French Ministry of Agriculture - Scholarships for Higher Education

What you get

You will receive a monthly grant from the French government for one academic year. In addition, you will not have to pay any tuition fees or student health insurance contributions. The amount depends on your family’s income, your family circumstances and the distance between your home and your place of study. The amount is calculated on the basis of eight income brackets and amounts to approximately 550 EUR per month, paid from September onwards, which over the course of the year – including a summer supplement – totals approximately 1,745 to 7,602 EUR. The grant is awarded by the French Ministry of Agriculture and is intended for students on higher education courses in agriculture. If you have passed your Baccalauréat with the top mark of ‘très bien’, you will also receive an achievement bonus of 900 EUR per year. If you are studying abroad, you may be eligible for a monthly allowance of 400 EUR.

Who can apply

• Field of study: You are studying at an agricultural college in France, whether it is a state-run institution or a private one that has a contract with the Ministry of Agriculture. These include courses such as the Higher Technical Certificate (BTSA), foundation year programmes, engineering and veterinary courses, oenology, landscape architecture, as well as some Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes.
• Type of course: You are a full-time student on your first degree programme (your first course of study) and are not currently undertaking any vocational training or further education.
• Financial need: Your family’s income is not sufficient to cover the full cost of your studies. This will be assessed on the basis of your tax assessment notice from the year prior to your application.
• Age: You are subject to the rules set out in 28 on 1 September of the year in which you first submit your application. This deadline may be extended on account of military or civilian service, or due to the number of children in your care. There is no age limit for those with a recognised disability.
• Qualification: You hold the French ‘Baccalauréat’ or a recognised equivalent qualification.
• Nationality: French nationals are given priority. EU citizens and other international students may also be admitted under certain conditions.

How to apply

You apply for the grant online via the ‘Dossier Social Étudiant’ (DSE), the French portal for student financial support. The main application period runs from 15 January to 31 May. You complete the form and upload your supporting documents. Within around 30 days, you will receive a provisional decision or a rejection. Your grant will be confirmed in September, once your enrolment has been registered.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a means-tested state grant, not a competitive award. You are not competing with other applicants. If you are studying at an eligible agricultural university and your family income falls within the specified income limits, you will receive the grant. Around 11,781 students receive it. It is important that you submit your application in good time between January and May, as payment will not be made until September, provided your documents are complete.