The original University of Paris split into 13 autonomous universities in 1970, each named after a numeral and specializing in different academic disciplines. These universities have developed individual reputations for excellence in fields such as law, medicine, science, and humanities.
In an effort to enhance their global competitiveness and academic stature, there has been a significant trend toward reconsolidation among these autonomous universities. This reconsolidation aims to leverage shared resources, improve research facilities, and foster a collaborative academic environment. For instance:
University of Paris (formed in 2019): This new entity emerged from the merger of Paris Diderot University (Paris VII) and Paris Descartes University (Paris V), along with the Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris (IPGP). This consolidated university seeks to strengthen its offerings especially in sciences, medicine, humanities, and social sciences, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to education and research.
Sciences: Includes biology, physics, chemistry, and earth sciences.
Health Sciences: Covers nursing, medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry.
Humanities: Offers literature, languages, history, and philosophy.
Social Sciences: Includes sociology, anthropology, psychology, and education.
Law and Economics: Programs in law, political science, economics, and management.
Sciences and Engineering: Advanced courses in mathematics, computer science, biotechnology, environmental science, and engineering.
Health Sciences: Specialized programs in public health, biomedical research, and clinical practices.
Humanities and Social Sciences: Masters in cultural studies, international relations, urban planning, and communication.
Law and Economics: Advanced studies in international law, human rights, business law, economics, and public administration.
PhD Tracks: Offered across all disciplines with a strong emphasis on research. These programs are often connected with research labs and international collaborations.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Science in Biology |
3 years |
$200 - $4,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
3 years |
$200 - $4,000 |
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy |
3 years |
$200 - $4,000 |
Bachelor of Arts in History |
3 years |
$200 - $4,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Physics |
3 years |
$200 - $4,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry |
3 years |
$200 - $4,000 |
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology |
3 years |
$200 - $4,000 |
Bachelor of Law (LLB) |
3 years |
$200 - $4,000 |
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology |
3 years |
$200 - $4,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics |
3 years |
$200 - $4,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Master of Science in Data Science |
2 years |
$300 - $4,300 |
Master of Arts in Comparative Literature |
2 years |
$300 - $4,300 |
Master of Science in Environmental Science |
2 years |
$300 - $4,300 |
Master of Science in Molecular Biology |
2 years |
$300 - $4,300 |
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence |
2 years |
$300 - $4,300 |
Master of Public Health |
2 years |
$300 - $4,300 |
Master of Arts in History |
2 years |
$300 - $4,300 |
Master of Science in Chemistry |
2 years |
$300 - $4,300 |
Master in Business Administration (MBA) |
1-2 years |
$300 - $4,300 |
Master of Laws (LLM) |
2 years |
$300 - $4,300 |
PhD Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
PhD in Biology |
3-4 years |
$400 - $1,000 |
PhD in Physics |
3-4 years |
$400 - $1,000 |
PhD in Chemistry |
3-4 years |
$400 - $1,000 |
PhD in Computer Science |
3-4 years |
$400 - $1,000 |
PhD in Mathematics |
3-4 years |
$400 - $1,000 |
PhD in Environmental Science |
3-4 years |
$400 - $1,000 |
PhD in Public Health |
3-4 years |
$400 - $1,000 |
PhD in Sociology |
3-4 years |
$400 - $1,000 |
PhD in Philosophy |
3-4 years |
$400 - $1,000 |
PhD in Literature |
3-4 years |
$400 - $1,000 |
Program Diversity: The University of Paris offers a wide range of programs across sciences, humanities, medicine, law, and social sciences. There are programs available at all levels—bachelor's, master's, and doctoral.
Language of Instruction: While many courses are taught in French, there is a growing selection of programs offered in English, particularly at the master's and doctoral levels, which are designed to attract an international student body.
Choosing a Program: First, review the university’s course offerings to find a program that aligns with your academic and career goals.
Understanding the Requirements: Each program has specific entry requirements, including language proficiency. For programs in French, you may need to prove your language skills through tests like TCF, DELF, or DALF. For English-taught programs, tests like TOEFL or IELTS may be required.
Application Submission: The application process may involve submitting your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and proof of language proficiency. Non-EU students often use the Campus France portal to facilitate their applications.
Tuition Rates: Tuition fees at the University of Paris are relatively low due to government subsidies. EU/EEA students enjoy particularly low rates, while non-EU students pay slightly higher fees, though still lower than many comparable institutions globally.
Additional Costs: Living in Paris can be expensive. International students need to budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
Financial Support: There are scholarships and grants available for international students. These may be offered by the French government, such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, or by external organizations and sometimes by the university itself.
Cultural Integration: The University of Paris facilitates programs and events to help international students integrate into French culture and student life.
Support Services: International students can access dedicated support services, including help with visas, accommodation, and language courses.
Living in Paris: Students can immerse themselves in Paris's rich history, arts, and culture, benefiting from the city’s museums, theaters, libraries, and cafes.
Choosing a Program: Identify which undergraduate program you wish to pursue.
Language Requirements: Most undergraduate courses are taught in French. Non-native French speakers typically need to demonstrate proficiency through tests like the TCF, DELF, or DALF. Some programs may be offered in English.
Application Process:
EU/EEA Students: Apply directly through the Parcoursup platform, which is used for pre-university students in France.
Non-EU Students: Often need to go through the “Studying in France” procedure managed by Campus France. This includes submitting an application through the online system.
Choosing a Program: Prospective students should carefully review the master’s programs, which may be available in both French and English.
Language Requirements: For French-taught programs, proof of French proficiency is required. For English-taught programs, English proficiency must be demonstrated through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Application Process: Applications are typically submitted directly to the university via their specific faculty or department’s website. This usually involves submitting academic transcripts, a CV, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and any required test scores.
Finding a Supervisor: PhD candidates must find a faculty member who agrees to supervise their research. This often involves contacting faculty directly to discuss research interests.
Proposal Submission: Candidates need to submit a detailed research proposal along with their academic and professional credentials.
Application Process: After securing a supervisor and possibly a funding source (like a research grant or fellowship), candidates apply through the doctoral school associated with their research area.
Bachelor’s Programs: The main intake for undergraduate programs is in the fall (September). There is generally only one intake per year for these programs.
Master’s Programs: Most master's programs also begin in the fall, but some programs might offer a spring intake (January). It is important to check specific program details for exact intake times.
Doctoral Programs: PhD admissions can be more flexible, with some programs allowing students to start at points in the academic year, depending on the department and the nature of the research project.
Educational Background: Applicants must have a high school diploma equivalent to the French baccalauréat. International qualifications must be recognized as equivalent by French authorities.
Language Proficiency: Most programs require proficiency in French. Non-French speakers need to pass a French language test such as the TCF, DELF, or DALF. Some programs offered in English may require proof of English proficiency instead.
Application Process: EU/EEA students typically apply through the French national platform Parcoursup. Non-EU students often use the Campus France procedure, depending on their country of residence.
Master’s Programs
Educational Background: Applicants need a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field. The specific requirements depend on the master's program.
Language Proficiency: For French-taught programs, proof of French proficiency is required. For English-taught programs, English proficiency must be demonstrated through standardized tests like the TOEFL or IELTS.
Application Submission: Direct applications to the respective faculty are required, along with documents such as transcripts, a statement of purpose, CV/resume, and letters of recommendation.
Educational Background: A master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field is necessary.
Finding a PhD Supervisor: Candidates must find a faculty member who agrees to supervise their PhD project before applying.
Funding: Many PhD positions are funded, and candidates often need to secure funding either through university grants, external scholarships, or research projects.
Application Requirements: A detailed research proposal, CV, academic transcripts, and recommendation letters are typically required.
Ranking Organization |
University of Paris Ranking |
---|---|
QS World University Rankings |
Within Top 300 |
U.S. News & World Report |
Within Top 200 |
Scholarship Name |
Target Group |
Coverage |
Eligibility and Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship |
International students |
Tuition, monthly allowance, travel, insurance |
Designed for master’s and PhD students in specific areas, focusing on attracting top international candidates to France. |
MiEM Excellence Scholarship |
International students |
Tuition fees, partial living expenses |
Available for international students enrolling in selected master’s programs. |
Erasmus+ |
EU and partner countries |
Travel and living expenses |
Supports study periods abroad for students, providing grants for mobility. |
Paris Region Scholarship |
International students |
Living expenses, partial tuition |
Offered to master’s students from certain regions, aiming to foster international cooperation. |
CROUS Scholarships |
Domestic and EU students |
Partial tuition, living costs |
Based on social criteria and financial need; open also to students from the EU/EEA who meet certain conditions. |
Fulbright Scholarships |
U.S. students |
Tuition, living expenses, travel |
Available for American students studying or conducting research in France. |
Campus Location |
Facilities |
Accommodation Options |
Cost of Accommodation (per month) |
---|---|---|---|
Campus Saint-Germain-des-Prés |
Humanities and law faculties, administrative services |
University residences, private rentals |
$800 - $1,500 |
Campus Grands Moulins |
Science and Biomedicine facilities |
University residences, private rentals |
$800 - $1,400 |
Campus Montrouge |
Pharmacy and Biophysics |
University residences, private rentals |
$800 - $1,200 |
Campus Villemin |
Nursing and Paramedical training |
University residences, private rentals |
$800 - $1,200 |
Campus Cordeliers |
Research center, Medical sciences |
Limited on-campus housing, mostly private rentals |
$900 - $1,600 |
Campus Saint-Antoine |
Medical school, connected to Saint-Antoine hospital |
University residences, private rentals |
$800 - $1,300 |
Diverse Disciplines: Students can choose from a wide range of disciplines, benefiting from high-quality education and interdisciplinary opportunities.
Research Opportunities: With strong emphasis on research, students have access to numerous research institutes and collaborations that enhance their academic and professional development.
Student Clubs and Societies: The University of Paris hosts numerous student organizations, including cultural clubs, sports teams, academic societies, and special interest groups that foster community engagement and personal development.
Events and Workshops: Regular seminars, workshops, and talks by prominent academics and professionals are part of the university calendar, providing students with learning opportunities outside the classroom.
Facilities: The university offers sports facilities and programs, encouraging students to participate in physical activities for a balanced lifestyle.
Outdoor Activities: Paris's parks and recreational areas provide venues for jogging, cycling, and other outdoor activities.
Career Services: The University offers counseling and support for internships, job placements, and career planning to help students transition from academic life to professional environments.
Health Services: Mental and physical health services are available to students, including counseling and medical care.
International Student Services: Dedicated support for international students helps with accommodation, visa issues, orientation, and integration into French society.
Career Counseling: The University offers career counseling services where students can receive guidance on career planning, resume and cover letter writing, and interview preparation.
Workshops and Seminars: The university regularly organizes workshops and seminars that focus on career development skills, including networking, job search strategies, and professional communication.
Career Fairs: Annual career fairs and networking events are hosted by the university, providing students opportunities to meet potential employers and learn about career options.
Internship Opportunities: Students are encouraged to undertake internships during their studies. The university has strong links with industries and businesses across sectors, both within France and internationally, facilitating a wide range of internship opportunities.
Mentoring Programs: Through its alumni network, the University of Paris offers mentoring programs where current students can connect with alumni to gain insights into different industries and career paths.
Alumni Events: Regular events are organized where alumni are invited to share their experiences and offer career advice to current students.
Collaborations: The university collaborates with numerous companies and organizations, providing students with access to real-world projects and job opportunities.
Research and Development: For students in scientific and technical fields, the university’s strong emphasis on research often leads to collaborations with industry partners, which can facilitate job placements after graduation.
Work Rights in France: International students in France have the right to work up to 964 hours per year, which helps them gain professional experience while studying.
Support Services: The university offers specific guidance for international students on how to find jobs in France, including navigating work visa regulations and understanding the French job market.
Program Popularity and Capacity: Some programs, particularly those in medicine, law, and highly specialized sciences, may have more competitive admissions due to limited capacity and high demand.
Academic Requirements: Admissions decisions are primarily based on academic merit, proficiency in necessary languages (mostly French, unless the program is offered in English), and the overall quality of the application, including essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities.
Master’s and PhD Admissions: These programs often require specific qualifications, such as a relevant undergraduate degree with a certain GPA for master’s programs or a strong research proposal and a potential supervisor’s approval for PhD candidates. These requirements naturally limit the number of qualified applicants.
International Student Admissions: The process for international students can be more competitive due to additional requirements such as language proficiency and the validation of foreign qualifications.
Undergraduate Programs: Undergraduate programs, especially those taught in French, may have higher acceptance rates for EU students, who typically apply through a centralized platform like Parcoursup.
Graduate Programs: Graduate programs are generally more selective, especially those aimed at an international audience and taught in English.
Campus Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Location: 6th arrondissement of Paris.
Focus: Home to the faculties of humanities, law, and theology.
Features: Located in a historically rich area, known for its intellectual and artistic history.
Campus Grands Moulins
Location: 13th arrondissement, near the Bibliothèque François Mitterrand.
Focus: Sciences and Biomedicine.
Features: Modern facilities and innovative architecture, alongside the Seine river, making it a prominent academic hub.
Campus Montrouge
Location: Montrouge, a suburb just south of Paris.
Focus: Pharmacy and Biophysics.
Features: Specialized laboratories and research facilities.
Campus Villemin
Location: 10th arrondissement.
Focus: Nursing and Paramedical training.
Features: Close to several major hospitals, facilitating practical training and research.
Campus Cordeliers
Location: 6th arrondissement.
Focus: Medical research.
Features: Historic site with state-of-the-art research facilities in the heart of Paris.
Campus Saint-Antoine
Location: Near Saint-Antoine hospital, 12th arrondissement.
Focus: Medical school and research.
Features: Integrated with one of Paris’s major hospitals, which enhances clinical education and research opportunities.