The France-South Africa Scholarship Programme is directed to students who intend to study in universities or higher education institutions in France for their Master’s degree or PhD.

The programme is open to students with citizenship of South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi.

The call for applications is open for students who intend to start their studies in France in September 2027. 

Due to the differences between the Southern and Northern hemisphere calendars, laureates will follow online French language courses offered by the network of the Alliances Françaises from February to July 2027. 

This call for applications is open to all fields of study. Priority will be given to applications in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, including related humanities and social sciences disciplines.

Applicants are invited to carefully read the rulebook for the France - South Africa Scholarship Programme and the frequently asked questions. You can also consult the Campus France South Africa website to find more details on higher education institutions and study programmes in France. If you need any help or advice on finding the most appropriate programme for you, you can consult and contact Campus France South Africa.

Timeline:

- Applications open: 21 July 2026

- Application deadline: 8 October 2026 at 23:59 (South Africa time)

- Information webinar: August 2026 (follow Campus France South Africa on social media for details)

- Interviews for eligible candidates: November 2026

- Announcement of shortlisted candidates: Beginning of December 2026

- French language courses: February–July 2027

- Departure to France and start of studies: September 2027