Top 10 Scholarships in France for International Students in 2024-2025 | Study in France

Ah, France—land of exquisite cuisine, iconic landmarks, and world-renowned universities! It’s no wonder that studying in France tops the list for many international students seeking a unique blend of high-quality education and vibrant cultural experiences. What if you could enjoy all this without worrying about the hefty price tag? Well, you’re in luck! The 2024-2025 academic year is brimming with fully funded scholarships tailored for students from every corner of the globe. Whether you’re aiming for a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral program, there’s a scholarship out there with your name on it.

Imagine wandering the charming streets of Paris, soaking in the medieval history of Lyon, or attending cutting-edge research conferences in Bordeaux—all while pursuing your academic dreams. These scholarships not only alleviate the financial burden but also open doors to networking, leadership training, and life-changing experiences. France’s robust higher education system, recognized globally, is home to institutions that rank among the best in the world. From the prestigious Eiffel Scholarship to the coveted Erasmus+ program, the opportunities are endless.

Scholarships from Non-Government Organizations in France

Ready to embark on this journey? Let’s delve into a curated list of the top scholarships in France for 2024-2025 that can turn your dream of studying in Europe into a reality!

1. Alexandre Yersin Scholarship: Bridging Cultures with Excellence

The Alexandre Yersin Scholarship is your ticket to experiencing the best of French higher education while strengthening international ties between France, Hong Kong, and Macau. This prestigious award is designed to cultivate future leaders, offering recent graduates the chance to pursue master’s degrees at top French institutions. If you’re a student from Hong Kong or Macau, this scholarship offers not just financial aid but also a pathway to international development and cross-cultural understanding.

• Financial Support: Comprehensive funding for tuition and living costs.
• Ideal For: Students with a strong academic record and a passion for global cooperation.

2. Fulbright Scholarship in France: Academic Prestige Meets Cultural Immersion

The Fulbright Scholarship needs no introduction—it’s one of the most prestigious programs globally, designed for scholars eager to immerse themselves in French academia. Aimed at master’s and Ph.D. students, the Fulbright Scholarship offers generous financial assistance, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. But it’s more than just a scholarship; it’s an entryway to a vibrant community of Fulbright scholars who share a commitment to fostering mutual understanding across borders.

• Number of Awards: Approximately 20 scholarships awarded annually.
• Eligibility: Open to international students with a solid academic background and professional experience.

3. AIFS Study Abroad Scholarships: Experience France Like Never Before

The AIFS (American Institute for Foreign Study) offers scholarships designed for adventurous students looking to study in France. Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, this program provides the financial support needed to live and learn in one of the world’s most beautiful countries. The selection process is competitive, prioritizing candidates with stellar academic records.

• Coverage: Tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.
• Focus: Broad range of disciplines, with an emphasis on cultural exchange and academic excellence.

4. Civil Society Leadership Awards (CSLA): Empowering Change-Makers

The Civil Society Leadership Awards (CSLA) in France offer full scholarships to students who are already making a difference in their communities. This program targets young leaders with a proven track record in social advocacy and academic success, providing them with the resources to pursue a master’s degree in France. It’s a fully funded program, including tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.

• Perfect For: Aspiring leaders dedicated to social justice and community development.
• Fields of Study: Open to a wide range of disciplines, including social sciences, law, and public policy.

5. Université Paris-Saclay Master’s Scholarship: Excellence in Paris

Université Paris-Saclay is a beacon of academic excellence, and its scholarship program is no different. With over 160 scholarships available annually, this program is open to international master’s students across a variety of fields. Each scholarship provides financial support of up to €10,000 per year, making it one of the most generous offers out there.

• Key Benefits: Coverage for almost all educational and living expenses.
• Ideal Candidates: High-achieving students with strong academic potential.

6. Emile Boutmy Scholarship at Sciences Po: Prestigious and Inclusive

Named after the founder of Sciences Po, the Emile Boutmy Scholarship is a prestigious award for international students undertaking undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs. It’s tailored for students who demonstrate academic excellence and are looking to study in a world-class French institution.

• What It Covers: Full or partial tuition waiver, depending on the student’s profile.
• Best For: Students with outstanding academic records and a desire to study political science, law, or social sciences.

7. Erasmus+ Scholarships in France: A European Education Adventure

Erasmus+ is a flagship European Union program offering fully funded scholarships to students from all over the world. The scholarship covers everything from tuition to living expenses, making it one of the most sought-after programs for studying in France. Whether you’re interested in arts, business, or sciences, Erasmus+ offers a variety of fields and partner universities across Europe.

• Inclusions: Tuition fees, travel costs, monthly stipends, and health insurance.
• Why It’s Unique: Offers a chance to study in multiple European countries as part of the exchange program.

8. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program: The Pinnacle of French Scholarships

The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is the crème de la crème of scholarships offered by the French government. Targeted at top international students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees, this program covers all major expenses, including tuition, travel, and a substantial monthly allowance.

• Fields of Study: Focuses on engineering, law, economics, and political science.
• Who Should Apply: Ambitious students aiming for high-level academic and professional careers.

9. Ampère Excellence Scholarship: Study at ENS de Lyon

The Ampère Excellence Scholarship provides financial aid to international students pursuing master’s degrees at ENS de Lyon. This scholarship is particularly attractive due to its generous monthly stipend, covering living costs and educational expenses.

• Stipend: €1,000 – €1,500 per month.
• Eligibility: High-achieving international students interested in sciences and humanities.

10. Rainbow Bridge MBA Scholarship: Supporting Women from Asia and Africa

The Rainbow Bridge MBA Scholarship, offered by HEC Paris, is designed specifically for women from Asian and African countries who have faced natural disasters or economic hardships. This program supports women committed to making a positive impact in their home countries after graduation.

• Focus: Economic and social leadership.
• Special Note: Aimed at fostering gender equality and sustainable development.

Summary

France stands as one of Europe’s leading destinations for international students, offering a diverse array of fully funded and partially funded scholarships for the 2024-2025 academic year. With its globally ranked universities and rich cultural heritage, France provides students the chance to immerse themselves in a world-class education. These scholarships cater to various levels, from undergraduate to doctoral programs, and span government-funded programs like the Eiffel Scholarship Program of Excellence, which supports fields like engineering, law, and political science, to university-specific awards such as the Université Paris-Saclay Master’s Scholarship and the Emile Boutmy Scholarship at Sciences Po. Additionally, unique options like the Foundation Rainbow Bridge MBA Scholarship empower women from Asia and Africa affected by natural disasters to pursue their studies. These scholarships not only cover tuition but often include living expenses, making studying in France accessible to students from all backgrounds and enabling them to gain invaluable academic and cultural experiences in a vibrant European setting.

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