Sciences Po logo

Sciences Po

Paris, FR · Ranking #4

Sciences Po (Institut d'Études Politiques de Paris) is one of Europe’s leading institutions in social sciences, located in Paris with additional campuses across France. Founded in 1872, it specializes in political science, international relations, economics, law, and public policy. The university is known for its interdisciplinary approach, combining humanities and quantitative methods, and for training future leaders in government, business, and international organizations. Sciences Po offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs with a strong emphasis on internationalization, requiring study abroad for many degrees. The institution maintains partnerships with over 470 universities worldwide and has a highly diverse student body, with nearly half of students coming from outside France. Its graduates are highly represented in global institutions and elite sectors.

Sciences Po logo

Sciences Po

About the university

Sciences Po (Institut d'Études Politiques de Paris) is one of Europe’s leading institutions in social sciences, located in Paris with additional campuses across France. Founded in 1872, it specializes in political science, international relations, economics, law, and public policy. The university is known for its interdisciplinary approach, combining humanities and quantitative methods, and for training future leaders in government, business, and international organizations. Sciences Po offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs with a strong emphasis on internationalization, requiring study abroad for many degrees. The institution maintains partnerships with over 470 universities worldwide and has a highly diverse student body, with nearly half of students coming from outside France. Its graduates are highly represented in global institutions and elite sectors.

Key information

  • Location: Paris, FR
  • Ranking #4
  • QS #242
  • THE #401
  • US News #261
  • National ranking #3
  • Institution type: private

Popular faculties

  • Political Science
  • International Relations
  • Economics
  • Public Policy
  • Law
  • Sociology

Programs (35)

  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Dentistry
  • Telecommunications
  • Business Administration
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science
  • Civil Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Pharmacy
  • Veterinary Science
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Economics
  • Law
  • Political Science
  • International Relations
  • Sociology
  • Anthropology
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Marketing
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Philosophy
  • History
  • Linguistics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Environmental Science
  • Fine Arts
  • Music

Student body

  • Total students: 14,000
  • Undergraduate: 5,000
  • Graduate: 7,000
  • International students: 48%

Campus life

Campus life at Sciences Po is highly dynamic and centered around intellectual debate, student engagement, and international exchange. With multiple campuses across France, each focuses on different world regions, creating a unique academic identity. Students actively participate in debates, conferences, simulations, and student organizations related to politics, economics, and social issues. The Paris campus offers proximity to government institutions, think tanks, and international organizations, enhancing academic and professional opportunities. Cultural diversity is strong, with nearly half of students being international.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €800 - €1,800 / per month

Housing options

  • Student residences
  • CROUS housing
  • private apartments
  • shared housing

Student clubs and organizations

  • Debate clubs
  • political associations
  • consulting clubs
  • cultural associations
  • NGOs

Sports

  • Football
  • basketball
  • tennis
  • rowing
  • athletics

Career & internships

Employment rate: 90%

Partner companies

  • United Nations
  • OECD
  • European Commission
  • McKinsey
  • BCG
  • Deloitte

Internships: Internships are a core component of Sciences Po programs, especially at the master’s level. Students complete mandatory internships in government institutions, NGOs, international organizations, consulting firms, and corporations. The school has strong connections with organizations such as the United Nations, OECD, European Commission, and major consulting firms. Career services provide coaching, job fairs, and networking opportunities. Many students secure job offers through internships, particularly in policy, consulting, and international affairs.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • Academic transcripts
  • CV
  • motivation letter
  • recommendation letters
  • language proficiency certificate
  • interview

Tuition costs

  • €3,000 - €20,000 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 8.00%
  • Scholarships available: Sciences Po offers extensive financial aid based on both merit and financial need. Tuition fees are income-based, allowing some students (especially EU students) to pay reduced or zero fees. International students can apply for scholarships such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, Emile Boutmy Scholarship (specific to Sciences Po), and Erasmus+ grants. The institution aims to ensure accessibility and diversity by supporting students from various socioeconomic backgrounds. Many scholarships cover tuition partially or fully, and some include living stipends. Early application is essential due to high competition.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1872
  • Teaching languages: French, English, french, english
  • Study formats: offline

Contact