IESEG, PARIS

IESEG School of Management has campuses in both Paris and Lille, hosting around 8000 students, 3,000 of whom are international. 

IESEG has the Triple Crown accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA). At the heart of IESEG's philosophy is innovation. The school offers a wide array of programs at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and executive levels, blending theoretical knowledge with practical insights. 

IESEG has forged robust links with the business sector, providing students with internship and employment opportunities. In the second year, students typically conduct a one month internship, After year two, a three month internship is typical and studies conclude with a capstone project. As certain masters programs require a 4 year bachelor, it may be required to look at one of the several 4 year bachelors IESEG offers with HEC Montreal or Sheffield in the UK. With numerous research centers focusing on areas such as finance, digital marketing, and ethics, IESEG is at the forefront of generating new knowledge and insights in business and management.

For its Bachelor’s degrees, IESEG requires a high school diploma, proficiency in English (evidenced by TOEFL or IELTS scores), and satisfactory results from the IESEG online assessment. International applicants may also need to submit SAT or ACT scores. 

Tuition is over 11,000 Euros for all students. Upon admission, the student has three weeks to accept the offer and deposit 1600 Euros. There are 500-2500 Euro scholarships available automatically with admission and these are based on merit.  Dorms may be less expensive in the Lille area, ranging from 450-800 Euros, and are higher around 1200 in Paris. 

IESEG School of Management in Paris distinguishes itself through its international orientation, innovative curriculum, strong industry links, and research excellence.

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF PARIS

Nestled in the center of Paris, the American University in Paris (AUP) has been providing a unique educational experience that combines the best of American higher education with the vibrant energy of Parisian life. AUP attracts 1300 students from over 100 countries, creating a dynamic and inclusive community unlike any other.

At AUP, students are encouraged to explore their academic interests in depth before selecting an area of specialization to major in. AUP allows students to pursue a double major or even complement their major with a minor in an area of their choosing. The university's small class sizes foster collaboration and personalized attention from world-class faculty, allowing students to delve deep into their areas of interest and develop the skills necessary to thrive in the professional world. Beyond the classroom, AUP offers numerous opportunities for experiential learning. Students are encouraged to join extracurricular activities that include clubs, sports, student leadership, and study trips.   

AUP Housing choices provide first-years with fully furnished and situated in secure neighborhoods with convenient access to the university. After students’ first year, the AUP housing office will offer apartment-hotels and French student residences that have partnered with AUP to provide housing for students. Resident representatives live within these partner residences to ensure students are supported and connected with the student community. Estimated total living expenses and tuition for AUP come out to €64,000/year. Financial aid is available and is based on both academic merit and financial need, with around 50% of students receiving some form of financial aid. AUP accepts applications year round for both fall and spring admission. You can apply online directly through the AUP's application portal or via the Common Application.

PARSONS PARIS

Parsons Paris School of Design has provided arts and design education to students since 1921. Located in the heart of Paris, this university merges the opportunities of Parsons School of Design with the resources of the city itself. Parsons has collaborations with 54 Paris brands and organizations. The university accommodates 360 students, with 30% coming from the United States and another 30% from Europe. With a small, centrally-located campus, students have access to world-renowned museums, cultural institutions, and ateliers, enriching their education. Through a 15:1 student-faculty ratio and an international faculty that work within the arts, Parsons Paris ensures that students are given the skills and knowledge necessary for both academic and professional success.

At Parsons, first-year undergraduate students share the same foundational curriculum built on project-based learning. These two semesters grant students the opportunity to explore different disciplines, learn relevant art and design concepts, and immerse themselves in Parisian culture. Students can study the French language, but it is completely optional. After their first year, undergraduates can choose from one of three programs to specialize in: Art, Media, and Technology (BFA), Fashion Design (BFA), or Strategic Design and Management (BBA). Note, however, that the Fashion program is located at Parson’s Romainville campus, located 45 minutes away by metro. The Parsons faculty works to support students, providing personal academic advising each semester and one-on-one career support. Beyond the classroom, 40% of students participate in internships during Paris Fashion Week with companies including Ralph Lauren, Hermes, and Sotheby’s. Parsons gives students the unique opportunity to study for a semester or a year at their New York City campus. 

Parsons provides housing for students in central Paris. Students can decide between a shared apartment or an individual studio in a student residence hall. The apartments are approximately $8,699/semester (shared room) or $10,499/semester (single room). Tuition at Parsons Paris is approximately $37,994 per academic year and $55,558 per academic year for its NYC program. Parsons automatically considers all students for scholarships, with 90% of students receiving merit-based scholarships in 2023. Scholarships are competitive and are considered based on application strength.

ESCP, PARIS

A Grand Ecole Experience:

Traditionally, the prestigious Grandes Écoles in France have been synonymous with elite higher education. 

ESCP embraces internationalization with campuses not only in Paris but also in Madrid, Turin, Berlin, and London. Accommodation in Paris can be a challenge due to high demand and limited availability. Additionally, navigating the visa process, especially for students from non-EU countries like China and India, can pose hurdles. However, ECSP provides support through Campus France, assisting students with visa procedures and easing their transition to studying in France.

The undergraduate curriculum at ESCP is designed to be comprehensive and dynamic, blending management studies with liberal arts and humanities. Emphasizing the importance of mathematics, the three-year program incorporates compulsory internships, providing students with real-world experience and enhancing their employability upon graduation.

Language proficiency is paramount in today's interconnected world. At ESCP, students have the opportunity to study in multiple languages, including English, French, and Spanish, depending on the campus location. Campuses are in Berlin, London, Madrid, Paris, Turin, and Warsaw.

One of the distinctive features of ESCSP's undergraduate program is the yearly campus rotation. Students experience different campuses each year, fostering adaptability, resilience, and a global perspective.

UTRECHT UNIVERSITY COLLEGE(UCU)

Established 26 years ago, UCU was inspired by models like Oxbridge and Liberal Arts colleges in the US. UCU embodies the essence of interdisciplinary education, shaping minds that crave the fusion of diverse knowledge.

What sets UCU apart from its counterparts like UCR and Erasmus is its emphasis on freedom and exploration. While UCR boasts an Engineering program and Erasmus champions problem-based learning, UCU thrives on providing students the autonomy to chart their academic journeys. With a curriculum designed to stimulate intellectual curiosity and foster interdisciplinary connections, UCU beckons to those who seek to be more than just passive learners.

Life at UCU transcends the traditional college experience. With around 15 hours of class per week, four courses per semester and an intimate class size of 20 students per class, students are afforded the luxury of personalized attention from dedicated instructors. The residential aspect adds another layer of richness to the UCU experience, offering students the opportunity to immerse themselves in an international community where diversity reigns supreme.

From exploring a myriad of subjects in the first year to delving deep into a chosen major by the third, students are encouraged to push boundaries and embrace the unconventional. With unique courses like acting and equirements such as proficiency in another language, UCU cultivates well-rounded individuals equipped to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

In the vibrant city of Utrecht, just a stone's throw away from Amsterdam, UCU stands as a beacon of academic excellence and cultural immersion. For those who seek a college experience that transcends the ordinary, UCU awaits, ready to nurture the next generation of bridge builders and thought leaders.

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-SANTA BARBARA

Situated along the coastline of sunny California lies the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), a center of academic excellence and cultural diversity. Ranked as the #7 public university in the United States, UCSB stands out not only for its academic prowess but also for its vibrant campus life and welcoming community. With a student-faculty ratio of 18:1, students enjoy personalized attention from faculty members who are leaders in their fields, fostering an environment conducive to collaboration. UCSB’s global outlook and inclusive community makes it an ideal university for international students. Students coming from abroad make up 12% of the undergraduate student body, and come from 107 different countries worldwide.

One of UCSB’s defining features is its emphasis on student engagement and well-being. With over 500 student organizations and roughly 12,000 students participating in intramural sports each year, there is never a shortage of opportunities to get involved. The campus itself boasts 11 kilometers of bike paths and over 15,000 registered bikes, making it easy for students to explore the stunning surroundings and stay active. UCSB is unique in that it is located along the Pacific Ocean, and is the only university in the US with its own beach. Academically, UCSB offers over 200 majors, degrees, and credentials, and 10 national institutes and centers. 

UCSB’s freshman class of 2023 had a 4.21 average weighted GPA and a 23% admission rate. The estimated student budget for in-state students is $41,289, and $73,863 for out-of-state students. UCSB is one of the ten public institutions located across the state of California that make up the University of California schools.  The UC application required applicants who are California residents to earn at least a 3.0 GPA and nonresidents must earn a minimum 3.4 GPA. UC is “test-optional,” and therefore applicants are not required to submit SAT/ACT test scores. The essays and Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) are a vital part of the UC Application and give students the opportunity to show their writing skills and unique perspectives.

UCLA

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is one of the world’s top universities for academics, research and community impact. With around 5,247 international students from 106 different countries, UCLA is an ideal university for international students, and ranks sixth in ethnic diversity among top 25 universities. As the #1 public university in the US, UCLA maintains rigorous academic standards and provides students with an unparalleled academic experience. 

UCLA offers a diverse selection of over 125 majors and 90 minors, along with an array of over 5,000 courses for students to explore and choose from. With two-thirds of classes having fewer than 30 students, students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning and foster real relationships with faculty members. The resources and opportunities UCLA provides extend beyond the classroom. Students are extremely involved on campus, with over 1,000 clubs and student organizations on campus for students to participate in. 

Given UCLA’s commitment to academic excellence, admission is highly competitive, with a freshman admit rate of just 9%. The median high school GPA of admitted freshmen stands at an impressive 4.57. Estimated total cost per year is $42,127 for California residents and $76,327 for nonresidents. 63.8% of freshmen receive some sort of financial aid and 45% of undergraduates pay no tuition at all. That being said, UCLA unfortunately does not award financial aid to undergraduate students who are not citizens or permanent residents of the US. UCLA is one of the ten public institutions located across the state of California that make up the University of California schools. The UC application required applicants who are California residents to earn at least a 3.0 GPA and nonresidents must earn a minimum 3.4 GPA. UC is “test-optional,” and therefore applicants are not required to submit SAT/ACT test scores. The essays and Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) are a vital part of the UC Application and give students the opportunity to show their writing skills and unique perspectives. Applicants also may respond to four of eight personal insight questions (350 words max each).

UCSD

The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) is a top public research university located in La Jolla, California on 1,200 acres of coastal woodland. In 2023, UCSD was ranked the seventh best public university in the nation. With nearly 10,000 incoming students each year, UCSD ensures that each and every student has a personal experience by separating their university into eight different residential colleges. Each college has its own general education curriculum, support services, neighborhood, and unique traditions. Don’t worry, students are still free to pursue any major of their choice no matter which college they attend. Additionally, UCSD has eleven academic, professional and graduate schools. 

While offering a broad range of majors, UCSD is nationally recognized for its research in STEM fields. Their work in climate change research dates back to as early as the 1950s, and they are at the cutting edge of artificial intelligence research. As a result of this research, over 1,000 companies utilize, or have utilized, technology created at UCSD. Student life is slightly less active at UCSD, but there are still over 500 student organizations for students to get involved in. UCSD prides itself on its commitment to ethnic and racial diversity, and it ranks first for highest population of low-income students (11%) among peer institutions. 

The Fall 2023 student profile had a median GPA between 4.11 and 4.29 and an admit rate of 25%. The estimated student budget is $39,581/year for California residents and $72,165/year for non-residents. UCSD unfortunately does not award financial aid to undergraduate students who are not citizens or permanent residents of the US, but merit scholarships are possible. UCSD is one of the ten public institutions located across the state of California that make up the University of California schools. The UC application requires applicants who are California residents to earn at least a 3.0 GPA and nonresidents must earn a minimum 3.4 GPA. UC is “test-optional,” and therefore applicants are not required to submit SAT/ACT test scores. The essays and Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) are a vital part of the UC Application and give students the opportunity to show their writing skills and unique perspectives. Applicants may respond to four of eight personal insight questions (350 words max each).

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (USC)

Located in the center of the Los Angeles metropolis, the University of Southern California (USC) is a prestigious private research university that offers opportunities for students from around the globe to thrive. With a student body representing 135 countries around the world, and international students comprising over a quarter of the total student population, USC is an ideal location for students coming from diverse backgrounds. 43% of students come from racial-ethnic minority backgrounds.

Because USC is a large research university, it is able to offer a wide range of majors, minors, and degree programs. The university is composed of one liberal arts school, the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, and an additional 22 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. USC’s arts program is globally recognized and offers students the opportunity to pursue internships in Los Angeles’s leading arts industries. Marshall School of Business is another renowned program at USC, giving undergraduate students the opportunity to take business courses as early as in their first year. USC also has a set of distinguished faculty members and an impressive 8:1 student-faculty ratio. In addition to its renowned academic programs, USC is known for its incredibly strong school spirit and alumni network. Students take pride in their sports teams and football games are major campus events. There are over 1000 student groups on campus to choose from and over 3000 student events held each year. 

USC admissions is highly selective and only accepts students with stellar academic achievements.  Most admitted students are ranked in the top 10% of their graduating class, and their median standardized test score (if submitted) is in the top 5%. Besides mathematics, USC does not mandate any specific curriculum, allowing admitted students the freedom to tailor their academic path. However, it's common for students to opt for the most challenging coursework in English, science, social studies, foreign language, and the arts. USC is very expensive to attend. The estimated cost of attendance for all students is $95,225 per year. Nearly two-thirds of US students receive aid, and although international students are not eligible for need-based financial aid, they may be awarded merit scholarships and/or other departmental awards.

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly SLO)

Halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco lies California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly SLO). Cal Poly SLO is known for its impressive undergraduate engineering program, ranked fifth in the nation. The university is recognized as the number one most innovative school in the US, and prides itself on its “Learn by Doing” philosophy. Unlike peer schools, students at SLO engage in hands-on experimentation and research as soon as they start classes, regardless of major.  This teaches students how to solve the kind of real-world problems they will encounter after graduation, a skill that attracts employers to the university. It is important to mention that students are required to select a major during their application, as classes in their chosen field commence from the first week of freshman year. This is different from other schools where students might not enroll in major-specific courses until late in their sophomore year.  If you are unsure of what subject you plan to major in, it can be somewhat difficult to switch majors later on at SLO, which is something to take note of. 

Beyond academics, SLO is known for its lively school spirit and honored traditions. The strength of the SLO community is evident the minute students arrive on campus thanks to its famous Week of Welcome (WOW) orientation. WOW introduces students to life at SLO through a variety of student-led events and programs, giving freshmen the opportunity to meet new friends and become accustomed to life as a college student. Nevertheless, it is important to note that SLO is often criticized for its lack of racial diversity, with a student body that is 53% white. SLO’s campus (which is one of the largest in the US) is nestled within the Santa Lucia mountains, giving students direct access to some of the most scenic hiking in the country. The Tri-Tip Challenge is a common tradition, where students hike the area’s three largest mountains (Bishop Peak, Madonna Mountain and the Cal Poly P) and celebrate by eating tri-tip sandwiches back in town. Speaking of town, SLO has one of the most quintessential and lively college towns in the country. Students spend lots of time walking its streets, eating at restaurants and shopping at its internationally renowned Farmers Market on Thursday nights. SLO is also a mere 15 minute drive from a number of beaches, and is close to several other Californian cities such as Morro Bay and Santa Barbara.

SLO is part of the 23-campus CSU system and accepts international applications until November 30 through Cal State Apply, the application for all CSU campuses. Application requirements:

•  Avg cost for California residents: $35,205/year; avg cost for non-residents: $58,540/year

• Automatically considered for most scholarships after applying

• Applicants evaluated based on major selected

• TOEFL or IELTS required for non-native English speakers

• ACT/SAT only used for Math and English placement purposes

• Must earn 3.00 or greater “a-g” GPA

• $70 application fee