The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships offered by France for international students.
Managed by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, it aims to attract top talent from around the world to study in French higher education institutions. For 2026, the call for applications is officially open, giving ambitious students a chance to study at the masters and PhD levels in priority fields.
What is the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program?
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program was launched to support international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement. Its main purpose is to enable French universities to bring in the most talented students and train future global leaders. The program is highly competitive and focuses on candidates who aspire to become decision-makers in both the private and public sectors.
This scholarship primarily targets students in priority areas of study, such as engineering, law, economics, and science. The program encourages applicants from foreign countries to enhance their educational experience in France while promoting international collaboration.
Eligibility Criteria
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship has specific eligibility requirements:
- Master’s Level Applicants: Must be under 29 years old on the day of application submission.
- PhD Level Applicants: Must be under 35 years old at the time of application.
- Academic Excellence: Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and leadership potential.
- Field of Study: The program focuses on priority areas defined by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, including economics, law, engineering, and science-related disciplines.
It is important to note that students cannot directly apply to the Eiffel program. Only applications submitted through French higher education institutions are accepted.
2026 Application Timeline
The 2026 campaign for the Eiffel Scholarship follows a clear timeline:
- Opening of Applications: October 1, 2025
- Deadline for Application Reception by Campus France: January 8, 2026 (inclusive)
- Publication of Results: From March 30, 2026
Applicants should ensure that their French institutions have submitted their applications before the deadline. Missing the submission date can make the student ineligible for consideration.
How to Apply?
For Students
If you are a student interested in applying:
- Find a Participating Institution: Contact the French university where you wish to study to ensure they are part of the Eiffel program.
- Prepare Required Documents: This usually includes academic transcripts, a CV, a personal statement, recommendation letters, and proof of age eligibility.
- Submit Through Your Institution: The university will submit your application to Campus France on your behalf.
Students should also visit the official Campus France portal for guidance and updated application instructions.
For Institutions
- Existing Participants: If your institution has previously participated, you should have received an email with access to the application files. If not, contact Campus France immediately.
- First-Time Participants: Institutions participating for the first time must reach out to Campus France to download the necessary application files and instructions.
It is important for institutions to adhere to the deadlines and submission guidelines to ensure their students are considered for the scholarship.
Scholarship Benefits
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship offers numerous advantages to selected students:
- Financial Support: The scholarship provides a monthly stipend to cover living expenses in France.
- Travel Allowance: Selected candidates may receive assistance with travel costs to France.
- Health Insurance: Some universities offer medical coverage as part of the scholarship.
- Access to French Higher Education: Scholars get the opportunity to enroll in some of the top-ranked universities in France.
- Networking Opportunities: Students can interact with global peers and build professional connections for their future careers.
These benefits make the Eiffel scholarship one of the most sought-after programs for international students seeking advanced studies in France.
Regulations
The Eiffel Program rules for the 2026 session are designed to ensure transparency and fairness:
- Only applications submitted by French higher education institutions are accepted.
- Students cannot apply independently; their university must be responsible for the application process.
- All applications must comply with age limits and field of study requirements.
- Detailed regulations will be made available soon by Campus France.
Tips for a Successful Application
To increase the chances of being selected for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, follow these tips:
- Start Early: Begin preparing your documents and contacting universities well before the deadline.
- Highlight Achievements: Showcase your academic excellence, leadership experience, and extracurricular activities.
- Focus on Priority Areas: Ensure your field of study aligns with the scholarship’s priority areas.
- Seek Guidance: Work closely with your university’s scholarship office for accurate submission of documents.
Contact Information
For all queries regarding the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program, you can contact Campus France:
Campus France – Programme France Excellence Eiffel
28 rue de la Grange-aux-Belles
75010 Paris, France
It is recommended that students and institutions reach out to Campus France early for any clarifications or to ensure smooth submission of applications.
Conclusion
The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program 2026 is a prestigious opportunity for international students to pursue advanced studies in France. With its focus on academic excellence, leadership potential, and priority areas of study, it helps prepare future global leaders for careers in both private and public sectors.
Students interested in the program must ensure they meet age requirements, find participating French institutions, and submit applications through their universities by the specified deadlines. This scholarship not only provides financial and academic support but also opens doors to a world-class education in France, creating opportunities for professional growth and international networking.
FAQs
Q1. Can students apply directly for the Eiffel Scholarship?
No. Only French higher education institutions can submit applications on behalf of students.
Q2. What is the age limit for the Eiffel Scholarship?
Applicants must be under 29 years for Masters and under 35 years for PhD programs.
Q3. When does the application period start for 2026?
The call for applications opens on October 1, 2025, and closes on January 8, 2026.
Q4. What benefits does the Eiffel Scholarship provide?
The scholarship offers a monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance, and access to top French universities.
Q5. How can institutions participate for the first time?
First-time institutions must contact Campus France to download the application files and instructions for student submissions.
