If you are a final-year undergraduate student or a university graduate hoping to continue your education in France… The ENS International Selection 2027 could be an opportunity worth considering.
The École normale supérieure (ENS-PSL), one of France’s leading higher education and research institutions, invites outstanding international students to apply for its 2027 International Selection competition. Successful candidates receive a monthly grant of €1,000 for three years, along with access to furnished accommodation on an ENS campus.
Importantly, this opportunity is not limited to students who have already completed their Bachelor’s degrees. It also welcomes eligible undergraduate students who have completed the required period of university study.
The programme offers two possible entry routes, depending on the applicant’s academic background:
- Final-year undergraduate students: Eligible applicants may be considered for admission into the third year of a Bachelor’s degree programme, known in France as Licence 3 (L3).
- University graduates: Applicants who already hold a Bachelor’s degree may be considered for admission into the first year of a Master’s programme (Master 1).
The exact entry level depends on the candidate’s academic record, discipline and the assessment made during the selection process.
Students from African countries are welcome to apply, provided they meet the academic, age, language and other eligibility requirements.
ENS International Selection 2027: Scholarship Overview
| Scholarship Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Host institution | École normale supérieure – PSL (ENS-PSL) |
| Host country | France |
| Programme | International Selection 2027 |
| Eligible applicants | International undergraduate students and university graduates |
| Undergraduate entry route | Third year of Bachelor’s degree (Licence 3), where applicable |
| Graduate entry route | First year of Master’s degree (Master 1), where applicable |
| Monthly grant | €1,000 |
| Grant duration | 36 months |
| Accommodation | Furnished campus accommodation may be requested; rent is payable |
| Academic fields | Sciences, Arts and Humanities |
| Application opening date | 16 October 2026 |
| Application deadline | 15 December 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Paris time |
| Application method | Online |
| Official application platform | OnePSL30 |
What Does the ENS International Selection Scholarship Cover?
Successful candidates receive financial and academic support while studying at ENS-PSL.
1. Monthly grant of €1,000
Selected students receive a grant of €1,000 per month for 36 months. Over the full three-year period, this amounts to €36,000, provided the student remains eligible to receive the grant throughout the programme.
This financial support helps students meet some of their living expenses while concentrating on their studies and research.
2. Furnished campus accommodation
Students can request a furnished room on one of the ENS-PSL campuses. However, applicants should understand that accommodation is not free. Rent is payable, and the amount should be confirmed with the institution.
Accommodation arrangements may also change during the three years of study, depending on availability and campus allocation.
3. Access to advanced academic training
Students join a highly academic environment where they can study alongside talented students and work with experienced researchers.
The programme encourages intellectual curiosity, independent thinking, interdisciplinary learning and research.
4. Opportunity to obtain a Master’s degree and ENS diploma
The programme normally runs for three years. Students follow a Master’s programme and complete additional academic requirements for the ENS graduate degree, known as the DENS.
The exact academic route depends on the student’s background and the department in which they are admitted.
5. French language support
ENS-PSL provides French lessons for international students. Intensive French classes are also organised at the beginning of the academic year.
This is particularly useful for international students who need to improve their French before or during their studies.
Important financial note: The €1,000 monthly grant and access to furnished accommodation are significant benefits, but applicants should not assume that every expense is covered. Rent is payable, and students should budget for other costs, including travel, visa-related expenses, insurance and personal living expenses.
Who Can Apply for the ENS International Selection 2027?
The ENS International Selection is designed for academically outstanding international students who have already started university education.
It is particularly relevant to two groups:
- Final-year undergraduate students who have completed the required university study and want to progress to further studies in France.
- University graduates who want to pursue Master’s-level studies in their academic fields.
The competition is divided into two broad areas: Sciences and Arts & Humanities. Each has its own eligibility requirements.
A. Eligibility for the Sciences Selection
Students applying under the Sciences selection must meet the following conditions:
- Be under 26 years old on the opening date of applications.
- Have completed at least one year of undergraduate studies at a university outside France when applying.
- Have completed at least two years of undergraduate studies by the time they enrol at ENS.
- Not have been registered in a French high school or higher education institution for more than six months in total during the competition academic year and the preceding academic year.
- Not have applied to the ENS International Selection before.
The institution may exceptionally authorise applications from candidates whose academic backgrounds do not follow the usual pattern.
What does this mean for undergraduate students?
You do not necessarily need to have graduated before applying under the Sciences selection. Students who have completed at least one year of university study may apply, provided they will have completed at least two years by the time they enrol.
This makes the opportunity relevant to eligible undergraduate students as well as graduates.
B. Eligibility for the Arts & Humanities Selection
Applicants under Arts & Humanities must meet the following conditions:
- Be no older than 25 years on the application opening date. Candidates must not have turned 26.
- Provide evidence of at least three years of university study towards a degree awarded by a university outside France.
- Not have resided in France for more than ten months during the competition academic year or the preceding academic year.
- Not have applied to the ENS International Selection previously.
The institution specifically states that students currently in their third year of university studies may apply.
What does this mean for undergraduate students?
A student currently completing the third year of a Bachelor’s programme may be eligible, provided the other conditions are satisfied. Applicants who have already graduated may also be considered if they meet the age, academic and other requirements.
Important: This Is Not a Scholarship for Secondary School Graduates
The ENS International Selection is not an undergraduate scholarship for students who have just completed secondary school.
Applicants must already have completed a required period of university-level study. A secondary school certificate alone is not sufficient.
If you have completed secondary school but have not yet started university, this particular opportunity is not suitable for you.
Which Academic Fields Are Available?
The ENS International Selection offers opportunities in two broad academic areas. Applicants must select a discipline relevant to their previous studies and academic interests.
1. Sciences
The available disciplines include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Earth Sciences
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Cognitive Sciences
Applicants must choose one discipline for the competition.
2. Arts & Humanities
The available disciplines include:
- Anthropology
- Archaeology
- Classical Studies (Greek and Latin)
- Cinema
- Theatre Studies
- History of Art
- Musicology
- Cognitive Sciences
- Economics
- Political Studies
- Geography
- History
- History and Philosophy of Law
- History and Philosophy of Sciences
- Linguistics
- Literature
- Philosophy
- Sociology
Applicants should choose a discipline that matches their academic background and proposed area of study.
Language Requirements: Do You Need IELTS, TOEFL or French?
Language requirements differ between the Sciences and Arts & Humanities selections.
Sciences
For the Sciences selection, ENS does not specify an official language certificate requirement.
Depending on the department, courses may be taught in French or English. During the oral examinations, candidates may choose to answer in either French or English.
However, applicants should check the language of instruction in their chosen department before applying.
Arts & Humanities
The Arts & Humanities selection requires a good working knowledge of French.
The institution indicates that applicants should be able to read and write French well enough to understand courses and examinations. A B1 level is indicated, but an official language certificate is not required.
The written and oral examinations are conducted in French.
There are some specific provisions for Economics, Linguistics and Cognitive Sciences. Applicants in these disciplines may submit certain application documents in English as well as French, according to the programme’s instructions.
ENS also offers French lessons to international students.
Practical advice: Do not assume that an IELTS or TOEFL certificate is required simply because you are applying to a French institution. Check the language requirements for your chosen selection and department. For Arts & Humanities, however, you should take the French requirement seriously.
Required Documents for the ENS International Selection 2027
The documents differ slightly between Sciences and Arts & Humanities. Prepare your application according to the requirements for your chosen selection.
Documents for Sciences Applicants
Applicants under the Sciences selection should prepare:
- High school diploma: A copy of your secondary school completion certificate.
- University transcript: Your academic record showing the university courses and results you have completed.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A clear summary of your academic background, experience, skills and relevant achievements.
- Argued cover letter: A letter of between one and three pages explaining why you want to join ENS-PSL, your chosen discipline and your proposed study plans.
- Two to four recommendation letters: These should come from appropriate academic referees.
The cover letter must follow the institution’s formatting instructions: Times New Roman, font size 12 and 1.5 line spacing. It may be written in French or English.
Documents for Arts & Humanities Applicants
Applicants under Arts & Humanities should prepare:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A summary of your academic background and relevant experience.
- Motivation letter: Between one and three pages, following the prescribed formatting requirements.
- Research project: A maximum of three pages or 10,000 characters, including spaces.
- University transcript: Your university academic records.
- High school diploma: Evidence of your secondary school qualification.
- Two to four recommendation letters: Academic references submitted through the application platform.
The research project is especially important. It should not simply repeat your motivation letter.
It must present a clearly defined research topic, explain the central question or problem, outline your arguments or hypotheses, describe the sources or materials you intend to use, and refer to relevant academic literature.
The project must also include a bibliography of ten books, articles or literary works that have been important to your intellectual development.
The research project is generally written in French. Candidates applying in Economics, Linguistics or Cognitive Sciences may submit it in French or English, according to the programme rules.
How Are Recommendation Letters Submitted?
Do not simply ask your referees to email their letters to ENS.
The institution instructs applicants to request recommendation letters through the OnePSL30 application platform. You will enter the email addresses of your referees in the designated fields.
Contact your lecturers or academic supervisors early. Give them enough time to prepare thoughtful recommendations before the deadline.
Important: ENS specifically warns applicants and their referees not to use iCloud email addresses. Avoid using an @icloud.com address for your application or for your referees.
ENS International Selection 2027: Application Deadline and Important Dates
The application period for both the Sciences and Arts & Humanities selections runs from 16 October 2026 to 15 December 2026.
The final deadline is:
15 December 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Paris time.
Applications must be submitted through the official OnePSL30 platform. ENS states that incomplete applications will not be considered and applications sent by email will not be processed.
Important Dates for Arts & Humanities
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | 16 October 2026 |
| Application deadline | 15 December 2026, 2:00 p.m. Paris time |
| Shortlist results | From 21 January 2027 |
| Selection tests | 15–26 February 2027 |
| Final admission results | From 9 March 2027 |
Important Dates for Sciences
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | 16 October 2026 |
| Application deadline | 15 December 2026, 2:00 p.m. Paris time |
| Shortlist results | From 27 January 2027 |
| Selection tests | 3–19 March 2027 |
| Final admission results | From 26 March 2027 |
All candidates should plan ahead. In particular, do not wait until the final days to contact referees or prepare your application documents.
How to Apply for the ENS International Selection 2027
Applications are submitted online through the OnePSL30 platform.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose Your Academic Area
First, decide whether you are applying under Sciences or Arts & Humanities.
Review the list of available disciplines and select the one that best matches your university studies and academic interests.
Step 2: Check Your Eligibility
Before starting the application, confirm that you meet the age and university-study requirements for your chosen selection.
Remember that the requirements are not identical for Sciences and Arts & Humanities.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Prepare your CV, university transcript, high school diploma, cover or motivation letter and other documents required for your selection.
If you are applying under Arts & Humanities, give particular attention to your research project.
Step 4: Contact Your Referees
Identify two to four suitable academic referees.
Contact them early, explain the scholarship and ask whether they can provide a recommendation. You will request their letters through the OnePSL30 platform.
Step 5: Complete the Online Application
Create your application through the official platform and provide the requested information.
Follow the instructions carefully when uploading your documents.
Step 6: Submit Before the Deadline
Make sure your application is complete and submitted before 15 December 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Paris time.
Do not rely on the last day. Technical problems, missing documents or delays from referees could affect your application.
Official application platform:
https://concoursens.candidature.onepsl30.fr/
What Happens After You Apply?
The selection process has two main stages.
Stage 1: Application Review
ENS reviews the submitted applications and identifies candidates who qualify for the next stage.
Shortlisted applicants are informed by email. The published schedule indicates that Arts & Humanities shortlist results begin from 21 January 2027, while Sciences shortlist results begin from 27 January 2027.
Stage 2: Written and Oral Examinations
Shortlisted candidates are invited to take selection tests remotely.
The examination format depends on the academic area.
For Sciences applicants:
The selection includes a scientific oral examination in the discipline chosen by the applicant and an oral interview covering scientific culture and motivation. The scientific examination carries greater weight. Depending on the department, it may include a preparatory written component.
Candidates may choose to answer the oral examination questions in French or English.
For Arts & Humanities applicants:
The selection includes a written examination in French, an oral examination before a panel of professors, and an interview about the candidate’s academic background and research project.
The oral examination and interview are conducted in French.
The institution may provide additional details about the examinations and their arrangements to shortlisted candidates.
How Competitive Is the ENS International Selection?
The ENS International Selection is highly competitive.
According to the institution’s FAQ, the selection rate varies from year to year, generally between 5% and 10%.
This means that meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.
Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance, intellectual curiosity and a clear understanding of their chosen discipline.
For Arts & Humanities candidates, the research project should be carefully developed and supported by relevant academic literature.
For Sciences candidates, preparation should include a thorough understanding of their chosen subject and the ability to discuss scientific ideas clearly.
How to Prepare a Strong Application
Because the selection is competitive, your application should demonstrate more than basic eligibility.
Here are some practical ways to improve your preparation.
1. Choose a Discipline That Matches Your Academic Background
Avoid selecting a discipline simply because it sounds attractive.
Your university transcripts, academic interests and proposed study plans should support your choice.
2. Prepare a Clear and Convincing Motivation Letter
Your motivation letter should explain why you want to study at ENS, why you have chosen your particular discipline and what you hope to achieve academically.
Avoid generic statements that could be sent to any university.
3. Take the Research Project Seriously
For Arts & Humanities applicants, the research project is an important part of the application.
Choose a focused research question rather than a topic that is too broad. Explain the problem you want to investigate, the arguments you intend to develop and the sources you will use.
4. Request Recommendation Letters Early
Choose referees who know your academic work well. A strong recommendation should provide meaningful evidence of your ability, intellectual curiosity and readiness for advanced study.
5. Study Previous Examination Questions
ENS makes previous examination papers and jury reports available through its programme information.
These resources can help you understand the expectations of the selection panels and prepare for the examinations.
6. Prepare for an Academic Interview
Shortlisted applicants should be ready to discuss their academic background, research interests, chosen discipline and reasons for applying.
Do not prepare only memorised answers. Be ready to explain your ideas and respond to follow-up questions.
Helpful Videos and Resources for Applicants
Preparing a competitive application takes more than completing an online form. The following resources can help you understand the different parts of the process.
1. Understanding École Normale Supérieure (ENS ULM) – PSL
Explore information and discussions about the school
Understanding École Normale Supérieure (ENS ULM) – PSL
2. Writing a Strong Academic Motivation Letter
Learn how to explain your academic interests, reasons for applying and future study plans:
How to Write a Winning Motivation Letter for Scholarships
3. Student First hand experiences
Learning from student first hand experiences can increase potential applicant motivation
Watch student experince interviews
These are YouTube search links rather than endorsements of a particular video. Choose resources that match the requirements of your academic discipline.
Official ENS Scholarship Links
Use the following official resources for programme details and your application.
- Online Application Platform: https://concoursens.candidature.onepsl30.fr/
Read the official programme information carefully before submitting your application.
Frequently Asked Questions About the ENS International Selection 2027
1. Can final-year undergraduate students apply for the ENS International Selection?
Yes. Undergraduate students can apply if they meet the university-study requirements for their chosen selection.
For example, Sciences applicants must have completed at least one year of undergraduate study when applying and at least two years by enrolment. Arts & Humanities applicants must provide evidence of at least three years of university study. The institution specifically states that students currently in their third year may apply under Arts & Humanities.
2. Can graduates with a Bachelor’s degree apply?
Yes. University graduates may apply if they satisfy the relevant eligibility requirements, including the age and academic-study conditions.
Depending on their academic background and the department’s assessment, successful applicants may enter the first year of a Master’s programme.
3. Is the ENS International Selection open to students who have just completed secondary school?
No. Applicants must already have completed the required period of university-level study. A secondary school certificate alone does not qualify an applicant.
4. Can students from African countries apply?
Yes. The programme is an international competition open to eligible candidates from different countries. Applicants from African countries can apply if they meet the academic, age and other programme requirements.
5. How much is the monthly grant?
Successful candidates receive €1,000 per month for 36 months, subject to the programme’s conditions.
6. Is accommodation free?
No. Students may request a furnished room on an ENS campus, but rent is payable. Applicants should confirm the current accommodation charges and budget accordingly.
7. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
The ENS Sciences selection does not specify an official language certificate requirement. For Arts & Humanities, applicants are expected to have sufficient French proficiency, with B1 indicated, but an official French language certificate is not required.
8. Can I apply if I am already studying for a Master’s degree?
Your eligibility will depend on your academic background and the programme’s conditions. ENS describes entry at Licence 3 or Master 1 level, depending on the candidate’s background. Review the official requirements and confirm that your previous studies fit the intended entry route.
9. How many recommendation letters are required?
Applicants must provide between two and four recommendation letters. These are requested through the OnePSL30 application platform by entering the referees’ email addresses.
10. What is the application deadline?
The deadline for both the Sciences and Arts & Humanities selections is 15 December 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Paris time.
11. How competitive is the selection?
The ENS FAQ indicates that the selection rate varies from year to year, generally between 5% and 10%. Applicants should therefore prepare carefully and submit a strong, complete application.
Final Advice for African Applicants
The ENS International Selection 2027 is worth considering if you are a strong undergraduate student or a university graduate with a clear academic direction.
One important point is that you do not have to wait until you have completed your Bachelor’s degree to explore this opportunity. Eligible students who are still completing their undergraduate studies may apply, provided they satisfy the specific academic requirements.
However, the selection is competitive. Take time to understand the difference between the Sciences and Arts & Humanities routes, prepare the correct documents and contact your academic referees early.
If you are interested in studying in France, begin preparing now rather than waiting until the final days of the application period.
Remember: Applications close on 15 December 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Paris time.
Apply through the official platform:
https://concoursens.candidature.onepsl30.fr/