If you want to study in France from Kazakhstan, there are several scholarship paths you can realistically look at. The main ones are French government programmes, university scholarships and fee waivers, and Erasmus Mundus joint degrees. Each one has different rules, but a strong profile and clear documents can help a lot.
Start with the main scholarship types
In France, scholarships are usually tied to a specific degree, university, or programme. They are competitive, so it helps to apply to several options at the same time.
- French government scholarships - national or embassy-related schemes.
- University scholarships - awards from the French university itself.
- Fee waivers - a reduction or full waiver of tuition fees.
- Erasmus Mundus - joint master's programmes in Europe, often with funding.
- Other external grants - foundations, regional schemes, or international organisations.
Always check the official source for each call. That means the embassy, the university admissions page, or the scholarship's own website.
French government scholarships
French government scholarships are usually the most visible option, but they are not easy to get. They often focus on strong academic results, a clear study plan, and sometimes leadership or public service potential.
- What they usually ask for: good grades, a CV, motivation letter, degree transcripts, passport copy, and often proof of language ability.
- Who can apply: it depends on the programme. Some are for master's students, some for doctoral students, and some have country-specific rules.
- Where to check: the French embassy or Campus France pages for Kazakhstan, plus the official scholarship page if one is listed.
Opening times vary a lot. Many government-backed calls open once a year, often several months before the academic year starts. For example, a call for a September intake may open in winter or early spring. Do not wait for one fixed date. Check the official page early and often.
University scholarships and tuition waivers
Many French universities offer their own scholarships. These can cover part of tuition, living costs, or both. Some are automatic for top applicants, while others need a separate application.
- What they usually ask for: strong grades, a complete application, motivation letter, references, and proof of language level.
- How they work: some are merit-based, some are need-based, and some are for specific fields like engineering, business, or social sciences.
- What to check: the programme page and the university's scholarship page.
University funding is often easier to win if you apply early and your file is complete. Some schools decide scholarship offers at the same time as admission. Others decide later, after a second review.
If you are comparing options, look for phrases like:
- partial tuition waiver
- merit scholarship
- excellence scholarship
- international student grant
These are common words, but the amount and rules differ by school. Never assume a scholarship covers full costs unless the official page says so.
Erasmus Mundus and other joint programmes
Erasmus Mundus is one of the strongest options if you want a funded master's degree in Europe. Many programmes include study in France for one semester or longer, sometimes with study in another country too.
- What they usually ask for: bachelor's degree, transcripts, CV, motivation letter, proof of English or French, and sometimes recommendation letters.
- What helps: a strong academic record, a clear academic focus, and international experience if you have it.
- Where to check: the official Erasmus Mundus catalogue and the programme's own page.
These calls usually open once a year, often in autumn or winter for the next academic year. Deadlines can be early, and selection is strict. If you are interested, prepare documents several months in advance.
Other joint programmes, including those run by French schools with partner universities, may also offer funding. They are less uniform than Erasmus Mundus, so the programme page is the only safe source for dates and rules.
What a strong profile usually looks like
A scholarship committee wants to see that you can succeed in the programme and finish it. For students from Kazakhstan, a clear and well-organised profile can make a real difference.
- Academic records: transcripts, degree certificates, and if possible a clear explanation of your grading system.
- Language proof: IELTS, TOEFL, DELF, DALF, or another test if the programme asks for it.
- Motivation letter: short, specific, and linked to the programme.
- CV: study, work, internships, volunteer work, and skills.
- References: if required, choose people who know your academic work well.
It also helps to show a clean fit between your background and the programme. For example, if you studied economics, apply to business, finance, development, or public policy programmes that match your path. A file that looks focused is often stronger than a long list of random choices.
When to apply and how to stay organised
There is no single scholarship calendar for France. Most deadlines depend on the university, the degree level, and the funding source. In general, many calls open between autumn and spring for the following academic year.
- Autumn: some Erasmus Mundus and university scholarship calls open.
- Winter: many master's funding calls are active.
- Spring: some university and embassy-related deadlines close.
- Summer: fewer new calls appear, but results and final documents are often handled.
Make a simple checklist for each option:
- programme name
- official source link
- documents needed
- language requirement
- deadline
- contact email
This saves time and helps you avoid missing a small but important requirement, like a certified translation or a recommendation letter format.
Common questions
Can I get a full scholarship in France from Kazakhstan?
Yes, but it is competitive. Full funding is more common in some Erasmus Mundus programmes and a few government or university schemes. Always check the official page to see what the award actually covers.
Do I need French to win a scholarship?
Not always. Many master's programmes are taught in English, especially in engineering, business, and international studies. But some scholarships and many French-taught programmes will ask for French language proof.
Should I apply before I get admission?
Often, yes. Some scholarships are linked to admission, while others need a separate application. Read the programme page carefully, because the order is different from one scheme to another.
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.
That can save time and help you get seen by programmes that match your background and goals.
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.