France runs scholarship programs built specifically for Indians, and crucially most do not require French. They can turn an already affordable destination into a near-free one. Here are the ones that matter.
The one-line version: the France Excellence Charpak (the French government scholarship for Indians) and the prestigious Eiffel Excellence scholarship are the big two. Both welcome English-taught applicants, have age limits, and can cover stipend, fees, insurance and sometimes airfare. Apply early, usually around January to March.
France Excellence Charpak
- Who: Indian citizens or OCI holders, generally 30 or younger, studying or graduated from an Indian institution.
- What: variants include Charpak Master's, Charpak Lab and Charpak Exchange; benefits can include stipend, visa fee waiver, and help with housing.
- French: an asset but not mandatory.
- Apply: via the French Embassy / Campus France India, typically January to March.
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
- Who: high achievers, under 29 for master's, under 35 for PhD; nominated by the host institution (apply through your university).
- What: about €1,200/month (master's) or €2,100/month (PhD), plus international airfare and health insurance.
- French: not required.
Other funding
- University and grande école scholarships (merit-based), check each program.
- Erasmus+ for eligible joint/exchange programs.
- Indian education loans still bridge the rest, see also funding strategies.
Scholarship status also matters for housing aid. From July 2026 only scholarship holders among non-EU students keep CAF housing aid, see cost of living, so a scholarship is doubly valuable.
FAQ
Do I need French for French scholarships?
No. Charpak and Eiffel both accept English-taught applicants; French is an asset, not a requirement.
What does Eiffel cover?
Around €1,200/month for master's (more for PhD), plus airfare and health insurance.
When do I apply?
Generally January to March for the next academic year, alongside your Campus France process.
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