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Scholarships in France for international students: 2026 guide to funding your studies
Every year, international students choose France to study in a globally connected academic environment. With its recognized higher education system, Grandes Écoles and international programs, France attracts students who want to broaden their perspectives, develop their skills and prepare for an international career.
Several funding options can help make studying in France more accessible. These include merit-based scholarships, financial aid, tuition waivers and mobility grants.
International students considering a French business school such as SKEMA Business School can explore different funding opportunities depending on their country of origin, level of study, chosen program and personal circumstances.
Can international students get a scholarship in France?
Yes. International students may be eligible for scholarships to study in France. Eligibility depends on several factors, including country of origin, level of study, chosen program, academic record and host institution.
Scholarships and financial support may be available from:
- the French government
- the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs
- Campus France
- French embassies
- governments and organizations in students’ home countries
- French universities and Grandes Écoles
- foundations and private organizations
- European programs such as Erasmus+
It is also important to understand the different types of financial support available:
- Scholarships provide direct financial support to students.
- Tuition waivers reduce some or all tuition costs.
- Housing and living assistance helps cover everyday expenses while studying in France.
- Mobility grants support students taking part in international study or exchange programs.
France welcomes students from around the world, but French government scholarships remain highly selective. Starting your research early gives you more time to identify the right opportunities and prepare your application
What are the requirements for international students to get a scholarship in France?
Eligibility criteria vary from one scholarship to another. Before applying, check the requirements carefully and make sure they match your profile and study plans.
Country and nationality requirements
Some scholarships are available only to students from specific countries or as part of international agreements.
French embassies, partner organizations and official platforms regularly publish funding opportunities for international students. Checking the options available in your home country is therefore an important first step.
Academic requirements and academic record
Most merit-based scholarships target students with a strong academic background.
Selection criteria may include:
- academic results
- academic ranking
- consistency between your previous studies and your chosen program
- motivation
- career goals
For students applying for a master’s degree in France, a French business school or an international program, a clear and well-prepared application can make a significant difference.
Administrative requirements
Depending on the scholarship, applicants may need to provide:
- an admission offer from a French university or school
- proof of enrollment
- a degree or diploma corresponding to the required academic level
- a resume
- a motivation letter
- proof of French or English language proficiency
- supporting administrative documents
Start preparing your application several months before your studies begin. This gives you time to gather the required documents and meet scholarship deadlines.
What are the main scholarships for international students in France?
French government scholarships
French government scholarships are among the main funding options available to international students. Depending on the program, they may contribute toward:
- study-related expenses
- the cost of staying in France
- everyday living expenses
- certain mobility-related costs
These scholarships generally target high-potential students and may focus on specific academic fields or international priorities.
Campus France scholarships and funding opportunities
Campus France helps international students prepare for their studies in France. Its resources provide information on:
- available degree programs
- eligibility requirements
- administrative procedures
- funding opportunities based on country of origin
For many international students, Campus France is a useful starting point for identifying relevant scholarships and understanding the administrative steps involved in preparing to study in France.
CROUS need-based scholarships
CROUS need-based scholarships are the main form of financial aid for students from lower-income households enrolled in French higher education.
Specific eligibility requirements apply to international students. Students from the European Union may qualify under certain residency or employment conditions in France. Non-EU students may also qualify in specific circumstances, including refugee status, subsidiary protection or long-term residency.
The scholarship has eight levels, from 0 bis to 7, with annual funding ranging from approximately €1,450 to more than €6,300, depending on the student’s financial circumstances.
Scholarships from universities and business schools
French higher education institutions may also provide their own financial support for students. Depending on the institution and program, this may include:
- merit-based scholarships
- tuition reductions or waivers
- academic achievement scholarships
- dedicated funding for international students
If you are considering a French Grande École or business school, check the scholarships and funding options available directly from the institution as early as possible in your application process.
Merit-based scholarships: Eiffel, Major and funding for high-achieving students
Merit-based scholarships can provide significant financial support to international students with a strong academic record.
France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship
The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship supports international students pursuing a master’s degree or PhD at a French higher education institution. The program aims to attract talented international students in priority fields of study.
The scholarship provides a monthly allowance of €1,200 for master’s students and €2,100 for PhD students. It also covers several additional expenses, including international and domestic transportation, health insurance, certain cultural activities and housing support.
However, the Eiffel Scholarship does not generally cover tuition fees. Depending on the situation, these remain the responsibility of the host institution or the student.
Students cannot apply directly. Applications must be submitted by the French higher education institution on behalf of the candidate.
Major Scholarship
The Major Scholarship is a French government program for outstanding high school graduates from schools in the AEFE network (Agency for French Education Abroad) who continue their higher education in France.
Awarded based on academic achievement and a selection process, the scholarship helps students cover part of their study and living expenses in France. The amount varies and may be combined with other forms of financial support depending on the student’s circumstances.
Selection takes place in coordination with AEFE schools and the relevant French authorities. Unlike some other scholarships, students do not submit an individual application directly.
Erasmus+: financial support for European mobility
The Erasmus+ program supports mobility between participating European higher education institutions. Students enrolled in an eligible program may receive financial support for part of their study-abroad experience.
Erasmus+ funding can contribute toward:
- housing
- living expenses
- certain mobility-related costs
Students taking part in Erasmus+ mobility receive a monthly grant. The amount varies depending on the destination and cost of living. For study mobility, funding generally ranges from €225 to €674 per month, depending on the rates applied by the institution and the relevant funding program.
International Mobility Grant (AMI)
The International Mobility Grant (Aide à la mobilité internationale – AMI) supports students enrolled at a French higher education institution who complete part of their studies or an internship abroad as part of their degree.
The AMI can be awarded for a period of 1 to 10 months. Students may receive the grant more than once during their studies, but the total funded period cannot exceed 10 months. The institution informs students of the amount awarded before their departure.
In some cases, the AMI can be combined with an Erasmus+ grant or other mobility funding.
What scholarships are available by level of study?
Funding opportunities vary depending on your level of study. Some scholarships target specific degree levels, while others depend primarily on academic achievement, nationality or the type of mobility involved.
Scholarships for undergraduate students
Scholarships are available to international undergraduate students, although funding opportunities may be more limited than at graduate level. Students can explore:
- financial support available in their home country
- exchange programs
- scholarships and grants from individual institutions
- international mobility funding
Checking both French funding opportunities and programs available in your home country can broaden your options.
Scholarships for master’s students
Master’s-level study in France provides access to a wide range of potential funding opportunities. These include:
- merit-based scholarships
- international grants and financial aid
- funding provided by universities and schools
- scholarships targeting priority academic fields
Students applying for a master’s-level program at an international institution such as SKEMA can also explore the funding options available during the admissions process.
Funding for PhD students and researchers
PhD students can access specific forms of research funding, including:
- doctoral contracts
- international programs
- research laboratory funding
- institutional grants
Funding often depends on the research project and the host research team.
Funding your studies at SKEMA Business School as an international student
Studying at SKEMA Business School is an investment in an international academic experience. Depending on your program, level of study and personal circumstances, different funding options can help you prepare your study plans.
With 10 locations in 7 countries and more than 11,000 students representing over 130 nationalities, SKEMA welcomes students from around the world who choose to study in France or internationally.
Depending on the program you choose — Global BBA, Bachelor in Artificial Intelligence & Management, Master in Management, Master of Science (MSc) or Master’s degree — you can explore different funding options, including:
- national and international merit-based scholarships
- grants provided by governments and mobility organizations
- funding options available for specific programs
- student banking partnerships
- other financing solutions for higher education
SKEMA’s Admissions and Funding teams help candidates identify the options that best match their circumstances and build a realistic financial plan for their studies.
To explore the options available for your situation, visit SKEMA Business School’s Funding Your Studies page.
Good to know: A scholarship does not always cover the full cost of studying in France. Build a comprehensive budget that includes tuition fees, housing, transportation, health insurance and everyday living expenses.
What expenses can a scholarship cover in France?
A scholarship does not necessarily fund your entire study experience, but it can significantly reduce the overall cost of studying and living in France.
Depending on the scholarship or grant, funding may contribute toward:
Expense | Potential coverage |
Tuition fees | Partial or full, depending on the funding |
Housing | Specific housing assistance may be available |
Living expenses | Depends on the scholarship |
Transportation | May be covered by some programs |
International mobility | Covered by certain programs |
Moving and settling in France | Varies by funding program |
Some forms of financial aid specifically support housing or international mobility. In addition to scholarships, students may consider other solutions such as student loans, banking partnerships or other financing options for higher education.
Where can international students find scholarships to study in France?
A structured search can help you identify the funding opportunities that best match your profile:
- Define your level of study and academic plans
- Check which scholarships are available to students from your country
- Explore Campus France and other official resources
- Contact your chosen university or school
- Prepare your scholarship application
- Check and meet every application deadline
Key sources of information include:
- Campus France
- French embassies
- government ministries
- universities
- Grandes Écoles and other higher education institutions
- foundations
- international organizations
Can international students work while studying in France?
International students who hold a valid student residence permit can generally work while studying, subject to current French regulations.
Part-time employment can provide additional financial support alongside scholarships and grants. The applicable conditions vary depending on the student’s status and country of origin.
How can you prepare a strong scholarship application?
A strong scholarship application should clearly demonstrate:
- a consistent academic record
- well-defined career goals
- clear motivation
- careful administrative preparation
Commonly requested documents include:
- a resume
- diplomas and degree certificates
- academic transcripts
- a motivation letter
- a study plan
- supporting administrative documents
Starting early gives you more time to identify suitable funding opportunities, prepare the required documents and meet application deadlines.
Plan your funding before studying in France
Securing a scholarship to study in France as an international student requires preparation. Start by identifying the funding options that match your profile, then build a strong application and keep track of deadlines.
Merit-based scholarships, mobility grants, institutional funding and complementary financing solutions can all help make studying in France more accessible.
If you plan to join SKEMA Business School, explore your funding options from the beginning of the admissions process. This gives you a clearer view of your overall budget and helps you prepare your study plans with confidence.
Q&A: Scholarships in France for international students
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Yes. International students can apply for different scholarships in France depending on their profile, country of origin, level of study, chosen institution and academic record.
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International students may have access to scholarships, housing assistance, tuition waivers, mobility grants and merit-based funding programs.
Eligibility and funding amounts vary depending on the program, the student’s profile and personal circumstances.
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Not necessarily. Coverage depends on the scholarship.
Some scholarships cover only part of tuition or living expenses, while others provide support for housing, transportation or international mobility. Before applying, check exactly which expenses the scholarship covers and build a budget for any remaining costs.
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Yes. Master’s students can access a wide range of funding opportunities in France, including merit-based scholarships, international funding programs and scholarships provided by higher education institutions.
Eligibility depends on factors such as academic record, nationality, chosen program and institution.
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Yes. SKEMA helps international students explore funding options as they prepare for their studies.
Available solutions depend on the chosen program, the student’s profile and personal circumstances. Visit SKEMA’s Funding Your Studies page to learn more about the available options.
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International students planning to attend a French business school can explore several sources of funding, including merit-based scholarships, financial support from their home country, scholarships provided by individual institutions and international mobility programs.
Check the eligibility requirements and deadlines for both external scholarships and funding available directly from your chosen business school.
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Scholarship amounts vary significantly. Some programs provide a monthly allowance for everyday living expenses, while others contribute toward tuition fees, housing or international mobility.
For example:
- the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship provides a monthly allowance of €1,200 for master’s students and €2,100 for PhD students
- an Erasmus+ grant generally ranges from €225 to €674 per month, depending on the destination
- a CROUS need-based scholarship can provide more than €6,000 per year for eligible students at the highest funding level
Always check the current amount and eligibility requirements for the specific scholarship before applying.
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No. The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship does not generally cover tuition fees.
It primarily provides a monthly allowance and covers certain expenses associated with studying in France, including international transportation, health insurance and some cultural activities.
Depending on the program, tuition fees generally remain the responsibility of the host institution or the student.
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In many cases, yes. International students who are authorized to work under their student status can generally take paid employment while studying, subject to current French regulations.
However, some scholarships may have specific conditions or restrictions regarding employment or combining different sources of financial aid. Check the terms of your scholarship before accepting a job or additional funding.
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Start researching scholarships 6 to 12 months before your intended program begins.
Application schedules vary between organizations, but merit-based scholarships and international funding programs often open several months before the academic year starts.
Preparing early gives you time to gather your academic records and supporting documents, build a strong application and monitor the deadlines published by funding organizations and higher education institutions.
