If you want to study in France from Indonesia, there are several scholarship routes you can try. The most realistic ones are French government programmes, university tuition waivers, and Erasmus Mundus. Each one has different rules, so the best move is to match your profile to the right option early.
Main scholarship routes to look at
There is no single scholarship for every student. Most students compare a few paths and apply where they fit best.
- French government scholarships - often linked to the French embassy, Campus France, or a French ministry programme.
- University scholarships or tuition waivers - offered by the university itself, sometimes only for top applicants.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters - a well-known European scholarship route for master’s study in more than one country.
- Other external funding - Indonesian government, foundations, or employer sponsorship, if relevant to your field.
Check each programme page carefully. Rules, eligible countries, and what they cover can change from year to year.
French government scholarships
French government-backed scholarships are worth watching, especially for master’s and PhD study. In practice, many are tied to the French Embassy in Indonesia, Campus France, or special cooperation programmes.
These scholarships often look for strong academic results, a clear study plan, and proof that you are ready for study in French or English, depending on the programme.
- Who they suit - strong students with a clear academic goal and good documents.
- Common requirements - transcript, diploma, CV, motivation letter, references, language proof, and sometimes a research proposal.
- What they may cover - tuition, living support, travel, or part of these. Coverage varies a lot.
- When they open - often once a year. Some open in late autumn or winter for the next academic year, but always check the official call.
For current opportunities, use the French embassy in Indonesia, Campus France Indonesia, and the scholarship's own site as your source.
University waivers and merit aid
Many students who study in France do not get a full scholarship. Instead, they receive a tuition waiver, a partial fee discount, or a merit award from the university. These are often easier to find than fully funded places, but they still need a strong application.
Universities usually decide these awards based on grades, academic fit, and the quality of your file. Some also want proof of English or French, depending on the programme language.
- Who they suit - students with good grades and a strong match to one programme.
- Common requirements - application form, transcript, diploma, CV, statement of purpose, language score, and sometimes portfolio or recommendation letters.
- What they cover - often only part of tuition. Some programmes also offer a small stipend, but many do not.
- When they open - usually with the admission cycle. Some universities review funding automatically, while others need a separate scholarship form.
Always check the university's admissions page and the exact programme page. The scholarship rules can differ inside the same university.
Erasmus Mundus scholarships
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are among the most competitive options, but they are very attractive if you want an international degree and strong funding. You apply to a specific joint programme, and the scholarship is attached to that programme, not to France alone.
These programmes often include study in more than one country. France may be one of the host countries, but not always the only one.
- Who they suit - top applicants with a strong academic record and a clear study direction.
- Common requirements - diploma, transcript, CV, motivation letter, language proof, references, and sometimes a study plan.
- What they cover - often tuition, travel, insurance, and a monthly living allowance. Check the programme page for the exact package.
- When they open - typically once a year, often in autumn, with deadlines in winter or early the next year. This can vary by programme.
You can find the list of official Erasmus Mundus masters on the European Commission site or the programme website itself.
What a strong profile should include
Scholarship committees want proof, not just interest. A complete and well-organised file helps them understand your background fast.
- Academic documents - diploma or degree certificate, transcript, and grading explanation if available.
- Language proof - IELTS, TOEFL, DELF, DALF, or another score if the programme asks for it.
- CV - keep it clear and focused on study, internships, projects, research, and awards.
- Motivation letter - explain why France, why this programme, and how it fits your goals.
- References - usually from teachers, lecturers, or employers who know your work well.
- Extra proof - portfolio, publications, research proposal, or work samples if relevant.
If your documents are incomplete, many scholarships will not consider you. It is better to prepare early and upload clean scans, translated copies if required, and the right file format.
How to choose where to apply
A realistic plan is better than applying everywhere. Start with scholarships that match your level, field, and language skills.
- Good fit for master’s students - Erasmus Mundus, university merit aid, and embassy-linked programmes.
- Good fit for research students - university funding, lab support, and government research grants.
- Good fit if you have strong grades - selective awards with a separate scholarship form or automatic merit review.
- Good fit if you have limited funds - partial waivers plus other support, since full funding is rare.
Do not rely on one option only. Many students combine a scholarship search with low-cost programme choices and self-funded backup plans.
When to start preparing
Start months before the deadline. Many scholarships ask for documents that take time, such as language tests, translated transcripts, and recommendation letters.
- Check the scholarship or university page as soon as the next call appears.
- Prepare your CV, motivation letter, and scans early.
- Ask referees in advance so they have time to write.
- Keep both English and French versions of your key documents if needed.
If a scholarship is selective, early preparation gives you a better chance to submit a complete and careful application.
Common questions
Can students from Indonesia apply for scholarships in France?
Yes, many scholarships accept Indonesian applicants, but each programme has its own eligibility rules. Always check the official page for nationality rules and academic level.
Is French language always required?
No. Some programmes are taught in English, especially at master’s level. Others need French. The programme page will say which language proof you need.
Can I get a full scholarship?
It is possible, but full scholarships are competitive. Many students receive only partial funding, so it is smart to apply to several options and keep a backup plan.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents. Admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.