Lafayette Fellowship

• Be a U.S. citizen currently enrolled as an undergraduate senior at an eligible Sciences Po partner institution
• Have a 3.7 or higher GPA and be aged 19–25 without a doctoral degree
• Be accepted to an eligible Sciences Po master’s program

Named for Michel David-Weill, an alumnus of Sciences Po and former chairman of Lazard Frères investment bank, the scholarship was created by the Michel David-Weill Foundation to encourage exceptional American students to pursue graduate education at Sciences Po in Paris. It seeks candidates who exemplify his core values: excellence, leadership, multiculturalism, tolerance and high achievement. 

This award is open to both French speaking and non-French speaking candidates (most Sciences Po programs are taught in English, with French or bilingual tracks offered for some). All degrees are eligible except the master’s in public affairs and executive training courses, and applicants interested in economics are strongly encouraged, as this is Michel David-Weill’s field of expertise.

The Michel David-Weill Scholarship provides:

• A total award of $80,000 covering tuition and living expenses over a two-year master’s program at Sciences Po
• Coverage of tuition and fees, housing, books, and other living and travel expenses

Selection is based on academic accomplishments and capacity for critical analysis, as well as a demonstrated history of leadership and a proven commitment to community. Five finalists are invited to interview in New York in January or February. 

One thing to adjust: unlike the Lafayette Fellowship, this award funds a single student rather than up to 30, and you must apply concurrently to the Sciences Po master’s program by late October. Campus nomination deadlines vary by school (many fell in early October this year), so it’s worth confirming the current cycle’s dates before sharing.