Study in France With Scholarships: Your Complete Guide for 2026

France has quietly become one of Europe’s strongest higher-education destinations. With low tuition, globally recognized degrees, generous scholarships, and a post-study work visa, it’s a smart choice if you want prestige without crushing debt.

Here’s a curated look at top universities, the scholarships they offer, and the documents you need to be competitive for 2026 intakes.

Top French universities to target in 2026

Other excellent public universities with low tuition: University of Bordeaux, University of Strasbourg, Grenoble Alpes University, Aix-Marseille University — research-driven and budget-friendly.

• Sciences Po — Political Science, Public Policy, International Relations; tuition ~€14,000–€18,000; scholarships: Emile Boutmy (50–100%), Eiffel Excellence; IELTS ~7.0.
• Paris School of Economics (PSE) — economics research hub; tuition €243–€4,000; scholarships: Eiffel + merit funding; IELTS ~6.5.
• Sorbonne University — Sciences, Arts, Humanities; tuition €243–€450; scholarships: MIEM + Eiffel; IELTS ~6.0.
• Paris-Saclay University — science/engineering powerhouse; tuition €243; scholarship: €10,000 Paris-Saclay International Scholarship; IELTS ~6.5.
• École Polytechnique (L’X) — elite engineering; scholarships: Eiffel + Polytechnique merit awards.
• HEC Paris — top business school; scholarships: HEC Excellence + Eiffel; IELTS ~7.0.

Scholarships to prioritize

Apply early and align your SOP and referees to leadership and academic fit.

• Eiffel Excellence — prestigious, competitive, school-nominated (covers stipend; often tuition support).
• MIEM and regional grants — check eligibility per region and program.
• School merit awards — often 10–30%; awarded for strong academics, leadership, and diversity.

Documents you’ll typically need

Ensure formatting matches each university’s expectations; inconsistencies can delay reviews.

• Valid passport and academic transcripts
• CV and Statement of Purpose/Motivation Letter
• Recommendation letters
• IELTS (usually 6.0–7.0 depending on program)

How GEC increases acceptance odds

Ready to start? Email gechighereducation@gmail.com or use the University Finder so we can tailor a shortlist by field, budget, and intake.

• Alumni-led applications from top French universities
• Scholarship-focused strategy (Eiffel and merit awards)
• Polished SOP/CV and error-free submissions
• End-to-end Campus France + visa guidance