How Stacy Randrianasolo, a Malagasy Scholar, Secured a Fully Funded Master’s in Ocean and Climate Physics at Université de Bretagne Occidentale Through the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship

My name is Stacy Randrianasolo, and I am from Madagascar. I’m currently in the second year of a Master’s degree in Ocean and Climate Physics at the Université de Bretagne Occidentale (UBO), at the European Institute for Marine Studies (IUEM) in Brest, France.

My academic background is in meteorology. Studying the atmosphere made me want to understand the ocean’s role in the climate system more deeply.

France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship Details

I was awarded the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship in 2025 to pursue my Master’s degree at UBO, from 2025 to 2027. The scholarship provides a monthly allowance of 1200 euros.

The financial support has made a significant difference for me. I initially had to borrow money to cover some of the expenses for moving abroad, but the scholarship allowed me to repay it quickly. Along with the additional advantages available to scholarship holders (free healthcare, APL (housing assistance)), having regular support has helped me settle into life in France and focus on my studies.

Educational Background

I earned a bachelor’s degree (une licence de 3 ans) at École d’Enseignement de l’Aéronautique et de la Météorologie (ENEAM) and a master’s degree at École Supérieure Polytechnique d’Antananarivo (ESPA), both in Madagascar. I graduated at the top of my class. Only a bachelor’s degree was needed to pursue a master’s here (with a general grade of 15/20).

My studies gave me a foundation in mathematics, physics, and atmospheric sciences. Since the equations that govern the atmosphere and the ocean are quite similar, my educational background really helped me adapt to this master’s program.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Université De Bretagne Occidentale?

Choosing the university and preparing for the scholarship application were part of the same process.

How Did You Find Information About France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship and Université De Bretagne Occidentale?

I discovered the Eiffel scholarship while searching online for opportunities to study abroad. During that search, I also found the master’s program at UBO.

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

I took an online English proficiency test to obtain a language certificate. This was relevant because my master’s program is normally taught in English, although classes may be taught in French if everyone is French-speaking.

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

It was necessary to choose a university and a program quickly, but more importantly, to request and receive (before the application deadline) the required documents, such as transcripts and class rankings (which was no easy feat, given the administrative hurdles). After that, the CV and cover letter just had to be reworked a little.

How Is Your Experience at Université De Bretagne Occidentale?

So far, so good. Both challenging and rewarding.

During my first year, I completed a research internship at LOPS, based at IFREMER in Plouzané, studying the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation using observations and ocean reanalysis data.

How Do You Rate Université De Bretagne Occidentale Academically?

I value the program’s combination of theoretical coursework, numerical methods, and research experiences.

What Did You Pursue After the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship?

My scholarship is still ongoing, and I am currently completing the second year. After graduating, I hope to pursue a PhD in physical oceanography or climate sciences.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my academic record was one of my strengths. There was also a clear connection between my previous studies and the program I wanted to pursue.

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

I don’t have a specific change in mind. There were challenges along the way, but I am happy with what I chose and the opportunities it gave me.

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

Give yourself the chance to apply. I remember wanting to stop the application process at a few points because it felt like it required far too much effort. But in the end, it’s worth it, and you’re glad you did it.