Applications for the 2026 Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program from the French government are open for the 2026–2027 academic year. The window is from October 1, 2025, to January 8, 2026. The program, launched by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aims to help French higher education institutions attract the best international talent. It includes a Master’s track (12 to 36 months) and a PhD track (6 to 36 months).

• Country: France 
• Provider: French Government (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
• Scholarship for: Masters (M1, M2, Engineering degrees) or PhD
• Deadline: 8 January 2026 

• Monthly stipend: €1181 (Master’s); € 1800 (PhD)
• Accommodation through CROUS or a housing allowance for private residences
• Round-trip airfare from home country to France
• Reimbursement for train travel from the first place of residence to the final destination, including airport transfers
• Transportation reimbursement from airport or train station to initial accommodation (public transport or taxi)
• French social security coverage for students outside the European Economic Area
• Supplementary health insurance
• Access to cultural, leisure, and sporting activities, including short 3–4‑day trips, shows, performances, and more

• Demonstrated academic excellence; PhD applicants must also present an original, relevant research project
• Must hold foreign nationality (not French; dual nationals including French are ineligible)
• Age limits (for 2026 cycle): Master’s—born after March 31, 1998 (i.e., under 28); PhD—under 33
• Must meet the language proficiency requirements of the chosen program
• Applicants currently enrolled in France at Master’s level are not eligible

• Applications are not centralized; candidates must apply directly to their chosen French universities, following each institution’s specific deadlines and procedures
• The university performs a local selection. Shortlisted applications are forwarded to Campus France for national-level evaluation
• Final selections are made by the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, based on Campus France’s recommendations
• Applications submitted directly to Campus France or via non‑French institutions are ineligible
• For assistance, candidates can email

Apply on the official website