- France provides over 500 annual scholarships to Indian students through prestigious government programs covering tuition, living expenses, and career development opportunities.
- French scholarship programs offer monthly allowances ranging from €700-€1,800 (₹71,400-₹1.8 Lakh) across bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels, with additional benefits including accommodation assistance.
- French government scholarships prioritise excellence in strategic fields like engineering, digital technology, sustainable development, and business management, providing direct pathways to European career opportunities.
- Types of French Scholarships Available to Indian Students
- Government Scholarships in France for Indian Students
- Private Scholarships in France for Indian Students
- University Scholarships in France for Indian Students
- Academic Eligibility & Application Requirements for French Scholarships
- Key Takeaways by AdmitX
- FAQs
The transformation from dreaming about international education to receiving acceptance letters from top French universities represents years of dedication, family support, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Scholarships for Indian students in France serve as the bridge between aspiration and achievement, making France’s world-renowned educational system accessible regardless of financial background.
Types of French Scholarships Available to Indian Students
French scholarship opportunities are strategically organized into three major categories, each designed to address specific academic levels, financial needs, and career objectives.
- Government Scholarships: The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs establishes flagship scholarship programs to attract top international students to French higher education institutions.
- Private Scholarships: Private organizations, industry foundations, and professional associations offer specialized scholarships targeting specific sectors or emerging technologies.
- University-Based Scholarships: French universities and educational institutions provide merit-based scholarships to attract exceptional international students to their specific programs and research initiatives.
Government Scholarships in France for Indian Students
There are more than 100 French scholarships for Indian students provided by the foreign ministry. The ministry funds 25% of these scholarships directly.Â
The SCACs, which are located in French embassies and consulates general overseas, are primarily responsible for handing out scholarships.Â
Quick Overview
| Scholarship Program | Monthly Allowance | Duration | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| France Excellence Eiffel (Master's) | €1,181 (₹1.2 Lakh) | 12-36 months | International transportation, accommodation allowance, health insurance |
| France Excellence Eiffel (PhD) | €1,800 (₹1.8 Lakh) | 6-36 months | International transportation, accommodation allowance, health insurance, research support |
| France Excellence Charpak Master | €860 (₹87,600) | 12-36 months | Visa fee waiver, social security, accommodation assistance |
| Raman-Charpak Fellowship | €860 (₹87,600) | 2-6 months | Return airfare, travel insurance, research exchange |
France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Program
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program was established by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to enable French higher education institutions to attract top foreign students to enroll in their masters and PhD programs.
Program Overview: The Eiffel scholarship targets priority areas of study essential for global development and innovation, emphasizing fields where France maintains international leadership and expertise. The program aims to create lasting professional relationships while advancing scientific and cultural cooperation.
| Aspect | Master's Program | PhD Program |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 12-36 months | 6-36 months |
| Monthly Allowance | €1,181 (₹1.2 Lakh) | €1,800 (₹1.8 Lakh) |
| Age Limit | Under 27 years | Under 32 years |
| Additional Benefits | International transportation, accommodation allowance, health insurance, cultural activities | Same as Master's plus research support |
| Application Method | Through French institutions only | Through French institutions only |
| Academic Fields | Biology/Health, Ecological Transition, Mathematics/Digital, Engineering, Law/Political Science, Economics/Management, French Language/Civilization | Same fields with research focus |
| Official Website | Campus France - Eiffel Excellence |
France Excellence Charpak Master Scholarship
The France Excellence Charpak program serves as the French government’s primary scholarship initiative in India, named after Nobel Prize-winning physicist Georges Charpak. This program specifically addresses the needs of Indian students pursuing master’s education in France.
Program Overview: The Charpak Master Scholarship emphasizes academic excellence, project consistency, and career development potential without requiring minimum GPA cutoffs, making it accessible to a broader range of qualified candidates.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12-36 months (renewable once) |
| Monthly Allowance | €860 (₹87,600) |
| Age Limit | Maximum 30 years |
| Visa Support | Student visa fee waiver/reimbursement |
| Additional Benefits | Social security coverage, accommodation assistance, Etudes en France fee waiver |
| Language Requirement | Basic French knowledge mandatory |
| Application Method | Through Campus France India |
| Renewal Policy | Once renewable based on first-year performance |
| Official Website | Campus France India - Charpak Master |
Raman-Charpak Fellowship Programme
The Raman-Charpak Fellowship program honors two Nobel Laureates in Physics: Prof C.V. Raman (Indian, 1930) and Prof Georges Charpak (French, 1992), facilitating doctoral student exchanges to strengthen Indo-French scientific cooperation.
Program Overview: This bilateral fellowship program enables doctoral students to conduct research at partner institutions, fostering international collaboration while advancing scientific knowledge and cultural understanding.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2-6 months research exchange |
| Monthly Fellowship | €860 (₹87,600) |
| Age Limit | Maximum 30 years |
| Travel Support | Return economy airfare India-France |
| Additional Benefits | Local transportation, accommodation, social security, travel insurance |
| Academic Requirement | Master's degree from recognized university |
| Language Requirement | Basic French knowledge mandatory |
| Application Method | Through IFCPAR (Indo-French Centre) |
| Official Website | IFCPAR Fellowship Programs |
Private Scholarships in France for Indian Students
Private scholarship programs in France offer specialized funding opportunities often linked to specific industries, institutions, or career pathways, providing unique networking opportunities and professional development alongside financial support.
Quick Overview
| Scholarship Program | Scholarship Amount | Duration | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| GIFAS International Excellence - ENAC | €2,400-€7,000 (₹2.4-₹7.1 Lakh) | 12-24 months | Direct aerospace industry connections |
| LivinFrance International Student | €1,000 (₹1 Lakh) for top 10 | Throughout study period | €595 accommodation fee waiver, administrative support |
| ESC Clermont Early Bird | 5% tuition fee discount | Throughout study period | Year-round application, business education focus |
GIFAS International Excellence Scholarship - ENAC Foundation
The GIFAS scholarship represents collaboration between France’s aerospace industry and educational institutions, targeting exceptional students in aviation, engineering, and related technical fields.
Program Overview: This industry-focused scholarship for studying in France connects students with the country’s leading aerospace and transportation sectors while providing comprehensive educational support.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12-24 months |
| Scholarship Amount | €2,400-€7,000 (₹2.4-₹7.1 Lakh) |
| Age Requirement | Minimum 30 years |
| Academic Fields | Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Transportation, Aeronautics |
| Language Requirement | French optional for English programs |
| Application Method | Through ENAC recruitment officer |
| Industry Connection | Direct links to aerospace companies |
| Official Website/Contact | ENAC Foundation |
LivinFrance International Student Scholarship Program
This scholarship program supports international students across all academic fields, emphasizing practical daily life support alongside financial assistance.
Program Overview: LivinFrance focuses on holistic student support, addressing accommodation, administrative, and integration challenges that international students commonly face.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | Throughout study period |
| Scholarship Package | €1,000 (₹1 Lakh) for top 10 laureates |
| Accommodation Support | €595 (₹60,700) reservation fee waiver |
| Administrative Support | €100 (₹10,200) personalized assistance |
| Services Included | Visa support, CVEC, CAF, health insurance assistance |
| Eligibility | All study levels and fields |
| Special Requirements | Livin-France website registration mandatory |
| Official Website | LivinFrance Scholarships |
ESC Clermont Early Bird Scholarship
ESC Clermont’s merit-based scholarship encourages early applications while supporting international students pursuing business and management education.
Program Overview: This scholarship rewards proactive students who showcase commitment to their educational goals through early application and planning.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | Throughout study period |
| Benefit | 5% tuition fee discount |
| Age Requirement | Minimum 30 years |
| Language Requirement | French optional for English programs |
| Application Period | Year-round before academic year start |
| Program Level | Bachelor's and Master's degrees |
| Application Priority | Course admission required first |
| Official Website | ESC Clermont |
University Scholarships in France for Indian Students
Universities in France offering scholarships attract exceptional international students while building diverse academic communities and fostering research excellence.
Quick Overview
| Scholarship Program | Scholarship Amount | Coverage | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| INSEAD Indian Alumni | €25,000 (₹25.5 Lakh) | Full scholarship | MBA focus, demonstrated financial need required |
| HEC Paris MBA Excellence | Up to 50% of tuition fees | Partial coverage | Automatic consideration after admission |
| Skema Business School Master's | Up to €4,000 (₹4 Lakh) | First year tuition waiver | Automatic consideration after admission |
INSEAD Indian Alumni Scholarships
INSEAD‘s scholarship program specifically supports Indian students pursuing world-class business education while demonstrating financial need and exceptional potential.
Program Overview: This prestigious scholarship reflects INSEAD’s commitment to diversity and accessibility in global business education, supporting students who show strong leadership potential.
| Application Method | Through official INSEAD website |
|---|---|
| Aspect | Details |
| Scholarship Amount | €25,000 (₹25.5 Lakh) |
| Age Requirement | Minimum 30 years |
| Financial Criteria | Demonstrated financial need required |
| Academic Level | MBA and specialized master's programs |
| Selection Criteria | Academic excellence and leadership potential |
| Application Timeline | Rolling admissions throughout year |
| Official Website | INSEAD Scholarships |
HEC Paris MBA Scholarship for Excellence
This merit-based scholarship program targets exceptional MBA applicants who demonstrate significant potential for leadership and innovation in their chosen professional fields.
Program Overview: HEC Paris recognizes academic and professional excellence through substantial financial support, enabling top candidates to focus on their educational goals without financial constraints.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Coverage | Up to 50% of tuition fees |
| Selection Criteria | Exceptional academic and professional excellence |
| Application Process | Automatic consideration after admission |
| Evaluation Period | Begins one week after program admission |
| Award Determination | Final amount determined at program completion |
| Program Focus | MBA and executive education |
| Application Deadline | No specific deadline (continuous evaluation) |
| Official Website | HEC Paris MBA |
Skema Business School Master's Excellence Scholarships
Skema Business School offers dual scholarship opportunities for talented international students pursuing specialized master’s programs in business, management, and related fields.
Program Overview: These scholarships support academic excellence while building diverse international student communities across Skema’s global campuses and program offerings.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Amount | Up to €4,000 (₹4 Lakh) |
| Award Format | Tuition fee waiver |
| Coverage Period | First year of two-year programs |
| Eligibility | All qualified applicants |
| Selection Criteria | Exceptional academic excellence |
| Application Process | Automatic consideration after admission |
| Evaluation Timeline | Begins two weeks after admission |
| Official Website | Skema Business School |
Academic Eligibility & Application Requirements for French Scholarships
Successfully securing French scholarships requires strategic preparation and understanding of both academic qualifications and application procedures. Each program maintains specific standards while following common evaluation criteria.
Core Academic Requirements
- Higher Secondary Education: Minimum 60% marks in 12th standard for bachelor’s program scholarships, with strong performance in relevant subjects and consistent academic trajectory.
- Bachelor’s Degree: For master’s scholarships, completed bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution with sustained academic excellence and clear field alignment.
- Master’s Degree: PhD and research scholarships require completed master’s degree with research experience, thesis work, or substantial project involvement.
- Academic Consistency: Demonstrated sustained performance across all education levels, showing commitment to chosen field and intellectual capability.
Assess your academic eligibility effortlessly using our precise CGPA Calculator, helping you target the right university with confidence.Â
Language Proficiency Standards
French Language Requirements:
- DELF/DALF: B2 level (intermediate-advanced)
- TCF: 300-400 points
- TEF: 541-698 points
English Language Requirements (for English-taught programs):
- IELTS Academic: 6.0-6.5 overall (no band below 5.5)
- TOEFL iBT: 79-85+
- PTE Academic: 58-62+
- Duolingo: 105-115+
For IELTS preparation, check out our free course – IELTS Bootcamp.Â
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
- Over 500 annual scholarships are available for Indian students in France – from Eiffel Excellence (€1,181-€1,800 monthly / ₹1.2-₹1.8 Lakh) to GIFAS aerospace (€2,400-€7,000 / ₹2.4-₹7.1 Lakh).
- Government programs favor engineering, digital, and ecological transition; private scholarships offer direct industry connections; university scholarships emphasize research potential.
- Post-study benefits include EU-wide opportunities with access to 27-country professional networks, favorable work visa policies, and Nobel laureate alumni connections.
- Target industry-specific scholarships like GIFAS (aerospace) for direct company connections. Use scholarship periods for internships and mentorship with partner companies.
- Participate in European research consortiums and exchange programs during studies to build pan-European professional relationships across all EU countries.
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FAQs
How many French scholarships are available for Indian students annually?
France offers over 500 annual scholarships specifically designed for Indian students, administered through Campus France and the French Embassy in India, with the French government directly funding 25% of these scholarships.
What is the monthly allowance for Eiffel Excellence Scholarship recipients?
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship provides €1,181 (₹1.2 Lakh) monthly for Master’s programs and €1,800 (₹1.8 Lakh) monthly for PhD programs, along with international transportation, accommodation allowance, health insurance, and cultural activities.
What are the age limits for major French scholarship programs?
- Eiffel Excellence: Under 27 years (Master’s), Under 32 years (PhD)
- Charpak Master: Maximum 30 years
- Raman-Charpak Fellowship: Maximum 30 years
- GIFAS: Minimum 30 years
Do I need to know French to apply for scholarships?
French language requirements vary by program. Charpak Master and Raman-Charpak require basic French knowledge (DELF/DALF B2 level), while some programs like GIFAS and ESC Clermont make French optional for English-taught programs.
What academic percentage is required for French scholarships?
For bachelor’s program scholarships, you need minimum 60% marks in 12th standard. However, programs like Charpak Master emphasize academic excellence and project consistency without requiring minimum GPA cutoffs.
How do I apply for government scholarships like Eiffel and Charpak?
- Eiffel Excellence: Apply through French institutions only (not directly)
- Charpak Master: Apply through Campus France India
- Raman-Charpak: Apply through IFCPAR (Indo-French Centre)
What fields of study are prioritized for French scholarships?
Priority areas include Biology/Health, Ecological Transition, Mathematics/Digital, Engineering, Law/Political Science, Economics/Management, Computer Science, Transportation, and Aeronautics, reflecting France’s strategic development goals.
What additional benefits do scholarship recipients receive beyond money?
Benefits include student visa fee waiver/reimbursement, social security coverage, accommodation assistance, health insurance, travel insurance, local transportation support, and access to cultural activities and professional networks.
Can scholarships be renewed for multi-year programs?
Yes, several scholarships offer renewal options. Charpak Master Scholarship is renewable once based on first-year performance. Eiffel Excellence covers 12-36 months for Master’s and 6-36 months for PhD programs.
What English language scores are required for English-taught programs?
English requirements include IELTS Academic 6.0-6.5 (no band below 5.5), TOEFL iBT 79-85+, PTE Academic 58-62+, or Duolingo 105-115+ for programs taught in English.
