If you are a student from Sri Lanka and want to study in France, you have a few realistic scholarship paths. The main ones are French government scholarships, university fee waivers, and Erasmus Mundus programmes. None of them is guaranteed, but a strong profile and complete documents can make a real difference.
Main scholarship paths to look at
The most common options are:
- French government scholarships and mobility grants
- University scholarships, tuition waivers, or fee reductions
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters scholarships
- Occasional programmes from French embassies or partner institutions
For each one, always check the official source: the scholarship's own website, the French embassy or campus page, and the university admissions page. Rules can change from year to year.
French government scholarships
French government support is one of the best-known options, but it is usually very competitive. It often targets strong students at master's or doctoral level, and sometimes specific fields or partner countries.
- Typical requirements: excellent grades, a strong study plan, and a clear reason for choosing France
- Often helpful: a relevant degree, research experience for PhD, and good English or French depending on the programme
- Sometimes needed: nomination through a university, an embassy process, or a partner institution
These scholarships often open once a year, but the timing depends on the programme. Some open in autumn for the next academic year. Others open in winter or early spring. Check the French embassy in Sri Lanka, Campus France, or the specific programme page for the current call.
University scholarships and fee waivers
Many French universities and schools offer partial scholarships, tuition waivers, or reduced fees for international students. These are often easier to find than full scholarships, but they may not cover living costs.
- Typical requirements: good academic records, motivation letter, and sometimes proof of language ability
- Sometimes asked for: CV, recommendation letters, portfolio, or interview
- Usually offered by: universities, grandes écoles, or specific faculties
Some awards are automatic if you are admitted and rank highly. Others need a separate application. Deadlines often match admission deadlines, but not always. Always check the programme page and the admissions office page of the university you want.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
Erasmus Mundus is one of the strongest options for many international students, including students from Sri Lanka. It is a joint master's programme run by several European universities, and it can include a scholarship that covers tuition, travel, and a monthly allowance.
- Typical requirements: a good bachelor's degree, strong grades, and a competitive application
- Often needed: CV, motivation letter, transcripts, diploma, passport copy, and proof of language ability
- For some programmes: two recommendation letters and a clear explanation of your study plan
Applications usually open in the autumn for the next intake, often around October to January, but each programme sets its own dates. Some close in winter, while others may stay open into early spring. The official programme website is the only safe place to check the deadline.
What strong applications usually have
Scholarships are competitive, so your documents matter. A clear, complete application often helps more than a long list of activities with no proof.
- A focused motivation letter that matches the course and scholarship
- Good transcripts and a clear academic record
- A CV that shows study, projects, internships, or work experience
- Language proof if required, usually English or French
- Scanned copies of degrees, transcripts, passport, and references when asked
If you have awards, volunteer work, research, or internships, add them only if they are relevant. Say what you did and what you learned. Keep it simple and easy to check.
How to prepare before you apply
It helps to prepare early, because many scholarships need both admission and a separate scholarship file. A good plan makes your application faster and less stressful.
- Make a short list of programmes you can realistically apply to
- Check whether the scholarship needs admission first, or a separate application
- Prepare transcripts, degree certificates, translations, and passport copies
- Write one strong CV and one base motivation letter you can adapt
- Check language rules for each programme, because they vary a lot
If you are still studying, start collecting documents early. Universities and scholarship offices often ask for certified copies, official translations, or recent proof of study.
Common questions
Can a student from Sri Lanka get a full scholarship in France?
Yes, it is possible, but full scholarships are competitive. Erasmus Mundus is one of the best-known full or near-full funding routes, and some French government or partner scholarships can also be generous. Check each official programme page for what is covered.
Do I need French to apply?
Not always. Many master's programmes in France are taught in English, and some scholarships are open to those programmes. Other courses need French, or they prefer applicants who can study in French. Check the language section on the programme page.
When should I start looking?
Start at least 8 to 12 months before the intake you want. Some scholarships open in autumn, and many university deadlines come months before classes begin. Early preparation gives you time to improve your profile and gather documents.
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.