Paris West University Nanterre La Defense

Nanterre, France

Paris West University (Université Paris Ouest Nanterre La Défense), formerly known as Paris X, is a public research university in Nanterre, just outside Paris, founded in 1964 on the American‑style campus model and renowned for its strength in law, humanities, social sciences, economics, and political studies
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It’s a public research university founded in the 1960s as a Sorbonne extension and granted independence in 1970. With around 32,000–40,000 students, it’s strong in law, social sciences, humanities, economics, and arts—and known for its large, green campus near La Défense
It’s famed for pioneering bilingual programs (e.g., French–German law), hosting over 40 CNRS-linked labs, and earning campus innovation awards like HR Excellence and SAPS labels. Its alumni include figures like Macron and Lagarde—proof of its societal influence .
Life here blends strong sports and cultural offerings—from Olympic pools to theaters and libraries. Count on vibrant student associations covering arts, activism, politics, and sports. Proximity to Paris adds cafés, internships, and nightlife—while central campus spaces foster community energy .
EU students go through Parcoursup (Jan–Mar), submitting transcripts, motivation letters, CV, and proof of B2 French. Non-EU students use the Études en France platform, applying Oct–Dec, submitting the same docs plus a passport. Interview or DAP forms may be required
Choose your program, then apply via MonMaster (M1) or e‑Candidat (M2). You'll need your Bachelor’s diploma, transcripts, CV, motivation letter, two recommendations, and language proof (C1 French and/or English). Deadlines usually fall between Feb and Apr—it may include interviews .
Only the standard registration fees apply: around €170 for Bachelor and €243 for Master, plus the student campus contribution (~€100 annually). Non-EU students benefit from partial fee exemptions, paying the same as French students
The campus is secured 24/7 by a dedicated security team. Access to buildings is controlled by keycards. You’ll find SOS call points, regular emergency drills, and a direct line to police and medical services to keep you safe day or night.
Yes—after dark, the university offers shuttle services around campus and to transport hubs. Footpaths and main areas are well-lit, and campus security regularly patrols residences and communal zones.
They run workshops and online materials on fire safety, self-defense, cyber hygiene, and personal security. Students are invited to stay informed and proactive through community alerts and campus safety programs
The university has programs in law, humanities, social sciences, economics, management, arts, digital tech, and STEM. Unique bilingual double-degrees (like French–German law or economics with foreign language instruction) reflect its multilingual, international edge
Licence programs are open to anyone with a Baccalauréat, but they're demanding—first-year dropout rates hover around 60%. Master’s and double-degree tracks are highly selective, especially in law and business, often requiring interviews and strong application packages
Yes—many programs require mandatory internships, with placement help from the Career Centre. Opportunities include private businesses, NGOs, and public service. Alternance programs (study-plus-work contracts) are also available, combining professional experience and academic credit
Nanterre does not offer its own general scholarships for international students but participates in national schemes like the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship for Master’s/PhD candidates. EU and non-EU students pay low public university fees (€170–243/year)
Through CROUS and regional support, students can access social scholarships, housing allowances (APL/ALS up to €200/month), and emergency aid. Platforms like Klaro list all available national, local, and campus-based aid
Yes—students may work up to ~964 hours per year (~20h/week). Opportunities include service roles, campus media, or work-study contracts. Alternance is a popular option for postgrad students and helps offset living costs
The main campus is in Nanterre, next to La Défense business district and close to metro/RER lines. Covering 30 hectares, it includes green spaces, libraries, labs, sports halls, theaters, and student services
You can apply for CROUS-managed student residences—studio or shared apartments at subsidized rents. International students get placement help, and eligible ones can receive housing aid (APL/ALS) to reduce costs
Private rooms in Nanterre cost around €400–600/month; in central Paris €700–900+. Many international students prefer Paris for social life. Beware local scams near RER stations—verify listings, use official platforms, and never pay cash alone
Non-EU students can apply for the "Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour" (APS) to stay in France for up to 12 months after their degree, giving job-search flexibility—renewable once in some cases.

University Of Paris West University Nanterre La Defense Application Statistics

32000
€ 3200
€ 7800
2.5
27
60 %
5

Learn About -

* All cost are in CFP

University Of Paris West University Nanterre La Defense Application Statistics

32000
€ 3200
€ 7800
2.5
27
60 %
5

Learn About -

* All cost are in CFP

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