France South Africa Scholarship Program 2026 (Study in France)

Are you a South African student with aspirations to pursue a Master’s or PhD in Europe? The France-South Africa Scholarship Program 2026 offers a fully funded path to academic advancement, international exposure, and cultural immersion.

Designed to strengthen educational ties between South Africa and France, this scholarship program opens the door to one of the world’s top higher education systems, along with comprehensive financial and professional support.

France-South Africa Scholarship Program 2026

Funded by the French Embassy in South Africa, this prestigious initiative is aimed at students from South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi who are committed to pursuing postgraduate degrees in France. With access to France’s world-class universities and research institutions, successful applicants receive full financial backing, online French language training, and even internship opportunities with French companies.

This program not only supports academic development it also fosters cross-border collaboration and intercultural understanding. It reflects France’s commitment to inclusive global education and South Africa’s growing emphasis on academic excellence and international engagement.

France-South Africa Scholarship Program 2026 Summary

What Is the France South Africa Scholarship All About?

The scholarship has been designed to offer far more than just academic funding. It aims to build long-lasting educational and cultural bridges between the participating countries. Selected students benefit from a wide-ranging support system that covers every aspect of studying abroad from settling in and learning the language to gaining real-world experience through internships.

Additionally, recipients are offered online French language courses through the Alliances Françoises network. This early exposure to the French language helps students prepare for academic life in France and provides a smoother transition into local society. Moreover, internships with French companies operating in South Africa further enhance their academic journey by blending theory with practical application.

Scholarship Benefits

Successful applicants of the France-South Africa Scholarship Program 2026 will receive the following:

• Monthly Allowance:

€850 per month for Master’s students and €1,400 per month for PhD students

• Accommodation:
  Housing is provided as part of the scholarship package.
• Airfare:
  A one-time round-trip flight ticket from the home country to France is included.
• Tuition Fees:
  Programs offered in public universities are tuition-free. Private or co-financed programs may be subsidized.
• Social Security Coverage:
  Health insurance and social protection for the duration of the scholarship.
• Visa Fees Waived:
  Scholars are exempt from visa charges.
• Co-Financing Options:
  Additional funding from academic institutions or organizations is allowed.
• Campus France Support Services:
  Scholars benefit from logistical, academic, and pre-departure guidance provided by Campus France Paris.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

To qualify for the France-South Africa Scholarship Program 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Age Limit:
  Must be born after January 1, 1996.
• Citizenship:
  Applicants must be citizens of South Africa, Lesotho, or Malawi.
• Academic Admission:
  Must already be admitted or in the process of applying to a French university for a Master’s or PhD program.
• Duration of Stay:
  Commitment to remain in France for the full duration of the study program is required.
• Academic Requirements:
  Must meet all academic and institutional prerequisites set by the chosen program or university.
• Field of Study:
  Open to all disciplines, with special encouragement for fields contributing to sustainable development, innovation, public health, and social progress.

Required Documents

To complete the application, candidates must submit a comprehensive portfolio including:

• Valid Passport Copy
• Proof of Citizenship (such as ID or national registration card)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): outlining education, work experience, and extracurriculars
• Admission Letter: from the French university or confirmation of application
• Academic Transcripts: from previous degree programs
• Cover Letter: detailing motivation and academic goals
• Certified Degree Certificates
• Commitment Letter from Supervisor (for PhD applicants only)
• Research Project Description (for PhD applicants)
• Language Proficiency Certificate (optional but recommended)

All documents must be scanned, complete, and submitted in the required format. Incomplete applications may be disqualified.

Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply

Check Eligibility

Ensure you meet all criteria including age, nationality, and academic standing. Review both the scholarship requirements and those of the intended study program in France.

Gather Required Documents

Collect and prepare all supporting documentation as outlined in the requirements section. This step is critical missing or incorrect documents could result in disqualification.

Register Online

Visit the official scholarship portal and create a profile to access the application form.

Fill Out the Application Form

Provide accurate academic, personal, and professional details. Double-check spelling, dates, and documentation uploads.

Review and Submit

Before final submission, review your application thoroughly. Once submitted, no changes can be made.

Interview Process

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, either in person or virtually. The interview will assess academic preparedness, communication skills, and motivation.

Why Study in France?

France offers more than beautiful cities and iconic landmarks; it provides academic excellence, innovative research environments, and inclusive education policies. French universities are globally respected and often ranked among the world’s best, particularly in fields like engineering, political science, architecture, environmental studies, and the arts.

With this scholarship, students not only gain a world-class education but also participate in a cultural exchange that broadens their worldview, enhances career prospects, and builds international networks.

Apply by October 8, 2025, to be considered for this life-changing opportunity. Visit the official Campus France website for full application details and eligibility confirmation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the scholarship open to students outside of South Africa?

Yes. Citizens of Lesotho and Malawi are also eligible to apply.

Do I need to speak French to apply?

No. While fluency in French is not required at the time of application, willingness to learn the language is encouraged. Free online French courses are provided to scholarship recipients.

 Can I apply if I haven’t been admitted to a French university yet?

Yes. You may apply while still awaiting confirmation of admission. However, proof of application or preliminary admission will strengthen your case.

Are all fields of study eligible?

Yes. The program is open to all academic disciplines, although preference may be given to fields with strong potential for international collaboration and impact.

What happens if I already have a scholarship from another organization?

You may still be eligible. The France-South Africa Scholarship Program allows co-financing if the terms do not conflict.

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