An Overview of Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University is a world-class research institute formed by the merger of two leading French universities, Paris-Sorbonne and Pierre & Marie Curie.The university has been ranked #1 in Best Global Universities in France by US News and World Report, demonstrating its consistency as the most popular and sought-after institute.
The university has a lenient admission policy, with a 100% acceptance rate. The university currently has 43,585 students enrolled in various programs. There are 8,687 international students, accounting for 20% of the total student population. To apply for programs at Sorbonne University, international students must submit their GPA, official transcripts, financial documentation, and course specific requirements.
Sorbonne University, known for its selectivity, is one of the most sought-after universities by students and researchers from France, Europe, and French-speaking countries. Most notably, Marie Curie, who arrived in Paris from Poland in 1891 and joined the Sorbonne’s faculty of sciences, was the first woman to become a professor at the Sorbonne. Marie Curie and her husband Pierre Curie are regarded as the founders of Sorbonne University’s modern Faculty of Science and Engineering.
The majority of university courses are taught in French, and any student applying to higher education must demonstrate their proficiency in the language. It is recommended that all international applicants have a B2 or C1 level of French proficiency. Unless they have a French baccalaureate, all candidates for the department of Medicine must have a level C1 in French.
The history of Sorbonne University is inextricably linked to the history of the University of Paris, which was founded in the 13th century, and the Sorbonne, which became its main center of excellence. The university offers a wide range of courses, from bachelor’s to doctoral degrees.
Sorbonne University’s academic year begins in September and is divided into two semesters. The first term concludes in late January, and the second in early June. Sorbonne University admissions are based on the Campus France website’s deadlines. The deadline for ECF applications is January 17, 2021. Non-European students enrolling in a higher education cycle in France for the first time must currently pay annual registration fees of € 2,770 for a license and € 3,770 for masters.
What Is The Ranking of Sorbonne University?
- US News and World Report ranked it first among global universities in France in 2021.
- US News and World Report ranked it 43rd among Best Global Universities in 2021.
- US News and World Report ranks it tenth among the best global universities in Europe for 2021.
- QS World University Rankings 2021, ranked 83rd.
- THE World Rankings 2021 ranks graduates from #141 to 150 in terms of employability.
- THE World University Rankings 2021 place it at number 87 in the world.
- THE World University Rankings 2021 ranked 201-300 in the Impact Rankings 2021.
Sorbonne University is a world-class research university that offers a broad range of disciplines in the arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and medicine. Sorbonne University provides a diverse range of courses ranging from bachelor’s to doctoral degrees in the arts, humanities, science, and engineering, as well as medical and paramedical degrees. The academic year is typically split up into semesters. Tuition for some bachelor’s programs is less than $1,000 USD for international students.
Where Is Sorbonne University Located?
Sorbonne University (French: Université Sorbonne; la Sorbonne: ‘the Sorbonne’) is a public research university in Paris, France. The institution’s history dates back to 1257, when Robert de Sorbon founded Sorbonne College as one of Europe’s first universities.
Sorbonne University is regarded as one of Europe’s and the world’s most prestigious universities. It has a world-class reputation in academia and industry, with 33 Nobel Prizes, six Fields Medals, and one Turing Award among its alumni and professors as of 2021.
People in Paris are on the cutting edge of many things. Business professionals, politicians and political scientists, researchers, scientists, artists, fashion designers, and others are frequently among the most respected and well-known individuals on a local, regional, and global scale. You can join the ranks of people making their mark on the global stage by studying abroad in Paris.
Paris is a haven for both intellectuals and artists. Paris defies stereotypes of stuffy intellectuals and wacky artists, proving that it is an environment in which anyone can shine and thrive.
Some of Europe’s most famous museums, landmarks, and monuments can be found in Paris. You are encouraged to unleash your inner tourist as a study abroad student! Many study abroad Paris programs include visits to important landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the National Museum of the Renaissance, and others. Other students go to such places on their own. When you study abroad in Paris, you will have the freedom to visit some of the world’s most beloved places, whether in a group or on your own.
Paris is a visual treat. If you want to be stimulated on a daily basis, Paris is the place to be. Colors, textures, shapes, and designs abound in the city, reaching into your soul and tickling your heart strings. A daily walk will show you the many visually stunning aspects of Paris that are hidden in seemingly ordinary neighborhoods, well-known tourist destinations, or simple street corners. Paris is certainly a sight to behold.
Paris’ atmosphere is as opulent as its cuisine. Paris’s rich and vibrant atmosphere will overpower you with each step you take. The sounds, smells, sights, and sensations of the city all combine to create a sensational experience that will not be forgotten. Speaking, reading, writing, and comprehending French are excellent skills to have in your arsenal. Being fluent in French will boost your resume and prepare you to work in a variety of countries where French is spoken or in demand. It is also one of the official languages of many international organizations (including the United Nations) and can help prepare you to work in a variety of international and multinational settings.
Is Sorbonne University Free?
Sorbonne University provides education at a low cost when compared to other institutions of comparable standing. Tuition is free for both domestic and international students, but there is a registration fee required to gain admission to the university. The following is a table and summary of the cost of attendance for the academic year 2021-22:
| Type of Fees | Amount in Euros |
| Registration fees | Bachelor’s: 170 Master’s: 243 Engineering: 601 PhD: 380 |
| CVEC fees | 92 |
| Tuition fees | 100 |
| Transport | 450 |
| Accomodation | 4500 |
| Health insurance | 500 |
| Total | 5,812 to 6,243 |
Scholarships at the Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University provides financial aid to incoming international students based on merit, financial background, extracurricular activities, and community service. International candidates are given scholarships by each department separately. CROUS also provides financial assistance to international students. When applying for CROUS financial aid, keep the following information in mind.
Students who are under the age of 28 on the first day of classes in September are eligible. For registration in the first year of higher education, students must have a title or diploma equivalent to the French baccalaureate. The applicant must have a temporary residence card or a card issued in accordance with the code for foreigners’ entry and stay.
| Name of the scholarship | Eligibility | Deadlines | Amount offered | How to apply? |
| DAAD excellence scholarship | Doctoral or research assistant. Finance must be contacted for at least 4 months before the conference. | Program specific | 500 euros per stay (daily allowance of 80 euros plus travel allowance of 250 euros. | Marion Rolland from DAAD |
| Globalink Research Internship | Undergraduate student | August to September. | Allowance on living expenses. | Programs must be chosen from the online database. The official website can be referred for details. |
| Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship | Candidate should be a master 1 or master 2 student. They should be fluent in German language. | Variable | 500 Euros/month. | Official website |
| Internship in Medicine | Candidates should be in 4th/5th/6th year of medicine | Directly through the university. | 60 EUR / month in 4th year, 320 EUR / month in 5th year, 390 EUR / month in 6th year + reimbursement of 50% of your transport ticket). | Official website |
Admission Requirements For Sorbonne University
How to Apply for a Place at Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University International students can apply online through the UCAS Portal or the university website.
To get started with the Sorbonne University admissions process, applicants must complete the following steps:
- Use the university’s website to apply online.
- Complete every field on the enrollment form for the program you want to join.
- Examine your application and upload any required documents.
Documents Required for Sorbonne University Admission
- Complete the application form and submit official academic transcripts.
- Passport photocopy
- Resume
- two genuine passport photos
Acceptance of Exams by The University
The eligibility requirements for enrollment at Sorbonne University may differ. As a result, before beginning the application process, candidates should carefully review the course requirements.
| Exams | Minimum Score Required |
| GMAT | 550 |
| IELTS | 6 |
| TOEFL | 83 |
| PTE | 63 |
How Is The Hostel Facility At Sorbonne University
The historical campus of Sorbonne University is located in the Latin Quarter, in the historic central Sorbonne building. Sorbonne University is located in the heart of France and is easily accessible. The university is made up of ten academic departments and four institutes. There are numerous conference centers available for rent.
The Pierre and Marie Curie Campus, which is part of the Faculty of Sciences and Engineering, is a rental space for various events. Over 80 sports, including tennis and volleyball, as well as classes and sports for people with disabilities, are offered all year long. Students can also participate in the Sorbonne University sports organization. According to the French University Sports Federation (FFSU).
Accommodation at Sorbonne University
There is no on-campus housing at Sorbonne University. It provides online housing as a rental platform for student residences, private homes, and shared flats.
The Paris Crous Accommodation is usually reserved for exchange students arriving at Sorbonne University. Students can apply for a Crous accommodation by creating a DSE between January 15 and May 31 of the year prior to applying to Sorbonne University.
- The cost of lodging in Paris Crous ranges between 250 and 550 Euros (approximately 23,000-48,000 INR).
- The Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris provides housing for exchange students (CiuP).
- Staying at CiuP costs international students between 500 and 800 Euros (approximately 43,000 and 70,000 INR). ViSALE housing is intended for people aged 30 and under.
International students must purchase housing insurance. Housing insurance covers all damages or potential burglaries and is the bare minimum for a tenant. To detect any breach of contract, a security deposit is required. When a student signs a lease, the landlord will typically request a security deposit. The Personal Housing Assistance Fund (APL) is a housing assistance program available to applicants.
What is Sorbonne University Known For?
Alumni of the Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University has more than 400,000 alumni worldwide. Because the university has a large student population, it produces a large number of graduates each year. There are several alumni associations, such as the CELSA Sorbonne University Alumni Association and the ISUP Alumni Association.
Alumni are able to attend conferences, visit campuses, interact with new incoming students, and use libraries. They can also advance their careers or expand their businesses by contacting Sorbonne University researchers. They have the opportunity to raise funds for the ‘Welcome to the Future’ program.
The university has produced extremely successful and well-known alumni who are well-known researchers, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and so on. Among the institute’s well-known and influential alumni are:
- Marie Curie was a physicist and chemist who pioneered radioactivity research.
- Henri Poincare was a mathematician, physicist, and engineer.
- Roland Barthes is a French literary critic and essayist.
- Vera Wang is a well-known fashion designer.
Placements at the Sorbonne University
According to Times Higher Education, the institute ranks #63 in terms of employability. Sorbonne University was ranked #141-150 in the QS Top Universities Rankings, 2021, and has seen an increase in rankings for employability in recent years.
Professional integration is 93%, with 35% being doctoral students. 94% of bachelor’s degree holders continue their education. The following jobs were obtained by master’s students within 30 months of graduation:
| Job | Percentage of graduates |
| Executives (including civil service ‘A’ executives) | 86 |
| Private sector | 70 |
| Permanent contracts and civil servants | 81 |
| Jobs in line with level of training | 85 |
| Jobs in line with content of training | 73 |
So far, Sorbonne University has produced 4,132 publications and 51,702 citations. At the university, teaching and research are inextricably linked. International students can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees at the university. In addition to teaching, research is organized around three major disciplinary areas, with 36 research teams and ten doctoral schools.
According to several ranking surveys, Sorbonne University is unquestionably one of the best institutes in France in terms of educational quality and research outputs. Despite its academic excellence, the university has a very generous acceptance rate, attracting students from all over the world in large numbers. Sorbonne University has unquestionably set a standard in comparison to other private institutes around the world, and is thus regarded as one of the best universities for higher education in the entire world.
