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The Classes Internationales initiative is a new program designed to provide international students, particularly those from India, access to top French higher education institutions.

Origins and Purpose

The Classes Internationales program was established as a result of a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron in July 20231. Its primary aim is to welcome India's brightest high school graduates to study in France, regardless of their current French language proficiency.

Overall Program Structure

The program offers students the opportunity to spend between one semester and a full academic year at a preparatory school in France.
During this time, students receive intensive French language instruction alongside core academic subjects.
The goal is to prepare students for admission to French universities, engineering schools, or management schools for further studies conducted in French.

Key Features

• Language Support: The program is designed for both beginners and those with some prior French language experience.
• Cultural Integration: Students are welcomed by a dedicated team and study alongside other international students, fostering a multicultural learning environment.
• Academic Preparation: The curriculum includes thematic subjects like history, geography, or mathematics, offers vary from one institution to another.

Learn more: 

OPTION A) 

The International Bachelor of Environmentally Engaged Engineering (I-BE3) is a high-level general scientific program preparing students to become engineers. I-BE3 addresses the challenges of ecological and energy transition, as well as the digital transformation of societies.

Taught entirely in English, this 6-semester bachelor's degree (180 ECTS) is based on project-based learning in collaboration with companies, combining scientific education in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, and data science with practical experiences to understand research and societal challenges in energy, water, health, digital technology, mobility, and resources.

NB: this Bachelor is based in Sophia Antipolis (Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur) for the first 2 years. Location for Year 3 will depend on student’s specialization (Semester in Paris or Abroad + Semester in Internship).

OPTION B) 

The Bachelor in Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a high-level scientific program preparing students for careers in AI engineering and research.

Taught in English, this bachelor's degree adopts a pedagogical approach in collaboration with research laboratories and companies. The program covers essential areas such as advanced mathematics, computer science and data science, machine learning algorithms, natural language processing and generative AI, computer vision, and AI ethics. Students work on concrete projects to address AI-related challenges in various sectors (healthcare, finance, sustainable development, etc.). This bachelor's program prepares future leaders to shape the future of technology while considering its social and environmental impacts.

IMPORTANT TO KNOW

PSL Classes Internationales offers a unique pathway for international students to access prestigious Bachelor's programs at ²ÝÁñÂÛ̳. Upon application, students are asked to rank their preferred Bachelor options.

However, it's important to note that the specific Bachelor's program a student ultimately enters is not guaranteed at the outset. Instead, it is determined based on the student's academic performance and ranking on the Dean's List at the conclusion of the 'Classes Internationales' year with a minimum average requirement of over 10/20 for successful completion. This approach ensures that students are placed in programs that best match their demonstrated abilities and interests.

Notably, for students who achieve a C1 level of French proficiency, excel in mathematics, and show a strong inclination towards Social Sciences by the end of the year, PSL reserves the right to offer a special opportunity to integrate into the Bachelor in Sustainability Science (SMD) program – an innovative, bilingual program is designed to equip students with the interdisciplinary skills needed to address complex sustainability challenges.

Through the Classes Internationales, PSL offers an intensive and comprehensive curriculum designed to immerse international students in the French language and culture while preparing them for academic success. The program is structured as follows:

French Language Instruction

Students will receive extensive language training throughout the year, allowing them to progress from A2 to B2 level proficiency in French. This enables them to engage effectively in both academic and cultural contexts.

Academic Methodology

The program includes specialized courses to develop crucial skills for higher education:

• Introduction to AI/Data Science with case study
• Python programming and hackathon
• Mathematics for Engineers with Numerical Lab Work
• Mechatronics Project

Thematic Workshops

A series of workshops complement language learning and academic preparation:

• Discovering France: Focused on exploring various aspects of French culture through themed sessions.
• Theatrical Expression: Designed to enhance oral communication skills and self-confidence through theatrical techniques.
• Studying in France: Provides a comprehensive overview of study opportunities in France.

This comprehensive approach combines language acquisition, academic preparation, and cultural immersion. It not only enriches the learning experience but also prepares students for success in a globalized academic environment, fostering deeper engagement with French culture and international perspectives.

Teaching Hours

University Calendar

• Academic Intake: 1
• Academic Calendar: September 1, 2025, to April 30, 2026.
• Semester 1 (fall): September to January
• Semester 2 (spring): February to May

Application Calendar

*cohort: minimum 9 students, maximum 19 students.

Application Requirements:

1. Academic Records:
   • Official transcripts showing your grades for the past three academic years
   • Your class ranking (if available from your school)
2. Personal Statement (maximum 1 page):
   • Outline your career goals
   • Explain how PSL's Bachelor programs align with your professional aspirations
   • Describe why you want to study in France
   • Share a unique personal, professional, or volunteer experience that has shaped your perspective and would provide valuable insight into your character and motivations
   • Rank your preferred Bachelor options (e.g., I-BE3, AI) in order of preference
3. Resume/CV (maximum 1 page):
   • A concise summary of your academic achievements
   • Relevant extracurricular activities, internships, or work experiences
   • Skills and competencies (e.g., languages, technical skills)
4. Declaration:
   • A signed statement acknowledging that while your Bachelor program preferences will be considered, the final placement will be determined at the end of the 'Classe Internationale' year. This decision will be based on your academic performance, demonstrated strengths, and evolving aspirations, potentially leading to placement in a program that best suits your developed skills and interests, which may differ from your initial choices.

All documents shall be sent at once at contact-classesinternationales@psl.eu by the deadline (see calendar section).