Sorbonne University
France
Sorbonne University
Paris, France
Founded
1257 (Modern: 2018)
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
53,400+
Nobel Laureates
33
Discover Sorbonne University: A Legacy of Academic Excellence in the Heart of Paris
Discover Sorbonne University: A Legacy of Academic Excellence in the Heart of Paris
Sorbonne University is a leading public research university in Paris, France, officially established in 2018 through the merger of Paris-Sorbonne University (Paris IV) and Pierre and Marie Curie University (Paris VI). However, its roots stretch back to the 13th century and the founding of the Collège de Sorbonne in 1257 by theologian Robert de Sorbon, making it one of the oldest academic institutions in the world.
Today, Sorbonne University is composed of three main faculties: Arts and Humanities, Science and Engineering, and Medicine. The university offers its 53,400 students comprehensive disciplinary coverage spanning the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and health sciences, with approximately 10,200 international students and 4,400 doctoral candidates.
With more than 130 research laboratories and over 3,400 professor-researchers working alongside 3,100 research partners from major French research organizations, Sorbonne University is a powerhouse of scientific discovery and scholarly achievement. Its alumni and faculty have earned 33 Nobel Prizes, six Fields Medals, and one Turing Award, cementing its reputation as one of Europe's foremost centers of learning.
Key Milestones
- 1257: Robert de Sorbon founds the Collège de Sorbonne as a theological college for poor students, officially recognized by King Louis IX.
- 1635: Cardinal Richelieu commissions architect Jacques Lemercier to renovate the Sorbonne, including the construction of the iconic baroque domed chapel.
- 1911: Marie Curie, the first female professor at the Sorbonne, wins the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for her pioneering research on radioactivity.
- 2018: Paris-Sorbonne University and Pierre and Marie Curie University officially merge to form the new Sorbonne University.
Academic Structure and Faculties at Sorbonne University
Academic Structure and Faculties at Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University is organized into three major faculties that together cover the full spectrum of academic disciplines. This structure encourages interdisciplinary collaboration while maintaining deep expertise in each field. Students can pursue monodisciplinary, bi-disciplinary, and interdisciplinary programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.
Faculty of Arts and Humanities
One of France's largest arts and humanities faculties, covering languages, literature, philosophy, history, geography, musicology, and the arts. The faculty is based at the historic Sorbonne building in the Latin Quarter.
- Philosophy and Literature
- History and Geography
- Modern Languages and Foreign Civilizations
Faculty of Science and Engineering
A major research-intensive faculty with 79 laboratories in the Paris region, most in association with the CNRS. It covers mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, and engineering.
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Physics and Engineering
- Chemistry and Life Sciences
Faculty of Medicine (Health Sciences)
Based at the historic Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital campus, this faculty delivers programs in medicine, biomedical sciences, and related health disciplines. It houses the Paris Brain Institute and the Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition.
- General Medicine
- Biomedical Sciences
- Public Health and Epidemiology
Doctoral Schools
Sorbonne University operates 10 doctoral schools supporting approximately 4,400 doctoral candidates across all disciplines. These schools provide structured research training and international collaboration opportunities.
- Doctoral Program in Sciences
- Doctoral Program in Humanities
- Doctoral Program in Medical Research
Institut Henri Poincaré (Mathematics)
A renowned research institute dedicated to mathematics and theoretical physics, affiliated with Sorbonne University. It serves as a global hub for mathematical research and scientific exchange.
- Advanced Mathematics Research
- Theoretical Physics
- Mathematical Modeling
Interdisciplinary and International Programs
Sorbonne University offers innovative dual-degree and interdisciplinary programs that merge disciplines such as science and history or law and art history. Several programs are specifically designed for international students and taught in English.
- Dual-Degree Programs (Science and Humanities)
- International Master's Programs (English-taught)
- European and Global Studies
Admission Requirements for Sorbonne University
Admission Requirements for Sorbonne University
Undergraduate Admission
- Academic QualificationHigh school diploma equivalent to the French Baccalauréat
- Language ProficiencyFrench: TCF, DELF B2, or DALF required for French-taught programs
- Application PlatformEU/EEA students apply via Parcoursup; non-EU via Campus France (Études en France)
- English ProficiencyIELTS or TOEFL accepted for English-taught programs
- Supporting DocumentsTranscripts, motivation letter, CV, and program-specific prerequisites
Graduate Admission
- Academic QualificationBachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field
- Language ProficiencyFrench B2+ for French-taught programs; IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+ for English-taught programs
- Application PlatformEU applicants via Mon Master; non-EU via Campus France or eCandidat
- Research ProposalRequired for doctoral and some research-oriented master's programs
- Recommended GPAStrong academic record; contact the university for specific program requirements
Non-EU students residing abroad apply through the Études en France platform, typically from November to mid-December.
EU and EEA students apply through the Parcoursup platform from mid-January to mid-March.
EU and French residents apply for master's programs through the Mon Master platform from mid-February to mid-March.
Non-EU graduate applicants apply through Campus France or eCandidat. Deadlines vary by local Campus France office.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Sorbonne University
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Sorbonne University
As a French public university, Sorbonne University benefits from significant government subsidies, making tuition remarkably affordable compared to international peers. Registration fees are set annually by ministerial decree. Non-EU international students may be subject to differentiated tuition fees depending on the program.
| Fee Category | EU/EEA Students | Non-EU International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's (Annual Registration) | EUR 175 | EUR 2,770 (differentiated fee) |
| Master's (Annual Registration) | EUR 250 | EUR 3,770 (differentiated fee) |
| Doctoral (Annual Registration) | EUR 391 | EUR 391 |
| Student Life Contribution (CVEC) | EUR 103 | EUR 103 |
| Total | EUR 278 - EUR 494 per year | EUR 494 - EUR 3,873 per year |
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
A prestigious French government scholarship managed by Campus France, designed to attract top international students to master's and doctoral programs at French universities including Sorbonne University.
- Coverage: Monthly allowance of EUR 1,181 (Master's) or EUR 1,700 (PhD), plus travel and housing support
- Eligibility: Non-French international students under 30 (Master's) or 35 (PhD)
- Fields: Science and Technology, Humanities and Social Sciences, Law, Economics, and Management
CROUS Need-Based Grants
The French student services organization CROUS offers need-based financial aid to eligible students, including international students meeting specific residency and age criteria.
- Eligibility: Students under 28 meeting income and residency criteria
- Coverage: Tuition fee exemption and monthly living stipend
- Application: Apply through the CROUS Dossier Social Étudiant (DSE) platform
Campus and Facilities at Sorbonne University
Campus and Facilities at Sorbonne University
Sorbonne University's campuses are spread across some of the most historic and vibrant neighborhoods of Paris. From the iconic Sorbonne building in the Latin Quarter to the modern Jussieu campus and the Pitié-Salpêtrière medical campus, students benefit from a unique blend of centuries-old heritage and cutting-edge research facilities.
The main campus in the Latin Quarter houses the Faculty of Arts and Humanities in a building dating back to the 17th century, featuring the Grand Amphithéâtre and the iconic Richelieu Chapel.
Home to the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the Jussieu campus features modern laboratories, the Zamansky Tower, and direct access to the Jardin des Plantes botanical garden.
The Faculty of Medicine is located at one of Europe's largest hospitals, offering students direct access to clinical training, the Paris Brain Institute, and advanced simulation facilities.
Housing and Student Services
Student Housing
Sorbonne University provides limited on-campus housing primarily reserved for international and exchange students, and assists all students in finding accommodation through partnerships with CROUS residences and private housing platforms.
- CROUS student residences across Paris
- Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris
- Private housing assistance and partnerships
Libraries and Research Facilities
The university maintains extensive library collections and research infrastructure, including the Serpente Library with over 50,000 works, scientific collections of minerals and historical instruments, and state-of-the-art laboratories.
- Serpente Library and Bibliothèque de la Sorbonne
- 130+ research laboratories with CNRS partnerships
- Eight notable scientific collections including minerals and historical photographic plates
Student Life at Sorbonne University
Student Life at Sorbonne University
Student life at Sorbonne University is enriched by the vibrant cultural scene of Paris and a diverse international community. With students from over 150 countries, the university fosters a cosmopolitan atmosphere through numerous clubs, cultural events, seminars, and social activities designed to help students integrate and thrive.
Paris: A City of Culture, History, and Opportunity
Paris: A City of Culture, History, and Opportunity
Living and Studying in Paris
Paris is one of the world's great cultural capitals, offering an extraordinary blend of history, art, gastronomy, and innovation. As a student at Sorbonne University, you will be immersed in the Latin Quarter, the historic heart of Parisian academic life, with easy access to museums, theaters, parks, and a world-class public transportation network.
Cultural Capital
Paris is home to over 130 museums including the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay, plus countless galleries, theaters, and concert halls. Students under 26 enjoy free or reduced entry to most national museums.
Latin Quarter Heritage
The university's main campus sits in the historic Latin Quarter, surrounded by centuries of academic tradition, bookshops, cafés, and the iconic Panthéon and Luxembourg Gardens.
Global Career Hub
Paris is a major global center for finance, technology, fashion, and international organizations. The city hosts the headquarters of UNESCO, OECD, and numerous multinational corporations.
Transportation and Connectivity
Paris offers an extensive metro, bus, and RER network, plus high-speed TGV rail connections to major European cities. Students benefit from discounted Navigo transit passes.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Notable Employers and Organizations Hiring Sorbonne Graduates
Practical Information for Prospective Students
Practical Information for Prospective Students
For International Students
Sorbonne University provides a dedicated welcome office for international students, offering orientation sessions, administrative assistance, and guidance on settling in Paris.
Non-EU students must apply for a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS) through the French consulate in their home country. The university assists with the required documentation and Campus France procedures.
The university offers French language courses and cultural integration programs to help international students improve their language skills and adapt to academic life in France.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Sorbonne University: Worldwide Rankings
Sorbonne University: Worldwide Rankings
Sorbonne University consistently ranks among the top universities globally, recognized for its outstanding research output, academic reputation, and the impact of its graduates. The university performs particularly strongly in natural sciences, mathematics, and humanities.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #10 |
| Astronomy and Astrophysics | US News Global Subject Rankings | #3 |
| Arts and Humanities | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 50 |
| Physics | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #28 |
Features
The specialization of teaching, through the creation of dedicated chairs, contributes to the development of new disciplines and new fields of research and experimentation.

Accommodation
Accommodation service is available\n

Work While Studying
Students can work while studying\n

Co-op/Internship Participation
There is an internship service\n
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
October - June
Location
21 rue de l’École de médecine, 75006 Paris
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