BGF by Region
BGF (Bourse du Gouvernement Français) varies dramatically by country. Select your region to see typical offerings.
Sub-Saharan & Francophone Africa
Historically the largest BGF allocation. Francophone African countries receive significant quotas. Many embassies offer Master's and PhD grants with ~€700/month stipend + tuition waiver.
Asia & Pacific
Competitive but available. China, Vietnam, India, and Indonesia have active BGF programmes. Often focused on STEM and development-relevant fields.
Americas
Latin American countries have active programmes, especially Brazil (CAPES-COFECUB), Mexico, Colombia, and Chile. Smaller allocations for Caribbean nations.
Middle East & North Africa
Strong programmes for Maghreb countries (Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria) due to francophone ties. Gulf states have smaller but growing allocations.
Europe & CIS
EU citizens generally don't need BGF (they pay EU tuition rates). Focus on Eastern Europe, Russia, Ukraine, Central Asia.
BGF Programme Types
Full Study Grants
12–24 months. Monthly stipend + tuition waiver + social security. Apply through your country's French embassy.
Internship/Stage Grants
1–6 months. For research internships at French labs. Reduced stipend (~€615/mo). Ideal for PhD students needing lab access.
Cotutelle PhD
Joint supervision between French and home-country university. BGF covers the France-based periods. Alternating semesters.
How to Apply for BGF
Contact your local French embassy
Find the cultural/education section. Ask about BGF availability for your nationality.
Check deadlines
Embassy deadlines are NOT the same as Eiffel deadlines. Usually 3–6 months before academic year.
Submit application to embassy
Requirements vary: transcripts, motivation letter, language tests, and proof of admission.
Embassy interview
Most embassies conduct interviews. May be in French depending on your country.
Check Your Embassy
Every country's BGF programme is different. Contact your French embassy for specific details.
See All Deadlines