France remains one of the most prestigious and attractive study destinations in the world — known for its world-class education, cultural richness, and globally recognized universities. Applications are now open for the Bachelor, Master, and PhD Scholarships in France 2026–2027, offering international students the chance to study at top-ranked institutions across the country.
Whether you dream of pursuing a degree in Engineering, Business, Arts, Humanities, or Science, there’s a scholarship program in France tailored to your academic goals. The French government and universities continue to open their doors wider to international talent, providing fully funded and partially funded scholarships for the upcoming academic year.
Why Study in France?
The French higher education system is widely regarded as one of the best in Europe and across the globe. France is home to over 3,500 public universities and institutions, covering a vast range of academic disciplines at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. With a growing number of international students — currently over 370,000 — France offers a vibrant, diverse, and multicultural learning environment.
Here are some of the top reasons why students choose France for their higher education:
1. World-Class Education – France’s long-standing academic tradition ensures access to high-quality education, innovative research, and modern teaching facilities.
2. Global Opportunities – A French degree is recognized worldwide and gives graduates access to over 570 French multinational companies.
3. Affordable Tuition Fees – Compared to many other top destinations, France offers excellent value for money, especially at public universities.
4. Scholarships Without IELTS – Unlike many countries, several French universities allow international students to apply and study without IELTS if they meet other English proficiency requirements.
5. Extensive English-Taught Programs – More than 1,500 programs are now offered in English across different disciplines.
6. Top Study Abroad Destination – France consistently ranks among the top 10 global destinations for international students.
7. Rich Culture and Lifestyle – From art and fashion to cuisine and history, studying in France is a life-enriching experience beyond academics.
Study in France Without IELTS
One of the unique aspects of studying in France is the flexibility regarding English language proficiency. Many French universities offer admission to international students without IELTS, provided they can demonstrate prior education in English or pass a university interview.
Some of the top universities in France that accept students without IELTS include:
• American Business School, Paris
• EBS Paris
• EPITA Graduate School of Computer Science
• ESAIP School of Engineers
• ESC Rennes School of Business
• ESGCI, Paris
• ESLSCA Business School
• IESA International
• INSEEC Business School
• ISC Paris
• NEOMA Business School
• Paris School of Business
• SKEMA Business School
• Toulouse Business School
These institutions provide world-class education with globally recognized degrees and offer excellent scholarship opportunities to international students.
Don’t forget to apply for Deakin University Scholarships 2026 in Australia.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in France 2026
Here is a curated list of the best Bachelor, Master, and PhD scholarships in France 2026 that are currently open to international applicants.
1. Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarships
The Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarship program supports outstanding international students who wish to pursue a Master’s degree at one of France’s most prestigious institutions.
This scholarship aims to attract talented students and prepare them for academic and professional success. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel grants, depending on the applicant’s performance and need.
2. Emile Boutmy Scholarship – Sciences Po University
Offered by Sciences Po University, the Emile Boutmy Scholarship is available for international students outside the European Union. It supports those applying for Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree programs.
The scholarship is merit-based and awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and strong motivation to study at Sciences Po. Recipients may receive partial or full tuition fee coverage for the duration of their program.
3. Eiffel Scholarship Program of Excellence
The Eiffel Scholarship Program of Excellence is one of the most prestigious French Government Scholarships, funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
It offers full financial support to outstanding international students pursuing Master’s and PhD studies in France. The Eiffel Scholarship covers tuition fees, monthly stipends, travel costs, and health insurance — making it a top choice for students seeking a fully funded study opportunity.
4. French Ministry of Higher Education Scholarships
The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation in France provides scholarships specifically for Doctoral programs. These awards support international PhD candidates in conducting research in various disciplines under the supervision of leading French professors.
The funding includes research grants, housing assistance, and stipends, depending on the research field and host institution.
5. Excellence-Major Scholarships
The Excellence-Major Scholarship is co-financed by the Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE) and the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
This program supports high-achieving international students from French high schools abroad, helping them pursue higher education in France at Bachelor’s and Master’s levels. It offers partial to full financial assistance for the entire duration of their academic program.
6. Erasmus+ Program – France
The Erasmus+ Program, funded by the European Commission, provides international students the opportunity to study Master’s degree programs in France.
Applicants can choose France as their study destination through the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs). The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel, and living allowances, and it allows students to study in multiple European countries, including France.
7. 282 Masters, PhD, and Postdoctoral Scholarships in France
Over 282 fully funded scholarships and postdoctoral positions are currently available in French universities across diverse academic fields.
These opportunities include funding for tuition, research, accommodation, and monthly stipends, making them ideal for students seeking financial support for advanced study and research in France.
8. French Foreign Ministry Scholarships
The French Foreign Ministry awards several scholarships each year to students from all around the world.
These scholarships are often part of the Eiffel Excellence and Major Programs, focusing on Master’s and Doctoral studies. The funding may cover full or partial tuition, housing, and other academic expenses.
Conclusion
France is not only a top-tier destination for education but also a gateway to global career opportunities. With hundreds of scholarship programs designed to support talented international students, the country continues to attract some of the brightest minds from every corner of the world.
From fully funded government scholarships like the Eiffel Scholarship Program to university-specific awards such as the Université Paris-Saclay Scholarships, international students can find diverse funding options suited to their goals.
If you’re planning to study in France in 2026, now is the perfect time to explore these scholarships, prepare your applications, and take the first step toward an exceptional academic journey in one of the most inspiring countries on earth