Studying in France is an attractive opportunity for international students seeking quality education, internationally recognised qualifications and financial support. Several French universities and scholarship programmes offer funding opportunities for students who want to pursue undergraduate, master’s and doctoral studies.
For applicants who do not have IELTS results, some institutions may accept alternative English-language evidence, including a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate. However, IELTS exemptions are not automatic. Requirements depend on the university, degree programme and scholarship.
This guide highlights major scholarships in France without IELTS, including the Émile Boutmy Scholarship, Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarship, Eiffel Excellence Scholarship and Erasmus Mundus opportunities.
At a Glance
| Scholarship | Funding | Study Level |
|---|---|---|
| Émile Boutmy | Tuition fee support | Bachelor’s and Master’s |
| Paris-Saclay | €10,000 annually | Master’s |
| Eiffel Excellence | Monthly allowance and other support | Master’s and PhD |
| Erasmus Mundus | Varies by programme | Master’s |
1. Émile Boutmy Scholarship at Sciences Po
The Émile Boutmy Scholarship is designed for outstanding international students from outside the European Union who wish to study at Sciences Po in France.
The scholarship supports undergraduate and master’s students through financial assistance that can substantially reduce tuition costs.
At bachelor’s level, awards may include tuition fee exemptions, while master’s recipients can receive a tuition fee exemption of up to €18,500 annually for each of the two programme years.
Selection considers academic excellence and the applicant’s profile. Students must apply for admission and indicate their interest in the scholarship through the appropriate application process.
Some applicants may qualify for alternative language-document arrangements, but English-language requirements must be checked against the selected programme.
Official information: https://www.sciencespo.fr/students/en/fees-funding/bursaries-financial-aid/emile-boutmy-scholarship/
2. Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarship
The Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarship provides financial assistance to talented international students pursuing master’s degrees in France.
Successful candidates receive €10,000 per academic year, paid monthly from September to June. Selected students may also receive an additional annual contribution of up to €900 towards travel and visa expenses.
The scholarship covers eligible master’s programmes across different academic disciplines. Applicants must generally be under 30 years old during the application year, hold foreign nationality and meet the university’s first-time enrolment requirements.
Admission to an eligible master’s programme is required before scholarship selection.
The 2026 scholarship application deadlines were in March 2026, and results were expected in May. Prospective applicants should monitor the university website for future calls.
Official information: https://www.universite-paris-saclay.fr/en/admission/bourses-et-aides-financieres/international-masters-scholarships-program
3. France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship
The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship is a major French government initiative supporting outstanding international students pursuing master’s and doctoral studies.
The programme targets future leaders in priority academic fields, including science, engineering, economics, law and political science.
Funding includes a monthly allowance and additional support, subject to the applicable programme regulations. Applications must be submitted by French higher education institutions rather than directly by individual students.
The 2027 application campaign is open, with Campus France receiving institutional applications until 6 January 2027. Individual university deadlines may be earlier.
Official information: https://www.campusfrance.org/en/france-excellence-eiffel-scholarship-program
4. Erasmus Mundus Scholarships in France
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programmes provide international study opportunities through partnerships between universities in different countries, including France.
Selected programmes offer competitive scholarships that can support tuition, travel and living expenses. Funding conditions vary according to the specific programme.
Students interested in studying in France should identify participating universities and check whether their chosen master’s programme offers an Erasmus Mundus scholarship.
Official catalogue: https://eacea.ec.europa.eu/erasmus-plus/library/scholarships-catalogue_en
Can You Study in France Without IELTS?
Yes, some universities and programmes may accept alternative proof of English proficiency. A Medium of Instruction certificate may be accepted where the institution permits it.
However, applicants should not assume that every French scholarship automatically waives IELTS. Always check the language requirements of the chosen degree before applying.
How to Apply
- Identify a suitable French university and degree programme.
- Review scholarship eligibility requirements.
- Confirm whether an MOI certificate or alternative English test is accepted.
- Prepare academic transcripts, certificates, motivation letters and recommendations.
- Submit the university admission and scholarship applications before their respective deadlines.
Final Thoughts
These scholarships in France without IELTS offer different routes for international students seeking affordable higher education. The Émile Boutmy, Paris-Saclay, Eiffel and Erasmus Mundus programmes each have distinct benefits and eligibility conditions.
Carefully verify language requirements, funding coverage and application deadlines before submitting your documents.
Keywords: scholarships in France without IELTS, France scholarships 2026, fully funded scholarships France, Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, Émile Boutmy Scholarship, Paris-Saclay Scholarship, Erasmus Mundus France, study in France, international students
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