International students can apply for fully funded PhD scholarship in France through programs like the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, ENS International Selection, and Doctoral Contracts. Requirements typically include a Master’s degree, strong academic background, a research proposal, and proof of English or French proficiency.
Why Pursue a PhD in France?
Pursuing a PhD in France as an international student offers a unique blend of academic excellence, research opportunities, and cultural experience. Home to prestigious institutions like Sorbonne University, École Normale Supérieure (ENS), and University of Paris-Saclay, France is a top destination for doctoral studies.
International students benefit from world-class research facilities, low or no tuition fees, and a wide range of fully funded PhD scholarships that include monthly stipends and other financial support.
Why Study a PhD in France?
France offers significant advantages for PhD students, making it an appealing choice for international scholars:
Key Benefits:
- Access to cutting-edge research laboratories and scientific networks
- Opportunities to work on international and interdisciplinary research projects
- Affordable or tuition-free doctoral programs at public universities
- Monthly stipends and living allowances through government-funded and institutional scholarships
- An enriching academic life in one of Europe’s most vibrant and culturally rich countries
Top PhD Scholarships in France for International Students
Here are some of the best fully or partially funded PhD scholarship programs in France for international applicants:
1. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
Offered by: French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs
- Designed to attract top international candidates for Master’s and PhD programs
- Covers:
- Monthly living allowance
- Tuition and administrative fees
- International travel and health insurance
- Housing assistance
- Monthly living allowance
2. École Normale Supérieure (ENS) International Selection
Offered by: ENS Paris
- Targeted at exceptional international students in sciences and humanities
- Benefits include:
- Monthly stipend of over €1,000
- On-campus accommodation
- Direct access to ENS PhD tracks
- Monthly stipend of over €1,000
3. Doctoral Contracts (Contrats Doctoraux)
Offered by: French universities and public research institutions
- Available to both EU and non-EU students
- Structured as an employment contract with a gross monthly salary of around €1,700–€2,000
- Typically valid for 3 years
4. CNRS and INRIA Funded PhD Positions
Offered by: National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and French Institute for Research in Computer Science and Automation (INRIA)
- For students pursuing research in computer science, physics, engineering, and mathematics
- Fully funded positions linked to ongoing research projects and collaborations with top French labs
5. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
Offered by: European Commission
- Supports international PhD candidates across Europe, including France
- Includes research funding, travel allowance, and a competitive salary package
Eligibility Criteria for PhD Scholarships in France
To be eligible for most PhD scholarships in France, international students typically need to meet the following requirements:
- A Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant subject
- Proven academic excellence and research experience
- A research proposal (required by most programs)
- Language proficiency:
- English (TOEFL/IELTS) or
- French (DELF/DALF) – depending on the university or field
- English (TOEFL/IELTS) or
- Strong academic references (letters of recommendation)
- A well-written CV and cover letter outlining research goals
- Valid passport and identification documents
Application Tips for International Students
- Start early: Many scholarships have deadlines 6–12 months before the program starts.
- Contact potential supervisors: Some programs require pre-approval or confirmation of supervision.
- Customize your research proposal: Align your topic with the university’s ongoing projects.
- Double-check document requirements: Each scholarship and university may request different formats and items.
Also Read:
France continues to attract talented PhD candidates from around the world thanks to its high-quality education system, international collaborations, and generous scholarship schemes. With the right preparation and research proposal, securing a PhD scholarship in France is entirely achievable for international students.