How Mahnoor Hanan, a Pakistani Scholar, Secured a Fully Funded Master’s Through the IDEX Scholarship

My name is Mahnoor Hanan, and I am from Pakistan. I completed my Bachelor's degree in Materials Engineering from the Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI), one of Pakistan's leading engineering institutes.

I always wanted to pursue a profession that no one in my family had chosen before. I also aspired to study at a well-reputed institution, which became one of my main goals when planning my academic journey.

While exploring different university programs, I came across Materials Engineering. Honestly, I had never heard of this field before, particularly its specialization in Nanotechnology. However, as I researched it further, I became fascinated by its vast scope and interdisciplinary nature. What attracted me most was how this field connects different areas of science and engineering and has applications across numerous industries.

Even before starting my Bachelor's degree, I had decided that I wanted to pursue my Master's abroad. I wanted to deepen my understanding of this broad field, gain international academic and research exposure, and explore opportunities to learn beyond what I could during my undergraduate studies.

IDEX Scholarship Details

I was awarded the IDEX (Initiatives d’Excellence) Scholarship by Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA), France, to pursue my Master's degree (M2) in Nano-Chemistry, International Track.

The scholarship covered my tuition fees, living expenses, and round-trip airfare, providing comprehensive financial support that allowed me to focus on my studies and research in nanoscience and nanotechnology.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

I was also offered scholarships by two universities in the United Kingdom:

University of Exeter: A £3,000 tuition fee reduction for Pakistani students beginning a taught Master's degree.

University of Birmingham: A 30% tuition fee scholarship for postgraduate studies.

Educational Background

Degrees:

Bachelor of Science in Materials Engineering (Nanotechnology): Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI), Pakistan.

Master's in Nano-Chemistry, International Track (M2): Université Grenoble Alpes, France, supported by the IDEX Scholarship.

Academic Achievements:

Ranked 3rd in a class of 24 students and named to the Dean's Honor List three times at GIKI.

Secured 1st position in the Materials Engineering category at the 2024 Final Year Project competition.

Research Experience:

Undergraduate Research: During my Bachelor's degree, I worked on developing NiCoMn metal-organic framework (MOF)-based electrode materials for supercapacitors.

Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR), Pakistan: I gained practical experience in graphene oxide synthesis, FTIR characterization, and graphene–PMMA nanocomposites.

CNRS Institut Néel, France: During my Master's research internship, I investigated the low-temperature sputtering of ZnO nanocolumns for piezoelectric energy-harvesting applications, gaining hands-on experience with thin-film deposition and materials characterization.

Publication:

Diamond and Related Materials (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.diamond.2025.112246.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Idex Scholarship?

My Bachelor's in Materials Engineering introduced me to nanotechnology and how materials can be designed for different applications. Through my final-year project and internship at PCSIR, I gained practical experience working with nanomaterials and studying their properties. These experiences sparked my interest in exploring this field further and gave me the foundation to pursue Nano-Chemistry.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Université Grenoble Alpes?

I started preparing during the third year of my Bachelor's degree by gathering the basic documents required for university applications. First, I shortlisted countries based on my interest in studying abroad and the quality of their research in Materials Science. Then, I explored universities, considering their rankings, research opportunities, and, most importantly, the scholarships they offered.

I also looked into what universities and scholarship committees considered when selecting candidates. This helped me plan ahead and make better choices during my undergraduate studies, including selecting relevant courses and aligning my final-year project with my academic interests and future goals.

How Did You Find Information About IDEX Scholarship and Université Grenoble Alpes?

Mainly searched for scholarships through dedicated scholarship websites and the official websites of the universities I had shortlisted. I also contacted universities directly whenever I needed clarification about scholarships, eligibility criteria, or application requirements. This helped me find opportunities that matched my academic background and understand the application process more clearly.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

I did not take any standardized tests. Shortlisting universities helped me understand their admission requirements, and the programmes I applied to offered exemptions from English language tests if your previous education was conducted in English. I obtained an English Equivalence certificate from my university, which was sufficient for my applications.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the IDEX Scholarship?

I started preparing for scholarship applications during my Bachelor's degree by focusing on my academic performance, choosing relevant courses, and working on a final-year project related to my field. I also researched scholarship criteria carefully to understand what selection committees looked for. One important thing is to check application timelines early and avoid leaving everything until the last moment, so there is enough time to prepare and submit all the required documents. After submitting an application, contacting the programme coordinator to express your interest in the scholarship can also be helpful, as they may provide further guidance about the process.

How is Your Experience at Université Grenoble Alpes?

My experience at Université Grenoble Alpes was a valuable opportunity to learn and grow both academically and personally. I got to study with students from different backgrounds, explore new areas of Nano-Chemistry, and gain hands-on research experience at CNRS Institut Néel. Working in a research laboratory helped me understand how the concepts I learned in class are applied in practice. Living and studying in France also helped me become more independent and adapt to a new environment.

How Do You Rate Université Grenoble Alpes Academically?

Université Grenoble Alpes has strong connections with major research centres across France. Its professors are actively involved in advanced research, giving students opportunities to learn from their work and build valuable professional networks. This strong research environment is one of the university’s biggest strengths.

How Does Université Grenoble Alpes Support International Students?

Université Grenoble Alpes offers support to international students with administrative procedures, accommodation, and adjusting to life in France. The programme coordinator is also very helpful and always available to guide students whenever they need assistance, which makes the whole experience much easier and less stressful.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or French?

All my classes were taught in English because I was part of the International Track.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Not Knowing French?

The language barrier is not a major academic challenge, as the programme is taught in English. However, French is important for daily life, adapting to the local culture, finding internships, and pursuing job opportunities in companies, as many employers require or prefer French-speaking candidates.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

Relevance is the most important factor: your undergraduate background should align with your postgraduate course. Since my field is heavily research-based, my GPA, Dean’s Honor List distinctions, and the scope of my final-year project were all important. At the time, MOFs had already gained significant attention following the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Securing first position in my final-year project competition and, most importantly, having my research published made a real difference.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

Overall, I was well prepared, but if I could do it again, I would probably start exploring my options a little earlier, perhaps in my second year. At the same time, I believe everything happens at the right time, and every experience prepares you for the next step. So, I wouldn't change much about my journey.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Start early and research your options carefully. Make sure your academic background aligns with the programme you want to pursue. Maintain good grades, gain research experience, work on meaningful projects, and build a profile that reflects your interests. Most importantly, don’t wait until you meet every requirement perfectly before applying. Stay consistent, be patient, and make the most of the opportunities available to you.