Do you dream of studying in France as a Nigerian student, fully funded by a prestigious international scholarship?
Then the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship could be your golden opportunity.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Eiffel Scholarship for Nigerian students: what it is, how it works, who can apply, and how to increase your chances of being selected.
What is the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme?
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is a prestigious international scholarship offered by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
It is designed to attract the best international students—including Nigerians—to study in master’s and PhD programs at top universities in France.
While the scholarship is not hosted in Nigeria, it is open to Nigerian students who meet the eligibility criteria. Also read on University of Geneva Scholarship 2025
Why Is It Called “Eiffel”?
It’s named after Gustave Eiffel, the engineer behind the world-famous Eiffel Tower. The scholarship symbolizes French excellence in education, innovation, and global cooperation.
Can Nigerians Apply for the Eiffel Scholarship?
Yes! The Eiffel Scholarship is available to students from over 100 countries, and Nigeria is one of them.
So, if you are a Nigerian graduate, current student, or researcher looking to study abroad, especially in areas like engineering, law, economics, science, or political science, you can absolutely apply.
What Are the Objectives of the Scholarship?
The Eiffel Programme was created to:
- Attract top foreign talent to French institutions.
- Promote France as a top study destination.
- Train future global leaders, especially in developing countries like Nigeria.
- Encourage international partnerships between French universities and institutions abroad.
Levels of Study Covered
The Eiffel Scholarship supports two main levels:
1. Master’s Programs
- Duration: 12 to 36 months.
- For Nigerian students aiming for Master’s degrees in fields like:
- Engineering
- Economics and Management
- Law and Political Science
2. PhD Programs
- Duration: Up to 12 months (co-supervision or joint degree).
- For doctoral students conducting research in collaboration with a French university.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The Eiffel Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity for international students. Here’s what it includes:
Benefit | Details |
---|---|
Monthly stipend | €1,181 (Master’s) or €1,700 (PhD) |
Round-trip airfare | Covered (Nigeria ↔ France) |
Health insurance | Comprehensive coverage included |
Cultural activities | Free museum visits, events, excursions |
Accommodation support | Assistance finding subsidized housing |
Tuition Fees | Not covered, but many French universities waive fees for Eiffel scholars |
Good news: Most French public universities have low or no tuition fees, especially for scholarship holders.
Eligible Fields of Study
The Eiffel Programme focuses on fields that align with French development priorities. Nigerian applicants must choose a course in one of these areas:
Master’s Level
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Physics and Chemistry
- Life Sciences
- Environmental Science
- Information Technology
- Economics and Management
- Law and Political Science
Doctoral Level
- Science and Technology
- Humanities and Social Sciences
Eligibility Criteria for Nigerians
To apply for the Eiffel Scholarship, Nigerian applicants must meet the following conditions:
Requirement | Master’s | PhD |
---|---|---|
Nationality | Must be a Nigerian citizen (not French) | |
Age limit | Under 25 years old | Under 30 years old |
Admission | Apply through a French university | |
Academic performance | Must have excellent academic records | |
Prior studies | Must be applying for first-time master’s or PhD study in France |
Note: You cannot apply directly for the Eiffel Scholarship. The French university must apply on your behalf.
Eiffel Scholarship 2025 Timeline (Expected)
- October 2024 – Applications open
- January 2025 – Applications close
- April 2025 – Results announced
- September 2025 – Classes begin in France
Always check Campus France Nigeria or the official Eiffel website for updated dates.
How to Apply for the Eiffel Scholarship in Nigeria (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Research French Universities
Look for a French public or private institution offering your desired Master’s or PhD course.
You can use:
Step 2: Contact the University
Ask if they participate in the Eiffel Scholarship Programme and are willing to submit an application on your behalf.
Step 3: Apply to the University
Submit your admission application to the university and request Eiffel nomination.
Step 4: The University Applies for You
If the university supports your candidacy, they’ll submit the scholarship application to Campus France.
Step 5: Wait for the Result
If selected, you’ll be notified around March or April, giving you enough time to prepare for your study trip to France.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Maintain a high GPA and academic distinction.
- Prepare a strong motivation letter and study plan.
- Apply to programs relevant to France’s international priorities.
- Build a professional relationship with your target university early.
- Prepare documents like your CV, transcripts, passport, reference letters, and research proposal (for PhD).