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Why Lyon Attracts International Students
Lyon, France’s third-largest city, is a hub for higher education, gastronomy, and culture. With renowned universities like Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 and top business schools such as emlyon business school, it’s no surprise that thousands of international students flock here each year. But studying abroad can be expensive. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarship opportunities for studying in Lyon that can significantly reduce costs. This guide covers the main funding sources, eligibility criteria, and application tips to help you secure financial aid.
Types of Scholarships Available in Lyon
Scholarships for studying in Lyon fall into several categories: French government grants, European Union programs, regional awards, university-specific funding, and private foundations. Understanding each type will help you target the most relevant opportunities.
French Government Scholarships (Campus France)
The French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs offers several scholarships managed by Campus France. The most notable is the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, which covers tuition fees, monthly allowance, and travel costs for master’s and PhD students in engineering, economics, law, and political science. Another option is the Bourses du Gouvernement Français (BGF), available for all levels of study. These are highly competitive and require strong academic records.
Regional Scholarships: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, which includes Lyon, provides the Bourse Régionale pour l’Enseignement Supérieur. This grant is aimed at students from the region, but some programs are open to international students. It covers partial tuition or living costs. Check the region’s official website for specific calls.
University-Specific Scholarships
Lyon’s universities and grandes écoles offer their own funding. For example:
- emlyon business school awards merit-based scholarships like the Emlyon Foundation Scholarship and the Rising Talents Scholarship, covering up to 50% of tuition.
- Université Lyon 2 provides Bourses d’Excellence for master’s students in social sciences and humanities.
- INSA Lyon (engineering) offers International Excellence Scholarships for non-EU students.
Erasmus+ and EU Programs
If you are from an EU/EEA country, the Erasmus+ program can fund your studies or internship in Lyon. Non-EU students may also benefit from Erasmus Mundus joint master’s degrees, which provide full scholarships covering tuition, travel, and living expenses.
How to Find and Apply for Lyon Scholarships
Finding the right scholarship requires research and planning. Here is a step-by-step checklist to guide you:
- Step 1: Identify your study level (bachelor, master, PhD) and field.
- Step 2: Visit the official websites of your target universities and the Campus France scholarship portal.
- Step 3: Check eligibility: many scholarships require proficiency in French (B2 or C1), but some English-taught programs accept English tests.
- Step 4: Prepare documents: transcripts, CV, motivation letter, recommendation letters, and language certificates.
- Step 5: Respect deadlines: most applications open in October–January for the following academic year.
- Step 6: Apply directly through the scholarship portal or via the university’s admission system.
Comparison of Major Scholarships for Lyon
| Scholarship Name | Coverage | Eligibility | Deadline (Typical) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eiffel Excellence | Tuition, monthly stipend, travel, health insurance | Master’s/PhD, non-French, age <25 (master’s) | January |
| Emlyon Foundation | Up to 50% tuition | All emlyon programs, merit-based | Varies by intake |
| INSA Lyon Excellence | €5,000–€10,000/year | Non-EU engineering students | March |
| Erasmus Mundus | Full (tuition, travel, living) | Any nationality, specific joint master’s | Varies by program |
| Région Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes | Partial tuition/living | Regional preference, some international | June |
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Many applicants miss out due to avoidable errors. Here are the top pitfalls:
- Missing deadlines: Set reminders well in advance.
- Generic applications: Tailor your motivation letter to each scholarship.
- Ignoring language requirements: Some scholarships require French; if you lack it, focus on English-taught programs.
- Not checking university-specific scholarships: Many students overlook internal funding.
Tips for a Strong Application
To increase your chances, follow these practical tips:
- Start your research at least 12 months before your intended start date.
- Network with current scholarship recipients via LinkedIn or university forums.
- Highlight your extracurricular achievements and community involvement.
- Proofread your application multiple times; consider using a native speaker.
- Apply to multiple scholarships to diversify your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while on a scholarship in Lyon?
Yes, most scholarships allow part-time work up to 964 hours per year (about 20 hours/week). However, check your specific scholarship terms, as some may restrict work.
Are there scholarships for English-taught programs in Lyon?
Absolutely. Many programs at emlyon, Université Lyon 2, and others are taught in English. Scholarships like the Eiffel and Emlyon Foundation do not require French proficiency, but you may need an English test (TOEFL/IELTS).
Do I need to apply separately for scholarships and admission?
Often yes. For university-specific scholarships, you usually apply after receiving an admission offer. For government scholarships like Eiffel, the university nominates you, so you must first be admitted.
What if I miss the scholarship deadline?
You can explore alternative funding: student loans, part-time jobs, or private foundations like the Fondation de France. Some universities have emergency funds.
Can PhD students get scholarships in Lyon?
Yes, PhD scholarships include the Eiffel PhD extension, doctoral contracts from universities, and funding from research institutes like CNRS. Many are tied to specific research projects.
How competitive are these scholarships?
Very competitive. For example, the Eiffel scholarship has an acceptance rate below 10%. Strong academic records, clear career goals, and well-written essays are essential.
Your Next Steps to Secure Funding
Now that you have an overview of the scholarship opportunities for studying in Lyon, take action. Create a list of scholarships that match your profile, gather your documents, and start preparing your applications. Remember, persistence pays off. Even if you don’t win a major scholarship, smaller grants and regional aids can add up. Good luck!
Photo by Mitchell Henderson on Pexels
I’m a non-EU student interested in applying for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship. The article mentions it covers tuition and a monthly allowance, but does it also include health insurance?
Great question! The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship does not cover health insurance directly, but as a scholarship holder, you are eligible for the French social security system, which provides basic health coverage. You may need to top up with a complementary insurance (mutuelle) for full coverage.
Thanks for this overview. I’m looking at emlyon business school’s Rising Talents Scholarship. Do you know if it’s renewable each year, or is it a one-time award?
The Rising Talents Scholarship at emlyon is typically awarded for the first year of study only. However, the school offers other merit-based grants that can be renewed, so it’s best to check with the admissions office or the scholarship page for the most current policy.