Top 15 fully funded scholarships in France for international students 2025

Top 15 Fully Funded Scholarships in France for International Students 2025

France, a land of rich history, exquisite cuisine, and world-renowned education, has long been a popular destination for international students. Its prestigious universities and diverse academic programs attract ambitious individuals from around the globe. However, the cost of studying abroad can be a significant barrier. Fortunately, France offers a plethora of fully funded scholarships designed to make education accessible to talented international students.

This article delves into the top 15 fully funded scholarship opportunities available in France for international students in 2025. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and often, travel costs, allowing students to focus solely on their academic pursuits and cultural immersion. Let’s explore these life-changing opportunities:

1. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program

The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program, established by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, is one of the most prestigious and sought-after scholarships for international students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees in French higher education institutions. It supports studies in specific fields like Engineering, Economics and Management, Law and Political Sciences, and Sciences.

• What it covers: Tuition fees, monthly stipend, international travel, health insurance, and cultural activities.
• Eligibility: Non-French nationals under the age of 30 for master’s programs and under 35 for doctoral programs. Candidates must be nominated by a French higher education institution.
• Application Process: Students cannot apply directly. They must apply through a French university or Grande École, which then nominates them for the scholarship.
• Website: https://www.campusfrance.org/en/eiffel-scholarship-program

2. French Government Bourse d’Excellence Major Scholarship

This scholarship, also offered by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, supports international students from selected countries pursuing master’s or doctoral studies in any field. It is specifically designed to promote excellence in French higher education and attract top talent.

• What it covers: Tuition fees, monthly stipend, round-trip airfare, social security coverage, and priority access to student accommodation.
• Eligibility: Varies depending on the country of origin. Generally, it’s for outstanding students admitted to a French higher education institution.
• Application Process: Students typically apply through the French Embassy in their home country.
• Website: Information about this scholarship can often be found on the website of the French Embassy or Campus France in your home country. Search “[Your Country] French Embassy Scholarships” or “[Your Country] Campus France Scholarships”.

3. Erasmus+ Joint Master Degrees (JMD)

Erasmus+ JMDs are high-level integrated master’s programs designed and delivered by an international consortium of higher education institutions. These programs offer scholarships to outstanding students from around the world, allowing them to study in at least two different European countries, including France.

• What it covers: Tuition fees, monthly living allowance, travel costs, and installation allowance.
• Eligibility: Students with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from any country. Specific requirements vary depending on the chosen JMD program.
• Application Process: Students apply directly to the chosen Erasmus+ JMD program.
• Website: https://www.eacea.ec.europa.eu/scholarships/erasmus-mundus-catalogue_en (Browse the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue to find relevant programs)

4. IDEX Scholarship (Université Paris-Saclay)

The Université Paris-Saclay, a leading research-intensive university in France, offers IDEX scholarships to international students enrolled in its master’s programs. These scholarships are designed to support talented students in various fields of study.

• What it covers: A substantial monthly stipend. Tuition fees may be covered or waived, depending on the specific program.
• Eligibility: International students enrolled in a master’s program at Université Paris-Saclay. Selection is based on academic excellence and the quality of the application.
• Application Process: Students apply for the scholarship as part of their application to a master’s program at Université Paris-Saclay.
• Website: https://www.universite-paris-saclay.fr/en/education/masters/scholarships-and-financial-aid

5. ENS International Selection Scholarship (École Normale Supérieure)

The École Normale Supérieure (ENS) in Paris offers a highly selective scholarship program for international students seeking to pursue a master’s degree or a doctoral degree. This prestigious institution attracts top talent and provides a rigorous academic environment.

• What it covers: Monthly stipend and accommodation on campus.
• Eligibility: International students with an outstanding academic record who are not French citizens and have not resided in France for more than a year.
• Application Process: Requires a competitive application process, including an interview.
• Website: https://www.ens.psl.eu/actualites/international-selection

6. Sciences Po Emile Boutmy Scholarship

Sciences Po, a leading university in the social sciences, offers the Emile Boutmy Scholarship to talented international students from outside the European Union who are admitted to an undergraduate or master’s program.

• What it covers: The scholarship can take different forms, ranging from €3,000 to €12,300 per year for undergraduate studies, and €5,000 to €16,000 per year for graduate studies. In exceptional cases, it can cover the full tuition fee.
• Eligibility: Non-EU students who are applying for the first time to a Bachelor’s or Master’s program at Sciences Po.
• Application Process: Applicants must indicate their wish to apply for the Emile Boutmy scholarship in their Sciences Po application form.
• Website: https://www.sciencespo.fr/students/en/fees-funding/financial-aid/emile-boutmy-scholarship

7. Ampère Excellence Scholarships (École Normale Supérieure de Lyon)

The École Normale Supérieure de Lyon offers Ampère Excellence Scholarships for excellent international students to enroll in one of its Masters programs in Exact Sciences, Arts, or Human and Social Sciences.

• What it covers: A monthly stipend of €1,000.
• Eligibility: International students holding a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Application Process: Applicants must apply to a Masters program at ENS de Lyon and indicate their wish to be considered for the Ampère Excellence Scholarship.
• Website: https://www.ens-lyon.fr/en/studies/admission/masters-degree (Look for the “Ampère Excellence Scholarships” section)

8. INSEAD MBA Scholarships

INSEAD, a top-ranked business school, offers a range of scholarships for international MBA students, based on merit, nationality, or specific backgrounds. These scholarships aim to attract a diverse and talented student body.

• What it covers: Varies depending on the scholarship. Some cover partial tuition fees, while others offer more substantial funding.
• Eligibility: International students admitted to the INSEAD MBA program. Requirements vary depending on the specific scholarship.
• Application Process: Requires a separate scholarship application after being admitted to the MBA program.
• Website: https://www.insead.edu/mba/financing

9. Grenoble INP Foundation Scholarships

Grenoble INP, a leading technological university, offers scholarships through its Foundation to international students pursuing master’s and doctoral programs in engineering and related fields.

• What it covers: Varies depending on the scholarship. Can cover tuition fees, living expenses, or a combination of both.
• Eligibility: International students admitted to a master’s or doctoral program at Grenoble INP. Selection is based on academic excellence and the relevance of the research project.
• Application Process: Students apply for the scholarship as part of their application to Grenoble INP.
• Website: https://www.grenoble-inp.fr/ (Search for “scholarships” or “international students”)

10. Université de Bordeaux IdEx International Scholarship

The University of Bordeaux offers IdEx scholarships to international students pursuing Master’s and PhD programs in various disciplines.

• What it covers: A monthly stipend and tuition fees waiver.
• Eligibility: Open to international students with excellent academic records.
• Application Process: Application is through the university’s online portal.
• Website: Information can usually be found on the University of Bordeaux’s international student pages. Search “Université de Bordeaux International Scholarships.”

11. Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University IDEX Scholarship

The Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University offers IDEX scholarships to international students admitted to a Master’s program.

• What it covers: A monthly stipend, tuition fee waiver, and assistance with accommodation.
• Eligibility: International students with a strong academic background.
• Application Process: Students apply for the scholarship as part of their application to a Master’s program.
• Website: Usually detailed on the university’s international students’ support webpage. Search “Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University International Scholarships.”

12. Sorbonne University International Scholarships

Sorbonne University offers several scholarship programs for international students at the Master’s and Doctoral levels, funded by various sources including the university itself and the French government.

• What it covers: Varies; can include tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
• Eligibility: Specific eligibility criteria vary by program, so refer to individual scholarship details.
• Application Process: Application process varies based on the program.
• Website: https://www.sorbonne-universite.fr/en/international/coming-sorbonne-universite

13. Centrale Nantes Elite Scholarship

Centrale Nantes, a leading engineering school, provides the Elite Scholarship for outstanding international students seeking to pursue a Master of Science program.

• What it covers: Tuition fees and a monthly stipend.
• Eligibility: International students with an exceptional academic record.
• Application Process: Apply to the MSc program first, then apply for the scholarship.
• Website: https://www.ec-nantes.fr/international/scholarships-financial-aid/scholarships/elite-scholarship

14. AgroParisTech International Scholarship

AgroParisTech, a renowned institution for agricultural, food, and environmental science and engineering, offers scholarships to international students admitted to its Masters programs.

• What it covers: Varies but may include tuition and a living stipend.
• Eligibility: Varies, often focusing on academic excellence and fit within AgroParisTech’s research and academic areas.
• Application Process: Inquire during the Master’s program application process.
• Website: Check under international student scholarships sections of the AgroParisTech website for the latest information.

15. Fondation Rennes 1 Scholarships

The Fondation Rennes 1, supports international students wanting to pursue Master’s and Doctoral studies at the University of Rennes 1.

• What it covers: Varies by grant, but can include tuition fees and a monthly stipend.
• Eligibility: Varies by grant type.
• Application Process: Apply alongside application to a suitable program at University of Rennes 1
• Website: Check information for incoming international students on the Rennes 1 University site, and on the Fondation Rennes 1 site.

Conclusion

These top 15 fully funded scholarships in France for international students in 2025 represent a fantastic opportunity to pursue higher education in a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment. While the application processes can be competitive, the rewards are significant. By carefully researching the eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines for each scholarship, ambitious international students can increase their chances of securing funding and embarking on an unforgettable academic journey in France. Remember to contact the relevant universities or embassies for the most up-to-date information. Good luck!