How Mahnoor Hanan, a Pakistani Scholar, Secured a Master’s Scholarship Through 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 provided financial support that I used towards my tuition fees, travel, and living expenses during my studies, allowing 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:

Named to the Dean's Honor List three times at GIKI.

Secured 1st position in the Materials Engineering Department 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?

To prepare my application for the IDEX Scholarship, I focused on highlighting my academic background in Materials Engineering at GIKI and my research experience in nanomaterials. My final-year project, research publication, and internship at PCSIR strengthened my interest in nanotechnology and materials characterization.

I presented these experiences in my application and explained how pursuing a Master’s in Nano-Chemistry at Université Grenoble Alpes would allow me to deepen my knowledge and develop my research skills. I believe it was important to demonstrate a clear connection between my previous studies, my motivation for the programme, and my future academic goals

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 my previous education was conducted in English. I obtained an English Equivalence certificate from my university, which was sufficient for my applications.

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 was one of the strongest aspects of my application. My background in Materials Engineering was a good match for the Nano-Chemistry programme because both fields involve understanding materials, their properties, and how they can be used to develop new technologies.

During my Bachelor's degree at GIKI, I became particularly interested in nanomaterials through my final-year project on materials for energy storage. Since research is an important part of both fields, having our work published was a valuable strength in my application.

My project also won first place in the Materials Engineering category at the final-year project competition. My academic background, research experience, and publication demonstrated that I was prepared for the research-oriented nature of the Nano-Chemistry programme.

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.