A Complete Guide for PhD Researchers
The Chateaubriand Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded PhD fellowship France offers to students enrolled at accredited U.S. universities. This France doctoral research program supports 4 to 9 months of high-level academic research in France. It promotes collaboration between American and French researchers and provides strong professional, financial, and academic support.
This fellowship is not open to undergraduate or master’s students. It is exclusively for PhD candidates seeking major research opportunities in France.
Overview of the Chateaubriand Fellowship 2026
Administered by the Embassy of France in the United States, this program develops strong academic partnerships. It attracts doctoral candidates from diverse research fields and supports both STEM and HSS fellowships.
Eligible Fields of Study
1. STEM Track
Eligible fields include:
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Science
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Engineering
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Mathematics
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Computer Science
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Biology and Health
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Ecology
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Technology
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Environmental Sciences
A special 2026–2027 collaboration with Université Clermont Auvergne supports research on:
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Climate
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Biodiversity
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Health sciences
2. Humanities & Social Sciences Track
HSS applicants may apply in:
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Literature
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History
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Economics
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Law
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Anthropology
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Sociology
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Political Science
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Gender Studies
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Communication
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Philosophy
HSS partnerships emphasize democracy, socio-economic vulnerability, and gender studies.
Benefits of the Fellowship
STEM Fellowship Benefits
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Up to €1,850 monthly stipend
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Health insurance
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Round-trip airfare
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Support from CNRS, Inserm, and Inria
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Access to NSF’s GROW partnership
HSS Fellowship Benefits
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€1,704 monthly stipend
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Round-trip airfare (up to €1,410)
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Health insurance
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Academic support from Campus France
These features make it one of the most attractive fully funded PhD fellowship France programs.
Eligible Nationalities
Students of all nationalities may apply as long as they are enrolled in a U.S. university. French citizens and dual French–U.S. citizens are not eligible.
French proficiency is not required.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
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Be enrolled in a PhD program
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Have co-supervision from U.S. and French advisors
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Conduct research in a French lab or university
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Provide advisor letters from both sides
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Not hold French citizenship
Important Dates
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Applications Open: October 8, 2025
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Deadline: January 25, 2026
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Results: May 2026
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Research Start: September 1, 2026 – April 30, 2027
Required Documents
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CV and publication list
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Unofficial transcripts
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Research summaries
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3-page detailed proposal
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Agreement letter (U.S. supervisor)
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Invitation letter (French host)
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1–3 recommendation letters
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French lab contact information
Optional: Co-tutelle agreement
Application Process
Step 1: Find a French Host Lab
Identify a lab or professor aligned with your research.
Step 2: Collect Advisor Letters
Secure co-supervision approval from U.S. and French advisors.
Step 3: Prepare Research Documents
Write your proposal and research summaries.
Step 4: Complete Online Application
Choose the appropriate STEM or HSS track.
Fill out the application form for STEM or HSS
Step 5: Upload Documents
Ensure accuracy and completeness.
Step 6: Submit by the Deadline
Submit before January 25, 2026.
This structured process ensures smooth access to the French Embassy fellowship for 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
No. Any student enrolled in a U.S. university may apply, except French citizens.
Are undergraduate or master’s students eligible?
No. Only PhD students may apply.
Is French language proficiency required?
No. Research can be completed in English.
Can I split my stay into multiple visits?
No. The research stay must be continuous.
Who evaluates applications?
A committee of French and American academic experts reviews all submissions.
Do I need a French host to apply?
Yes. An invitation letter is required.
Is this fellowship fully funded?
Yes. It covers stipend, airfare, and health insurance.
