Overview: University of Paris-Saclay
The University of Paris-Saclay (Université Paris-Saclay) is a leading public research institution established in 2014, building upon a legacy of prominent Grandes Écoles and research organizations in the Paris region, France. Located mainly in the southern suburbs of Paris, it comprises sites across Orsay, Gif-sur-Yvette, and surrounding municipalities. As a comprehensive institution, Paris-Saclay is distinguished by its integration of universities, research centers, and engineering schools. With over 48,000 students and 10,500 academic staff, it is one of Europe’s largest higher education and research clusters, designed to foster innovation and knowledge transfer at global scale.
Academic Strengths and Structure
University of Paris-Saclay is renowned for its excellence in physics, mathematics, engineering, life sciences, and computer science, consistently ranked among the world’s top institutions—most notably, 15th globally in the ARWU 2023 and 1st in Mathematics. Its interdisciplinary educational model connects fundamental sciences, engineering, social sciences, and health, offering over 200 master's programs and 300 PhD tracks. The university prioritizes research-led teaching, collaborative projects, and innovation, hosting 275 laboratories and joining forces with national research agencies like CNRS, CEA, and Inria. Its robust international partnerships facilitate joint degrees and research initiatives, further enhancing its global academic reputation.
Student Life and Community
Student life at Paris-Saclay is enriched by a vibrant ecosystem of over 100 student associations, professional societies, and cultural groups. The university emphasizes diversity and inclusivity, attracting 13% international students from more than 120 countries. Comprehensive support services aid academic success, career development, and well-being. On-campus housing options are available, along with state-of-the-art sports facilities, artistic venues, and frequent events that foster community engagement. From scientific competitions to music festivals, students find ample opportunities for extracurricular involvement, personal growth, and international networking.
Mission, Vision, and Values
The University of Paris-Saclay is committed to advancing knowledge for societal benefit, fostering innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and global citizenship. Rooted in values of academic excellence, sustainability, and equity, it strives to shape the future through scientific leadership and transformative education.
