The Sophie Germain Scholarship 2025-26 is a prestigious award supporting exceptional international students pursuing advanced studies in mathematics. The Sophie Germain program awards scholarships to around 50 outstanding students worldwide, allowing them to join the “Mathematics and Applications” Master’s program in either the first or second year. Offered by the Fondation Sciences Mathématiques de Paris (FSMP), Sophie Germain Scholarship aims to foster academic excellence and innovation. The FMJH PhD Track scholarship supports high-potential international students by funding their graduate studies from M2 to PhD. This funding, similar to a 4-year PhD program in the USA, includes a probationary first year, equivalent to M2 in the French L-M-D system. The jury selects winners based on criteria set by the FMJH Scientific Council, prioritizing excellence.
Since 2019, the Paris-Saclay Campus has been home to two institutions: the Université Paris-Saclay and the Institut Polytechnique de Paris. Together with national research organizations, they offer a remarkable scientific environment on this vast perimeter. To apply for a PhD Track scholarship, submit your Sophie Germain master’s scholarship application during Wave 1 and check the “PhD Track” box on the form. In mathematics, in particular, the level of research on the Paris-Saclay campus is world-class. Sophie Germain Scholarship
Each academic year, there are two application periods for the following year’s scholarships:
- First Call (October to January):
This call targets students outside the Paris-Saclay area, encouraging incoming mobility. International students from outside Europe must apply for a visa. For details, visit Campus France. - Second Call (February to June):
This call is for students already studying within the Paris-Saclay area (“interns”).
University/Institutions
- Name: Fondation Sciences Mathématiques de Paris (FSMP)
- Place: Paris, France
- Ranking: Associated institutions, like Sorbonne University, rank among the top global universities.
- Programs: Master’s (M1/M2) in Mathematics or Fundamental Computer Science, Doctoral Fellowship
- Duration: 1
- Masters: 1 or 2 Years
- PhD: 3 Years
Study Areas:
Master 1 (M1)
- Analysis Modeling Simulation
- Applied Algebra
- Applied Mathematics (ENSTA-Orsay)
- Applied Mathematics (Evry)
- Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence
- Mathematics and Interaction
- Mathematics and Statistical Learning
- Program J. Hadamard Mathematics (Orsay)
- Program J. Hadamard Mathematics (ENS Paris-Saclay)
- Program J. Hadamard Mathematics (Ecole Polytechnique)
- Pure Mathematics
Master 2 (M2)
- Analysis Modeling Simulation
- Analysis Number Theory and Geometry
- Applied Algebra
- Data Science: Health, Insurance, Finance
- Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence
- Mathematics and Statistical Learning
- Mathematics for the Life Sciences
- Mathematics of Randomness
- Mathematics – Vision – Learning
- Program J. Hadamard Mathematics
- Optimization
- Quantitative Finance
Sophie Germain Scholarship Benefits:
- The Sophie Germain Scholarship provides €11,000 net per year
- A flat-rate allowance to help cover university registration fees.
- Up to €2,000 for first-time international students, based on their country of origin, to cover visa fees and one round-trip travel in the first year.
- Accommodation in a private studio at nearby residence halls (Orsay and Evry locations).
- A housing kit worth €100, containing essentials like bedding, cookware, and tableware.
- Scholarship recipients also attend the annual Master’s Days on the Paris-Saclay campus, connecting with peers and exploring mathematical research opportunities.
- MORE
The FMJH supports the “Mathematics and Applications” master’s program by funding specialized courses, usually taught by researchers from organizations like INRAE, CNRS, or Inria, through its thematic programs.
For PhD
- The program offers three-year doctoral fellowships.
- It funds one- to two-month international research stays for doctoral students through the Visibility Scientific Junior Program.
- It also supports doctoral students’ participation in events like summer schools and conferences with mini-courses through the Vivaldi Program.
- It provides funding for extending thesis months. Requests must be made by the doctoral student during the 3rd-year interview or by the end of May in the final year of the doctoral contract.
- For PhD: visit
Benefits Not Included:
- Health insurance (mandatory for all international students)
- Additional living costs outside the stipend
Eligibilities of Sophie Germain Scholarship:
- Must hold a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or computer science (or equivalent).
- Demonstrate academic excellence and motivation.
- Non-European Union students are encouraged to apply.
- Proficiency in English or French (depending on the program).
- The scholarship cannot be combined with any other excellence scholarship.
PhD
- Only international students wishing to enroll in an M2 Master’s program in Mathematics and Applications are eligible for the PhD Track scholarship.
- The funding lasts for 4 years, broken down as follows:
- For the M2 year, the terms and conditions are the same as the Sophie Germain scholarship.
- For the 3 PhD years, the funding is equivalent to a PhD grant under French legislation.
- Funded students must meet the academic requirements of their Master’s program and work on a thesis project with an EDMH supervisor during the M2 year. After completing the Master’s degree, the EDMH board will approve the thesis topic, allowing the student to receive additional funding for their doctoral studies.
Required Documents:
- Personal Information
- Master’s Program Name
- Bachelor’s and Master’s Transcripts
- Academic CV
- Referee Names and Emails 2
- Study Plan (2-page maximum)
Application Process:
- Visit the FSMP official website and access the application portal.
- Complete the online application form.
- Specify the Master’s program you are applying for.
- Submit transcripts from all institutions attended during your Bachelor’s degree and the first year of your Master’s degree (or equivalent).
- Attach an academic CV.
- Include the names and email addresses of two referees.
- Upload required documents in PDF format.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
- Await results, typically announced in April 2025.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Craft a compelling motivation letter showcasing your passion for mathematics.
- Highlight research projects or relevant achievements in your CV.
- Secure strong recommendation letters from professors or mentors.
- Double-check all documents for accuracy and completeness.
- Apply early to address potential technical issues.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Paris
| Expense | Estimated Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €400–€800 (depending on location and housing type) |
| Food | €250–€350 (groceries and occasional dining out) |
| Transportation | €50–€100 (monthly metro or bus pass) |
| Health Insurance | €20–€50 (student insurance plans) |
| Miscellaneous | €100–€150 (entertainment, personal items, etc.) |
| Total | €820–€1,450 per month |
Tips to Reduce Costs:
- Opt for student dormitories or shared apartments.
- Use public transport passes for discounts.
- Take advantage of student discounts at cafes, cinemas, and cultural sites
Why Choose This Opportunity?
This scholarship is an unparalleled opportunity to study mathematics in Paris, a hub of academic excellence. The program connects you with leading researchers, state-of-the-art facilities, and a vibrant academic community, paving the way for a successful global career in mathematics or computer science.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I apply if I am in my final year of a bachelor’s program?
Yes, but you must complete your degree before the program starts. - Is French language proficiency mandatory?
Not necessarily. Many programs accept English as the medium of instruction. - Can I reapply if my application was rejected in a previous year?
Yes, you are welcome to reapply if you meet the eligibility criteria. - Does the scholarship cover family expenses?
No, the scholarship only supports the individual student. - Are there opportunities for part-time work during the program?
Yes, international students in France can work up to 20 hours per week.
Official Link for Details and Application:
Visit the official website: FSMP Sophie Germain Scholarship