this scholarship could be your launchpad.