If you are a student from Turkey and want to study in France, you can compete for several kinds of funding. The main options are French government scholarships, university fee waivers, Erasmus Mundus joint programmes, and some private or regional awards. Most scholarships are competitive, so a clear profile and complete documents matter a lot.
Main scholarship paths
There is no single scholarship for every student. The best option depends on your level, field, grades, language, and whether you are applying for a bachelor's, master's, or PhD.
- French government scholarships - often aimed at master's and PhD students, sometimes through the French Embassy or Campus France partners.
- University scholarships or fee waivers - offered by the university itself, usually for strong candidates.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters - international master's degrees with full or partial funding, often very competitive.
- Regional or foundation scholarships - smaller programmes from local authorities, foundations, or partner organisations.
For each one, the official source to check is different. Use the scholarship's own site, the university's admissions or financial aid page, or the French Embassy or Campus France page for your country.
French government scholarships
French government funding can be a strong option for Turkish students, especially for master's and doctoral study. These awards are often linked to bilateral cooperation, embassy calls, or French institutions that nominate candidates.
- Who can compete: usually high-achieving students with a clear study plan, and sometimes applicants already connected to a partner university or research project.
- What they often require: good academic results, a motivation letter, CV, recommendation letters, passport, transcripts, and proof of language level if the programme needs it.
- When they open: often several months before the academic year, and sometimes only once a year. Check the French Embassy in Turkey, Campus France Turkey, and the scholarship page early.
These scholarships may cover tuition, living costs, travel, or part of these costs. The exact package changes from programme to programme, so never assume the coverage without reading the official notice.
University waivers and merit aid
Many French universities and grandes écoles offer their own scholarships or tuition reductions. These are often called merit scholarships, excellence scholarships, or fee waivers.
- Who can compete: students with strong grades, relevant study background, and a good fit for the programme.
- What they often require: the normal admission file plus a scholarship form or a short extra statement.
- When they open: usually at the same time as admissions, or soon after. Some programmes review funding automatically, while others need a separate application.
Some universities give a tuition discount instead of full funding. Others may reduce fees for a small number of top applicants. Check the programme page carefully, because the rule may be different for international students and for students from outside the EU.
Erasmus Mundus joint master's degrees
Erasmus Mundus is one of the best-known routes for international students who want a master's in Europe. Many programmes include study in more than one country, and some give full scholarships to selected students from around the world.
- Who can compete: students with a completed bachelor's degree, strong grades, and a profile that matches the programme.
- What they often require: transcript, diploma or proof of graduation, passport, CV, motivation letter, recommendation letters, and language proof.
- When they open: usually once a year, often in autumn or winter for the next academic year. Exact dates differ by programme.
This route is very competitive. A strong academic record helps, but so does a focused story. Show why your background, your goals, and the programme belong together.
What usually makes an application stronger
Scholarship committees often compare many good applicants. A complete and well-organised file can help you stand out.
- Clear grades: good transcripts matter, especially in subjects linked to your chosen field.
- Relevant documents: diploma, transcript, passport, language certificate, CV, and recommendation letters are common.
- Good motivation letter: explain your goal, your interest in France, and why the programme fits you.
- Proof of language: some programmes want French, some want English, and some accept either. Always check the programme page.
- Clean file: names, dates, scans, and file formats should be correct and easy to read on a phone or laptop.
If you are still waiting for one document, start early. Many scholarships close before you expect them to, and missing a paper can make you ineligible.
How to check dates and requirements
Dates change every year. Do not rely on old forum posts or social media screenshots. Use the official source for each scholarship and each university.
- French Embassy in Turkey: for government calls and bilateral awards.
- Campus France Turkey: for study guidance, application routes, and official references.
- University admissions page: for merit aid, fee waivers, and programme-specific scholarships.
- Scholarship's own site: for Erasmus Mundus and foundation awards.
Typical windows are several months before the academic year, but not always. Some master’s scholarships open in autumn or winter for the next fall intake. PhD or research funding may appear at different times during the year.
Common questions
Can I get a full scholarship for France as a student from Turkey?
Yes, it is possible, but it is competitive. Full scholarships are more common at master's and PhD level than at bachelor's level. Always check whether the award covers tuition only, or tuition plus living costs.
Do I need French to win a scholarship?
Not always. Some programmes are in English, especially many master's degrees and Erasmus Mundus tracks. Others need French or both. The programme page will say which language proof you need.
Should I apply before I get admission?
It depends on the scholarship. Some awards are linked to the admission file, while others need a separate application after or alongside admission. Read the exact instructions on the official page.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level, and documents, so your background is clear and easy to find. 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.