Consistently ranked as the #1 university in France and firmly within the global top 50, Université PSL (Paris Sciences & Lettres) is the premier destination for ambitious international students. Located in the heart of Paris, PSL is a collegiate university that brings together several elite institutions, offering an unparalleled academic experience that blends science, literature, and the arts.
If you are aiming for academic excellence in France, here is everything you need to know about getting into Université PSL.
Top Programs for International Students PSL is renowned for its intense research focus and multidisciplinary approach. Highly sought-after English-taught programs include:
Master’s in Applied Economics
Master’s in Life Sciences
Master’s in Chemistry and Data Science
Ph.D. Tracks in Astrophysics, Computer Science, and Engineering
Admissions Process & Requirements PSL is highly selective. The application route depends heavily on your country of residence and the degree level:
Bachelor’s Degrees: International students studying outside the EU typically must apply via the Demande d’Admission Préalable (DAP) procedure or the “Études en France” (Campus France) portal.
Master’s Degrees: Most Master’s applications are submitted directly through the PSL application portal or the French national Mon Master platform.
Ph.D. Tracks: PSL offers a highly competitive 5-year Ph.D. track (combining Master’s and Doctorate). Applications require an academic CV, a 1-page statement of purpose, a detailed research project, and two academic references.
Language Requirements: While many graduate programs are in English (requiring a C1 level, proven via TOEFL or IELTS), some undergraduate programs require a strong command of French (DELF/DALF B2 or C1).
How to Apply (Official Links)
General Admissions Hub: PSL Admissions Portal
International Admission Procedures: Step-by-Step Guide for International Students
Ph.D. Track Applications: PSL Ph.D. Tracks
Top Scholarships at PSL Université PSL offers several financial aid options, including the PSL Ph.D. Track Grants, which provide comprehensive funding for the full 5-year duration of the track. International Master’s students are also prime candidates for the French government’s prestigious Eiffel Excellence Scholarship.
Institut Polytechnique de Paris
Institut Polytechnique de Paris: 2026 Admissions Guide for International Students
For students aiming to become global leaders in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), the Institut Polytechnique de Paris (IP Paris) is a powerhouse. By grouping together five of France’s most prestigious engineering Grandes Écoles—including École Polytechnique and ENSTA Paris—IP Paris offers world-class laboratories and direct partnerships with major European tech industries.
Top Programs for International Students IP Paris is globally recognized for its rigorous quantitative and technical programs. Top English-taught options include:
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science
Master of Science & Technology (MSc&T) in Artificial Intelligence
MSc&T in Data Science for Business (Joint program with HEC Paris)
Engineering Double Degree Programs
Admissions Process & Requirements Admission to IP Paris is holistic but heavily weighted toward exceptional performance in advanced mathematics and sciences.
Bachelor’s Program: Applications are submitted directly through the École Polytechnique online system. You will need official transcripts, a personal statement, a CV, and two recommendation letters. Interviews are mandatory for shortlisted candidates.
Master’s Programs: Master of Science and Technology programs accept applications through dedicated portals. The process involves multiple rounds, usually starting in October. A €90 application fee is generally required.
Double Degrees: If your current home university has a partnership with IP Paris, you can apply for an engineering double degree. This requires a nomination from your home institution followed by an online application and interview.
Language Requirements: Knowledge of French is not mandatory for English-taught programs, but a C1 level in English (IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge) is required.
How to Apply (Official Links)
Master’s Programs (MSc&T): Application Deadlines & Procedure
Bachelor’s Program: Admissions Criteria and Procedures
Double Degree Engineering Portal: IP Paris Admissions Portal
Top Scholarships at IP Paris Many international students at IP Paris are funded by the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship. Additionally, the Fondation de l’École Polytechnique offers merit-based excellence scholarships to top-ranking international applicants during the admission rounds.
Université Paris-Saclay
Université Paris-Saclay: 2026 Admissions & Scholarships for International Students
Often referred to as the “French Silicon Valley,” Université Paris-Saclay is a global titan in mathematics, physics, and life sciences. Consistently ranking #1 globally for Mathematics in the Shanghai Ranking, this research-intensive university offers unparalleled access to major European research facilities and a thriving international student community.
Top Programs for International Students Paris-Saclay boasts highly specialized, globally recognized programs, particularly at the postgraduate level:
Master’s in General Physics
Master’s in Applied Mathematics
Master’s in Global Health
Master’s in Computer Science and Machine Learning
Admissions Process & Requirements The application process for Paris-Saclay depends heavily on your country of origin and the level of study.
Undergraduate (Licence 1): Non-EU students residing in a Campus France-affiliated country must apply via the “Études en France” portal. Others must submit a Demande d’Admission Préalable (DAP) to the French Embassy in their home country.
Master’s Programs (M1 & M2): International students apply through the university’s dedicated eCandidat or INCEPTION platforms. You are generally advised to apply for at least two different Master’s tracks to increase your chances.
Administrative Registration: Once accepted, all students must pay the French Student and Campus Life Contribution (CVEC), which is approximately €95, before finalizing their university registration.
How to Apply (Official Links)
Undergraduate Applications: Undergraduate Application Guide
Master’s Applications: Master’s Application & Enrolment
Campus France Portal: Études en France
Top Scholarships at Paris-Saclay Université Paris-Saclay is uniquely generous to international postgraduates. Their International Master’s Scholarship Program awards €10,000 per year, plus a maximum of €1,000 to cover travel and visa expenses, to outstanding students newly admitted to a Paris-Saclay Master’s program.
