Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program 2026 is one of the most prestigious scholarships offered by the French government to attract talented international students to study in France. Established by the French Ministry of European Affairs and Foreign Affairs, the Eiffel Program aims to support international students who demonstrate outstanding academic potential and leadership qualities. If you are planning to pursue a master’s degree or doctoral degree in France, this scholarship opens the door to world-class education, advanced research opportunities, and global career paths.
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program Overview
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program was established to support French higher education institutions in attracting outstanding international students to master’s and doctoral programs. It focuses on developing the next generation of global leaders in both the private and public sectors. The program targets priority areas that are particularly aligned with France’s academic and economic vision. One of the unique features of the Eiffel program is its focus on selecting young talent. Master’s level applicants can apply up to 29 years of age, and PhD level applicants can apply up to 35 years of age. In doing so, the scholarship supports early-career professionals who can make a significant impact in their home country and internationally.
Eiffel Scholarship 2026 Schedule
The 2026 campaign follows a strict schedule set by Campus France. Students must apply through a French institution and not individually. Important dates are:
Open application: October 1, 2025
Deadlines for institutions to submit applications to Campus France: January 8, 2026
Results announced: From March 30, 2026
French universities need time to review applications before naming Eiffel Scholarship recipients, so students are encouraged to start preparing as early as mid-2025.
Understand how the Eiffel Scholarship works
One of the most important aspects of the Eiffel Scholarship program is that only French higher education institutions can submit applications. Individual applications sent directly to Campus France will not be accepted. This means that students must first apply to a master’s or doctoral program at the French university of their choice. If the institution determines that the student is outstanding, it will decide whether to nominate the student for an Eiffel Scholarship. Although the process varies from institution to institution, most universities require students to express interest in the Eiffel program when applying for academic study.
Universities that previously participated in the program already have access to the application portal. New institutions should contact Campus France to obtain the necessary files and instructions. Because competition for scholarships is fierce, French universities often set internal deadlines earlier than the January 8 submission date.
Components of the Eiffel Scholarship Program
The Eiffel Scholarship provides support at two academic levels.
1. Components of the Master
Depending on the student’s program level, we provide funding for 12, 24, or 36 months.
2. Organization of doctoral program
We support a travel period of 12, 18 or 36 months to complete your research and thesis.
Each component has its own duration and eligibility guidelines to ensure students have the support they need to successfully complete their degree.
Purpose of Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
The Eiffel Scholarship has a clear mission: to attract talented international students and develop future leaders in key academic and professional fields. The French government sees the program as an investment in international collaboration, academic excellence and global innovation. The scholarship encourages the participation of students who can contribute to international dialogue, scientific advancement, economic development and cultural exchange. By empowering promising young scholars, France strengthens its relationships with future influencers, industry experts, policy makers, researchers and entrepreneurs around the world.
Eiffel Scholarship Support Areas
The Eiffel Program focuses on seven core areas grouped into two main academic categories:
science and technology
This field emphasizes scientific innovation, sustainability, technological advancement, and industrial advancement.
Humanities and Social Sciences
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French History, Language and Civilization
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Law and Politics
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economics and management
The field supports the education of future diplomats, economists, cultural leaders, political advisors and global thinkers.
Students are encouraged to choose a field that closely matches their academic background and long-term professional goals.
Qualifying learning level
The Eiffel Scholarship is available to students planning to enroll in the following schools:
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Master’s degree program recognized by the French government
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Nationally accredited engineering program
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Doctorate program involving joint supervision or dual degree structure with overseas partner institutions
The scholarship strictly supports study programs taking place in France, but certain internships or exchange periods outside France may be approved subject to certain conditions.
Eiffel Scholarship Period
The application period varies depending on the master’s and doctoral program students.
Master’s level
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Up to 12 months for second year (M2) students
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Up to 24 months for first year (M1) students
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Up to 36 months for engineering programs
The length of time is determined by the student’s level of participation in the program. The scholarship cannot be extended beyond the standard duration of a French master’s or engineering degree.
PhD level
PhD grants are awarded for:
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12 months
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18 months
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36 months
The duration depends on the student’s current year of doctoral study and whether this is their first time studying in France. Only students starting their PhD program in France for the first time can take the full 36-month course. Those already enrolled in a PhD program may receive 12 to 18 months, depending on their academic progress.
The scholarship period must begin between September 1 and November 30 of the year of the scholarship award. The important thing is that the start date cannot be postponed.
Benefits and Financial Security
One of the biggest advantages of the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program is its generous financial package that allows students to focus on their studies without financial burden.
Master’s level benefits
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monthly allowance €1,200 (Effective January 1, 2026)
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International airfare from the student’s home country to France
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Domestic travel support
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Health Insurance and Social Security Coverage
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Housing Placement Assistance
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Access to cultural activities organized by Campus France
PhD level benefits
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monthly allowance €2,100 (Effective January 1, 2026)
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Direct services similar to master’s level: airfare, travel assistance, insurance, housing assistance, cultural events.
The Eiffel Scholarship covers almost all living expenses, Tuition is not included. However, many French universities offer low tuition or tuition waivers for Eiffel Tower Scholars, making the program still quite affordable.
What scholarships don’t cover
It is important for students to understand:
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Tuition fee not paid with the Eiffel program
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The grant only applies to the period spent in France.
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No smoke allowed
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Scholars must maintain acceptable academic performance to continue receiving benefits.
Students are encouraged to contact the university directly regarding tuition reductions or fee waivers for Eiffel candidates.
How to Apply for Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
Unlike many other scholarships, the Eiffel Program does not accept applications submitted directly by students. This process is entirely institution-driven. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Identify eligible French institutions
Students must first select the university and study program they wish to apply to. Each institution may have its own unique Eiffel deadlines and referral guidelines.
Step 2: Submit your academic application
Apply for a Masters or PhD program and express your interest in being considered for an Eiffel Scholarship. Universities often request additional documentation for Eiffel candidates, such as a letter of motivation for the program.
Step 3: College Review and Shortlist
French institutions evaluate your academic profile, leadership potential, and match with the scholarship objectives. If a university selects you, they will prepare an Eiffel Tower recommendation file.
Step 4: The university submits the application to the French campus.
Before January 8, 2026, only eligible institutions can submit through the official platform. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Step 5: Presentation of results
Campus France will publish results from March 30, 2026. Selected scholars will receive notification from both Campus France and the nominating institution.
Tips for a successful Eiffel Scholarship application
To increase their chances of being selected, students should:
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Demonstrate leadership potential and community impact
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Emphasis on academic excellence and related research achievements
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Show how studying abroad in France aligns with your career goals
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Present a clear and compelling motivation letter.
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Apply early to give the agency time to prepare your nomination.
The Eiffel program is very competitive, so applicants should also consider applying to several French universities to enhance their chances.
Why choose France for the Eiffel Scholarship?
France is known for its strong education system, innovative research institutions, and vibrant cultural environment. By studying in France through the Eiffel Scholarship, students can benefit from:
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Access to world-class universities and research institutes
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Opportunity to learn French and expand your international communication skills
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Exposure to European and global industries through internships and collaborations
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Multicultural Academic Environment
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Strong career prospects with a globally recognized degree
The combination of financial support, academic excellence, and long-term professional opportunities makes the Eiffel Program one of the most attractive scholarship routes in Europe.
Official contact information
For more information or institutional support, please contact:
Campus France – Program France Excellence Eiffel
28 rue de la Grange-aux-Belles
75010 Paris
For all inquiries, please use the official contact channels available through Campus France.\
Download the official instructions.