MSc in Engineering in Paris

Each ParisTech engineering college manages its own admissions. Only the broad outlines of the typical specialties can be provided here.

For more detailed information, consult the colleges’ websites directly.

There are three different paths to be admitted as a student engineer in degree granting programmes at ParisTech colleges.

Competitive exam for students in preparatory classes

A competitive exam is organised annually for students in the scientific preparatory classes for the Grandes Ecoles (variable specialties based on the college in question). These competitive exams are open to applicants of all nationalities, but they require an immersion in the French language and culture (e.g.; they include a French literature test). They also require a very high level in mathematics. Students at the end of their high school studies outside France who are interested in the engineering programmes should contact the French Embassy to know whether there are such preparatory classes in their country (e.g.; a French high school).

École Polytechnique has established a special competitive exam called the “second way.” It is intended for foreign students who have completed two or three years of scientific studies and have attained an excellent level in mathematics and physics.

Admission based on qualifications

Admission based on qualifications to the first year of a three-year programme is open to
holders of a License from a French university (degree obtained after three years of higher education).
Admission based on qualifications to the second year of a three-year programme is open to students who have successfully completed the first year of a:

• a French university Master (degree obtained after four years of higher education)
• a French engineering degree
• a foreign degree recognised as equivalent by the college concerned

Excellent results are required (generally upper second class honours (B+ or A-) in a License or Master programme). An interview is organised in addition to the review of the university record.

International admissions programmes : Brazil-China-Russia

Students from Brazilian, Chinese and Russian partner universities of ParisTech are admitted based on a procedure common to all ParisTech colleges (this is the only admission path common to all ParisTech colleges). Once their home universities have approved their application, they are asked to fill out an electronic information form.

• Brazil admission programme
• China admission programme
• Russia admission programme

Dual degree agreements

Dual degree agreements are concluded between a ParisTech college and a foreign university for students who are ready to enter the last year of an engineering programme at a participating partner university. These students can ask their university to present them for admission to the partner ParisTech college. They then follow two years of study in the partner ParisTech college, most often the last two years. They remain enrolled in their home university and receive its engineering degree when ParisTech awards them its degree (sometimes, courses successfully completed at ParisTech are validated by their home university).

In return for investing approximately one year of additional study time, this system gives students the opportunity to receive two engineering degrees from two different countries, which demonstrates an open mind, adaptability and multicultural training, all of which are highly appreciated by international companies.