France Scholarships for Indian Students in 2026-2027

In France, scholarships are provided in different ways and are meant to accommodate a broad spectrum of academic background and financial profiles. Being an Indian student who applies to the academic year of 2026-27, you have an opportunity to consider the following major kinds of scholarships:

Many programs from the French government, schools, and private organizations offer important financial support that usually covers living costs and tuition. There are many excellent scholarships for Indian students for the 2026-2027 academic year.  A scholarship could make attending prestigious French universities easier and more rewarding.  Additionally, it gives kids access to a top-notch education in Europe. 

Here are the top scholarships in France for Indian students studying UG programs in 2026-2027:

Detailed Overview of the Top Scholarships in France for Undergraduate (UG) Students in 2026-2027

Discover the top scholarships in France for Indian students in 2026-2027. Explore each scholarship’s eligibility, benefits, application process, and timelines to maximise your chances of success.

1. France Excellence Charpak Bachelor Scholarship

The French Embassy in India provides this scholarship, which is intended to give an opportunity to Indian students pursuing full time undergraduate degrees in France.

• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Indian citizen or OCI holder
  • Maximum age limit: 23 years
  • Currently studying or has completed school education in India
  • Must have applied to a recognised French institution for a Bachelor’s programme
  • Academic excellence and consistency in performance
• Benefits:
  • Monthly stipend of €860 (~₹86,548)
  • Medical insurance and social security coverage
  • Assistance with student accommodation via CROUS
  • Access to subsidised meals in university cafeterias
  • Visa and Campus France fee waivers
• Application Process:
  • Apply through the official Campus France India portal
  • Requires submission of admission proof to a French institution
  • Selection is merit-based; shortlisting may include interviews or additional documentation
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Copy of passport
  • Admission letter from a French institution
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Income proof (if required)
  • Identity proof and passport-size photo
• Application Timeline:
  • Applications open: Usually January to March
  • Results announced: By April/May
  • Course start date in France: September intake

2. Amba Dalmia Scholarship

This grant is sponsored by the Franco-Indian Education Trust, and it supports the cause of Indian women in the fields of creative and performing arts. It also provides comprehensive cover of tuition fees as well as subsistence and other needs of the women who study music, theatre, painting, sport and design among other degrees.

• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Must be an Indian woman aged 18 or above
  • Must have secured or applied for admission to a French institution
  • Enrolled in or planning to pursue Bachelor’s or Master’s programs in:
  • Music, Theatre, Sports, Ballet, Painting, Photography
  • Sculpture, Arts, Cinema, Opera, or Oenology
  • Demonstrated talent and commitment in the chosen field
• Benefits:
  • Full or partial tuition fee coverage
  • Support for living expenses, travel, and other academic needs
  • Guidance for settling in France and accessing learning facilities
• Application Process:
  • Applications accepted through the Franco-Indian Education Trust
  • Must include portfolio showcasing artistic talent
  • Selection is based on merit and the strength of the personal statement
• Documents Required:
  • Admission letter or proof of application
  • Portfolio (if applicable – artwork, performances, etc.)
  • SOP outlining aspirations and goals
  • Academic records
  • Income certificate (if applying for need-based evaluation)
  • Identity proof and photograph
• Application Timeline:
  • Applications open: Between February and April
  • Selection announcement: By June
  • Intake period: September Intake

For the 2026-2027 academic year, there are many important scholarships available to help Indian students cover their Master's or PhD fees. These scholarships, provided by the French government and respected universities, can greatly reduce financial stress and help you achieve your goal of studying in France.

Here are the top scholarships in France for PG Indian students in 2026-2027:

Detailed Overview of the Top Scholarships in France for Postgraduate (PG) Students in 2026-2027

Discover the top scholarships in France for Indian students in 2026-2027. Explore each scholarship’s eligibility, benefits, application process, and timelines to maximise your chances of success.

1. France Excellence Charpak Master Scholarship

Similar to its undergraduate counterpart, this scholarship provides financial aid for Indian postgraduate students. It offers a monthly stipend €860 (~₹86,548), health coverage, and visa-related fee waivers. Priority is given to excellent academic and professional profiles.

• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Indian citizen or OCI holder
  • Age limit: below 30 years
  • Must have applied to a recognised French institution for a Master’s programme
  • Excellent academic record (GPA or CGPA)
  • Preference for students who have studied in India
• Benefits:
  • Monthly stipend of €860 (~₹86,548)
  • Medical insurance and social security coverage
  • Visa and Campus France fee waiver
  • Priority assistance in student housing
  • Access to French public healthcare services
• Application Process:
  • Submit an application through the Campus France India portal
  • Include proof of admission or application to a French Master’s programme
  • Selection is based on merit and strength of academic/professional profile
• Documents Required:
  • Copy of passport
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Admission letter or proof of application to a French university
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Recommendation letters (preferred)
  • Identity proof and photograph
• Application Timeline:
  • Applications open: January–March
  • Results announced: April–May
  • Program starts: September intake

France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Programme

Managed by the French Foreign Ministry, the Eiffel Scholarship targets high-achieving Master’s and PhD candidates.

• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Non-French citizens (Indian students eligible)
  • Master’s applicants under 25, PhD applicants under 30
  • Must be nominated by a French institution
  • Strong academic background in fields like Engineering, Law, Economics, or Political Science
• Benefits:
  • Master’s students: €1,181/month (~₹1,04,000)
  • PhD students: €1,700/month (~₹1,49,000)
  • Return international airfare
  • Health insurance and housing support
  • Cultural activities and additional allowances
    • Note: Tuition fees are not included, but public universities often waive them
• Application Process:
  • Students cannot apply directly; must be nominated by a French higher education institution
  • Institutions submit nominations to Campus France Paris
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • CV and SOP
  • Research proposal (for PhD)
  • Recommendation letters
  • Passport copy
  • Proof of nomination by a French institution
• Application Timeline:
  • Institution nomination period: October–December
  • Final results announced: March
  • Program start date: September

Erasmus+ Mobility Scholarships

Ideal for students enrolled in joint EU Master’s programmes (Erasmus Mundus), this scholarship covers full tuition, monthly living costs, health insurance, and travel for study across European countries—including France.

• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Enrolled or applying to an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) programme
  • Indian students are eligible if accepted into an Erasmus Mundus programme that includes France
  • Academic excellence and motivation are key selection factors
• Benefits:
  • Full tuition fee waiver
  • Monthly living allowance (approx. €1,000/month)
  • Travel allowance and relocation support
  • Health and accident insurance coverage
  • Study opportunity in 2–3 different countries
• Application Process:
  • Apply directly to the Erasmus Mundus programme via its consortium website
  • Each programme has its own specific application requirements
• Documents Required:
  • Academic records
  • Language proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL)
  • CV (Europass format)
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Passport and ID
  • Recommendation letters
• Application Timeline:
  • Applications open: Typically October–December
  • Selection results: By March/April
  • Program begins: September/October

Legrand Empowering Scholarship

Organised by Legrand India and sponsored by the French embassy, this scholarship helps Indian students enrolled in STEM, management, finance and social sciences. It provides tuition waiver and monthly stipend to cut on the cost of living.

• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Indian national applying to a Master’s program in France
  • Fields: Science, Engineering, Finance, Social Science, Management
  • Strong academic profile and need-based assessment
• Benefits:
  • Tuition fee waiver
  • Monthly stipend for living expenses
  • Visa guidance and pre-departure support
• Application Process:
  • Applications submitted via Legrand India or Campus France India
  • Requires detailed profile review and possibly an interview
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates
  • Proof of admission to a French institution
  • Financial documents (for need-based evaluation)
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Passport and photograph
• Application Timeline:
  • Applications open: March–May
  • Final list released: June–July
  • Classes begin: September

Co-Financed Scholarships

These awards are collaborations between the French Embassy and select institutions, offering tuition waivers, visa exemption, social security, and living assistance. Available across a variety of disciplines with varying benefits.

• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Indian nationals admitted to Master’s or other postgraduate programmes
  • Admission to participating French universities (e.g., Sciences Po, EDHEC, Rennes School of Business, etc.)
  • Based on academic merit, institutional partnership, or specific program requirements
• Benefits:
  • Partial or full tuition fee waiver
  • Visa fee exemption
  • Social security and health insurance
  • Living expense allowance (varies by program)
  • French Government scholarship holder status
• Application Process:
  • Apply for admission to a partner university
  • Selection and nomination handled by the partner institution and the French Embassy
• Documents Required:
  • Admission letter from partner institution
  • Academic transcripts
  • SOP and CV
  • Passport copy
  • Financial documents (if applicable)
• Application Timeline:
  • Varies by university, but generally between January–May
  • Results by June–July
  • Courses start in September

These university-specific awards provide vital financial assistance, often covering tuition, living expenses, and more. Based on academic merit, leadership, or specific fields of study, these scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of studying abroad, making a world-class education more accessible for promising students from India.

Here are the list of University-Specific Scholarships for Indian Students in 2026-2027:

Detailed Overview of the University-Specific Scholarships in France for Indian Students in 2026 - 2027

Discover the University-Specific Scholarships in France for Indian students in 2026-2027. Explore each scholarship’s eligibility, benefits, application process, and timelines to maximise your chances of success.

Émile Boutmy Scholarship – Sciences Po

The Emile Boutmy scholarship selection aims at non-EU international students who apply to the Sciences Po one of the best renowned institutions in political science and international relations in France.

• Eligibility: Open to first-time applicants from non-EU countries who demonstrate exceptional academic merit and meet the admissions requirements for Sciences Po’s undergraduate or Master’s programs.
• Benefits:
  • For undergraduate students: Annual tuition grants ranging from €3,000 to €12,300 (~₹3,01,911 to ~₹12,37,835) for 3 years.
  • For postgraduate students: One-time tuition aid of €10,000 (~₹10,06,370) per year (for 2 years).
• Selection Criteria: Based on academic excellence, personal statement, and alignment with Sciences Po’s values of public service and leadership.
• Application Process:
  • Apply to Sciences Po via the online application portal
  • Select the Émile Boutmy Scholarship option under the Financial Information section of the application form.
  • Submit a statement of purpose explaining the need for financial support and how your goals align with Sciences Po's values
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates
  • CV or resume
  • Valid passport
  • Statement of Purpose/Personal statement
  • Proof of income and financial status (if applying for housing support)
  • Letters of recommendation (optional but recommended)
  • English/French language proficiency test scores (as per programme)
• Application Deadline:
  • For Bachelor’s programmes:
    • Usually late February of the admission year (2026-27 cycle: expected deadline – February 2026)
  • For Master’s programmes:
    • Generally early December of the previous year (2026-27 cycle: expected deadline – December 2025)

The scholarship assists in covering the expenses of studying in a university that is ranked among the top in the world hence a good choice to the Indian students aiming to pursue careers in international affairs, public policy, and law.

ENS International Selection – École Normale Supérieure (ENS)

ENS International Selection is a very competitive scholarship to receive offered by Ecole Normale Superieure in order to recruit the most top-quality international students in humanities and the sciences.

• Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and postgraduate international students under 26 years of age who have completed at least one year of university studies outside France. Candidates must apply in either Sciences or Arts & Humanities tracks.
• Benefits:
  • Monthly stipend of approximately €1,000 (~₹86,212) for 3 years.
  • Guaranteed accommodation at one of ENS’s residences in Paris.
• Selection Process:
  • Includes a written test and an interview, with evaluation based on academic performance and research potential.
  • Candidates must submit a detailed academic project and letters of recommendation.
• Application Process:
  • Choose your track: Sciences or Arts & Humanities
  • Apply online through the ENS International Selection Portal (track-specific forms and portals are provided on the ENS website)
  • Upload all required documents (listed below)
  • Shortlisted candidates are invited for a written examination and/or interview, depending on the track
  • Final results are published based on academic performance, research potential, and test/interview scores
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts and certificates (with certified translation if not in English or French)
  • Detailed CV (curriculum vitae)
  • Personal statement/motivation letter
  • Research proposal or academic project (especially for humanities and science research areas)
  • Two letters of recommendation from academic supervisors
  • Proof of identity (passport copy)
  • Language proficiency certificates (French or English, depending on the program requirements)
• Application Deadline:
  • Application Opens: Typically in October
  • Application Deadline: Usually mid-December each year (expected: December 2025 for 2026 intake)
  • Written Tests/Interviews: Conducted in March-April of the following year
  • Results Announcement: Around May

It is best suited to research-inclined Indian students who would like to pursue advanced studies based careers and doctoral studies in France.

HEC Paris Foundation Excellence Scholarship

The Foundation Excellence Scholarships are also offered by the HEC Paris to international students who are undertaking post graduate degrees in management and mainly the Master in Management one under the Grande Ecole programme.

• Eligibility: All admitted students to eligible HEC Master’s programs are automatically considered. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic records, leadership potential, and global career aspirations.
• Benefits:
  • Covers up to 50% of tuition fees, based on merit.
  • Renewable for the second year depending on academic performance.
• Selection Process:
  • No separate application required. Selection is based on the profile submitted during the HEC admissions process.
• Application Process:
  • No separate application is required for this scholarship 
  • All candidates who apply to eligible Master's programs are automatically considered
  • The scholarship decision is made by the HEC Admissions Committee based on the application submitted during the regular admissions process
• Documents Required:
  • Submitted as part of the regular HEC Paris Master's application:
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Updated CV or résumé
  • Motivation letter (part of program application)
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • GMAT/GRE scores (if applicable) 
  • English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL) if required
  • Passport copy or identity document
• Application Deadline:
  • Application Opens: Typically in October each year
  • Final Application Deadline: Varies by round; for 2026 intake, expected to close by April 2026 (multiple rounds from Oct 2025 to Apr 2026)

Given HEC’s global reputation, this scholarship helps Indian students access world-class business education with substantial financial relief.

IDEX Scholarship – Université Paris-Saclay

IDEX Scholarship is an initiative by the government to make French universities such as Universite Paris-Saclay more visible to other international students throughout the world.

• Eligibility: Open to international students admitted to Master’s (M1 or M2) programs at Université Paris-Saclay or its partner institutions.
• Benefits:
  • €10,000 (~₹10,06,370) per academic year as a living allowance.
  • Additional support of up to €1,000 (~₹86,212) for visa and travel expenses.
• Selection Criteria:
  • Academic excellence, motivation for studying in France, and future career goals.
  • Nominated by the academic department.
• Program Duration: 1–2 years, depending on the course of study.
• Application Process:
  • First, apply and secure admission to an eligible Master’s program
  • If selected, your academic department nominates you for the scholarship
  • Nominated students will receive an email with a link to the scholarship application portal
  • Submit the online form with necessary documents and complete the motivation statement
• Documents Required:
  • Copy of valid passport
  • Recent CV or résumé
  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates
  • Motivation letter explaining:
  • Academic and career goals
  • Reason for choosing the program and university
  • How the scholarship will support your goals
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Proof of admission or conditional acceptance letter
  • Language proficiency proof (English or French, depending on the program)
• Application Timeline:
  • Application Opens: Typically in January
  • Application Deadline: Around mid-March 2026
  • Final Results Announcement: Between May and June 2026
  • Programme Commencement: September 2026 

This scholarship is a very competitive one that offers full support to the students which is a great option to Indian students majoring in STEM, economics and life sciences.

Ampère Scholarship of Excellence – ENS de Lyon

The Ampere Scholarship program targets exceptional international students in the process of seeking Masters degrees in ENS de Lyon, one of the well established institutions of science and humanities in France.

• Eligibility: Open to students with a strong academic record applying to eligible Master's programs (excluding professional degrees).
• Benefits:
  • Monthly stipend of €1,000 (~₹86,212) for 1–2 academic years.
• Fields Covered: Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science) and Humanities (Philosophy, History, Literature, etc.).
• Selection Criteria:
  • Based on academic transcripts, motivation letter, and potential for research or advanced studies.
• Application Process:
  • Apply online via the ENS de Lyon scholarship portal.
  • Submit required academic and personal documents.
  • Selection is made by a dedicated committee based on eligibility and merit.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts
  • CV
  • Motivation letter
  • Two academic reference letters
  • Proof of English or French proficiency (depending on program)
  • Passport copy
• Application Timeline:
  • Application Opens: Typically in November
  • Application Deadline: Early January (Expected: January 2026 for 2026 intake)
  • Results Announcement: Around April-May
  • Program Start: September 2026

The Ampère Scholarship is best suited for Indian students seeking an immersive academic experience in France with full financial assistance during their Master’s.

Grenoble INP Foundation Scholarship

Grenoble INP - UGA offers this scholarship to high achieving students who are given admission in engineering or applied science disciplines.

• Eligibility: Open to international students who have already been admitted to a Master’s program at Grenoble INP.
• Benefits:
  • Financial award of €5,000 (~₹5,03,185) per academic year.
  • Renewable for a second year based on academic performance.
• Fields Covered: Engineering, Technology, Data Science, Renewable Energy, etc.
• Selection Criteria:
  • Based on academic excellence, motivation letter, and recommendation from the admitting department.
• Application Process:
  • After receiving admission, eligible students are contacted for scholarship consideration.
  • Application submitted through the university’s scholarship portal.
  • Evaluation is conducted by the Grenoble INP Foundation.
• Documents Required:
  • Admission letter from Grenoble INP
  • Academic transcripts
  • Motivation letter
  • Updated CV
  • Reference/recommendation letter
  • Passport copy
• Application Timeline:
  • Application Opens: Around February
  • Application Deadline: Typically in May (Expected: May 2026)
  • Results Announcement: June–July 2026
  • Program Start: September 2026

This is an excellent funding opportunity for Indian students interested in top-tier engineering education in France, especially in research-heavy programs.

You will have to attain certain eligibility criteria to be awarded scholarships in France by the level of your studies and offering scholarships. Although they may differ, the majority of scholarships will expect:

• Academic Excellence: An excellent academic performance is necessary. In scholarships that are fully-funded, a first-class or distinction-level level performance is normally required in in your latest qualification.
• Nationality Requirements: Non-EU international students, who include Indian students, can apply to most government and institutional scholarships. Other may have unilateral agreements with India.
• University Admission: Most of the scholarships demand that you obtain the admission to a recognised French university first and then apply. There are ones where you can apply both scholarship and admission together.
• Language Proficiency
  • Many times English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL) is required.
  • DELF/DALF or TCF scores can be required in case of French-taught courses or French-related scholarships.
• Relevant Study or Research Plan: Research-based scholarships demand a proposal that is properly documented and academically oriented.

In many cases, you will be asked to provide motivation letters that will determine your intentions, study purposes, and the fit between the programme and your future career.

A scholarship to study abroad in France is more than a money-saving opportunity as it positively affects your academic and personal experience in the following ways:

• Reduced Financial Burden: Getting a full or even partial scholarship can greatly reduce your tuition and living costs so you can concentrate fully on your studies.
• International Recognition: Being awarded a French scholarship is prestigious besides your academic records and can open career and academic opportunities in many countries.
• Access to High-Quality Education: The scholarships are accompanied by the access to the best institutions, specialised programs, and the research facilities in France which are well equipped.
• Networking and Cultural Exchange: Scholarship programmes, especially those government funded can fit in various orientation sessions, seminars, and events so that it keeps you in touch with students and professionals in other countries of the world.
• Support with Visas and Settling In: Most of the scholarships do offer assistance with visa applications, accommodation, insurances, and even tickets- they will make your move easier.

The scholarship application process in France entails some research, documentation and submission of papers on time. Although each scholarship can have a different process, the overall application process can be fairly similar:

1. Identify the Right Scholarships

Begin by listing down the scholarships which are applicable to your stage of academia (UG, PG, or PhD), discipline, and also financial requirements. Full scholarships are also highly selective and have the best possible eligible candidates and as such, it is always important to evaluate your compatibility first before you enter.

2. Check Deadlines and Requirements

The French scholarship application deadlines normally occur between October and March of the following year. Always verify:

• Eligibility criteria (age, nationality, academic qualifications)
• Required documents
• The platform of application (university portal, Campus France, or special websites)

3. Prepare Required Documents

• Commonly requested documents include:
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of admission (or application) to a French university
• Statement of purpose or motivation letter
• Letters of recommendation
• CV or résumé
• Language proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL, French if applicable)
• Research proposal (for PhD applicants)

4. Submit the Application

Read and keep to the guidelines of each scholarship. There are those which people apply through Campus France portal and others, which might need to be submitted either through the university or an external agency.

5. Track Your Application & Prepare for Interviews

The shortlisted candidates might be requested to be present in an interview either online or in person. You should be able to give a possible explanation of your academic ambitions as well as the programme you have chosen, and your plans in France.

Good grades alone are not sufficient in getting a scholarship in France, particularly a fully-funded one. These are some of the ways to build your application:

1. Apply Early

You should start your research and preparation at least 6 8 weeks in advance prior to the time you plan to join. Most scholarships also accept many months before the school session starts.

2. Craft a Strong Statement of Purpose

You will need to be clear in your SOP regarding the reasons why you have chosen your course and university of study in France, your professional and academic objectives and how the scholarship will assist you to make a significant contribution in the field.

3. Align Your Application with Scholarship Requirements
Do not submit something generic. Write and customise your documents, depending on the focus of the scholarship i.e. academic merit, research potential, or leadership ability.

4. Highlight Extracurriculars and Projects

These can be leadership roles, internship, research or community service. These are go getters and will bring life to your profile.

5. Maintain Consistent Academic Performance

A good record is usually a determining factor in academics particularly so in competitive scholarships.

6. Get Strong Letters of Recommendation

Select the ones that will be good referees (i.e., Who are aware of your scholarly or work strengths?). Their letters are supposed to complement what they have already depicted in your transcripts not repeat it.

How will LeapScholar help you in your Study abroad journey?

At LeapScholar, we believe that what truly matters isn't just your academic record it’s your journey, your goals, and what drives you. We go beyond templates and checklists to help you bring out the story that sets you apart. Whether it’s shaping a compelling SOP, refining your recommendation letters, or helping you uncover scholarships most students overlook we work behind the scenes to give your application a real edge. We’re more than just counsellors; we’re your academic strategy partners backed by research, driven by insight, and invested in your success.