Université Paris-Saclay

Université Paris-Saclay is a public research university on the Saclay plateau south of Paris, formed by bringing together universities, grandes écoles, and national research institutes into a single campus cluster. It is one of the largest concentrations of scientific research in France.

Why students choose Paris-Saclay

• Exceptional strength in mathematics, physics, and the natural sciences.
• Close integration with major French national research organisations.
• A wide catalogue of master’s and doctoral programmes, including English-taught options at postgraduate level.
• Strong links to the surrounding science and technology cluster, useful for internships and research placements.
• Lower public-university fees than the selective grandes écoles, subject to the differentiated fee rules for non-EU students.

Campus and location

The campus sits outside central Paris but is connected to the city by regional rail, so students can access Paris while living in a quieter, more affordable area. Much of the teaching is in French at undergraduate level, with more English-taught provision in postgraduate research programmes.

What students say

Students commonly praise Paris-Saclay’s research environment, particularly in mathematics, physics, and engineering, with several noting the value of close ties to major national research organisations for internships and thesis projects. A recurring theme is that the campus’s location outside central Paris, while well connected by rail, means a quieter day-to-day student experience than institutions based in the city centre. International students in postgraduate programmes often cite the strong academic rigour as a highlight, alongside a noticeably more affordable cost of living than central Paris.

Official website: https://www.universite-paris-saclay.fr

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