France has rapidly emerged as one of Europe’s most welcoming study destinations for international students, particularly those seeking English-taught degree programs. With globally ranked universities, affordable tuition at public institutions, and a wide range of prestigious scholarships, France offers an ideal balance of academic excellence, cultural exposure, and financial accessibility.
Today, more than 1,600 programs in France are taught fully in English across disciplines such as business, engineering, international relations, data science, public health, and the social sciences. Combined with generous funding opportunities, studying in France in English is now more achievable than ever for students from Africa and other regions.
This article highlights the top scholarships available for international students studying in English in France, including eligibility requirements and application insights for each opportunity.
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is France’s flagship government-funded scholarship, administered by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. It is designed to attract outstanding international students to French institutions offering English-taught master’s and PhD programs.
Eligible fields include engineering, economics, management, political science, and science and technology.
Requirements
Applicants must be non-French nationals and must already have secured admission to an eligible French institution. Candidates are expected to demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and a clear career plan. Age limits usually apply, typically under 30 for master’s programs and under 35 for doctoral programs. Proof of English proficiency is required for English-taught courses.
What the Scholarship Covers
The scholarship provides a monthly living allowance, international travel support, health insurance, and cultural activities. Tuition fees are generally not covered, but many public universities charge very low fees.
Émile Boutmy Scholarship at Sciences Po
Sciences Po is one of Europe’s leading institutions for political science, international relations, economics, and public policy. The Émile Boutmy Scholarship supports talented international students admitted to English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs.
Requirements
Applicants must be non-European Union nationals applying to Sciences Po for the first time. A strong academic background, excellent English proficiency, and a compelling personal statement are essential. Financial need is also considered during selection.
What the Scholarship Covers
The scholarship provides partial to full tuition support depending on the applicant’s profile and level of study. Some awards may also include living expense assistance.
Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarships
Université Paris-Saclay is a top-ranked research university offering many English-taught master’s programs in science, engineering, health, and data-driven fields.
Requirements
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a French undergraduate qualification and be admitted to an eligible English-taught master’s program. Strong academic results and proof of English proficiency are mandatory. Candidates must be enrolling in France for the first time.
What the Scholarship Covers
The scholarship offers up to €10,000 per year for living expenses, along with a relocation allowance to assist with travel and visa costs.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees are fully funded programs delivered by a consortium of European universities, many of which include French institutions. Programs are entirely taught in English and span disciplines such as international development, artificial intelligence, public health, and environmental studies.
Requirements
Applicants must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree and meet the academic and language requirements of the specific Erasmus program. Selection is highly competitive and based on academic merit, motivation, and international outlook.
What the Scholarship Covers
The scholarship covers full tuition, monthly living allowance, travel costs, and insurance for the duration of the program.
Université Paris Cité SMARTS-UP Scholarships
Université Paris Cité offers the SMARTS-UP scholarship to international students enrolled in select English-taught master’s programs in health, sciences, and interdisciplinary studies.
Requirements
Applicants must be admitted into an eligible English-taught master’s program and be first-time students in France. Academic excellence and motivation are key selection criteria.
What the Scholarship Covers
The scholarship provides a lump sum of approximately €10,000 to support living expenses during the academic year.
Université Grenoble Alpes IDEX Scholarship
Université Grenoble Alpes is a leading institution for science, engineering, and innovation. The IDEX scholarship supports international students admitted to English-taught master’s programs.
Requirements
Applicants must hold a strong academic record and have confirmed admission to an eligible program. Proof of English proficiency and academic transcripts are required.
What the Scholarship Covers
The scholarship offers financial support of up to €8,000 per academic year, renewable under certain conditions.
Aix-Marseille Université TIGER Excellence Scholarships
Aix-Marseille Université offers TIGER Excellence Scholarships to attract high-achieving international students into English-taught master’s programs across science, engineering, and social sciences.
Requirements
Applicants must be admitted to an eligible master’s program and demonstrate strong academic performance. Selection is merit-based.
What the Scholarship Covers
The scholarship typically provides up to €10,000 per year to help cover living and study expenses.
Campus France Managed Scholarships
Campus France coordinates numerous scholarship opportunities funded by the French government, foreign governments, and institutions.
Requirements
Requirements vary by scholarship but generally include admission into a French institution, academic excellence, and proof of English proficiency for English-taught programs.
What the Scholarships Cover
Funding may include tuition support, monthly stipends, health insurance, and housing assistance depending on the program.
Why Study in France in English
France combines world-class education with affordable public tuition, even for international students. English-taught programs allow students to study immediately without French language barriers while still offering opportunities to learn French and integrate into society. Graduates also benefit from post-study work options and access to Europe’s job market.
For international students seeking quality education, global exposure, and strong financial support, France stands out as a top destination.
If you need professional guidance on choosing English-taught programs in France, applying for scholarships, or navigating the student visa process, our travel and education advisory team is available to support you every step of the way.
Book a one-on-one consultation for guidance tailored to your goals: https://selar.com/Book.A.Session
