As Paris hosts the International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) in July 2025, the École Normale Supérieure (ENS) Foundation is expanding its Olympiad Scholarship Program to include gold and silver medalists in physics.
Building on the success of the Mathematics Olympiad Scholarship Program launched in 2019, this new initiative is designed to strengthen ENS’s international outreach and attract outstanding scientific talent right after high school. The program is supported by a strong partnership with Lycée Louis-le-Grand, which provides the academic preparation for the first stage of the scholars’ journey.
A Five-Year Path of Excellence
Selected scholars will receive personalized support and full financial assistance to follow a complete scientific track:
- 1–2 years of preparatory classes at Lycée Louis-le-Grand (mathematics, physics, and French),
- 3 years within ENS’s Physics Department, which is part of one of the School’s largest research and teaching structures.
Each scholar will benefit from:
- A living stipend (up to €1,000/month),
- Access to subsidized housing,
- French language courses,
- One round-trip flight per year to their home country.
Recruiting the World’s Top Young Physicists, Starting in 2026
The ENS Physics Department, recognized as a Laboratory of Excellence since 2011, aims to welcome the first physics Olympiad scholars in Fall 2026. Its goal: enrich the diversity of its student body and train the next generation of world-class researchers in an exceptional scientific environment.
“This initiative allows us to attract exceptional talent at a very early stage, and their presence is a tremendous asset for the ENS Physics Department and its scientific community.”
— Kris Van Houcke, Associate Professor, ENS Physics Laboratory
A Call for Support to Fund These Exceptional Journeys
To make this ambitious program a reality, the ENS Foundation is launching a fundraising campaign to finance the full cost of each scholar’s education.
Funding one student’s complete academic journey costs €100,000 over 5 years. 2025 campaign goal: sponsor at least two students, or a total of €200,000.
Your support will:
✔ Open ENS to new horizons
✔ Strengthen French scientific excellence
✔ Empower exceptional young scholars
By contributing to this program, you help ENS reach new frontiers, support scientific excellence, and provide life-changing opportunities for extraordinary students.