The 2027 France-South Africa Scholarship Programme is officially open for applications, offering an exceptional opportunity for eligible students from South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees in France. This prestigious scholarship programme supports talented students who wish to undertake postgraduate studies at French universities and higher education institutions beginning in September 2027.
The initiative strengthens academic cooperation between France and Southern African countries while promoting research, innovation, international collaboration, and the development of highly skilled professionals across numerous disciplines. Students interested in obtaining world-class education in France are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
Applications are currently open and must be submitted no later than 8 October 2026 at 23:59 (South Africa Time).
About the France-South Africa Scholarship Programme
The France-South Africa Scholarship Programme is designed to provide deserving students with an opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies in France. The programme specifically targets students who intend to enroll in accredited French universities or higher education institutions for either a Master’s degree or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
The scholarship is part of France’s broader commitment to strengthening educational partnerships with African countries while supporting academic excellence, research collaboration, innovation, and capacity building.
Successful applicants will commence their studies in September 2027, following participation in preparatory online French language courses.
Why Study in France?
France remains one of the world’s leading destinations for higher education because of its:
- Internationally recognized universities
- Excellent research facilities
- Strong academic reputation
- Affordable higher education compared to many Western countries
- Rich cultural heritage
- Diverse international student community
- Strong links between universities and industry
- Opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship
Studying in France also enables students to gain international exposure while building valuable professional and academic networks.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship programme is open exclusively to applicants who hold citizenship of:
- South Africa
- Lesotho
- Malawi
Applicants must intend to begin their postgraduate studies in France in September 2027.
Available Degree Levels
Applicants may apply to pursue:
- Master’s Degree
- PhD (Doctoral Degree)
The programme supports studies at recognized French universities and higher education institutions.
Fields of Study
Applications are accepted from all academic disciplines.
However, priority consideration will be given to applicants pursuing programmes in:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics (STEM)
The programme also recognizes related fields within:
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
This means applicants from non-STEM disciplines remain eligible to apply, although STEM-related applications may receive additional consideration during the selection process.
French Language Preparation
Because academic calendars differ between Southern Hemisphere countries and France, scholarship recipients will participate in online French language courses before travelling.
Successful applicants will receive:
- Online French language training
- Courses delivered by the Alliances Françaises network
- Training period from February to July 2027
These courses are intended to help students integrate academically and socially before arriving in France.
Benefits of the Scholarship
While the announcement does not specify financial details, the programme offers successful applicants the opportunity to:
- Study at prestigious French universities
- Access internationally recognized postgraduate education
- Receive French language preparation before departure
- Join international academic and research communities
- Build global professional networks
- Enhance research and career prospects
- Experience French culture and higher education
Applicants should consult the official programme rulebook for detailed scholarship benefits and funding information.
Important Resources for Applicants
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the following resources before submitting their applications:
- France-South Africa Scholarship Programme Rulebook
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Campus France South Africa website
- Information about French universities
- Available study programmes
- Admission guidance
Students who require assistance selecting an appropriate programme are encouraged to contact Campus France South Africa for academic advice.
Selection Process
The scholarship selection process follows several stages:
- Submission of applications
- Eligibility review
- Interviews for shortlisted candidates
- Final selection
- Announcement of successful candidates
- French language preparation
- Departure to France
Applicants selected for interviews will be contacted individually.
Important Timeline
Applications Open
21 July 2026
Application Deadline
8 October 2026 at 23:59 (South Africa Time)
Information Webinar
August 2026
Applicants should follow Campus France South Africa’s social media platforms for webinar details.
Interviews
November 2026
Eligible candidates will be invited for interviews.
Announcement of Shortlisted Candidates
Beginning of December 2026
French Language Training
February – July 2027
Online language preparation through Alliances Françaises.
Departure to France
September 2027
Successful candidates begin their postgraduate studies in France.
Important Notes for Applicants
Applicants should keep the following in mind:
- Read the scholarship rulebook carefully before applying.
- Ensure all required documents are submitted before the deadline.
- Late applications are unlikely to be accepted.
- Scholarship recipients and shortlisted candidates will be contacted individually.
- Due to the high volume of applications, follow-up inquiries from applicants will not receive responses.
- If you have not received any communication from the scholarship panel by February 2027, you should consider your application unsuccessful.
- Decisions made by the Scholarship Panel are final and cannot be appealed.
Tips for Preparing a Strong Application
To maximize your chances of success:
- Begin your application early.
- Carefully research suitable universities and programmes in France.
- Prepare a compelling motivation letter.
- Ensure your academic records are complete and accurate.
- Clearly explain how your proposed studies align with your academic and career goals.
- Verify that all supporting documents meet programme requirements.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Why You Should Apply
The France-South Africa Scholarship Programme provides an outstanding opportunity for ambitious students seeking internationally recognized postgraduate education in France. Beyond earning a prestigious Master’s or PhD degree, recipients gain access to world-class research environments, international collaborations, cultural exchange, and valuable language training that prepares them for academic success.
Whether your ambitions lie in scientific research, technological innovation, engineering, social sciences, or the humanities, this scholarship offers a pathway toward advanced education and global career opportunities.
Students who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to begin preparing their applications as early as possible to ensure they submit a complete and competitive application before the deadline.
Visit HERE to learn more about the France-South Africa Scholarship Programme 2027
Conclusion
The France-South Africa Scholarship Programme 2027 represents a significant opportunity for talented postgraduate students from South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi to pursue advanced studies in France. By supporting Master’s and PhD candidates across a broad range of disciplines, the programme promotes academic excellence, international collaboration, and long-term professional development.
Prospective applicants should carefully review all programme guidelines, research suitable institutions and study programmes, and submit complete applications before 8 October 2026 at 23:59 (South Africa Time). Early preparation, attention to detail, and a strong academic profile will significantly improve the likelihood of success.
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