Applications are now open for the 2025 France Excellence Doctoral Scholarships. This partially funded program supports doctoral students from Côte d’Ivoire who wish to pursue their research in France.
The initiative is a key part of the French Embassy’s Cooperation and Cultural Action Service (SCAC) strategy to boost academic and scientific exchange through targeted scholarships in high-impact research fields.
These scholarships are primarily designed for Ivorian students and teachers working in higher education who seek to complete their PhD studies in France.
France Excellence Doctoral Scholarships 2025 – Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
| Application Deadline | May 18, 2025 |
| Organized by | French Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire (SCAC) |
| Target Group | Ivorian students and educators in higher education |
| Level of Study | Doctoral (PhD) |
| Language Requirement | French-speaking applicants only |
| Age Limit | Under 40 years (for non-integrated higher education staff) |
| Funding Type | Partial (Cost-sharing: SCAC covers tuition/living, applicant covers transport) |
| Application Period | April 27, 2025 (00:00) to May 18, 2025 (23:59) |
| Scholarship Commission | June 12, 2025 |
| Where to Apply | French Embassy, Plateau, Abidjan |
About the Scholarship
The France Excellence Doctoral Scholarships are part of a bilateral effort to strengthen academic capacity and promote research innovation between France and Côte d’Ivoire.
The program seeks to fund students and teaching staff pursuing doctoral degrees in priority fields relevant to sustainable development, innovation, and global scientific progress.
Objectives of the Program
The main goals of the France Excellence doctoral scholarships are to:
Strengthen the teaching and research capacity of Ivorian universities and institutions.
Promote high-quality research that contributes to Côte d’Ivoire’s development.
Build scientific expertise in Ivorian research laboratories, often in partnership with French universities.
Support collaboration between Ivorian and French higher education institutions.
Improve the employability of young Ivorian graduates in key economic sectors.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be an Ivorian national and fluent in French.
- Hold a DEA, Master’s degree, or an equivalent diploma.
- Be under 40 years old if not yet appointed as a lecturer in higher education.
- Be working or intending to work in higher education or research institutions.
- Be committed to self-funding travel expenses (flight/train).
- Declare any other financial support being received honestly.
Eligible Fields of Study
Scholarships will be awarded in priority scientific and research fields, including:
- Health
- Agriculture
- Environment
- Computer Science
Further emphasis is placed on modern and emerging sub-themes:
Digital technology, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, biotechnologies, energy, low-carbon mobility, seabed exploration, space research, food security, biodiversity, climate change, information & communication technologies, and human and social sciences tied to the above areas.
What the Scholarship Covers
While the program is partially funded, it offers generous academic support:
- Monthly Allowance: Living expenses are covered by SCAC.
- Social Security Coverage: Health and welfare benefits included.
- Scholarship Management Fees: Handled by Campus France Paris.
- Duration: Based on training length and subject to confirmation of attendance.
Important Note: Travel expenses—such as airfare and transport to the training site—are fully covered by the applicant.
Application Timeline
| Date | Stage |
| April 27, 2025 | Applications Open (00:00) |
| May 18, 2025 | Applications Close (23:59) |
| May 20–30, 2025 | Review of eligibility and preparation for selection committee |
| June 12, 2025 | Interview and final decision by the scholarship commission (full day) |
All applications must be submitted directly to the French Embassy in Plateau, Abidjan.
How to Apply
- Visit the website here.
- You can also visit the Campus France Côte d’Ivoire for the application
- Prepare Your Documents, including:
- Proof of nationality and age.
- Master’s degree certificate or equivalent.
- Letter of motivation.
- Research project summary.
- Proof of pre-admission or interest from a French doctoral school.
- Written commitment to cover transport costs.
- Submit Your Application:
- Deliver your complete file to the French Embassy in Plateau before the May 18 deadline.
For More Information
Visit the Official Webpage of the France Excellence Doctoral Scholarships.
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