Apply for the Lafayette Fellowship 2026, a prestigious graduate scholarship in France for American students pursuing master’s-level studies in top French universities. Applications close on November 30, 2025.
The Lafayette Fellowship is a new, fully funded graduate opportunity in France for outstanding students from the United States who aspire to shape the future through academic excellence and global leadership.
Launched to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence and celebrate French-American friendship, the program highlights a long-standing partnership between the two nations rooted in shared values of liberty, innovation, and education.
The Fellowship is managed by the Embassy of France in Washington, D.C. and Villa Albertine, with the mission to build a new generation of leaders who can connect transatlantic innovation, culture, and diplomacy.
If you are exploring similar graduate-level international opportunities, visit our Scholarships section for more programs in Europe and beyond.
The Lafayette Fellowship 2026 will support up to 30 exceptional U.S. students for one year of master’s-level studyat one of 15 leading French institutions, including universities, Grandes Écoles, and specialized institutes.
Fellows may pursue programs in a wide range of fields, such as:
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Humanities and Social Sciences
Arts, Culture, and Design
Public Policy and International Affairs
Courses are offered in French or English, depending on the institution and chosen program, allowing participants with different language backgrounds to thrive academically and culturally.
In addition to their graduate coursework, selected fellows will join the French-American Leadership Program, designed to foster cross-cultural understanding and professional development.
Participants will receive:
Mentorship from leading academics and professionals across France and Europe.
Immersive experiences in French innovation ecosystems, cultural initiatives, and policy networks.
Exposure to European perspectives on governance, sustainability, and international collaboration.
Through this integrated model, the Lafayette Fellowship not only strengthens educational ties but also creates a lasting community of young transatlantic leaders.
The Lafayette Fellowship welcomes applicants who:
Hold U.S. citizenship at the time of application.
Have completed, or will soon complete, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. institution.
Demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong interest in French culture or international collaboration.
Candidates from diverse backgrounds and fields of study are encouraged to apply. Knowledge of French is not mandatory but may be an asset for certain programs taught in French.
Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive scholarship package that covers:
Full tuition at one of the participating French institutions.
Monthly living stipend to support expenses during the academic year.
Health insurance and administrative support in France.
Cultural and academic mentorship through the Leadership Program.
The Fellowship provides an unparalleled opportunity for U.S. students to experience France’s excellence in higher education and to contribute to global research, innovation, and diplomacy.
Interested candidates should complete the online application form and prepare the following materials:
Academic transcripts and résumé
Statement of purpose describing career goals and motivation for studying in France
Two letters of recommendation
Proof of U.S. citizenship
Deadline: November 30, 2025
More Information HERE
Applicants can also contact lafayettefellowship@villa-albertine.org for inquiries or consult the program’s FAQ page for further details.
The Lafayette Fellowship offers more than a scholarship — it’s a gateway to international leadership and cross-cultural collaboration. Fellows will join a network of innovators, scholars, and policymakers committed to tackling global challenges through research, creativity, and diplomacy.
By living and studying in France, participants gain a deep understanding of European perspectives, develop professional networks, and become ambassadors of the French-American partnership for years to come.
Applications open: July 2025
Deadline: November 30, 2025
Program start: Fall 2026 (France)
More Information HERE
For more international career opportunities, visit Opportunities For Youth.
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