If you are from Colombia and want to study in France, you can compete for several kinds of funding. The main options are government scholarships, university fee waivers, and Erasmus Mundus programmes. Most are competitive, and none are guaranteed, so a strong profile matters.
Main scholarship routes
For most Colombian students, the realistic routes are:
- French government scholarships and mobility grants, often linked to the French Embassy, Campus France, or partner programmes.
- University scholarships or fee waivers from French universities and grandes écoles.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters, which fund study at more than one university in Europe, sometimes including France.
- Research funding for master’s by research or doctoral study, usually through a university, lab, or doctoral school.
Check the official source for each option: the scholarship page, the university admissions page, or Campus France. Rules can change from year to year.
French government scholarships
French public scholarships are often the first place students look. Some are aimed at international students in general, while others are for specific countries, subject areas, or levels of study.
- They often ask for strong grades, a clear study plan, and proof that your programme fits your goals.
- Many are for master’s or doctoral study, not undergraduate study.
- Some include a monthly allowance, tuition support, or help with travel and health cover, but the exact package depends on the programme.
When they open: many calls appear once a year, often several months before the academic year starts. Some open in late autumn or winter for the next intake, but you should always check the official page and the French Embassy in Colombia or Campus France Colombia.
What usually helps:
- good academic marks
- French or English language proof, depending on the programme
- a clear motivation letter
- recommendation letters
- a CV with relevant projects, work, or volunteering
University scholarships and fee waivers
Many French universities offer their own scholarships. These may be partial or full fee waivers, or monthly support. Some are automatic if you apply early and have excellent grades. Others need a separate scholarship application.
These are realistic if you have strong marks, a good fit with the programme, and a complete application file. Some schools also look at leadership, research interest, or professional experience.
Typical requirements include:
- academic transcripts
- CV
- motivation letter
- references or recommendation letters
- proof of language ability
- sometimes a portfolio for art, design, or architecture
When they open: university scholarship calls often open around the same time as admissions, or shortly after. Some close early, especially for master’s programmes taught in English. Check the programme page, because deadlines can differ by faculty.
Tip: do not wait for the last week. Universities often review strong applicants earlier, and some scholarships are first come, first reviewed, or have limited seats.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
Erasmus Mundus is one of the best-known options for international students, including students from Colombia. These are joint master’s programmes run by several universities in different countries. France is often one of the partner countries.
They can be very competitive, but they are also one of the clearest fully funded routes for international students.
They usually require:
- a bachelor’s degree or final-year proof if the programme allows it
- strong grades
- English proof, and sometimes another language
- a motivation letter
- recommendation letters
- a CV
When they open: many Erasmus Mundus calls open in autumn and close in winter for the next academic year. Exact dates change by programme, so check the official Erasmus Mundus catalogue and each joint master’s page.
Why they suit some Colombian students: you do not need to apply to France alone. You apply to the joint programme, and the scholarship is often part of the same process. Still, selection is strict.
What strong applications usually show
A scholarship file is more than grades. The people who read it want to see that you can finish the programme and use it well.
A strong profile often includes:
- clear grades and a relevant academic background
- language proof that matches the programme
- study plans that are specific, not general
- evidence of projects, internships, research, or work experience
- documents that are complete, neat, and translated if needed
If your profile is not perfect, do not give up. Some scholarships value improvement, motivation, and clear goals. But missing papers, weak language proof, or a vague statement can lower your chances fast.
Prepare early and keep your documents in order:
- passport
- transcripts and degree certificates
- language test results
- CV in the format the school asks for
- motivation letter adapted to each programme
- references
How to check if a scholarship is real for you
Not every scholarship fits every student. Read the rules first, then compare them with your profile.
- Level: bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD?
- Nationality: is Colombia eligible?
- Subject: does your field match?
- Language: French, English, or both?
- Deadline: is it still open?
- Funding: does it cover tuition, living costs, or both?
Use official sources only. For government funding, check the French Embassy in Colombia, Campus France, or the French Ministry pages. For university support, check the university admissions or scholarship page. For Erasmus Mundus, check the official programme website.
Also remember: some scholarships need you to first apply for admission to a programme. Others need a separate scholarship form. The process is different for each one.
Common questions
Can I get a full scholarship in France from Colombia?
Yes, it is possible, but it is competitive. Erasmus Mundus and some government or university scholarships may cover tuition and living costs, but selection is strict.
Do I need French to win a scholarship?
Not always. Some programmes are in English and only ask for English proof. Others need French, especially if the programme is taught in French. Always check the programme language first.
When should I start applying?
As early as possible, usually several months before the intake. Many scholarships open in autumn or winter for the next academic year. Check each official page because dates change.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first. It is a simple way to make your profile visible while you prepare your scholarship applications.
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.