The France Excellence-DOST Scholarship 2026 offers one of the most prestigious opportunities for Filipino students aspiring to pursue graduate studies in France.
France Excellence-DOST Scholarship 2026 | Study in France Fully Funded
This program is a continuation of the former PhilFrance-DOST Scholarship established in 2016 to celebrate 70 years of strong diplomatic relations between France and the Philippines.
Co-funded by the Embassy of France and the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI), the scholarship supports future Filipino researchers, scientists, and leaders who aim to strengthen the country’s research and development sector.
The scholarship is open to students admitted into French graduate programs that award a Diplôme National at the master’s (M1/M2) or doctoral level. It specifically supports programs in the natural sciences, making it a perfect opportunity for Filipino scholars wishing to contribute to national development through advanced training and research.
Comprehensive Scholarship Benefits
Scholars receive extensive financial and academic support both from the French Embassy and DOST-SEI. Under the Embassy of France, scholars enjoy coverage of enrolment fees up to EUR 3,879 per year for master’s degrees and EUR 391 for doctoral programs. They are also exempted from the CVEC fee and receive a complete healthcare package, including social security coverage and supplementary insurance. Additional perks include discounted access to cultural activities and exemption from long-stay student visa fees.
Meanwhile, DOST-SEI provides a monthly stipend to support living expenses, as well as a round-trip economy class airfare from Manila to the host French city. Together, these benefits ensure that scholars can fully focus on their studies and research during their stay in France.
Who Is Eligible?
The scholarship is open to Filipino citizens residing in the Philippines, aged 50 years old or below. Applicants must be graduates or graduating students of a recognized Philippine Higher Education Institution and must have completed admission steps required by their chosen French university.
Candidates must also be in good health, possess strong academic performance, and have the background needed for advanced study in France. Eligible programs must be 100% on-site and must lead to a Diplôme National. Programs from non-French schools in France, joint or dual degrees, vocational programs, or degrees offered outside mainland France are not eligible.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare a complete set of documents for both the French Embassy and DOST-SEI. French Embassy requirements include a one-page CV, valid passport copy, a 500-word academic essay, academic transcripts, proof of financial resources, proof of program application or admission, and the study plan or curriculum of the chosen degree.
Optional documents include French language proficiency certificates for programs taught partly or fully in French, and proof of application to other non-French government scholarships.
DOST-SEI requirements include the official DOST application form, budget plan, narrative re-entry plan, NBI Clearance, birth certificate, medical certificate, endorsement letters from former professors, and—for employed applicants—an endorsement from the employer and an approved leave of absence.
Application Timeline
Applications open on December 1, 2025, and close on March 17, 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified by email. Each application must be submitted exclusively through the official Google Form. No physical submissions are accepted.
Service Obligation
Upon completion of the scholarship, grantees must return to the Philippines and render full-time service to their sending institution for a period equivalent to twice the duration of their scholarship. Failure to complete the degree or fulfill the service obligation may result in refund requirements and penalties.
Why Apply?
France offers world-class institutions, cutting-edge laboratories, and a rich academic environment. The France Excellence-DOST Scholarship not only supports scholars financially but also equips them with global expertise that can significantly contribute to the Philippines’ scientific and technological advancement. If you are passionate about research, innovation, and national development, this scholarship is an exceptional opportunity.
Official Application Link:
https://forms.gle/xNnSzWbBuQdRu8j48
