Université de Rennes logo

Université de Rennes

Rennes, FR · Ranking #650

The University of Rennes is a large public research university in Rennes, Brittany, France, formed in its current experimental structure in 2023 by merging the former University of Rennes 1 with five grandes écoles including EHESP, ENSCR, ENS Rennes, INSA Rennes and Sciences Po Rennes. It offers multidisciplinary programmes across sciences, health, humanities, social sciences, engineering and management. The university is committed to addressing societal challenges in areas such as environment, digital technology and global health, and emphasizes research excellence, innovation and international cooperation. Its campuses and research units collaborate with national organisations such as CNRS, INRAE, Inria and Inserm, supporting intensive research and student experience. The institution also engages strongly in international mobility and partnerships, with programmes taught in English and Erasmus+ opportunities.

Université de Rennes logo

Université de Rennes

About the university

The University of Rennes is a large public research university in Rennes, Brittany, France, formed in its current experimental structure in 2023 by merging the former University of Rennes 1 with five grandes écoles including EHESP, ENSCR, ENS Rennes, INSA Rennes and Sciences Po Rennes. It offers multidisciplinary programmes across sciences, health, humanities, social sciences, engineering and management. The university is committed to addressing societal challenges in areas such as environment, digital technology and global health, and emphasizes research excellence, innovation and international cooperation. Its campuses and research units collaborate with national organisations such as CNRS, INRAE, Inria and Inserm, supporting intensive research and student experience. The institution also engages strongly in international mobility and partnerships, with programmes taught in English and Erasmus+ opportunities.

Key information

  • Location: Rennes, FR
  • Ranking #650
  • QS #730
  • THE #801
  • US News #493
  • National ranking #18
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Science
  • Health
  • Law
  • Economics & Management
  • Engineering
  • Social Sciences
  • Environmental Science
  • Computer Science

Programs (9)

  • Computer Science
  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Biology
  • Environmental Science
  • Law
  • Economics
  • History
  • Philosophy

Student body

  • Total students: 35,000
  • Undergraduate: 20,000
  • Graduate: 10,000
  • International students: 10%

Campus life

Campus life at the University of Rennes is vibrant and diverse across its nine sites, combining academics with a rich range of extracurricular activities, clubs and social events. Students participate in cultural celebrations, music, theatre, and sports, and engage with initiatives around sustainability and community engagement. Many student organisations, including Erasmus Student Network and subject‑focused clubs, host workshops, trips and networking events that foster social interaction and personal growth. Rennes itself is widely recognised as a dynamic student city with affordable living costs, lively nightlife and cultural festivals that enhance the overall university experience.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €450 - €900 / per month

Housing options

  • Student dormitories
  • Private apartments
  • Shared flats

Student clubs and organizations

  • Erasmus Student Network
  • Cultural Clubs
  • Sports Associations

Sports

  • Football
  • Rugby
  • Basketball
  • University sport teams

Career & internships

Employment rate: 80%

Partner companies

  • Renault
  • Airbus
  • Capgemini
  • L’Oréal
  • Sanofi
  • Orange
  • BNP Paribas
  • Crédit Agricole
  • TotalEnergies

Internships: The University of Rennes integrates internships and professional placements into many of its degree programmes, offering students opportunities to gain real‑world experience in industry, research institutes, healthcare settings and public organisations. Partnerships with regional and international employers support placements in sectors such as engineering, business, IT, healthcare and environmental sciences. Career services provide guidance on securing internships, CV development and interview preparation. Erasmus+ and exchange programmes further expand internship possibilities abroad, supporting students’ transition to successful careers.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • High School Diploma/Transcript
  • Proof of language proficiency (French/English)
  • Motivation Letter
  • CV
  • Faculty‑specific requirements

Tuition costs

  • €170 - €4,000 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 70.00%
  • Scholarships available: The University of Rennes offers various scholarship schemes including government‑funded grants for EU and international students, merit‑based awards, mobility scholarships such as Erasmus+, and faculty‑level funding to support research projects. These opportunities aim to enhance access to study, support living costs, and encourage international exchange. Career and student services guide applicants through eligibility and application processes, and external foundations may provide additional support for academic achievement or research engagement.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1460
  • Teaching languages: French, English, english, french

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