Fully Funded Scholarships for African Students in France (2025/2026) – Apply Now!
Introduction
France is one of the top destinations for African students seeking quality education, global exposure, and world-class research opportunities. With a rich academic history, affordable education, and numerous scholarship programs, it attracts thousands of international students yearly.
Key benefits of studying in France:
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Affordable or fully funded education through scholarships
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World-renowned universities such as Sorbonne University, Sciences Po, and École Normale Supérieure
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Diverse programs in English and French
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Post-graduation work opportunities in France and Europe
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Access to cutting-edge research facilities
To support international students, the French government, universities, and private organizations offer fully funded scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, travel expenses, and health insurance.
This article provides a comprehensive list of fully funded scholarships in France for African students in 2025/2026.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships for African Students in France (2025/2026)
1. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
Total Worth: Up to €1,700 per month + Full tuition coverage
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is awarded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to attract top international students to France. It is one of the most prestigious scholarships available.
Eligibility:
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Open to African students pursuing master’s or PhD degrees
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Must be under 25 years for a master’s or under 30 years for a PhD
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Must apply and be admitted to a French university before applying
Benefits:
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Monthly stipend (€1,181 for master’s, €1,700 for PhD)
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Full tuition coverage
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Travel expenses (round-trip airfare from home country)
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Health insurance
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Access to cultural programs and networking opportunities
Application Deadline: January 2025
2. France Excellence Africa Scholarship
Total Worth: Fully funded (Tuition + Living Allowance)
This scholarship, organized by Campus France, supports high-achieving African students in pursuing master’s and PhD degrees at French universities.
Eligibility:
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Open to African students from eligible countries
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Must have strong academic records
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Language proficiency in French or English, depending on the program
Benefits:
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Full tuition fees covered
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Monthly stipend for living expenses
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Visa and travel support
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Comprehensive health insurance
Application Deadline: March 2025
3. ENS International Selection Scholarships
Total Worth: €1,000 monthly stipend + Tuition fee coverage
The École Normale Supérieure (ENS) International Selection Scholarship is open to outstanding international students who want to study a master’s degree in France.
Eligibility:
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Open to African students under 26 years
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Must have completed at least one year of undergraduate study outside France
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Must demonstrate academic excellence
Benefits:
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€1,000 per month stipend
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Tuition fee waiver
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Access to ENS academic resources
Application Deadline: December 2024
4. Emile Boutmy Scholarship (Sciences Po University)
Total Worth: Up to €13,000 per year
This scholarship is awarded by Sciences Po University to non-EU international students for undergraduate and master’s programs.
Eligibility:
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Open to African students from non-EU countries
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Must demonstrate academic excellence
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Must show financial need
Benefits:
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Up to €13,000 per year for tuition
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Partial living expenses support
Application Deadline: February 2025
5. Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarships
Total Worth: €10,000 per year + €1,000 for travel expenses
Université Paris-Saclay offers scholarships for international students enrolling in master’s programs in science, engineering, business, and social sciences.
Eligibility:
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Open to African students admitted to Université Paris-Saclay
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Must demonstrate academic excellence
Benefits:
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€10,000 per year
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€1,000 for travel and visa expenses
Application Deadline: May 2025
6. INSEAD Africa Scholarship for MBA Students
Total Worth: Up to €20,000
This scholarship is offered by INSEAD Business School for African students pursuing an MBA.
Eligibility:
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Must be an African national
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Must have a strong academic and leadership background
Benefits:
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Up to €20,000 for tuition fees
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Mentorship and networking opportunities
Application Deadline: Rolling application
How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in France
Step 1: Research and Choose the Right Scholarship
Each scholarship has different eligibility criteria and application processes. Select the one that matches your academic goals.
Step 2: Secure Admission to a French University
Most scholarships require applicants to first gain admission into a French university before applying for funding.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
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Academic transcripts and certificates
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Statement of Purpose (SOP)
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Letters of Recommendation
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CV/Resume
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Proof of language proficiency (French or English)
Step 4: Submit Your Application Online
Visit the respective university or Campus France scholarship portal and follow the application instructions.
Step 5: Attend Interviews (If Required)
Some scholarships, such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, require an interview stage.
Step 6: Await Results and Prepare for Travel
If selected, you will receive an admission letter and visa assistance to study in France.
Success Stories of Nigerian Students in France
1. Chinedu from Nigeria – Eiffel Scholarship Winner
Chinedu secured the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship to study Mechanical Engineering at Sorbonne University. He now works at a top French automobile company.
2. Maryam from Ghana – Emile Boutmy Scholarship Recipient
Maryam pursued a Master’s in Political Science at Sciences Po. She now works as a research analyst in international relations.
3. Ayo from Nigeria – France Excellence Africa Scholarship
Ayo studied Biomedical Science at Université Paris-Saclay. His tuition, accommodation, and travel costs were fully covered, and he is now a medical researcher in Paris.
Conclusion
France provides a wide range of fully funded scholarships for African students. Whether you are looking for undergraduate, master’s, or PhD opportunities, you can find scholarships covering full tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
Start preparing your application now and take the first step toward a world-class education in France! Apply today and transform your future!