Université PSL has 17,000 students and 2,900 researchers across its member schools. The university also hosts 140 laboratories and 10 incubators, fab labs, and co-working spaces, offering a comprehensive environment with small class sizes and a strong focus on research.

The application process depends on your nationality and residency. European Union students apply via the national Parcoursup platform. Non‑EU students from countries covered by the "Études en France" (EEF) procedure generally apply through the EEF portal for most programs, though some specific programs (e.g., CPES) require Parcoursup. After admission, students must request a student visa through the French consulate. The PSL Welcome Desk provides assistance with the EEF and visa process.

A typical Master's application includes a completed online application form, a detailed CV, a personal statement, certified copies of diplomas and transcripts (translated into English or French if obtained outside France), and letters of recommendation. Depending on the program, candidates may also need to provide a copy of their passport, language test results, and specific documents like a portfolio or questionnaire.

PSL offers several types of scholarships and financial aid. For need‑based aid, students must complete the Dossier Social Étudiant (DSE) via the CROUS platform (applications are typically due in March/April for the following academic year). This single form is used for both scholarship and university housing applications. Awards are calculated based on your financial and family situation, as well as geographic distance from your school. PSL also offers merit scholarships for students with exceptional academic records and emergency aid for those experiencing financial difficulty.

PSL provides a Housing Service (Service Accueil Logement) to assist enrolled students with their housing search. The service manages approximately 800 beds in about 20 dormitories through partners like CROUS, public landlords (e.g., ALJT, Sequens, Arpej), and private residences. Accommodations are typically located in Paris or the inner suburbs, no more than 45 minutes by public transport from the university. Priority is given to first‑ and second‑year Bachelor's students, scholarship holders, and international students new to France. Students can apply through the PSL Welcome Desk or directly via the Housing Service platform.

The PSL Housing Service is committed to finding a housing solution for applicants. However, allocations are not guaranteed and depend on social and geographic criteria (priority is given to younger students, scholarship holders, and those whose family home is far from Paris). To maximize your chances, you must respond quickly when submitting your application; a proactive approach significantly improves your likelihood of securing a spot. If no vacancy is available at the time of your request, your file will be placed on a waiting list. Additionally, students with a CROUS scholarship should apply simultaneously through the Dossier Social Étudiant and the PSL Housing Service, as CROUS housing is very competitive (only about 10 students from Dauphine-PSL were housed last year).

The APS is a temporary residence permit that allows non‑EU graduates of a French institution to stay in France for one year after completing their studies. It is specifically designed for those who have obtained a degree at least equivalent to a Master's (or a professional license, Specialized Master, or Master of Science). The permit enables graduates to look for a job or create a company in a field related to their studies. During this year, the holder can work as an employee without the employer needing a work permit, provided the gross monthly salary exceeds €2,800.53.

The application procedure depends on whether you are in France at the time of graduation. If you reside in France, you must submit your application to the prefecture or sub‑prefecture of your home within two months before your student residence card expires. If you have already left France after graduating, you can still apply for this card within four years of obtaining your degree, provided you meet the eligibility criteria. The permit is valid for one year and allows you to work up to the full annual working limit (964 hours is not applicable).