2026 International Selection Competition at ENS-PSL

2026 International Selection Competition at ENS-PSL
  • Scholarships
  • France
  • Application Deadline: Various

Website École normale supérieure (ENS)

The International Selection Competition is for students who have completed their first cycle of studies abroad. It gives talented literary and scientific students the chance to study at a top institution in France. This competition provides a scholarship, housing, and a pathway to a master’s degree.

About the Scholarship

The competition has two stages. First, applicants are selected based on their submitted files. Then, admission tests are held online. The École normale supérieure (ENS) offers 10 places for scientific students and 10 for literary students. Winners become student normalien or normalienne and receive a monthly scholarship of 1,000 euros for three years. They also get accommodation on campus and graduate with an ENS diploma and a master’s degree.

Host Country

France

Host University

École normale supérieure (ENS), part of PSL University, Paris

Scholarship Type

Fully funded scholarship including tuition, monthly stipend, and housing

Degree

Master’s degree and ENS diploma

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be under 26 years old when applications open

  • Must have completed at least one year of higher education abroad

  • Must not have been enrolled in France for more than six months in total during the competition year and the year before

  • Must not have applied for the international selection before

Fields of Study

  • Scientific disciplines: Biology, Chemistry, Geosciences, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Cognitive Sciences

  • Literary disciplines: Specific fields for arts students (details on ENS website)

Scholarship Benefits

  • Monthly scholarship of 1,000 euros for three years

  • Housing on campus

  • Individualized tutoring and advanced training

  • Access to international research opportunities and laboratory internships

  • Cultural activities, conferences, and student life events on campus

Required Documents

  • Completed application form (downloadable PDF)

  • Curriculum vitae (CV)

  • Academic transcripts from previous studies

  • Personal letter describing background and study plan (in English or French)

  • Two to four letters of recommendation

  • All documents submitted as a single PDF named “LastName-FirstName.pdf”

Application Process

  1. Complete the initial form at application link

  2. Receive account details for the ENS application platform

  3. Submit full PDF file with all required documents before December 15, 2025 (12:00 p.m., Paris time)

  4. Jury reviews files for eligibility

  5. Eligible candidates are invited for oral admission tests in their chosen discipline

Registration Deadlines

  • Letters Competition: October 1 – December 3, 2025

  • Science Competition: October 16 – December 15, 2025

  • Eligibility Results: January 15 (Letters), January 27 (Science), 2026

  • Admission Tests: February 2–13 (Letters), March 3–20 (Science), 2026

  • Admission Results: March 4 (Letters), March 26 (Science), 2026

Selection Process

  • Stage 1: File selection by jury

  • Stage 2: Oral exams

    • Oral scientific exam in chosen discipline

    • Scientific culture and motivation interview

  • Candidates can speak in French or English

  • Admission based on performance in tests and interviews

Tips to Succeed

  • Prepare a clear study plan and personal statement

  • Choose a discipline carefully

  • Gather strong letters of recommendation

  • Review scientific knowledge and practice oral exams

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Language: Exams can be in French or English

  • Documents: All must be submitted as a single PDF

  • Special programs: There is no separate program; all training is part of ENS courses

  • Calculators: Not allowed during oral exams

Why Choose This Scholarship

  • High-quality training in science or literature

  • Individualized support and tutoring

  • Strong research focus and access to laboratories

  • Prestigious institution with international recognition

Career and Future Opportunities

  • ENS-PSL alumni work in academia, government, international organizations, business, and entrepreneurship

  • Graduates have excellent research, professional, and networking opportunities

Student Experiences

  • Participate in conferences, cultural visits, and student activities

  • Live in a community on three campuses: Panthéon, Jourdan, and Montrouge

  • Engage with interdisciplinary training and advanced courses

Contact Information

Conclusion

The ENS International Selection Competition is a great opportunity for talented students to study at a world-class institution in France. It offers full funding, housing, and an enriching academic experience. Students gain advanced knowledge, research skills, and international exposure that will help in their future careers.

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