- First of all, Sciences Po is geared towards the social sciences. There are several schools under the university which offer many different degree programs. The Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA) is particularly famous and has many alumni in top-level government positions in France and other countries as well and offers courses related to international relations, international security etc. Political Science related courses are also prestigious.
- Admissions are very competitive for French citizens, but for international students it’s much easier to get in as the university values diversity – they don’t get many applications from countries like India, so that should improve your chances of getting accepted.
- Tuition fees is a lot cheaper than countries like US/UK. The French government has both need-based and merit-based scholarships which are open to international students and have their own criteria. For example, chances of getting a scholarship in a field like human rights are good, while for courses like MBA the chances are next to zero. Scholarships for research-based positions are easier to get. Apart from that, the university also offers need-based and merit-based scholarships as well – at the time of application, the system will guide you on how to apply for them. Apart from that the French government has several student-friendly policies-such as rent-reimbursement (the exact amounts are evaluated on a case-to-case basis), free health insurance and even subsidized student housing for everybody! Icing on the cake, there are cafeterias which offer 1-euro meals and many other similar concessions for students which you can take advantage of!
- People who speak both English and French are much sought after for part-time jobs which will enable you to earn extra pocket-money as a student!
- Courses at Science Po are taught by experts in their fields. Courses are offered in both French and English. However, courses offered in French are vastly superior in quality to courses which are offered in English, even if the professor/instructor for the course is the same! There is a lot of focus on notes, grades, marks and professors don’t really monitor their students progress – you are responsible for your own progress. Some courses also put a lot of emphasis on experiential learning instead of just written exams!
- Getting a job is not easy, but unlike many other countries the government wants to make it easy for you to stay back. If you speak French your jobs opportunities improve. Even other countries such as Belgium, Switzerland, Luxembourg hire Sciences Po graduates. French degrees might not be in demand in your home-country because of lack of awareness-however French companies which have a sizeable presence in your country (for eg. L’Oréal in India) would love to hire you!
- In order to have a good social life, make friends, experience French culture (French cinema, art etc) it is absolutely imperative that you learn French, otherwise you will struggle with daily life as well! If you are looking to study in France, it is vital that you be proficient in French!
Good luck!
