France–South Africa Scholarship Programme 2026

About the France–South Africa Scholarship Programme 2026

The France–South Africa Scholarship Programme 2026 is now accepting applications! If you’re a passionate student from South Africa, Lesotho, or Malawi dreaming of earning a Master’s or PhD degree in France, this could be the opportunity that changes your life. With full financial support, academic exposure, and international experience, this scholarship is a game-changer for aspiring scholars.

The France–South Africa Scholarship Programme 2026 is a prestigious initiative by the Embassy of France in South Africa. It is designed to support Southern African students who wish to pursue Master’s or PhD studies at French higher education institutions. The programme aligns with France’s commitment to strengthening educational ties and promoting academic mobility between France and Southern Africa.

This fully funded scholarship covers not just travel and living expenses but also offers students comprehensive support services during their stay in France. Selected students will join a community of scholars with access to cutting-edge research, world-class universities, and vibrant academic culture.

The programme is extremely competitive, aimed at identifying talented individuals who will contribute meaningfully to their fields and society at large.

Eligible Fields

The France–South Africa Scholarship Programme 2026 welcomes applicants from a wide range of academic backgrounds. Students can apply to pursue degrees in the following disciplines (not limited to):

Science and Technology
Engineering
Mathematics
Social Sciences
Arts and Humanities
Environmental Sciences
Health Sciences
Law and Political Science
Economics and Management

The key requirement is that the programme you’re applying to must be hosted by a recognized French higher education institution.

Eligibility Criteria

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

Be born on or after January 1, 1996
Hold citizenship from South Africa, Lesotho, or Malawi
Not hold dual citizenship with France
Have applied or be in the process of applying to a French higher education institution for a Master’s or PhD programme
Be available to begin studies in France by September 2026
Possess strong academic records and a clear study plan

For Master’s candidates, the scholarship will cover either one or two years, depending on the programme. For PhD students, funding is granted for a maximum of three years, subject to satisfactory academic progress each year.

Selection Criteria

Applicants will be evaluated based on:

Academic performance and achievements
The relevance and quality of the proposed study or research project
Motivation and clarity of goals
Potential impact in home country after completing studies
Quality and ranking of the host French institution
Strong alignment with the objectives of the France–South Africa Scholarship Programme

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in November 2025.

Eligible Countries

The scholarship is open exclusively to citizens of:

South Africa
Lesotho
Malawi

Applicants must reside in one of these countries at the time of application.

Documents Required

Applicants must submit the following documents via the official online application portal:

A completed online application form
A valid passport copy
A current Curriculum Vitae (CV) with full academic history
A detailed cover letter outlining your academic goals and motivations
Copies of all academic certificates and qualifications
Academic transcripts showing results from at least two years of higher education

Incomplete applications or those missing any of the required documents will not be considered.

Benefits of the France–South Africa Scholarship Programme 2026

Successful applicants will enjoy a wide range of benefits, including:

Return flight ticket to France
Monthly stipend: approximately €850/month for Master’s and €1700/month for PhD students
Individual accommodation aid (approx. €150/month from French Government via CAF)
Full social security and supplementary health insurance coverage
Exemption from visa application fees
Priority access to student housing
Assistance and support from Campus France Paris
Conditional exemption from university registration fees (subject to programme type and institution policies)
Free online French language courses before departure
Possible pre-departure internship and orientation programme in South Africa

While tuition fees are not generally covered, most public universities in France have very low or no tuition fees, making this a truly cost-effective opportunity.

How to Apply

Here’s how to submit your application:

Visit the official France–South Africa Scholarship Programme webpage.
Fill out the online application form thoroughly.
Upload all required documents as outlined in the “Documents Required” section.
Submit your application before the deadline: 8 October 2025, 23:59 (local time).

Applicants will be contacted individually if more information is needed. Results will be announced between late November and early December 2025.

Final Thoughts

The France–South Africa Scholarship Programme 2026 offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to earn a world-class degree, immerse yourself in French culture, and grow both personally and professionally. Fully funded, highly competitive, and widely respected, this scholarship is the key to unlocking new academic and career possibilities in an international setting.

If you meet the eligibility requirements and have the passion to pursue your studies abroad, do not hesitate to apply. This could be the life-changing moment you’ve been waiting for.