Giveka Foundation - Giveka Foundation Scholarships

Giveka Foundation scholarship

You will receive a one-off payment of 5,000 EUR to enable you to start or continue your higher education studies after finding yourself in financial difficulties due to an accident, illness or disability. You can apply for an extension on several occasions and receive this payment in addition to other CROUS student grants in France. The funds come from the Giveka Foundation, a Swiss charity based in Fribourg, which supports students through the French CROUS network. It does not cover medical costs.

Who can apply

• Nationality: You are a French or Swiss national.
• Your situation: An accident, illness or disability has caused you to experience financial difficulties at the start of or during your university studies.
• Level: Every stage of your studies counts.
• Field of study: Any topic is allowed.

How to apply

You should submit your application via the social services department of your CROUS, the regional body responsible for student welfare in France. The deadline is 30 November each year. You must submit your application together with a confidential medical report, a covering letter explaining the reasons for your application, proof of your nationality, tax and income documents, and your current certificate of enrolment. The Foundation meets once a year in February to decide on the award of the scholarship. The decision is made without giving reasons and is final.

How realistic are your chances?

This benefit is very strictly defined. You must be a French or Swiss national and prove that an accident, illness or disability has led to genuine financial hardship; consequently, the group of eligible applicants is small. If you clearly meet these criteria and can substantiate this with medical and financial documentation, your prospects are good. A comprehensive, well-documented application is crucial, as the committee makes its decisions without giving reasons.