If you are searching for Scholarships in France Without IELTS, you are not alone. France is one of the most popular study destinations in Europe for international students, and the good news is that many scholarships in France do not require IELTS specifically.
What matters most is proof of English proficiency, and in many cases, IELTS is not the only option. French universities and scholarship bodies often accept Medium of Instruction (MOI) letters, proof of a previous English-taught degree, or other alternatives such as Duolingo, TOEFL, PTE, or internal language assessments.
This detailed guide explains how Scholarships in France Without IELTS really work, lists 20+ scholarships, and walks you through step-by-step application strategies to avoid rejection.
What “Scholarships in France Without IELTS” Actually Means
Many students get rejected because they misunderstand this phrase.
“Without IELTS” does NOT mean:
- No English proof at all
- Automatic acceptance
It usually means:
- IELTS is not mandatory
- You can submit alternative English proof
- The scholarship follows university language rules, and that university allows MOI or waivers
Accepted English Alternatives in France (Very Important)
Most French institutions accept one or more of the following:
1. Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter
A formal letter from your previous university confirming that your entire degree was taught in English.
2. English-Taught Degree Proof
Transcript or diploma supplement clearly stating the language of instruction.
3. Other English Tests
Depending on the university:
- Duolingo
- TOEFL
- PTE Academic
- Cambridge English
4. University Interview or Internal Assessment
Some universities waive language tests after an interview.
5. French-Taught Programs
If the program is in French, you may need French proficiency instead of IELTS.
List of Scholarships in France Without IELTS (2026)
Below are 20+ major scholarships and funding routes commonly used by international students applying for Scholarships in France Without IELTS.
1. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
Level: Master’s / PhD
Funding: Monthly allowance, insurance, travel support
Why IELTS is not mandatory:
Language proof follows university rules, and many universities accept MOI.
Best for: High-achieving students with strong academic backgrounds.
2. Campus France Excellence Scholarships
Level: Bachelor’s / Master’s
Funding: Varies by institution
Without IELTS angle:
Many universities under Campus France accept MOI or alternative proof.
3. French Government Regional Scholarships
Level: Master’s
Funding: Partial to full support
Without IELTS angle:
Language requirement depends on the host university.
4. University of Paris International Scholarships
Level: Bachelor’s / Master’s
Funding: Tuition waivers + grants
Without IELTS angle:
English-taught programs often accept MOI.
5. Sciences Po Emile Boutmy Scholarship
Level: Bachelor’s / Master’s
Funding: Partial to full tuition support
Without IELTS angle:
English-taught programs may accept alternative proof.
6. Université Paris-Saclay Scholarships
Level: Master’s
Funding: Monthly stipend
Without IELTS angle:
MOI accepted for many programs.
7. ENS International Selection Scholarship
Level: Master’s
Funding: Monthly stipend
Without IELTS angle:
Language proof depends on program language.
8. HEC Paris MBA & Master’s Scholarships
Level: Master’s / MBA
Funding: Merit-based tuition support
Without IELTS angle:
English-taught background may qualify for waiver.
9. ESSEC Business School Scholarships
Level: Master’s
Funding: Partial tuition waivers
Without IELTS angle:
MOI accepted in some cases.
10. EDHEC Business School Scholarships
Level: Master’s
Funding: Merit-based awards
Without IELTS angle:
Alternative English proof accepted.
11. INSEAD Scholarships
Level: MBA / Master’s
Funding: Merit and need-based
Without IELTS angle:
English-taught education may replace IELTS.
12. Grenoble Alpes University Scholarships
Level: Master’s
Funding: Tuition waivers + grants
Without IELTS angle:
Many English-taught programs accept MOI.
13. Lyon Excellence Scholarships
Level: Master’s
Funding: Monthly allowance
Without IELTS angle:
University language rules apply.
14. Toulouse School of Economics Scholarships
Level: Master’s / PhD
Funding: Tuition waivers + stipends
Without IELTS angle:
English-medium degrees often accepted.
15. Polytech Engineering Scholarships
Level: Master’s
Funding: Tuition support
Without IELTS angle:
MOI accepted for international applicants.
16. French Embassy Scholarships
Level: Bachelor’s / Master’s
Funding: Varies by country
Without IELTS angle:
Language proof depends on host institution.
17. Regional Council Scholarships (Île-de-France, Occitanie, etc.)
Level: Master’s
Funding: Partial to full
Without IELTS angle:
University admission rules apply.
18. Erasmus+ France-Based Programs
Level: Master’s
Funding: Fully funded in many cases
Without IELTS angle:
Many Erasmus programs accept MOI.
19. Fondation de France Scholarships
Level: Master’s / PhD
Funding: Partial support
Without IELTS angle:
Language depends on program.
20. Private University & Grande École Scholarships
Level: Bachelor’s / Master’s
Funding: Tuition waivers
Without IELTS angle:
English-taught programs often accept alternatives.
21. Research Assistantships & PhD Contracts (France)
Level: PhD
Funding: Paid positions
Without IELTS angle:
Language requirement depends on supervisor.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Scholarships in France Without IELTS
Step 1: Choose Your Degree Level and Field
Be clear about:
- Bachelor, Master, or PhD
- Your academic field
- Preferred universities
Step 2: Shortlist English-Taught Programs First
Do not start with scholarships.
Instead:
- Find English-taught programs
- Check if MOI is accepted
- Match scholarships later
Step 3: Prepare a Strong MOI Letter
Your MOI letter must include:
- Full name
- Degree title and duration
- Clear statement:
The medium of instruction for this degree was English. - Official letterhead, stamp, signature
Step 4: Apply to Universities Before Scholarships
Most scholarships require:
- Conditional or full admission
- Program acceptance proof
Step 5: Submit Scholarship Applications
Customize your:
- SOP
- Motivation letter
- CV
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming “without IELTS” means “no English proof”
- Submitting a weak MOI letter
- Ignoring program language rules
- Missing deadlines
- Applying randomly to too many scholarships
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get Scholarships in France Without IELTS?
Yes, many students secure Scholarships in France Without IELTS by providing alternatives like MOI, previous English-taught degrees, or other accepted language proofs.
What are the top Scholarships in France Without IELTS for 2026?
Popular options include the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, Campus France Excellence grants, university merit scholarships, and Erasmus-based programs.
Do I need a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter for Scholarships in France Without IELTS?
Most scholarships recommend an MOI letter or equivalent proof of English-taught education to meet the university’s language requirement.
Can fresh graduates apply for Scholarships in France Without IELTS?
Yes, many scholarships accept fresh graduates, especially if they have strong academic records and a clear motivation to study in France.
How do I apply step-by-step for Scholarships in France Without IELTS?
First, shortlist English-taught programs, prepare a strong MOI letter, secure admission, and then submit scholarship applications with SOPs and CVs tailored to each program.
