FSMP-Foundation Sciences Mathematiques de Paris - PGSM Programme

What the PGSM scholarship gives you

You will receive 1,150 EUR per month for a Master’s degree in Mathematics or Theoretical Computer Science in Paris, which lasts one or two years depending on your entry level. The Fondation Sciences Mathématiques de Paris (FSMP), a Paris-based network of mathematics research laboratories, will also cover your health insurance and enrolment fees. If you are coming from abroad, the foundation will book a room for you in a student hall of residence in Paris and will reimburse you each year for the cost of a return economy-class flight from your home country. In addition, a professor will act as your personal tutor throughout your studies, and you will receive free French lessons if you do not speak French.

Who can apply

• Level: You are currently in the first or second year of a Master’s degree programme (M1 or M2). You can apply as early as the third year of your Bachelor’s degree, even before your final certificates are available.
• Field of study: Mathematics (pure or applied) or theoretical computer science.
• Where you study: You will be studying for your Master’s degree at one of the universities in Paris that are part of the FSMP network (PSL, Sorbonne Université, Université Paris Cité, Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord or Université Paris Nanterre).
• Nationality: Applicants of all nationalities are welcome to apply. The first round is open to students who are currently based outside France; the second round is open to students who are already part of the FSMP network (or, in rare cases, to students studying at other French higher education institutions where the programme is not offered on-site).
• Grades: Selection is based on academic performance; therefore, good grades and any competition results or rankings will work in your favour.
• Other funding: It cannot be combined with any other scholarship or salary. A small internship allowance is permitted.
• Women: Women are particularly encouraged to apply.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online via the FSMP portal, including a CV, a personal statement, academic transcripts and one to three letters of recommendation, which must be uploaded by your professors. The application deadline for the second round is 20 April. A panel of 12 academics will review the applications and, where appropriate, invite selected candidates to an interview. The results of the first round will be announced at the end of March, and those of the second round at the beginning of June.

How realistic are your chances?

This funding is narrowly defined in terms of subject area and location: only students of mathematics and theoretical computer science attending specific universities in Paris are eligible to apply, meaning the pool of applicants is smaller than for open scholarships. Selection takes place on a competitive basis and is based on academic results; the decision is made by a panel of experts, meaning that strong academic performance and compelling letters of recommendation are crucial. If you clearly meet the requirements in terms of subject area and academic standard, and apply in the correct application round for your situation, your chances are good.