How Rowan, a Cameroonian Scholar, Secured a Fully Funded Engineering Program in Artificial Intelligence and Cyber-Physical Systems at ENSTA Paris, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, France Through the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship

My name is Rowan, and I am originally from Cameroon, where I completed my initial university studies at the University of Ngaoundéré before moving to France to continue my education. I am currently a second-year engineering student at ENSTA Paris (part of the Institut Polytechnique de Paris), specializing in artificial intelligence and cyber-physical systems. I chose this specialization because I wanted to build a solid technical foundation in AI while remaining grounded in practical applications; I am particularly driven by projects where AI can deliver a real, measurable impact in areas of significant need, such as medical imaging, environmental monitoring, or road safety, including in Africa and Cameroon.

France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Details

I was awarded the France Excellence Eiffel scholarship (2025 cohort) by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to support my engineering studies at ENSTA Paris (Institut Polytechnique de Paris). This scholarship covers full tuition fees, provides a monthly stipend of €1,200, and covers travel expenses to France as well as a return ticket upon completion of my studies.

Educational Background

Before coming to France, I studied at the University of Ngaoundéré in Cameroon, where I spent four years: the first three dedicated to my bachelor's degree and the last to the first year of my master's program. It was at the end of that year that I was admitted to ENSTA Paris.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to ENSTA Paris?

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

Preparing an application for ENSTA Paris was not unusual, as it simply involves compiling your file and submitting it via the platform. However, it is important to maximize your chances by putting together a strong application (including certifications, extracurricular activities, etc.). It is also important to have a coherent professional and academic plan.

Yes, I took the IELTS Academic, but it wasn't required for admission.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship?

A distinctive feature of the Eiffel Scholarship is that candidates do not apply for it themselves. Instead, once you have been admitted, the school assesses your qualifications and decides whether to submit your application to the Eiffel committee for consideration. Consequently, the prerequisite is to be accepted by the school and then to hope, or request during the application process, that the school will champion your candidacy.

How is Your Experience at ENSTA Paris?

So far, my experience has been very satisfactory. I really have no negative points to raise. We are treated very well by our fellow students as well as by the teaching and non-teaching staff.

How Do You Rate ENSTA Paris Academically?

ENSTA is the oldest engineering school in France. The academic standard is quite high, and students must get to work as soon as they arrive. The school ranks very highly among France's top engineering schools. Furthermore, its location in Palaiseau, on the Saclay Plateau, isolates it (like other *grandes écoles* on the plateau) from certain distractions associated with city proximity. The courses are of excellent quality, and the instructors are highly qualified.

How Does ENSTA Paris Support International Students?

ENSTA has a dedicated international relations department and an incoming mobility coordinator whom all international students can contact; consequently, they receive excellent support, even before arriving in France.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or the Country's Native Language?

The majority of courses are taught in French, but some courses are taught in English.

What Did You Pursue After the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship?

I am potentially leaning towards a PhD, but I am still thinking it over... I would really like to work in research and development.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Not Knowing French?

Yes, to some extent, regarding social interactions and classes... However, for certain courses, the administration allows some international students to use dictionaries during exams.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I couldn't say for certain, but I’d suggest you first need to be familiar with the school, its strengths, its programs, and the career paths they lead to, and then build a solid, coherent career plan based on that foundation. You shouldn't just send something generic, but nothing too far-fetched either. There needs to be a clear thread connecting what you’ve done so far with what you want to do, and showing how the school fits into that picture.

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

In all honesty, nothing

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

Be yourself; don't fabricate a life for yourself. Do your research on the school, its program, career prospects, and what its alumni have gone on to do. Don't hesitate to reach out to alumni with questions; the worst that can happen is that they won't reply.