"Bienvenue en France" label: Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne upgraded to three stars
Following the 20th certification commission which was held on 5th March, Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne has successfully renewed its "Bienvenue en France" label until 2030, moving from two to three stars, the highest level. This achievement highlights the university’s continuous efforts in recent years to provide optimal support and welcoming conditions for its international students.
A seal of approval for international student support
Initially awarded to the university in 2020, the "Bienvenue en France" label distinguishes institutions that have implemented concrete initiatives to offer high-quality support to their international students. This label plays a crucial role in enhancing the internationalisation and attractiveness of French higher education.
The certification is based on 28 indicators grouped into six key areas: quality and accessibility of information, quality and accessibility of welcome facilities, course accessibility and assistance, housing and quality of campus life, quality of follow-up after graduation, and institutional commitment to sustainable development and social responsibility.
Initiated in 2018 by the French government as part of the national strategy to enhance the attractiveness of French higher education, the "Bienvenue en France" label is awarded by the Campus France agency. In collaboration with higher education institutions, the networks of French embassies and Campus France local offices worldwide, the agency is committed to promoting the label and increasing the visibility of certified institutions through its various communication channels.
Enhancing orientation through key initiatives
Dedicated to its mission, Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne has consistently introduced actions over the years to facilitate the welcome and integration of its international students, including:
- A bilingual international website,
- Dedicated welcome and orientation events ("Welcome Days"),
- A bilingual international student welcome guide,
- French as a Foreign Language (FLE) courses,
- Development of English-taught programmes and modules,
- Accommodation support through partnerships with the Crous, the CiuP and Studapart,
- A peer mentoring system via the "Buddy System" platform,
- Specific support for students in exile,
- Establishment of a "welcome services & support" team within the International Relations Department,
- A network of international relations academic advisors within teaching and research departments.
The renewal of this label is the result of a collective effort involving multiple academic and administrative services and departments at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne. The university’s progression from level 2 to level 3 demonstrates its dedication to ongoing improvements in its reception services for both exchange and full degree international students, ensuring a smooth transition into academic life in France.
International students at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne
- 20% international students from 143 different nationalities
- 640 incoming exchange students
- 73% European students,
- 71% enrolled in the departments of law, economics, political science and history.
- 3,200 newcoming full degree students
- Top 5 countries of origin: Morocco, Italy, Romania, Algeria, Egypt,
- 55% studying at bachelor's level, 30% at master's level, 2% at doctoral level.
(Data: 2023/2024)