The program in Paris is affiliated with Mission Interuniversitaire de Coordination des Échanges Franco-Américains (MICEFA), the academic exchange organization of the cooperating branches of the University of Paris. While the University of Paris consists of separately administered institutions, MICEFA coordinates international exchange for the following member universities: 

Paris III (Sorbonne Nouvelle/Censier)

Paris IV (Sorbonne)

Paris V (René Descartes)

Paris VI (Pierre et Marie Curie)

Paris VII (Denis Diderot)

Paris VIII (Vincennes/St. Denis)

Paris IX (Dauphine)

Paris X (Nanterre)

Paris XI (Sud/Orsay)

Paris XII (Val-de-Marne/Créteil)

Paris XIII (Nord/Villetaneuse)

INALCO, National Institute of Oriental Languages and Civilizations

Institut Catholique de Paris

Université Evry Val d’Essonne

The Paris program is designed for students whose preparation in the French language is sufficient to permit them to enroll in a course of study primarily within the regular departments of the appropriate University of Paris institution. However, two universities, Paris X (Nanterre) and Paris VIII (St. Denis) offer courses for foreign students. These classes are designed for students who need support with the French language while pursuing coursework either within the programs for foreign students or in the other departments of the university.

All participants begin their studies with a five-week Preparatory Language Program (PLP) conducted by MICEFA. During the academic year, students follow an appropriate course of study according to their competence in French language skills. MICEFA also offers advanced language courses for those enrolled in classes primarily outside of Nanterre or St. Denis. Students with advanced language proficiency may enroll directly in courses at any of the cooperating Paris universities. To date, most CSU students have enrolled in courses at Nanterre, St. Denis and Censier. Even the most advanced students should plan on taking a minimum of one intensive three-unit language class per semester.

Courses outside the programs for foreign students in French universities span four years and are arranged at four levels: DEUG 1, DEUG 2, Licence, and Maîtrise. Students selecting from course offerings at the faculties should take care to enroll at the appropriate level. It is important to note that courses at the Licence level often assume two prior years of familiarity with the content. Courses at the Maîtrise level are generally very specialized. Students should seek advice from as many sources as possible including the Resident Director, MICEFA and Paris university faculties and staff in making course selections. As university courses change from year to year, pre-departure advising is difficult and it is recommended that students and advisors be flexible in course selections.

Learn more about Paris 

For more information, contact:

International Student Center:

Assistant DIRECTOR:
Robert Carolin
(619) 594-1982
studyabroad@sdsu.edu

College of Arts and Letters
International Programs Coordinator

Prof. Edith Benkov
(619) 594-5127
ebenkov@mail.sdsu.edu