Scholarships for International Students at French Grandes Écoles 2025/2026. Because of its great education system, beautiful culture and wide range of courses, thousands of students visit France every year to study.
The Grandes Écoles are among the top educational institutions in France.
These schools are famous for their high standards and are truly unique. They are different from traditional universities. In fact, many French students want to get into a Grande École. The good news is that there are many scholarships available for international students to study without worrying about the money and they are welcome.
Everything you need to know about French Grandes Écoles’ Scholarships for International Students in 2025-2026 is here. We will talk about these institutions, types of scholarships, who qualifies, how to apply and important tips to help you succeed.
About The French Grandes Écoles
France’s best universities are called Grandes Écoles. They are different from public universities as they provide more specialized training and are more selective, especially in:
- Engineering
- Business
- Political Science
- Public Administration
- Teaching
- Veterinary Studies
Examples of well-known Grandes Écoles are:
- École Polytechnique (Engineering and Science)
- HEC Paris (Business and Management)
- Sciences Po (Political Science and International Relations)
- École Normale Supérieure (ENS) (Teaching and Research)
These institutions often have strong ties with big companies, government agencies and research groups. And they are globally recognized so your degree is worth it wherever you go.
Why Choose a Grande École in France?
There are many reasons why you should choose a Grande École as an international student:
- High quality education – They offer world class teaching, research and training.
- Good job opportunities – Most graduates find jobs in top companies or government institutions.
- International recognition – A diploma from a Grande École is recognized worldwide.
- Smaller class sizes – Students have closer relationship with teachers and more personal guidance.
- Many scholarships – Most schools offer scholarships or financial help for international students.
Types of Scholarships for International Students at French Grandes Écoles 2025
There are many types of scholarships available at the Grandes Écoles. These scholarships can come from:
- The French government
- The schools themselves
- Partner organizations or companies
Here are the most popular types of scholarships:
1. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
This is one of the most popular scholarships in France for international students. It’s funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
What it covers:
- Monthly allowance
- International travel costs
- Health insurance
- Cultural activities
Who can apply:
International students applying for Master’s or PhD programs at French institutions, including Grandes Écoles.
Click HERE for more info
2. École Polytechnique Scholarships
École Polytechnique offers different scholarships for international students based on academic excellence and financial need.
Types:
- Scholarship of Excellence – for top-performing students
- Needs-based grants – for students with financial difficulties
- International Mobility Scholarships – to help with travel or living costs
Click HERE for more info
3. HEC Paris Scholarships
HEC Paris has many scholarships for international students in business-related programs.
Examples:
- HEC Foundation Excellence Scholarships
- Women in Leadership Scholarships
- Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships
- Eiffel Scholarship (through the French government)
Click HERE for more info
4. Sciences Po Scholarships
Sciences Po is famous for political and international studies and has many funding opportunities.
Some options:
- Emile-Boutmy Scholarship – for students from outside the EU
- Eiffel Scholarship – for Master’s and PhD students
- Merit-based and Need-based aid – for talented students with limited financial support
Click HERE for more info
5. ENS Scholarships (École Normale Supérieure)
ENS has its own scholarship for international students who want to do a Master’s or research program.
Features:
- Monthly stipend
- Housing support
- Access to top-level academic training
Click HERE for more info
General Eligibility Requirements
You typically need to meet these requirements to apply for a scholarship at a Grande École:
- Be a citizen of a country other than France (some scholarships are for specific countries).
- Achieve outstanding academic results
- Apply for or be accepted into a Grande École program
- Fulfill the age requirement (for instance, students enrolled in Master’s programs under 25 are eligible for the Eiffel Scholarship).
- In some cases, provide proof of financial need.
Check the official website of the school for specific requirements.
How to Apply for Scholarships for International Students at French Grandes Écoles 2025/2026
The process may vary depending on the scholarship but here is a simple guide to follow:
Step 1: Choose Your School and Program
Choose the Grande École you want to apply to first. Read about the programs and admissions process on their website.
Step 2: Look for Scholarships
Contact the admissions office or visit the school’s website for information on available scholarships. Some scholarships are automatic while others require a separate application.
Step 3: Get Your Documents Ready
Most scholarship applications will need:
- A completed application form
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- A strong motivation letter or essay
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of language ability (like IELTS or TOEFL if the course is in English)
- A copy of your passport
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Follow the school’s guidelines. Apply as soon as possible. The Eiffel Scholarship for example has an early deadline in January.
Step 5: Participate in interviews, if necessary
You might be asked to participate in an in-person or online interview by some schools. Prepare a brief explanation of your objectives and motivation for applying for the scholarship.
Important Tips
- Start early. A good application takes time to prepare.
- Focus on your motivation letter. Clearly state why you deserve the scholarship.
- Be honest if necessary about your financial situation.
- Get great letters of recommendation from your previous employers or instructors.
- If allowed, apply for multiple scholarships.
- Before submitting, double check your application.
2025/2026 Application Timeline
Here is a general timeline for most scholarships at French Grandes Écoles:
| Month | Action |
|---|---|
| August – October 2025 | Start researching schools and programs |
| October – December 2025 | Apply to your chosen Grande École |
| January 2026 | Apply for government scholarships like Eiffel |
| February – March 2026 | Interviews and final school decisions |
| April – June 2026 | Receive scholarship decisions |
| September 2025 | Classes begin in France |
Can I Work and Study at the Same Time?
Yes. You can work up to 964 hours a year as a part-time employee in France if you have a student visa. But your studies should be your number one priority. Scholarships can reduce the need to work too much.
Conclusion
Many students dream of attending a French Grande École. It’s a great education and opens doors to many amazing career opportunities. The best part is that scholarships are available for international students so you don’t have to worry about the money.
French Grandes Écoles Scholarships for International Students 2025/2026 is the way to make your dreams come true. Just do your research, apply on time and prepare your documents. You can study in one of the best education system in the world and have a bright future ahead with hard work and preparation.
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