Arts and Design Scholarships in France for International Students 2025/2026. When most people think of studying in France, they imagine big cities like Paris or Lyon.
But did you know that smaller towns and villages also have top universities? These rural schools are just as good and often much cheaper.
The French government, regional councils and some local universities offer special scholarships to encourage more students to study there. These scholarships are called rural university scholarships and are for international students who want to study outside of big cities.
There are many advantages to studying in a rural area of France. You can really live French culture, live in peace and save money on food and rent. And these scholarships make it much easier to pay for education.
We’ll cover everything you need to know about rural university scholarships in France for the 2025-2026 academic year in this guide. You’ll find out who is eligible to apply, how to apply and why studying in the countryside of France might be the best option for you.
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.
About The Rural University Scholarships in France
Financial aid for students who want to study in universities outside of big cities is provided through rural university scholarships. There’s more nature, lower cost of living and a quieter life in these areas.
These scholarships are often sponsored by:
- The French government
- Local regional councils
- Universities in small towns
- Private groups that want to support rural education
Encouraging more students to study in these regions and supporting the development of rural communities are the main objectives. They also contribute to the diversity and richness of the local culture by attracting international students to these towns.
Why Should You Study in a Rural Area in France?
Many people ask why they should choose a rural university in France instead of a big city. Here are some good reasons:
- Lower cost of living: Rent and other daily costs are super high in Paris. Everything is cheaper in a small town, including food and housing.
- Quiet environment: Without the noise and bustle of a big city, you can focus better on your studies.
- Closer to nature: Many rural universities are located near rivers, mountains or forests. It’s a great opportunity to see the countryside.
- Friendlier community: People are generally friendlier in small towns. Making friends in the area is easier.
- Extra help: To attract more international students, some rural universities offer extra help to these students.
Who Can Apply for The Arts and Design Scholarships in France for International Students 2025/2026?
Good news is that many international students from all over the world can apply for these scholarships. But every scholarship has its own rules.
In general you must:
- Be accepted or apply to a university in a rural area of France
- Have good grades
- Study full-time
- Sometimes prove your level of French or English
Some scholarships are for specific fields like agriculture, environment or rural development. Because these subjects are very important in the countryside.
Types of Rural University Scholarships in France
There are different kinds of scholarships you can apply for. Here are some examples:
1. Regional Scholarships
Many French regions like Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Occitanie and Nouvelle-Aquitaine have their own initiatives to attract students. They often award scholarships to students enrolled in nearby universities. These programs might give you a living allowance or cover part of your tuition.
2. University Scholarships
Some rural universities in France have their own scholarships. They might help you with housing costs or give you a tuition discount.
3. French Government Scholarships
Rural universities can be eligible for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship offered by the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs. Some rural schools participate too, although it’s more common in big cities.
4. Specialized Rural Studies Grants
There might be scholarships for fields like farming, winemaking, food technology or environmental studies. Since agriculture is famous in France, these subjects are supported by many programs.
Benefits of Getting a Rural University Scholarship
Winning a scholarship is always good. But getting one to study in a rural area of France has some extra benefits:
- You save money not only through the scholarship but also by living in a cheaper place.
- Smaller universities often have smaller classes so you get more attention from your teachers.
- You experience real French life. In big cities it’s very international. In a small town you live more like a local.
- You might find more opportunities to practice your French since fewer people speak English in rural areas.
How to Apply for Arts and Design Scholarships in France for International Students 2025
The process may vary depending on the scholarship but here are the general steps.
1. Research the Universities
Make a list of rural universities in France that offer the course you want. Examples:
- University of Burgundy (Dijon)
- University of Limoges
- University of Franche-Comté (Besançon)
- University of Perpignan Via Domitia
- University of Pau and Pays de l’Adour
Go to their official websites and check if they have scholarships for international students.
2. Look for Regional Scholarship Websites
Go to the regional councils’ official websites in France. There are sections for student aid in many of them. Use Google Translate if necessary because these are mostly in French.
3. Check Campus France
Campus France is the main body that handles international student applications. They often list scholarship options, even for rural areas.
4. Prepare Your Documents
Most scholarship applications will ask for:
- Your school certificates and transcripts
- A letter explaining why you want to study there (motivation letter)
- Your CV
- Proof of language skills (French or English test results)
FAQs on Rural University Scholarships in France
If I don’t speak French, can I still apply?
Yes, a lot of programs have English language courses. But learning some French will make your life easier and help you integrate into the community.
Is it boring to study in a rural area?
Not at all! Rural towns have festivals, markets and beautiful nature to discover. You will also make close friends because the community is smaller.
Do these scholarships cover all my costs?
Some only cover tuition, others might also give you some living expenses. Always read the scholarship details carefully.
How to Live Comfortably in a French Rural Town as a Student
Living in a small town in France is not hard but it’s different from city life.
- Learn French: English is not spoken in rural areas. It’s good to even learn basic greetings.
- Use local transportation: Although buses and trains are available in rural areas, they might not run frequently. Always check the schedule.
- You can quickly make friends by joining student organizations.
Conclusion
If you are starting in 2025 or 2026, start now. Make a list of universities, gather your documents and apply to as many scholarships as you can. With some planning and a bit of luck you’ll be studying in a charming small town in France soon. Studying in a rural area of France is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make because you’ll get to live the real French culture, live in a quiet place and pay less for your studies.
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