Rules, comparisons and data

Do you need IELTS for the Eiffel scholarship?

Not under the scholarship's own rules. The 2027 Eiffel regulations from Campus France set no English or French test. Only French higher education institutions can submit applications, so you apply to a master's or PhD programme and that institution decides your language requirement. For an English-taught programme, that is often an IELTS or TOEFL score.
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026

How the Eiffel programme works

The France Excellence Eiffel programme, set up by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, funds international students at master's and PhD level (Campus France). It encourages applicants up to 29 years old at master's level and up to 35 at PhD level. Only applications submitted by French institutions are accepted; applications from students or foreign institutions are ineligible (student page).

Item2027 round
Who appliesThe French institution, for you
Institution deadline to Campus France6 January 2027
ResultsFrom 12 April 2027
Master's allowance€1,200 a month (from January 2026)
TuitionNot covered
Language test in the regulationsNone set

Where the language requirement comes from

The 2027 regulations cover fields of study, levels, duration, benefits and recipients' obligations, but do not set a language test (Eiffel regulations). The nominating institution admits you to its programme, so its admission rules decide whether you need IELTS, TOEFL or a French certificate.

Campus France advises contacting the international relations department of a French institution to learn its procedures and deadlines, then asking it to support your application.

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Other conditions

An Eiffel scholarship cannot be combined with another French government scholarship, an Erasmus+ scholarship or an Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie scholarship. Requirements change between intakes and scholarship rounds. Confirm the current rule on the Campus France Eiffel page before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not admissions advice.

Frequently asked questions

What IELTS score is needed for Eiffel?+

The Eiffel regulations set none. Your French institution's programme requirement applies.

Can I apply for Eiffel myself?+

No. Only French higher education institutions can submit applications; direct applications from students are ineligible.

What is the Eiffel age limit?+

Campus France encourages applicants up to 29 at master's level and up to 35 at PhD level.

When is the Eiffel 2027 deadline?+

Institutions must submit applications to Campus France by 6 January 2027.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 31 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

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