Besnard de Quelen Foundation - Besnard de Quelen Travel Scholarship

Besnard de Quelen Travel Scholarship

You will receive a one-off grant of 2,500 EUR to fund a study trip or a period abroad in connection with your studies in architecture, urban planning, engineering or environmental sciences. The aim is to enable you to travel to another country, learn about different building techniques and cultures, and incorporate these experiences into your work. Six grants are awarded per round by the Fondation du Cnam, a university foundation at the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers in Paris. The funds come from a private foundation established in memory of the architect Charles-Henri Besnard.

Who can apply

• What you study: You are currently studying or have recently graduated in the fields of architecture, urban planning, engineering or environmental sciences, or you are a student at the CNAM.
• Your project: You have a specific plan for a trip or a study visit abroad that is linked to your degree course and to innovations in the construction industry.
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply.
• Age and degree: There is no age limit and no specific qualification is required, provided you are currently a student.
• Exclusions: Members of the Foundation’s Board and the selection panel are ineligible to apply.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted via the online form on the Foundation’s website. You must attach a signed application form and a project description in any format of up to 8 pages. For the 2026 round, the application deadline is 9. March 2026. The selection process takes place in two stages. First, a panel of judges reviews the written documents; subsequently, shortlisted candidates are interviewed to assess the extent to which the project aligns with their course of study and the theme of innovation.

How realistic are your chances?

The selection criteria for the award are very narrow. You need to have a specific field of specialism (architecture, urban planning, engineering or the environment) and a well-thought-out travel project, which means the pool of applicants is smaller than for open scholarships. With six scholarships available per round, your chances are good if your project clearly fits the theme of ‘innovation in construction’. A convincing, concrete plan for what you intend to do abroad is more important than impressive academic qualifications.