The youth, specifically university students, have always served as harbingers of change. Throughout history, these young ones have pushed for new ideas and new liberties to take hold of human society. In Paris, one such movement even resulted in an entirely new higher educational institution—
Paris 8 University. Born from the events of May 1968, the university came to be through the power of students and scholars. Today, it now serves as one of the finest universities in Paris, especially if you want to study arts, law, economics, business management, literature, science, and technology, among many others.
Source: Université Paris VIII Vincennes - Saint-Denis Facebook Page
History of Paris 8 University
May of 1968 was a tumultuous time in French history. It was a month-long series of civil unrest, consisting of protests, demonstrations, and rallies in various parts of the country. The biggest of them happened in the
universities of Paris, which became so intense that President Charles de Gaulle had to secretly flee to West Germany. While the events themselves were volatile, they did result in the formation of new educational institutions in the French capital. Paris 8 University, in particular, is one of the successors of the University of Paris, which closed down in 1970.
What Does Paris 8 University Look Like?
The school's complete name is ‘Paris 8 University Vincennes-Saint-Denis,’ which immediately conveys where it's located. You'll find the campus on Rue de la Liberté in Saint-Denis, one of the main
Paris Suburbs. Saint-Denis itself is a bustling town that's just as urban and lively as the city center, albeit smaller and more residential. As for the campus, it's an expansive school with many buildings and outdoor facilities. Since the school has several departments, some areas are even specifically devoted to a department and its courses. But perhaps the best part about the university is that it has ample outdoor areas. You won't find a lot like them in schools in central Paris.
Source: Université Paris VIII Vincennes - Saint-Denis Facebook Page
The Paris 8 University Student Body
With 22,357 students on site, Paris 8 University has one of the biggest student bodies among the various
international schools in Paris. While other universities have considerably more students, this number is not to be overlooked. It further proves how the university maintains its standing as one of the most well-acclaimed and prestigious higher educational institutions in Paris, perhaps even in all of France. And while the percentage varies from year to year, a lot of Paris 8 University's student body consists of international students too. They come from over 60 countries around the world.
Paris 8 University's Best Programs and Courses
Part of what makes Paris 8 University stand out among the many schools in Paris is how diverse its programs and courses are. Nevertheless, the school has gained most of its prominence thanks to its political science programs. Here, you can take a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science to someday work in the government. If you want to further your studies in the field, you can also get a Master's Degree in General Public Law or an M2 in Justice, Trials, and Proceedings. Conversely, if you're more into art, the school also offers Master's Degrees in Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Film & Audiovisual, Dance, and more.
Source: Université Paris VIII Vincennes - Saint-Denis Facebook Page
Paris 8 University’s Prerequisites
Paris 8 University is as traditional as it gets, even with its prerequisites. Much like other institutions of its kind, the school asks for the standard requirements applicants need to submit to get accepted. For undergraduate applicants, this includes a high school diploma or anything equivalent. For postgraduate applicants, this includes at least a Bachelor's Degree in any related field, Naturally, there's also an English proficiency requirement. Applicants must have at least a 6.0 or 6.5 IELTS score. Don't forget your student visa too, which will allow you to stay and study in Paris legally.
How Much Does It Cost to Study at Paris 8 University?
There aren't a lot of affordable universities in Paris but Paris 8 University is definitely one of them. While other higher educational institutions of its kind cost tens of thousands of Euros per year, this school only costs a couple of hundred. Specifically, undergraduate programs cost about €170.00 per year while postgraduate courses cost around €243.00 per year. They also come with other fees, including a one-time application fee, yearly registration fees, and campus contributions (CVEC), all of which vary in costs. Nevertheless, these prices are still affordable, especially when you compare them to other
living costs in Paris.
Where is Paris 8 University in Paris?
Saint-Denis, where Paris 8 University is located, is among the best-known Paris Suburbs. While it's a fair distance away from the
central neighborhoods in Paris, it doesn't differ much in terms of infrastructure, real estate, and vibe. Generally speaking, the district is as lively and urban as the main arrondissements, albeit safer too. It has countless great restaurants, luxury shops, cool bars, and other similar trendy establishments. Moreover, if you choose not to stay in the university's dormitories, you can always
rent a luxury apartment in Paris instead. Saint-Denis has high-quality rentals at more affordable price ranges.
Source: Université Paris VIII Vincennes - Saint-Denis Facebook Page
From law to economics to literature and social sciences, the sky's the limit of what you can learn at Paris 8 University. Located along the outskirts of the French capital, it's a great school for those who want to become future leaders.
