Université PSL
Université PSL overview
The idea that would become Université PSL emerged in the early 2000s, driven by a desire to create a world-class research university in Paris that fostered a more interdisciplinary, collaborative, and internationally focused approach to scholarship. Université PSL was officially established in 2010 as a COMUE ('Communauté d'universités et établissements'). This structure was a type of federation that brought together universities, grandes écoles, and research organizations. The COMUE structure proved successful, and in 2019, PSL formally gained the status of a full university.
PSL isn't a traditional university. It's a collegiate one, composed of 11 autonomous constituent institutions, which include: École normale supérieure (ENS), École nationale des chartes, École des hautes études en sciences sociales (EHESS), ESPCI Paris, Chimie ParisTech, Observatoire de Paris, Institut Curie, CNRS (French National Centre for Scientific Research), INSERM (French National Institute of Health and Medical Research), Collège de France, and Université Paris-Dauphine.
PSL emphasizes excellence in research with a strong orientation towards interdisciplinary studies across science, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and the arts. PSL maintains a robust international profile, with numerous partnerships and exchange programs with top universities worldwide. PSL consistently ranks highly, both nationally and internationally. It has been recognized for its exceptional performance in subjects like Mathematics and Physics.
About Université PSL
The idea that would become Université PSL emerged in the early 2000s, driven by a desire to create a world-class research university in Paris that fostered a more interdisciplinary, collaborative, and internationally focused approach to scholarship. Université PSL was officially established in 2010 as a COMUE ('Communauté d'universités et établissements'). This structure was a type of federation that brought together universities, grandes écoles, and research organizations. The COMUE structure proved successful, and in 2019, PSL formally gained the status of a full university.
PSL isn't a traditional university. It's a collegiate one, composed of 11 autonomous constituent institutions, which include: École normale supérieure (ENS), École nationale des chartes, École des hautes études en sciences sociales (EHESS), ESPCI Paris, Chimie ParisTech, Observatoire de Paris, Institut Curie, CNRS (French National Centre for Scientific Research), INSERM (French National Institute of Health and Medical Research), Collège de France, and Université Paris-Dauphine.
PSL emphasizes excellence in research with a strong orientation towards interdisciplinary studies across science, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and the arts. PSL maintains a robust international profile, with numerous partnerships and exchange programs with top universities worldwide. PSL consistently ranks highly, both nationally and internationally. It has been recognized for its exceptional performance in subjects like Mathematics and Physics.
Université PSL faculties and programs
Take a closer look at Université PSL
Université PSL doesn't have a traditional, centralized campus in the same way some universities do. Instead, it's a collegiate university, meaning it's a collection of distinct institutions situated across the heart of Paris. This decentralized structure offers a unique and dynamic student experience.
Latin Quarter is the historic core of PSL and houses prestigious institutions like the École Normale Supérieure (ENS - PSL), the Collège de France, the École des hautes études en sciences sociales (EHESS), the Chimie ParisTech, and the École nationale supérieure des Arts Décoratifs (ENSAD). Jourdan Campus is home to École Normale Supérieure (ENS - PSL) as well as research facilities, student housing, and sports complexes, while Porte Dauphine hosts Université Paris Dauphine - PSL, known for its strengths in economics, management, and mathematics.
Carré Richelieu is home to the École nationale des chartes and the Institut national d'histoire de l'art (INHA), specializing in art and cultural heritage, while Observatoire de Paris is the home of the Observatoire de Paris - PSL, focusing on astronomy and astrophysics.
PSL's strength lies in its ability to cross boundaries. Students can pursue unique programs combining sciences, arts, humanities, and social sciences, fostering a broader view of the world. As a research-intensive university, you'll encounter a wealth of opportunities to participate in ongoing research projects and learn alongside world-renowned researchers in your field. Many institutions within PSL maintain smaller cohorts, leading to more personalized learning experiences and close connections with faculty.
There are opportunities to connect with students from across the PSL network, widening your social circle and exposure to different perspectives. Paris isn't just a backdrop to your studies; it's an integral part. Museums, libraries, historical sites, and cultural events are all extensions of your learning environment. Paris has a substantial student population, meaning there are numerous events, activities, and places catering to student life and budgets.
- Odile Hembise Fanton d’Andon
- Emmanuel Roman
- Olivier François
- Anne Rigail
- Patrick Pouyanné
- Jacques Aschenbroich
- Jean-Laurent Bonnafé
- Tidjane Thiam
- Carlos Ghosn
- Anne Lauvergeon
- Thierry Desmarest
- Didier Lombard
Université PSL cost of living
Université PSL awards and achievements
- 28 Nobel Laureates
- 11 Fields Medallists
- 3 Abel Laureates
- 49 CNRS Gold Medallists
- 50 César Winners
- 79 Molière Winners
Université PSL Frequently Asked Questions
Université PSL Location
Paris, France
Université PSL Contact
Université PSL
Take a Closer Look
How to Get Into Université PSL
In your first meeting with a Dream Uni advisor, your academic background, goals, and expectations are analyzed in detail.
By assessing your English level and academic grades, your eligibility for the universities and colleges Dream Uni partners with is determined.
The application process is managed meticulously by our professional team, and your acceptance letter is delivered to you.
Why Université PSL?
Other Universities in France
Paris Institute of Political Studies (Sciences Po)
Institut Polytechnique de Paris
Sorbonne Université (Sorbonne University)
Popular Study-Abroad Cities
Get in touch with us
Fill out the form and a Dream Uni advisor will reach out to schedule your consultation.