Hey future global leaders! Dreaming of taking your Master’s or PhD studies to the next level in a vibrant country like France? Well, get ready, because the prestigious French Government Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme for 2026 is here to make those dreams a reality! This isn’t just any bursary; it’s a golden ticket to world-class education in France, designed to attract top international students from around the globe, including talented minds from South Africa.
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme, established by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, is a highly sought-after initiative designed to help French higher education institutions attract the brightest international students to their Master’s and PhD programmes. Essentially, it’s a fantastic opportunity for future decision-makers in both the private and public sectors to gain advanced qualifications in priority study areas in France, fully funded!
Who Can Apply?
This bursary is specifically for international students looking to pursue a Master’s or PhD in France. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Master’s Level: You must be up to 29 years old at the time of application.
- PhD Level: You must be up to 35 years old at the time of application.
The scholarship focuses on specific disciplinary fields, which include:
For Science and Technology:
- Biology and Health
- Ecological Transition
- Mathematics and Digital
- Engineering Sciences
For Humanities and Social Sciences:
- History, French language and civilization
- Law and political science
- Economics and management
Important Note: Unlike many bursaries where you apply directly, the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme requires French higher education institutions to submit your application on your behalf. This means you first need to be accepted into a Master’s or PhD programme by a French institution, and then they will put you forward for the scholarship. So, start by securing your admission!
What Does It Cover?
This bursary is seriously comprehensive, designed to let you focus purely on your studies without financial stress. Here’s what you can expect:
- Master’s Level: You’ll receive a generous monthly allowance of €1,200 (starting January 2026).
- Doctorate Level: PhD scholars get an even higher monthly stipend of €2,100 (starting January 2026).
But wait, there’s more! Both Master’s and PhD scholarship holders also benefit from a range of additional services:
- International transportation (your flights!)
- National transportation within France
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- Assistance with housing searches
- Access to cultural activities to help you immerse yourself in French life!
The scholarship duration varies:
- Master’s: up to 12 months (when enrolling in an M2), 24 months (when enrolling in an M1), or 36 months (for an engineering degree).
- Doctorate: between 12 to 36 months, starting September 1st, 2026.
How to Apply?
Ready to make your move? Remember, the application process is handled by the French higher education institutions themselves. Your first step is to apply and gain admission to a Master’s or PhD programme at a French university or institution that participates in the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme.
Once you’ve secured your admission, the institution will then submit your scholarship application on your behalf to Campus France. Make sure you communicate your interest in the Eiffel scholarship to the institution you are applying to!
Here are the key dates to keep in mind:
- Call for applications opens: October 1, 2025
- Deadline for institutions to submit applications to Campus France: January 8, 2026
- Publication of results: From March 30, 2026
For more detailed information and to find participating institutions, head straight to the official website:
Visit the Official Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme Webpage Here!
If pursuing a Master’s or PhD in France sounds like your next big adventure, don’t miss this incredible opportunity! Start researching French institutions now, secure your admission, and get ready for a world-class educational journey with the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme. Apply now and explore more amazing bursaries right here on Bursaries Room!
