University of Paris-Saclay Scholarship

The University of Paris‑Saclay Scholarship is designed to attract ambitious students worldwide to one of Europe’s leading research universities. Combining excellence in education with generous funding, this scholarship program offers recipients the opportunity to pursue postgraduate or doctoral studies in France. In this article, we explore the scholarship in depth—its structure, benefits, eligibility criteria, application steps, and more—helping you assess whether it aligns with your academic aspirations.

About University of Paris‑Saclay Scholarship

The University of Paris‑Saclay Scholarship is a merit-based award offered by the University of Paris‑Saclay, one of France’s top public research universities. It supports postgraduate (Master’s and PhD) candidates from all over the world.

What makes this scholarship notable is its focus on nurturing future researchers and professionals in fields ranging from engineering and natural sciences to social sciences and humanities. Paris‑Saclay encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration, pairing academic excellence with a vibrant ecosystem of laboratories, startups, and international partnerships. Scholarship recipients often become involved in cutting-edge projects—addressing global challenges like climate change, AI, healthcare, or advanced materials.

Advantages of University of Paris‑Saclay Scholarship

The scholarship provides several key benefits that make it especially attractive:

1. Comprehensive Funding Package
   • Monthly maintenance stipend (typically €1,700 to €2,000 for PhD candidates)
   • Possible tuition coverage or waiver for some Master’s programs
   • Additional support for travel, conferences, and research materials

   Apply also: Télécom Paris Scholarship

2. Research and Innovation Environment
   • Access to world-class research facilities: CNRS labs, engineering centers
   • Collaboration opportunities with institutions like CEA, INRIA, ONERA
   • Free or subsidized access to libraries, co‑working spaces, and tech incubators

   Apply also: Université Clermont Auvergne Scholarship

3. International Community and Career Development
   • Supervision by leading international researchers
   • Support for internship opportunities in industry or academia
   • Networking events, workshops, and language exchange programs

   Apply also: Université PSL Scholarship

4. Residence and Integration Support
   • Assistance with housing applications in university residences
   • Guidance on visa processes and healthcare access
   • Cultural orientation and language bridging for non-French speakers

   Apply also: École Polytechnique Scholarship

Requirements for University of Paris‑Saclay Scholarship

Before applying, candidates must meet several baseline requirements:

• Academic Excellence
  Outstanding academic record, usually with distinctions (e.g., ranking in the top 10–20% of your class).
• Relevant Educational Background
  A Master’s degree (for PhD applicants) or a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s applicants) in a relevant field from a recognized institution.
• Language Proficiency
  • French programs: DELF B2 minimum
  • English programs: TOEFL 90+ or IELTS 6.5+
    Some programs may require higher levels or both languages depending on the curriculum.

  Apply also: Grenoble Alpes University Scholarship

• Research Proposal (PhD candidates)
  A well-crafted research plan aligned with a university faculty member’s area of work.
• Letters of Recommendation
  At least two strong academic or professional references attesting to your potential and track record.

Admission Requirements and Required Documents

To apply, you’ll generally need:

1. Completed Online Application Form
   Accessible via the University of Paris‑Saclay portal.
2. Academic Transcripts and Diplomas
   • Undergraduate and, if applicable, graduate transcripts
   • Scanned copies of diplomas or degree certificates
3. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   Academic-oriented, with a focus on research, internships, publications, honors, and relevant activities.
4. Statement of Purpose or Research Proposal
   Clear articulation of your motivations, objectives, and why you chose Paris‑Saclay.
5. Language Certificates
   Official proof of proficiency in French and/or English (copies of exam results).
6. Letters of Recommendation
   Two or three letters submitted directly through the application portal.
7. Supervisor Endorsement (PhD only)
   A confirmation or supporting email from a faculty member willing to supervise your doctoral project.
8. Optional/Miscellaneous Documents
   • Publications or technical work
   • Standardized test scores (GRE/GMAT) if applicable
   • Passport copy for foreign students

Admission Criteria and Required Grades

Evaluation of your candidacy will be based on:

1. Academic Excellence
   • Master’s degree: Minimum average 14/20 (or equivalent GPA ~3.3/4.0)
   • Bachelor’s degree: High distinction or equivalent top-tier results
2. Research Quality
   • Strength of your proposed research (PhD)
   • Publications or academic outputs
3. Motivation and Fit
   • Convincing Statement of Purpose
   • Alignment with university research strengths and supervisory interest
4. Reference Strength
   • Recommendations that emphasize scholarly potential, critical thinking, and independence
5. Language Skills
   • DELF B2 or better for French
   • TOEFL 90+, IELTS 6.5+ for English-taught programs

A competitive profile typically includes strong grades, relevant research exposure, and clear alignment with Paris‑Saclay’s academic ecosystem.

How to Apply for University of Paris‑Saclay Scholarship

Follow these steps to maximize your application’s success:

1. Identify Your Program

Browse available Master’s and PhD programs at Paris‑Saclay—narrow your options to 2–3 programs that match your background and interests.

2. Connect with Potential Supervisors (PhD Applicants)

Email 2–3 faculty members whose research aligns with your topic. Include a brief introduction, your CV, and a research summary. Secure their interest before applying.

3. Prepare Your Documents

Gather and translate official documents. Ensure your CV is tailored and your statement reflects faculty specialization.

4. Check Language Requirements

Register for language exams if needed. If results aren’t ready by application deadline, note expected dates and communicate with the admissions office.

5. Submit Online Application

Create an account on the Paris‑Saclay admissions portal. Complete all required sections, upload documents early, and pay any administrative fees if applicable.

6. Track and Respond

After submission, monitor your email and portal dashboard. If requested, complete interviews (video or on-campus) or provide further documentation.

7. Receive Award Notification

Awards are typically decided between February and June for programs starting in September/October. Successful candidates receive notification along with award details and next steps—housing, visa, enrollment.

Conclusion

The University of Paris‑Saclay Scholarship offers a compelling pathway for high-achieving international students seeking quality education, research opportunities, and financial support in France. Its main strengths include a generous stipend, access to top-tier faculty and research infrastructure, international networks, and structured support services. While competition is strong, a carefully prepared application—emphasizing academic excellence, a clear research plan, and strong language ability—can make you a standout candidate. If you dream of contributing to global innovation and gaining a transformative academic experience in Europe, this scholarship might be the perfect opportunity.