The 22-year-old is set to win his first international cap as Scotland interim coach Scott Johnson has called on him to replace the injury Richie Gray in the second row.
Gilchrist has impressed in his 12 appearances for the Scottish outfit in what is his second season in the RaboDirect PRO12 after he turned professional in 2011.
And the Alloa-born star fully intends to justify his selection on Saturday night against France, with memories of Scotland legends Scott Murray and Nathan Hines at the forefront of his thinking.
"It is my first opportunity to show what I can do and play well," said Gilchrist. "It is as important to me to show that this is not just a one-off - it is an opportunity to build on that.
"It's very exciting and I'm obviously over the moon to be selected and I can't wait to get stuck in on Saturday night.
"I remember growing up and watching guys like Scott Murray and Nathan Hines in the second row.
"I've always watched Scotland since I was a kid and always wanted to play for Scotland. It is a dream come true and I can't wait for Saturday night."
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