Rural University Scholarships in France for International Students 2025/2026. Big cities are only one part of France. In reality, there are many quiet villages and small towns all over the country with great universities.
Students can focus on their studies in these rural areas because of the peaceful and beautiful surroundings.
French rural universities might be the best option for international students looking for affordable study options. Many of these universities offer scholarships to international students to cover the cost of their education. This means you can get a top quality education without spending as much as you would in a big city.
These scholarships are to help deserving students who may not have enough money for living expenses and tuition. There are rural universities that will accept you regardless of your field of interest – science, arts, engineering or agriculture.
Everything you need to know about Rural University Scholarships in France for International Students 2025/2026 will be covered in this article, including what they are, who is eligible to apply, how to apply and more.
Disclaimer Notice: This is a general educational blog, giving out information concerning scholarship, school fees, Cut off marks, student results, admission form, and other school news guides. We are not affiliated with the Government or any educational institution.
Overview of The Rural University Scholarships in France
In France, financial aid called “rural university scholarships” is given to students who want to study in universities outside of big cities. The French government, academic institutions, private companies and sometimes local communities provide these scholarships.
They were created to help bright and talented students worldwide who lack the funds to support their education. Also to promote education in rural areas and attract more international students to smaller towns.
Depending on the university and program you choose, these scholarships are available to undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students. Some scholarships cover full tuition fees, some cover partial tuition fees and some cover living expenses too.
Why Study in Rural France?
Many students prefer big cities because they think there are more opportunities there. But there are also many benefits to rural universities. Rural France is a great place to study for the following reasons:
- Peaceful Learning Environment: The quiet and beautiful surroundings of rural areas make it easy to focus on your studies without interruptions.
- Lower Cost of Living: Compared to Paris or Lyon, small towns have lower living expenses. Rent, food and transportation expenses will all go down.
- Near Nature: You can enjoy nature and stay healthy in rural France which is full of mountains, forests and green fields. Top Quality Education: Universities in rural areas offer same quality of education as in big cities. In fact, rural areas in France have some of the best agricultural and environmental programs.
- Nice Communities: Foreign students find small town people to be friendlier and more welcoming.
- Less Competition for Scholarships: You have more chance of getting a scholarship at a rural university as most students apply to big cities.
Rural Universities in France
Here are a few rural universities in France where international students can apply for scholarships:
- University of Limoges – In Limoges, a quiet city surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
- University of La Rochelle – Near the Atlantic Ocean with a focus on environmental science.
- University of Pau and the Adour Region (UPPA) – In the southwest of France, near the mountains and beaches.
- University of Perpignan Via Domitia – In Perpignan, close to the Spanish border and the Mediterranean Sea.
- Université de Franche-Comté – In Besançon, a calm city surrounded by hills and forests.
These universities and others in rural areas offer scholarships and have international programs.
Rural University Scholarships in France for International Students 2025/2026
There are different types of scholarships you can apply for as an international student:
1. Government Scholarships
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program: One of the most famous scholarships offered by the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs is the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program. For master’s and doctoral students in science, engineering, economics and law.
- French Embassy Scholarships: Students in their home countries can apply for scholarships to study in France through several French embassies around the world.
2. University Scholarships
Most of the rural universities in France have their own scholarship programs. These are based on financial need or academic achievement. Check the official website of each university.
3. Regional Scholarships
Some local governments in rural areas offer scholarships to attract students to their area. These scholarships can cover living expenses or tuition fees.
4. Erasmus+ Scholarships
You can apply for the Erasmus+ exchange program which partially covers your living and study expenses if your home university has a partnership with a rural university in France.
Who can apply for Rural University Scholarships in France 2025/2026?
Scholarships are not for everyone. But you have a good chance if you meet the requirements. Here are the typical requirements:
- You are not a French citizen and an international student.
- You have good grades in your previous studies.3. Meet the university and program requirements.
- Some scholarships require French or English language proficiency.
- Proof of financial need for need-based scholarships.
- You must be a first time applicant or have never lived in France.
Check the requirements for each scholarship before applying.
How to Apply for Rural University Scholarships in France for International Students 2025
Applying for a scholarship in a French rural university is not as hard as you think. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Research
- Search for rural universities in France that offer your course of interest.
- Visit the university’s website and check their scholarship section.
- Also, visit Campus France (the official website for studying in France).
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Most scholarships will ask for:
- Your academic transcripts and certificates.
- A copy of your passport.
- A motivation letter explaining why you want the scholarship.
- A recommendation letter from your teacher or employer.
- Language test results (DELF/DALF for French, or IELTS/TOEFL for English programs).
Step 3: Apply to the university
You must apply to the university before you can apply for a scholarship. Some scholarships are only awarded upon acceptance.
Step 4: Apply for the scholarship
Once you receive your acceptance letter, complete the scholarship application and send in the required documents.
Step 5: Waiting for the result
You will receive an email or on your student portal if your application is accepted.
What are the Benefits of Winning a Rural University Scholarship in France
Winning a scholarship can change your life. Here are some of the benefits you will get:
- Free or reduced tuition fees.
- Monthly living allowance to cover food and housing.
- Health insurance.
- Free French language lessons.
- Opportunity to study and explore France’s beautiful rural areas.
- A degree recognized worldwide.
- Chance to make friends from all over the world.
Conclusion
For students who want to study in a quiet environment without breaking the bank, the Rural University Scholarships in France for International Students 2025/2026 is a great opportunity. With these scholarships, you can achieve your goals and get a top education in a peaceful, lovely part of France.If you want to study in France but think Paris is too expensive, rural universities are the way to go. You’ll get to enjoy nature, affordable living and good education. And your dream to study in France might just come true with all the scholarships available.
Do your research now, get your documents ready and apply asap. You might just be one of the lucky students learning French if you put in the work.
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