Scholarship Overview
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Overview
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme is France’s flagship initiative to attract outstanding international talent to its higher education system. Established by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, this fully funded scholarship enables exceptional students from around the world—including Zimbabwe and the broader SADC region—to pursue Master’s and Doctoral degrees at French universities without financial burden.
Approximately 350 scholarships are awarded annually across multiple disciplines, making this one of the most competitive yet rewarding opportunities for African scholars seeking world-class education in Europe.
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What the Scholarship Covers
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support that eliminates tuition costs and living expenses:
- Monthly allowance: Stipend provided for both Master’s and Doctoral level students (specific amounts not published)
- International airfare: Round-trip flight to France
- Domestic travel support: Transportation within France
- Insurance coverage: Health and liability protection
- Housing assistance: Support in finding accommodation
- Cultural activities: Access to integration programs
- Tuition exemption: No fees for national diploma programs (Master’s, PhD) or accredited engineering degrees
Degree Levels and Duration
Master’s Level
- M2 (second year): Maximum 12 months
- M1 (first year): Maximum 24 months
- Engineering degree: Maximum 36 months
Doctoral Level
PhD scholarships are awarded for 12 to 36 months, depending on the research program and progress.
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Fields of Study
The 2027 scholarship covers seven strategic fields that align with France’s academic and economic priorities:
- Science and technology – Biology and Health
- Ecological Transition
- Mathematics and Digital Sciences
- Engineering Sciences
- Social and Human Sciences – History, French Language and Civilization
- Law and Political Science
- Economics and Management
Eligibility Requirements
While specific eligibility criteria are not fully detailed in official sources, the following applies based on program structure:
- Open to international students from all countries, including Zimbabwe and SADC nations
- Applicants must be nominated by a participating French higher education institution
- Direct applications from students are not accepted
- For Master’s: candidates should demonstrate exceptional academic record
- For PhD: applicants must show strong research potential and alignment with French institutional priorities
- Age limits and prior study in France restrictions may apply; confirm with Campus France
Application Process
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship requires a two-step institutional nomination process. Students cannot apply directly.
Step 1: Contact Campus France
Begin by reaching out to the Campus France office in your country. Campus France operates worldwide and serves as the gateway for international students seeking to study in France. They will guide you on nomination procedures and institutional partnerships.
Step 2: Secure Institutional Support
Identify and contact French universities or schools that match your academic goals. Use the Campus France program database to search by course and country. The institution must:
- Accept and support your Eiffel scholarship application
- Submit your nomination online through the dedicated Campus France portal
Critical: Applications sent directly by students or foreign institutions will be declared ineligible. Only nominations channeled through Campus France and submitted by French higher education institutions are considered.
Important Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | January 8, 2027 |
Begin your Campus France engagement and institutional outreach at least 6-9 months before the deadline to allow adequate time for nomination processing.
Tips for African Applicants
For Zimbabwean and SADC region candidates, early engagement with Campus France is essential. French embassy services in Pretoria or regional Campus France offices can provide country-specific guidance. Strengthen your profile by:
- Demonstrating French language proficiency (though many programs are English-taught)
- Aligning your research interests with French institutional strengths
- Securing strong academic references
- Highlighting leadership potential and community impact
Official Resources
All applications and nominations are managed through Campus France. Visit the official portal for program updates and institutional contacts.
Official scholarship page: https://www.campusfrance.org/en
You apply directly with the provider. We never charge for applications or ask for payment details. How we verify scholarships
