Darnaud Foundation - Darnaud Foundation Student Loans

Darnaud Foundation student loan

You will receive a interest-free loan to help fund your studies or training, with no administration fees. This is a loan, not a grant: you must repay it, but only once you start working. Repayment can be made in one or more instalments over a period of up to 4 years. Your family or a close relative must act as a guarantor for the repayment. The Charles Darnaud Foundation is a private, charitable organisation based in Valence which has been awarding 1973 loans to students in the Drôme and Ardèche regions.

Who can apply

• Level: You are a student or trainee on a dual study programme, which combines your studies with paid work in a company.
• Institution: You are studying at a public university or a private university that has a public mandate.
• Regional link: You are studying in the Drôme or Ardèche departments, or at least one of your parents has their main residence there.
• Field of study: All participants are eligible to take part.
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply.
• Age: No age limit.

How to apply

You download two documents from the Foundation’s website, complete them, save them as PDF files and upload them via the online form. There is no fixed deadline. The Foundation’s Board reviews applications on an ongoing basis and decides who will be granted a loan.

How realistic are your chances?

This loan is restricted to the Drôme and Ardèche regions, meaning that only a small number of people are eligible for it. The foundation awards around 20 loans each year, up to a maximum of 30, and assesses each application individually. If you can clearly demonstrate your regional ties and provide a repayment guarantee, your chances are good.