For Master’s and PhD Studies in France | Deadline: 8 October 2025 (23:59 SA time)
The 2026 call for applications for the France – South Africa Scholarship Programme is now open. This prestigious programme offers fully funded opportunities to pursue Master’s or PhD degrees in France, one of the world’s leading destinations for academic excellence and innovation. If you are a citizen of South Africa, Lesotho, or Malawi and aspire to study in France beginning September 2026, this is your chance to apply.
This bilateral initiative is part of France’s commitment to strengthening academic and cultural ties with Southern Africa. The scholarship is aimed at high-achieving students across all fields of study, who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a clear commitment to returning and contributing to their home countries after graduation.
Who Should Apply?
This scholarship programme is open to:
- Citizens of South Africa, Lesotho, or Malawi
- Students who intend to start Master’s or PhD studies in France in September 2026
- Candidates across all academic disciplines
- Students who are passionate about using their education to create positive social and economic impact in their countries
Pre-Departure Programme: February – July 2026
Due to the academic calendar differences between the Northern and Southern hemispheres, selected scholarship laureates will begin their journey with a six-month pre-departure programme in South Africa from February to July 2026. This mandatory component ensures a smooth academic and cultural transition into the French higher education system. It includes:
- Online French language training through the Alliances Françaises network
- Pre-departure orientation workshops to help students navigate life and study in France
- A possible internship placement in a French company or organisation based in South Africa (depending on laureate profile and availability)
This phase is critical to developing the linguistic and intercultural competencies needed for successful integration in France.
Application Timeline
- Application deadline: 8 October 2025 at 23:59 SA time
Tip: Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues. - Information webinar: July 2025
Details will be shared via Campus France South Africa’s social media platforms. Follow for updates. - Interviews of shortlisted candidates: November 2025
- Announcement of laureates and waiting list: End of November / early December 2025
- Online French classes and internships in South Africa: February – July 2026
- Start of studies in France: September 2026
What the Scholarship Cover
The France – South Africa Scholarship Programme provides a comprehensive support package that may include:
- Tuition fees (up to a ceiling agreed with host institutions)
- Monthly living allowance to cover accommodation and personal expenses
- Medical insurance
- Round-trip airfare between your home country and France
- Student visa support
- Pre-departure support, including language classes and internship opportunities
Exact benefits may vary depending on individual academic programmes, host institutions, and funding availability. The final scholarship package for each laureate will be communicated upon selection.
How to Apply
- Prepare your documents: Applicants are advised to compile academic transcripts, degree certificates, a CV, motivation letter, study plan, and reference letters ahead of time.
- Review the Rulebook and FAQs: All applicants must carefully read the official [Rulebook] and [Frequently Asked Questions] on the Campus France South Africa website. These documents provide key information on eligibility, application requirements, and the selection process.
- Consult Campus France if needed: If you need help identifying academic programmes or universities in France that match your interests, you may contact Campus France South Africa for personalised guidance.
- Submit your application before 8 October 2025: All applications must be completed online and submitted by 23:59 (SA time). Late submissions will not be considered.
Important Note: Due to the high volume of applications, follow-up inquiries will not be answered. All applicants will be contacted individually if needed.
Selection and Final Decision
All applications will be reviewed by an expert panel. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews. The final list of laureates and the waiting list will be published by December 2025. Please note:
The decisions of the selection committee are final and non-negotiable. No appeals will be entertained.
Start Your Journey to France
This scholarship programme is more than just financial support—it is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, gain global perspectives, build international networks, and acquire world-class academic training that positions you to be a changemaker in your country and the broader African region.
Do not miss this opportunity to pursue your graduate studies in France under the France – South Africa Scholarship Programme.
For details and application materials, visit:
Campus France South Africa website
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hosting organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
