Planning to study in France in 2027 but concerned about the cost of international education? France scholarships for Indian students can help reduce the financial burden of tuition, living expenses and other study-related costs.
France offers several scholarship opportunities through the French government, universities, regional authorities, companies, foundations and European programmes. For Indian students, one of the key opportunities is the France Excellence Charpak Scholarship, which supports eligible Indian students pursuing undergraduate, master's, exchange and short-term academic opportunities in France.
In this guide, we explain the major scholarship options, eligibility requirements, benefits, application process and important points Indian students should know when planning to study in France in 2027.
Why Apply for Scholarships to Study in France?
Studying abroad involves several expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, food, transportation, insurance and travel.
A scholarship can help reduce these costs and make studying in France more financially manageable.
Depending on the scholarship, financial support may include:
- Monthly living allowance
- Tuition-fee support or exemption
- Visa-fee exemption
- Campus France procedure-fee waiver
- Social security coverage
- Assistance with student accommodation
- Other study-related benefits
The exact benefits vary according to the scholarship programme and the student's eligibility.
Best France Scholarships for Indian Students
There is no single scholarship available to every Indian student. Different programmes target different levels of study, academic backgrounds and areas of interest.
Some important options include:
1. France Excellence Charpak Scholarship
The France Excellence Charpak programme is one of the major French government scholarship programmes specifically available to Indian students.
The programme includes different categories covering undergraduate, master's, exchange and summer training opportunities.
France Excellence Charpak Bachelor
This scholarship is designed for Indian students who want to pursue a full-time bachelor's degree at a French higher-education institution.
Current listed benefits include:
- Monthly living allowance of €860
- Exemption from visa fees when applying from India
- Campus France procedure-fee exemption
- Student social security and additional health insurance
- Assistance in finding affordable accommodation, subject to availability
- Access to subsidised university meals and Campus France activities
For the currently published eligibility criteria, applicants must be Indian citizens or OCI cardholders, be 23 or younger at the time of application and have applied for admission to a French institution before applying for the scholarship.
2. France Excellence Charpak Master's Scholarship
The France Excellence Charpak Master's Scholarship is designed for Indian students pursuing full-time master's studies in France.
It covers master's-level studies across different fields and can support one to two years of study, subject to the programme conditions.
Current listed benefits include:
- €860 monthly living allowance
- Visa-fee exemption when applying from India
- Campus France procedure-fee exemption
- Student social security and additional health insurance
- Assistance in finding affordable accommodation, subject to availability
- Access to subsidised university meals and cultural activities
The currently published eligibility criteria include Indian citizenship or OCI status, an age limit of 30 years or younger at the time of application, and admission to a qualifying full-time master's programme in France. Knowledge of French is an asset but is not mandatory for applying to the scholarship.
3. France Excellence Charpak Exchange Scholarship
Indian students already studying at a bachelor's or master's level in India may also consider the Charpak Exchange Scholarship if their institution has an eligible partnership with a French institution.
The programme supports exchange semesters in France.
Current listed benefits include:
- €860 monthly stipend
- Social security
- Student visa-fee waiver
- Campus France fee waiver or reimbursement
- Assistance in finding affordable accommodation, subject to availability
The currently published eligibility criteria include being an Indian national residing in India or an OCI cardholder, being 30 or younger at the time of application and being enrolled in an Indian higher-education institution with the required institutional tie-up.
4. France Excellence Charpak Summer Training Scholarship
Students who are currently pursuing bachelor's or master's studies in India may also explore the Charpak Summer Training Scholarship.
It is designed for students planning a short-term internship or research project at a French laboratory or institution during their academic break.
The current programme provides:
- €700 monthly stipend for a maximum of two months
- Student visa-fee waiver when applying from India
- Campus France procedure-fee waiver, where applicable
The programme does not cover all travel, accommodation and medical expenses, so students should carefully review the published conditions before applying.
France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship
The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship is another major French government scholarship programme for international students.
It is aimed at students pursuing master's or doctoral-level studies and is administered within the French government's international scholarship framework. Campus France identifies Eiffel among the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs scholarship programmes available to international students.
For Indian students, eligibility and application procedures depend on the specific programme and institution.
Students should check the latest official Eiffel scholarship conditions before planning their application.
Other Scholarships for Indian Students
Apart from government-funded scholarships, Indian students can explore other funding opportunities.
These can include:
University Scholarships
Individual French universities and higher-education institutions may offer scholarships or tuition support to international students.
Campus France recommends contacting the international relations department of the institution for information about institution-specific scholarships.
Co-Financed Scholarships
The French Embassy in India works with partner organisations to provide co-financed scholarships for Indian students.
These programmes can support students in areas such as engineering, management, arts and social sciences.
Benefits may include living support, social security, visa-fee exemption, Campus France fee waiver and tuition-fee reductions, depending on the programme.
Erasmus+ and Erasmus Mundus
Indian students may also explore European funding opportunities through Erasmus+.
Campus France notes that Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's programmes can provide scholarships for selected students undertaking eligible joint master's programmes in Europe.
Regional Scholarships
French regions and cities may also offer funding opportunities for international students studying in their territory.
Availability and eligibility vary by region and programme.
How Much Can You Get Through France Scholarships?
Scholarship amounts vary significantly depending on the programme.
For example, the currently published Charpak programmes list:
- €860 per month for Charpak Bachelor
- €860 per month for Charpak Master's
- €860 per month for Charpak Exchange
- €700 per month for up to two months under Charpak Summer Training
However, students should not assume that a scholarship will cover every study-abroad expense.
For example, the current Charpak Bachelor and Master's information states that travel expenses and other expenses related to the student's stay are not covered.
Important: Scholarship amounts, eligibility criteria and application deadlines can change. Students applying for the 2027 intake should verify the latest official information before submitting an application.
Eligibility for France Scholarships for Indian Students
Eligibility depends on the specific scholarship.
Common requirements may include:
- Indian citizenship or OCI status
- Relevant academic qualifications
- Admission or application to an eligible French institution
- Meeting the required age limit
- Strong academic performance
- A suitable academic or career profile
- Required supporting documents
- Meeting the scholarship's application deadline
For example, the currently published Charpak Master's criteria require applicants to be Indian citizens or OCI cardholders, be 30 or younger at the time of application and have applied for admission to a French institution before applying for the scholarship.
Documents Required for Scholarship Applications
The exact documentation depends on the scholarship, but students may need documents such as:
- Passport
- Academic transcripts
- Degree or graduation certificates
- University admission or application information
- CV
- Statement of purpose or motivation letter
- Letters of recommendation, where required
- Proof of academic achievements
- Language test results, where applicable
- Other scholarship-specific documents
Students should always check the official scholarship instructions because requirements can differ between programmes.
How to Apply for France Scholarships in 2027
A strong scholarship application should be planned well in advance.
Step 1: Choose Your Course and University
First, identify the programme you want to study and check whether the institution and course meet the scholarship requirements.
Step 2: Check Scholarship Eligibility
Review the scholarship's:
- Age requirement
- Nationality requirements
- Academic requirements
- Course requirements
- Study-level requirements
- Application deadline
Step 3: Apply for University Admission
For programmes such as Charpak Bachelor and Master's, applicants must have applied for admission to a French institution before applying for the scholarship.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Prepare your academic documents, CV, motivation letter, passport and other required documents well before the deadline.
Step 5: Submit the Scholarship Application
Apply through the official scholarship platform or process specified by the programme.
Step 6: Track the Application
Monitor your application status and respond promptly if additional documentation is requested.
Where Can You Find France Scholarships?
One of the most useful resources for international students is Campus Bourses, the official scholarship search tool promoted by Campus France.
It allows students to search for funding opportunities based on factors such as:
- Nationality
- Field of study
- Level of study
The database includes scholarships and financial assistance from governments, regional authorities, companies, foundations and higher-education institutions.
Campus France India also maintains information specifically for Indian students. According to its current information, the French Embassy in India, together with French companies and institutions, awards scholarships to more than 500 meritorious Indian students every year across different levels and fields of study.
Tips to Increase Your Scholarship Chances
Scholarships can be competitive, so preparation matters.
Build a Strong Academic Profile
Maintain good academic performance and highlight relevant achievements.
Write a Strong Motivation Letter
Explain why you selected France, your chosen programme and how the degree connects with your career goals.
Apply Early
Do not wait until the last few days to prepare your application. Some scholarships require university admission before scholarship submission.
Research Multiple Scholarships
Don't rely on only one scholarship. Use Campus Bourses and university websites to identify other opportunities.
Match Your Profile to the Scholarship
Choose scholarships that align with your academic level, field and career objectives.
Prepare Financially
Even with a scholarship, you may still have expenses that are not covered. Prepare a realistic budget for accommodation, travel, food and other costs.
Can You Study in France Without a Scholarship?
Yes. A scholarship is helpful but is not a requirement for every student to study in France.
Students can consider other ways of funding their education, including:
- Personal savings
- Family funding
- Education loans
- University scholarships
- Tuition-fee waivers
- External scholarships
- Part-time work where permitted under applicable regulations
Students should calculate the complete cost of their programme and living expenses before accepting an offer.
Latest France Scholarship News & Updates for 2027 Applicants
Students planning to apply for France scholarships in 2027 should keep track of changes to scholarship programmes, deadlines and eligibility requirements.
1. France Excellence Eiffel 2027 Applications Expected to Open in October 2026
The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship is expected to open for the 2027 campaign around October 2026, with applications submitted through eligible French higher-education institutions. The 2027 results are expected in March 2027.
2. Eiffel Scholarship Benefits Increased for 2026
From January 2026, the Eiffel Scholarship provides a monthly allowance of €1,200 for Master's students. Doctoral students receive €2,100 per month under the current published information. The programme also provides additional services such as transport, insurance and assistance with accommodation.
3. Eiffel Applications Must Be Submitted by French Institutions
Students cannot directly submit an Eiffel application to Campus France. A French university or higher-education institution must select and submit the student's application. Students should therefore contact their chosen institutions early about their internal deadlines.
4. Charpak Exchange Scholarship Update
Campus France India currently states that the 2026 Autumn Charpak Exchange Scholarship will not open this year. Students interested in future exchange opportunities should monitor Campus France India for the next application cycle.
Important Note for 2027 Applicants: Scholarship amounts, eligibility criteria and deadlines can change between application cycles. Students planning to study in France in 2027–28 should verify the latest information on Campus France and the relevant university website before applying.
Why Choose WeConnect Overseas for Studying in France?
Applying to universities and scholarships in another country can be complicated, particularly when you are managing multiple deadlines and documentation requirements.
WeConnect Overseas can support Indian students with:
- Profile evaluation
- Course selection
- University selection
- Application assistance
- Scholarship guidance
- Education loan guidance
- Visa guidance
- Pre-departure assistance
Our aim is to help students identify suitable study options based on their academic profile, career goals and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which are the best France scholarships for Indian students?
Important options include the France Excellence Charpak Bachelor and Master's scholarships, Charpak Exchange and Summer Training programmes, France Excellence Eiffel and other university, co-financed, regional and Erasmus+ opportunities. Eligibility varies by programme.
How much scholarship can Indian students get to study in France?
The amount depends on the scholarship. Current Charpak programmes list allowances such as €860 per month for Bachelor, Master's and Exchange scholarships and €700 per month for up to two months under Summer Training. These amounts and conditions should be verified for the relevant 2027 application cycle.
Can Indian students get full scholarships to study in France?
Some scholarships provide substantial financial support, but the coverage differs by programme. Students should carefully check whether tuition, accommodation, travel, insurance and living expenses are covered before relying on a scholarship.
Is the Charpak Scholarship available for Indian students?
Yes. France Excellence Charpak is specifically available to eligible Indian students and includes Bachelor, Master's, Exchange and Summer Training programmes.
What is the age limit for the Charpak Master's Scholarship?
Under the currently published criteria, applicants must be 30 years old or younger at the time of application. The requirements applicable to the 2027 cycle should be checked when applications open.
Do I need to know French to apply for a Charpak Scholarship?
For the currently published Charpak Bachelor's and Master's criteria, knowledge of French is an asset but is not mandatory to apply. The language requirements of the selected academic programme are separate and should be checked with the institution.
Where can I search for scholarships to study in France?
Students can use Campus Bourses, which lists funding opportunities from governments, regional authorities, companies, foundations and higher-education institutions.
When should I apply for France scholarships for 2027?
Application deadlines vary by scholarship and programme. Students planning to start in 2027 should begin researching scholarships and university admissions well in advance and verify the official deadline for each programme.
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WeConnect Overseas
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“Studying abroad is more than securing admission to an international university. It is about choosing the right course, country and career path to build a successful future.”
WeConnect Overseas is a study abroad consultancy helping students navigate every stage of their international education journey. Since 2020, our team has provided personalised guidance to students seeking higher education opportunities at universities across the UK, USA, Ireland, Australia, Canada, Germany and other global study destinations.
Our expertise covers profile evaluation, course and university selection, admission applications, scholarships, education loans, student visa guidance, test preparation, accommodation and pre-departure support.
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| Author |
WeConnect Overseas |
| Specialisation |
Overseas Education & Study Abroad Guidance |
| Established |
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Thane, Maharashtra, India |
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