French government scholarships - The French Institute of Bulgaria

Program Overview

The French Institute in Bulgaria organizes this scholarship program annually, offering financial support for Bulgarian students and researchers to study or conduct research in various fields at different academic levels. The scholarships are awarded based on the jury's defined priorities, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.

Benefits and Funding

The scholarship covers essential expenses, including:

• Monthly Allowance: €860 for bachelor's and master's degrees, €1770 for cotutelle, €1704 for SSHN doctoral students and young researchers, and €2055 for confirmed researchers.
• Social Security
• Training and Registration Fees: Up to €1000, with some exceptions.
• Transport Costs: Within France to reach the assigned city.

Fields and Study Levels

The scholarship is available for various fields of study, including agriculture, architecture, arts, biology, chemistry, communication, law, environmental sciences, computer science, languages, management, mathematics, physics, health professions, education, engineering, economics, humanities, sports, tourism, hospitality, and transport.

Eligible study levels are:

• Bachelor
• Master
• Doctorate (cotutelle)
• Postdoctoral

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age Limit: 18 years for bachelor's degree, 35 years for master's degree, 40 years for cotutelle thesis, and under 40 for SSHN doctoral students and young researchers.
• Nationality or Residency: Bulgarian nationality or a resident of Bulgaria for over three years.
• Enrollment Status: Regularly enrolled in a Bulgarian higher education institution or holding a Bulgarian diploma (bachelor's, master's, doctorate).
• Researcher Criteria: Attached to a Bulgarian university or research center for young researchers and holding a teaching post or being a researcher at a Bulgarian university or research center for confirmed researchers.

How to Apply

The application process involves the following steps:

1. Download Application Form: From the French Institute in Bulgaria website (www.institutfrancais.bg) under the "French Government Bursaries" section.
2. Submit Documents: Send the completed application form, along with required documents, to the Scholarship Office at bissera.kolarova@institutfrancais.bg by the deadline.

Selection Process

The selection process includes:

• Pre-selection: Based on submitted documents.
• Publication of Results: End of April.
• Interview: Selected candidates will be interviewed by a Franco-Bulgarian jury in May.

Key Takeaways

• The French Government Scholarships program offers financial support for Bulgarian students and researchers to study or conduct research in France.
• Applications are open until April 25, 2025.
• Eligible fields include agriculture, arts, biology, chemistry, communication, law, and more.
• Benefits cover monthly allowances, social security, fees, and transport costs.