Paris-Sorbonne University
Programme Details
Minimum mark 60%
Level Undergraduate
Language/s B2 French
Agreement Scope Language and Linguistic Science department exchange
Philosophy department exchange
Exchange Places
3 full year places for Language & Linguistic Science students for 2025/26
1 full year place for Philosophy students for 2025/26
Overview
About:
The University of Paris-Sorbonne, also known as Paris IV, is consistently ranked as one of the top universities of France. After the dissolution of the University of Paris in 1970, Paris-Sorbonne inherited its prestigious Faculty of Humanities, making the University one of the top internationally in humanities teaching and research. It has campuses across Paris, and also one in Abu Dhabi. The student population stands at around 23,000.
Highlights:
With a rich history connected to the University of Paris, founded in 1150, the University of Paris-Sorbonne is one of the most prestigious and respected universities in France and Europe. Specialising in the Humanities, the University has consistently been placed in the top 20 World University Rankings. The central location in the Latin Quarter of Paris means students study and live at the heart of the capital city, and makes the campus well-connected to other parts of the city. Next door to the Jardins de Luxembourg, the University of Paris-Sorbonne is at the centre of Parisian culture.
Location:
5th arrondissement, Paris, France
Academic information
Courses / Modules:
In the Faculty of Arts & Humanities, Paris-Sorbonne University offers a wide-range of modules from French language, history, philosophy, art history and archeology.
To find out about the modules and see what else is on offer, Paris-Sorbonne University have compiled a course catalogue to explore. Please note that there are no classes reserved exclusively for exchange students.
Credit (Full-time Load per semester):
You must take a full credit load while on exchange. Paris-Sorbonne University uses the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) to show credit values. 30 ECTS is the equivalent to 60 York credits, and 60 ECTS is the equivalent to 120 York credits.
Students should take at least 50% of their credits, in the department of their agreement (e.g. Philosophy and the Philosophy Department). The rest you may be able to choose from outside of your department. You should check this with your department at York.
Teaching Periods:
The academic year is divided into two semesters. The first semester runs from the beginning of September until Christmas. The spring semester runs from January until May.
There are two weeks of exams in both semesters. For the first semester, these run from the end of December and start again in early January after the Christmas break. In the second semester, exams take place during two weeks of May. There are also in-class assessments, like coursework, throughout both semesters.
There is a two week break at Christmas and Easter, and a one-week break in the middle of both semesters.
Language:
Almost all modules are taught in French, and all students need at least a level B2 in French. There may be opportunities for exchange students to take part in French classes - check with your department if you are able to take such courses for credit.
Student life
Accommodation:
The University has access to a number of rooms in university halls of residence, but they cannot meet all demand and therefore you are not guaranteed a place in university accommodation. It is therefore very important to research accommodation options well in advance before arriving in Paris.
There is some university accommodation reserved for international students. The rent for these rooms is between 310 and 575 EUR per month. If you wish to apply for this you will be able to submit a housing application form as part of the exchange application process to Paris-Sorbonne. The university website on accommodation offers more information on how to apply.
For private accommodation, Studapart is the website suggested by Paris-Sorbonne university for students to find rooms to rent and private housing. Room rentals can vary between 500-800 EUR per month.
Orientation / Welcome week:
In the first week of each semester, there are welcome weeks where international students can meet their fellow exchange students as well as get their student card, explore the university, and learn more about how to sign up to classes.
Support Services:
The Association Parismus is a student-run body from all disciplines and faculties who welcome all the international students. Parismus organise social activities and events such as cultural visits, soirées, and language cafés.
There is also the International Relations Office on campus who can help with any academic, administrative, or cultural issues and questions.
Visas:
You may need a visa to study in France. If you are a UK National you must refer to the Travel Advice page for France and its Living in France guide to check on any visa requirements, and raise any queries directly with the relevant embassy/consulate. If you are not a UK national you should check equivalent advice for your home country. UK passport holders planning studies in France can also refer to France-Visas for more information .
Health insurance:
Students travelling to Europe may be able to apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or in some circumstances a new UK-issued European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which gives the right to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in the EU. You are strongly recommended to obtain a GHIC / EHIC if eligible. To check your eligibility and find out how to apply if you are eligible, go to the NHS page on Applying for healthcare cover abroad (GHIC and EHIC).
Travel insurance:
If you complete the Travel Authorisation process and are approved by the University of York to participate in this programme, you will be covered by the University's Travel Insurance Policy. This is a complimentary policy to cover you for the duration of your University of York mobility experience. Please refer to the Insurance website for all travel insurance queries. You may be required to obtain health insurance valid during your exchange.
Student experiences
Alice, History and French, Year Abroad 2023/24
"Being abroad has taught me a lot about myself as a person from how I react and adapt to certain situations to what I want out of my future both in my academic career and looking beyond that. As I settled into life abroad I learnt valuable social and life skills that have made it a very rewarding experience. Financially france has been a challenge but again, as you settle into life in France you begin to learn very quickly local “hacks and tricks” to make the most of your budget and still enjoy life as a student."
Have a look at some more student stories on the Global Opportunities website!
Top Tips for Studying in France
Please note: these tips have been provided by students who have studied abroad - Global Opportunities recommends that you use these as a guide only and do your own research on what is best for you.
Money and Banking:
Monzo: This is a great thing to sign up to, you won't be charged for any conversion rates when you pay by card or withdraw money. It also means you don't have to set up another bank account in the host country, saving you lots of time! It is also great for budgeting.
Staying Connected:
Phone contracts: The phone network Voxi has unlimited data and no roaming charges in France.
Make plans: Making plans to meet up with your friends from York who are also in France keeps you connected to that bit of familiarity, especially good if you are missing home. It also means you have something exciting to look forward to, which always helps.
Post: A little thing like sending a postcard to your friends or family back home can make all the difference. Not only is it a thoughtful touch, but it keeps you connected to anyone you might be missing.
Food:
Canteen: The university canteen serves meals at a great price, around 3 euros. They also have café style canteens on the campus where you can get cheaper coffee and sandwiches.
Izly: If you sign up for an Izly card, you can transfer money credit to it and if you pay using it, you can get discounts, similar to Yoyo in York (only for university canteens).
Supermarkets: Supermarkets in France are usually affordable and varied - Casino, Carrefour, Aldi and Lidl are the more affordable options whereas Monoprix and Franprix are slightly more expensive.
Paperwork and bureaucracy:
Be prepared for paperwork: France is synonymous with bureaucracy and the university seems to be quite behind York in terms of digitization. Do not be worried if you don't have a printer, there are print shops, and also university printers, that you can use.
Remember your supervisor: The paperwork is concentrated mainly at the beginning and end of each semester, so don't worry too much. Your supervisor both at your host institution and York are there to help as well if you feel stuck or overwhelmed.
Be organised: Making a list of what you need to do, for when, and who needs to sign and work through it. This will make it more manageable and seem less overwhelming.
What I wished I'd known...
Timetabling: Unlike York, you will be responsible for building your timetable, including choosing your modules and contacting the teacher to make sure you can join. Your supervisor will be able to help you if you need it.
Formality: Universities in France are more formal than the UK regarding the teacher/student dynamic. You must always use "vous" or Monsieur/Madame when addressing a teacher and take off hats/scarves/coats when sitting in a classroom.
Useful links
Sorbonne Université Fact Sheet 2024-2025.pdfContact Global Opportunities
Global Opportunities - Find us in Derwent College
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