The ENS International Selection Scholarships offer talented international students a chance to study at École Normale Supérieure (ENS) in France. The Ecole Normale Supérieure (ENS) scholarship is one of the top scholarships in Europe for international students. ENS International Selection Scholarships is a highly competitive program that covers a three-year duration, providing financial and academic support across various disciplines. The funded ENS International Selection Scholarship will select 10 international students for Sciences and 10 international students for Arts& Humanities. The ENS International Selection Scholarships 2025 is open to students from all over the world.
Joining ENS through the competitive examination of the International selection gives access to training of excellence, through contact with exceptional researchers, in a privileged training and research environment. Integrated into the community of the normaliens, international students continue their studies at ENS and at the university at the same time, while benefiting from a 1000 euro grant for 3 years and from a room on one of the ENS campuses. At the end of their studies, these students have graduated with a master’s degree in their specialty and with the diploma of École normale supérieure. Application deadline: 12 December 2024 (specific date varies; check official page).
University/Institution Details
- Institution: École Normale Supérieure (ENS)
- Location: Paris, France
- Ranking: ENS is among the top French institutions, highly ranked worldwide for research and humanities.
- Programs: The scholarship covers studies in Sciences, Humanities, and Social Sciences at the master’s level.
- Duration: 3 years
Study Areas
The ENS International Selection Scholarships support studies in a range of fields across Sciences, Humanities, and Social Sciences:
- Sciences: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Earth Sciences, Computer Science, Cognitive Science
- Humanities: Philosophy, History, Art History, Literature, Languages, and Classics
- Social Sciences: Sociology, Economics, Anthropology, Geography, Political Science
Each area emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and research, reflecting ENS’s focus on academic excellence and innovative study approaches.
Scholarship Benefits
- Monthly stipend of approximately €1,000
- Access to ENS facilities and resources
- Tuition support for the full program duration
- Scholars will also get a room on one of the ENS campuses.
- A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for international students to study in Paris for free.
Benefits Not Included
- Travel expenses
- Visa and insurance costs
- Additional personal expenses
Scholarship Eligibilities
- International students under 26 years old (Candidates must not be after their 26th birthday on December 1st.)
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) outside France in a relevant field
- Candidates must justify at least one year of undergraduate studies awarded by a foreign university during the calendar year preceding the start of applications.
- Not have previously applied for the ENS International Selection
- Candidates must not have lived in France more than 10 months during the academic year of the selection (September 1st – August 31st) nor the previous year.
- Candidates justify at least two years of undergraduate studies in a foreign university, on the 1st of September following admission.
Required Documents
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of language proficiency (French/English as required)
- Research proposal (if applicable)
Application Process
- Review Eligibility: Verify that you meet the scholarship criteria (age, degree requirements, study background).
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents,
- Online Application:
- Complete the ENS International Selection application on the ENS website.
- Upload all necessary documents by the application deadline.
- Submit Application: Ensure all materials are accurately filled out and submitted through the ENS application portal.
- Interview for Shortlisted Candidates: Selected applicants will be invited for an interview. This can be conducted in person at ENS or online. The interview typically focuses on academic background, motivation, and alignment with ENS’s research areas.
- Final Selection: Successful candidates are notified and will begin the scholarship program in the next academic year.
Tips for Successful Application
- Highlight academic achievements and research potential
- Demonstrate strong motivation and alignment with ENS research areas
- Prepare for the interview by reviewing relevant topics in your field
Estimated Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Paris
Living expenses in Paris for international students vary based on lifestyle and accommodation choices. Here is a breakdown of typical monthly expenses:
- Accommodation: €600–€1,000 (shared apartments or student residences)
- Food: €200–€300 (groceries and occasional dining out)
- Transportation: €30–€75 (with a student discount for metro passes)
- Health Insurance: €30–€50 (required for all students)
- Personal Expenses: €100–€150 (leisure, clothing, mobile phone)
Total Monthly Estimate
€1,200–€1,500 per month
Why Choose This Scholarship?
- ENS offers world-class education and research facilities, allowing students to work with leading experts in their fields. The scholarship provides financial support to cover most expenses, helping students focus on academic excellence and research.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the deadline for the ENS International Selection Scholarships?
- Deadlines vary; it’s recommended to check the ENS website for the specific application period each year.
- Can I apply if I am already studying in France?
- No, applicants must hold a degree obtained outside France and have not previously applied.
- Are all fields of study covered by this scholarship?
- The scholarship is available for studies in Sciences, Humanities, and Social Sciences as specified by ENS.
- What is the selection process like?
- The process involves an initial application review and an interview for shortlisted candidates.
- Does the scholarship cover language courses if needed?
- No, language courses are not covered by the scholarship; students are expected to have proficiency in French or English as required.