Deadline: November 30, 2025
The Villa Albertine Lafayette Fellowship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for outstanding American graduates to pursue a fully funded year of master’s-level study in France. Designed to strengthen cultural, academic, and leadership ties between France and the United States, the fellowship provides financial support, mentorship, and access to elite French institutions for up to 30 U.S. citizens each year.
About the Villa Albertine Lafayette Fellowship 2026
The Lafayette Fellowship 2026, administered by the Albertine Foundation (formerly FACE Foundation) and Villa Albertine, is a prestigious initiative that enables young American graduates to complete a one-year master’s programme in France. It aims to develop future leaders who will contribute to Franco-American collaboration in areas such as the arts, sciences, innovation, governance, and social impact.
Through a blend of academic study, cultural immersion, and leadership training, fellows join a network of international changemakers shaping the future of transatlantic relations.
What the Fellowship Offers
Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive package of benefits that covers nearly every aspect of their study and stay in France:
- Monthly Stipend: €1,500 per month from mid-July 2026 to June 2027.
- Tuition Coverage: Full payment of tuition fees at partner French institutions (for eligible programmes).
- Application Fee Waivers: Waivers for French master’s programme applications and French visa fees.
- Round-Trip Airfare: A funded return flight between the U.S. and France.
- Leadership Programme: Participation in a tailored French-American Leadership Programme, including lectures, site visits, and mentorship opportunities.
- Academic and Cultural Support: Ongoing engagement with Villa Albertine and French higher education communities throughout the fellowship year.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered for the Villa Albertine Lafayette Fellowship 2026:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Age: 27 years or younger as of 1 July 2026.
- Education: Hold a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. institution, completed between August 2023 and June 2026.
- Academic Achievement: Minimum GPA of 3.7 (on a 4.0 scale, without rounding).
- Language: Open to both Francophone and non-Francophone applicants. Courses may be undertaken in English or French, depending on the chosen programme.
- Dual Application Requirement: Candidates must apply both to the Lafayette Fellowship and to one of the partner French master’s programmes.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 30 November 2025 (by 11:59 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time)
- Fellowship Start Date: Mid-July 2026
- Programme Duration: July 2026 – June 2027
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed based on academic excellence, leadership potential, motivation for cross-cultural engagement, and commitment to public service or global impact. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews before final selection.
The final list of Lafayette Fellows will be announced in early 2026, after which participants will receive pre-departure orientation and placement assistance for their respective French institutions.
Partner Institutions
Fellows will be placed in top French universities and Grandes Écoles, offering programmes across diverse fields such as international relations, sustainability, public policy, the arts, science, and innovation. Partner institutions typically include leading schools in Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, and other academic hubs.
Why You Should Apply
The Villa Albertine Lafayette Fellowship 2026 is more than a scholarship—it’s a leadership journey. Fellows gain international experience, cultural fluency, and access to a powerful network of professionals and academics.
Whether you aspire to contribute to diplomacy, creative industries, innovation, or public service, this fellowship provides a unique platform to launch your career on a global stage.
Important Notes
- The fellowship is fully funded and designed exclusively for U.S. citizens.
- Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process early to ensure timely submission of all required materials.
- Both English- and French-taught master’s programmes are eligible.
How to Apply
- 👉 Click here to apply for the Villa Albertine Lafayette Fellowship 2026
- 📖 Read more about the Lafayette Fellowship 2026 programme
Need Help with Your Application?
If you need expert guidance to refine your fellowship proposal or review your application materials, contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
