Officially known as the Paris Institute of Political Studies, Sciences Po is a renowned institution located in the heart of Paris, France. Established in 1872, Sciences Po has built a strong reputation for excellence in the fields of social sciences, political studies, law, economics, and international relations. In addition to its main campus situated in the vibrant Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, Sciences Po has campuses in the French regions of Dijon, Le Havre, Menton, Nancy, Poitiers and Reims. Each campus has the same core curriculum that is complemented with a specific geographical minor in a geopolitical region of the world. Minors encompass Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East-Mediterranean, and North America, catering to the diverse interests of every student.

 

The Sciences Po undergraduate college “strives to educate enlightened, inventive citizens who will contribute to the common good in a global world.” They offer students a Bachelor’s degree (Bac+3) that takes place over three years on one of its seven campuses. Built on a foundation of humanities and social sciences, the curriculum at Sciences Po encompasses six core disciplines – law, economics, humanities, history, political science and sociology – which are supplemented by artistic and scientific disciplines. First year students focus on the core disciplinary courses. In their second year, they select from three multidisciplinary majors: “Economy and Society,” “Political Humanities,” or “Politics and Government.” The third year presents students with the opportunity to enhance their studies through an international placement at one of Sciences Po’s 470 partner universities, such as Columbia University in New York. Additionally, Sciences Po provides dual Bachelor’s degrees at nine prestigious global universities, allowing students to immerse themselves in two distinct academic environments. Outside the classroom, the Civic Learning Programme, study trips, internships, simulations, and participation in associations and unions are all encouraged to provide students with valuable field experience. 

 

Students are admitted to Sciences Po upon successfully completing the Baccalauréat (or an equivalent foreign qualification) or having finished an undergraduate or graduate program. 

Their rolling admission process is tailored to provide every applicant with the optimal opportunity. Candidates are invited to share details about themselves, articulate their motivations, academic and professional aspirations, and highlight their strengths. Students in curriculums other than the French Bac must apply directly via the Sciences Po admissions website.  French Bac students apply through Parcoursup. Requirements for admission include: 

• Strong GPA during the last 3 years of high school
• 2 recommendation letters by teachers (other than English Language teachers)
• Statements/essays
• Admission interview online for 30 minutes by a panel of two members. This includes a structured analysis and commentary of a photo or a picture and general questioning of motivation and objectives