The France South Africa Scholarship Programme offers students from South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi the opportunity to pursue a Master’s or PhD degree in France beginning in September 2027. The programme includes online French language courses from February to July 2027 and is open to all fields of study, with priority given to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Shortlisted candidates are announced in December 2026 after interviews in November.
This scholarship is coordinated by the French Embassy in South Africa in partnership with Campus France South Africa. It falls under the France Excellence programme, which supports high-achieving students from Southern Africa in accessing French higher education institutions. The initiative aims to strengthen academic ties and promote cultural exchange between France and the region, while helping candidates prepare linguistically and academically before departure.
Benefits of France South Africa Scholarship 2027
- Online French language courses offered by the Alliances Françaises network from February to July 2027
Eligibility Criteria for the France South Africa Scholarship 2027
- Must be a citizen of South Africa, Lesotho, or Malawi
- Must intend to pursue a Master’s or PhD degree in France starting September 2027
- Open to all fields of study, with priority given to STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) disciplines
How to Apply for the France South Africa Scholarship 2027
- Read the full rulebook provided on the official scholarship website
- Review the frequently asked questions for detailed guidance
- Prepare and submit your application before the deadline of 8 October 2026, 23:59 SAST
- Keep track of interview dates (November 2026) and the shortlist announcement (beginning of December 2026)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the France South Africa Scholarship Programme. These answers cover eligibility, deadlines, the application process, and what to expect after applying.
Who is eligible to apply for the France South Africa Scholarship?
Citizens of South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi are eligible. Applicants must plan to start a Master’s or PhD in France in September 2027. All academic fields are accepted, though preference is given to STEM disciplines.
What is the application deadline?
The final submission deadline is 8 October 2026 at 23:59 South Africa time. Applications open on 21 July 2026, and interviews for eligible candidates take place in November 2026.
Does the scholarship cover tuition and living costs?
The official call does not specify tuition or living expenses. It confirms that laureates receive online French language courses from February to July 2027 through the Alliances Françaises network.
When will I know if I am shortlisted?
Shortlisted candidates are announced at the beginning of December 2026. If you have not been contacted by February 2027, you may consider your application unsuccessful.
Can I apply if I am from a non-STEM field?
Yes, the programme is open to all fields of study. However, priority is given to applications in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, including related humanities and social sciences.
Is French language proficiency required before applying?
The programme provides preparatory online French courses from February to July 2027, so prior proficiency is not mandatory at the time of application, but it may strengthen your candidacy.
How do I submit my application?
Applications are submitted through the official scholarship website. You must read the rulebook and FAQ carefully before applying. The exact online form or portal is not explicitly linked on the page.
What happens after I submit my application?
Eligible candidates are invited for interviews in November 2026. A shortlist is published in December 2026. Successful applicants begin French courses in February 2027 and depart for France in September 2027.
Can I contact the scholarship panel for updates?
Due to the high number of applications, individual follow-up requests are not answered. The panel communicates only with shortlisted and selected candidates; otherwise, candidates should refer to the timeline.
Where can I find more information about studying in France?
Detailed information about higher education institutions and programmes is available on the Campus France South Africa website. You can also contact Campus France directly for advice on finding the right study programme.
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