There are some of the world’s best universities in Paris. What do you know about them? When you search for “Paris University”, the results on the internet may make you confused. Is Paris University the first university in Paris? What is the origin of Sorbonne University? How many public universities are in Paris? Read on and find the ultimate answer in our blog.
Overview: Universities in Paris
There are numerous public and private universities in Paris. Public universities are typically funded by the government and offer relatively low tuition fees, while private universities provide more personalized education and a range of additional services.
In total, Paris hosts over 300 higher education institutions, including some of the world’s top-ranked universities, such as Sorbonne University and Paris Tech. These institutions offer a diverse array of programs and attract students from around the globe.
Most schools in Paris use the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), which makes it easier for international students to transfer courses. In addition, many schools offer English programs to meet non-French-speaking students’ needs.
Public Universities in Paris
The University of Paris was originally established in the early 12th century. During this period, the Catholic Church in Paris held a monopoly on education. The institution was initially known as the Sorbonne Theological Seminary, which was founded in 1257. It wasn’t until 1261 that it officially adopted the name “University of Paris.”
The University of Paris was abolished in 1793 as a result of Napoleon’s educational reforms. It was reinstated in 1869. In 1968, significant student protests, known as the May Storm, demanded greater academic freedom and democracy. To enhance the quality of education, the University of Paris was divided into 13 public universities with autonomy.
The 13 universities can be divided into 3 categories:
1. Comprehensive universities: University of Paris I, University of Paris II, Paris Diderot University, University of Paris X, PARIS XI and Sorbonne Paris North University.
2. Liberal arts universities: University of Paris III, Paris IV, and Paris VIII;
3. Science and engineering universities: University of Paris V, Paris VI, Paris IX, Paris XII.
10 Top Universities in Paris
1. Université Paris I Panthéon-Sorbonne
QS World University Rankings 2025: #283
The University of Paris I, also known as the University of Paris Pantheon-Sorbonne, boasts a history spanning 800 years. As one of the good univestieis in Paris, it comprises 26 campuses, 3 faculties, and 9 research centers. Its main campus is strategically situated in the Latin Quarter on the left bank of the Seine, adjacent to the Pantheon. Its advantage disciplines are Archaeology, Classical and Ancient History, History, Modern Languages and Philosophy.
2. Université Paris II Panthéon-Assas
QS World University Rankings 2025: #901-950
The University of Paris II, also known as Pantheon-Assas, is located in the Latin Quarter near the Jardin du Luxembourg. It has France’s most prestigious law school, recognized as the leading institution for legal education in the country, featuring renowned jurists. The university has strong academic ties with Cambridge and Oxford in the UK, as well as Munich and Berlin in Germany, making it a great choice for those interested in pursuing a double degree.
3. Université Sorbonne Nouvelle
Located near the Botanical Gardens of Paris, the Université Sorbonne Nouvelle is one of the top universities in Paris, France. It has the most prestigious social and cultural as well as linguistic faculties in France. The university has bachelor’s to doctoral degree programs in art and media, as well as ESIT, the Paris Institute of Translation and Interpretation, which is one of the most prestigious language and translation programs in France. There is one thing you may not know is that the restrooms in the main campus buildings are not gender-specific.
4. Sorbonne Université
QS World University Rankings 2025:#63
Sorbonne University is a famous university in Paris. It was formed by merging the former Université de Paris IV and Université de Paris VI. Paris IV, known for its prestigious liberal arts program, boasts 17 research units and is one of the best universities in the field of literal arts in Paris, France. Paris VI, primarily derived from the Faculty of Sciences, excels in sciences and medicine, ranking first globally in Mathematics and offering specializations in various engineering and scientific fields.
5. Université Paris Cité
QS World University Rankings 2025:#=302
Université Paris V – René Descartes was formed from the merger of the former Université Paris V and Université Paris VII. The former is renowned for its strong programs in medicine, pharmacy, law, biology, and psychology, and has produced several Nobel Prize winners. The latter, founded in 1971, offers a blend of medicine, humanities, and science, along with a wide range of Oriental languages and has the largest selection of doctoral programs in France, attracting many students for its LEA and FLE programs.
6. Université Vincennes à Saint-Denis
The University of Paris VIII is located in the city of Saint-Denis in the north of Paris, about 10 kilometres from the centre of Paris and only about 20 minutes by metro. There are eight teaching units and three schools of vocational education with specializations in business management, linguistics, law, plastic arts, theatre arts, and psychology. The University is committed to freedom, democracy and equality of opportunity in education.
7. PSL-Université Paris
QS World University Rankings 2025: #24
PSL-Université Paris, formed in 2010, unites 24 prestigious schools and research institutes in Paris, aiming to be the leading academic institution in France and continental Europe. Originally the University of Paris IX, it is now part of the University of Arts and Sciences of Paris, located in the affluent 16th arrondissement near Bois de Boulogne and the Arc de Triomphe. Paris IX specializes in education management and is notably competitive with the Ecole Supérieure de Commerce. If you’re looking to study economics and management on a budget, consider adding this university to your application list.
8. Université Paris Nanterre
QS World University Rankings 2025:#1001-1200
The University of Paris X is located in Nanterre, west of Paris, about 20 minutes by metro from the centre of Paris. The University specializes in Urbanism and Society, Foreign Languages, Business Management, International Trade, Electronic and Information Engineering, Media Management, Psychology, Education, History of Art, Literature, Cinema and Theatre Studies. The university also has a wide range of formal sports facilities, providing a good environment for students to play sports.
9. Université Paris-Saclay
QS World University Rankings 2025:#73
The University of Paris-Saclay, founded in 2010, combines several institutions, primarily the former University of Paris XI, located in Orsay, about 20 kilometres from central Paris. It has one of France’s largest plant-covered campuses in a quiet environment conducive to study. The university comprises five faculties, three technical institutes, four vocational institutes, and 127 renowned research laboratories, with significant involvement from organizations like CNRS, INRA, INSERM, and CEA.
10. Université Paris-Est
The University of Paris XII is situated in the southwest of Paris, approximately 10 kilometres from the city centre. Established in the 1960s, it is one of the best universities in Paris, France, for international students. The school fosters a spirit of internationalization and numerous exchange programs. The university offers various programs, including bioengineering, environmental management, biomedical engineering, business intelligence, business management, literature, and psychology.
How to Choose the Right University in Paris?
Studying at the right university in Paris can bring you a nice educational experience and personal growth. Before applying for universities in Paris, it’s important to select suitable schools for yourself and make sure they align with your academic goals, personal preferences, and financial means. Here are some tips to help you find the right university in Paris:
- Define Your Academic and Career Goals
Consider your interest field and choose universities that are strong in the discipline you like. Career aspirations are also a necessary factor in choosing a university. You can search for information on the prospects of your favourite majors and decide whether to go to that university. Parisian universities such as Paris Sciences et Lettres (PSL) University, École Polytechnique, and Sorbonne University are highly regarded in various fields.
- Pay attention to the cost of living
Universities in Paris are located in different areas. Some of them are in the city centre, which means their students need to spend more money than those in the suburbs. Besides, the atmosphere in different neighbourhoods will have an influence on your study and life. If you want to expose yourself to real society, renting student accommodation in Paris, France, is a better choice. Consider where you want to live and how far you are willing to commute to campus within your budget.
- Consider Application Requirements and Deadlines
Learn about the specific documents required by your target schools, and make preparations in advance. The necessary documents for application are usually transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores. Connect with current students or alumni to get firsthand accounts of their experiences. They can provide insights into the university’s strengths, weaknesses, and unique aspects.
Conclusion
Universities in Paris make the city academic hub in France. With higher education institutions like Sorbonne University, Panthéon-Sorbonne University, and PSL University, Paris offers a diverse range of academic programs and cutting-edge research opportunities that attract students and scholars from all over the world. The blog introduces the 10 best universities in Paris, including their development and advantage disciplines. We also provide tips for choosing the right universities in Paris for your reference.
FAQ
What is the best university in Paris?
Université PSL is the best university in Paris, ranked 24th in the 2025 QS World University Rankings. Université PSL is a big comprehensive university with world-class scientific centres, excellent humanities and social sciences centres and advanced research institutes, attracting students from all over the world.
Is Sorbonne University free?
As a public university in Paris, Sorbonne University is free for tuition fees, but students should pay for a registration fee. Generally, it is around 2,270 euros per year for both undergraduate and graduate students. Some specialized courses or programs may have additional fees, such as language courses or laboratory fees. These fees are not covered by the registration fee and are charged separately.
Which public university in France is taught in English?
Here are some public universities in France that are taught in English.
- PSL University (Paris )
- Université de Bourgogne (Dijon)
- Université de Bordeaux(Bordeaux)
- Université Paris Cité (Paris)
- Université Grenoble Alpes(Grenoble)
