Scholarships in France for International Students: Top Choices for 2024-25

A leading European study destination with some of the world's most prestigious Universities & Business Schools, France, is renowned for its research-focused courses and scholarship programs. It is also a leading non-English speaking destination which offers numerous English-taught courses. Owing to the affordable tuition fees, vibrant student life, strong economy and illustrious history, students from around the globe experience the charm of higher education in this Western European country. Numerically speaking, in the academic year 2022-23, a massive influx of 412,000+ international students chose France for higher education.

Celebrating diversity and internationalization, France offers a wide array of scholarships specifically for foreign scholars. Every academic year, hundreds, and thousands of fully and partially funded scholarships are offered to deserving students. In this comprehensive article, we have discussed some of the most coveted scholarships available for international students aiming to commence their academic journey in France for the academic years 2024 and 2025. So, without any further ado, let’s get started. 

5 Most Sought-After Scholarships in France for Foreign Student

1. France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program

• Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
• Scholarship Category: Government Scholarship
• Level of Study: Open to candidates pursuing Master’s Degrees and PhD programs in various fields.
• Scholarship Value: The scholarship provides a monthly allowance of €1,181 for Master’s applicants and a monthly allowance of €1,800 for PhD applicants. 
• Application Deadline: Application for 2025 intakes will start in October 2024 and the deadline is yet to be announced.
• Eligibility Criteria & Other Details: Eligible candidates must be non-French nationals and have outstanding academic achievements. They must be under the age of 25 while applying for masters in France and 30 for PhD programs. Additionally, applicants must secure admission to a French higher education institution.
   

2. The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships for Foreign Students

• Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
• Scholarship Category: Government Scholarship
• Level of Study: Master’s Degree
• Scholarship Value: Varies but it covers Travel Expenses, Visa Fees, and Living Costs during the study period.
• Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the academic intake. Usually, applications start in October and January for the next academic year.
• Eligibility Criteria & Other Details: It is open to students from all countries, and it also provides full scholarships to the best students. This scholarship has a separate application process so make sure that you check the eligibility criteria and application procedures on the official website.
   

3. The Charpak Scholarship Programs

• Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
• Scholarship Category: French Government Scholarship Programme in India
• Level of Study: Bachelors, Masters & Research-Based Degrees.
• Scholarship Value: The scholarship provides Student Visa Fee Waivers, a Living Expenses Allowance of €860, and accommodation assistance.
• Application Deadline: For 2025 intakes the application portal will open in December 2024. 
• Eligibility Criteria & Other Details: These scholarships are exclusively for Indian students pursuing bachelors, masters, or research degrees in France. Applicant must be 30 years or below during the time of scholarship application and they must submit their application on the online scholarship portal. 
   

4. Solidarity Fund Scholarship by Rennes School of Business

• Scholarship Type: Merit & Need Based
• Scholarship Category: Institution Scholarship
• Level of Study: Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees
• Scholarship Value: Up to €5000 Tuition Fee Waiver
• Application Deadline: The deadline for applications is 17 June 2024 for September 2024 Intake
• Eligibility Criteria & Other Details: Since this scholarship is awarded based on both financial need and academic merit, applicants must outline how the scholarship would facilitate their study in France. For specific application guidelines and eligibility criteria, prospective students should refer to the Rennes School of Business website.
   

5. ​Masters of Science Excellence Scholarships (International Students) by Skema Business School, Paris

• Scholarship Type: Merit Based
• Scholarship Category: Institution Scholarship
• Level of Study: Master’s Degrees
• Scholarship Value: Up to €4000 Tuition Fee Waiver
• Application Deadline: Within two weeks of admission confirmation 
• Eligibility Criteria & Other Details: This scholarship offered by SKEMA Business School is open to all admitted international students. This scholarship is awarded on the scholarship jury's decision and has an interview round as well. 

Summing up, this is everything that you must know about the popular scholarship choices in France. This country not only stands as a prime example of academic excellence but also provides promising career opportunities. The scholarships highlighted in this article represent just a fraction of the many options available to international students seeking to study in France. 

As these scholarships are highly competitive and limited in offering, we recommend all aspiring scholars to explore the extensive range of scholarships, grants, financial aid and shortlist the ones that fit their needs and aspirations. For comprehensive guidance on scholarships, admission assistance, and other pertinent information related to studying in France, you can reach out to Europe Experts at KC Overseas Education. As one of the top global educational consultants, our highly qualified team will provide all the latest information, knowledge, and resources to transform your study abroad dreams into reality.

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