René Descartes University (Paris V) was one of the leading universities in France, specializing in medical sciences, social sciences, and humanities. It was part of the Sorbonne University group and was known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. The university was named after the famous French philosopher and mathematician René Descartes, reflecting its commitment to critical thinking and intellectual rigor.

The university offered a wide range of programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, psychology, law, economics, and social sciences. It was particularly renowned for its medical school, which was one of the most prestigious in France. The faculty of medicine had strong connections with major hospitals in Paris, providing students with excellent clinical training and research opportunities.

René Descartes University was also known for its interdisciplinary approach, encouraging collaboration between different fields of study. This approach allowed students to gain a broader perspective and develop skills that were highly valued in the job market. The university had numerous research centers and laboratories, contributing to advancements in various scientific fields.

The university attracted a diverse student body, including many international students. It had partnerships with universities and research institutions worldwide, facilitating student exchanges and collaborative research projects. The university's location in Paris provided students with access to a vibrant cultural and academic environment.

In 2019, René Descartes University merged with Pierre and Marie Curie University (Paris VI) and other institutions to form Sorbonne University. This merger aimed to strengthen the university's position as a global leader in higher education and research. Despite the merger, the legacy of René Descartes University continues through its contributions to education and scientific discovery.

René Descartes University (Paris V) was one of the thirteen universities that emerged from the division of the University of Paris in 1970. Named after the famous French philosopher and mathematician René Descartes, the university specialized in medical, social, and human sciences. It was known for its strong emphasis on health sciences, including medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry, as well as psychology, law, and social sciences.

The university was headquartered in the historic École de Chirurgie building in the Latin Quarter of Paris, a district long associated with academic excellence. Over the years, it developed a reputation as one of the leading institutions in France for medical and social sciences education. It collaborated with various research institutions and hospitals, making significant contributions to medical research and public health.

In 2019, René Descartes University merged with Paris Diderot University (Paris VII) and the Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris to form Université de Paris. This merger aimed to strengthen the global standing of Parisian higher education and research. The new institution continued the legacy of its predecessors, maintaining a strong focus on interdisciplinary studies and innovation.

Throughout its history, René Descartes University played a crucial role in shaping medical and social sciences education in France. It attracted students from around the world and contributed to numerous advancements in healthcare and research. Its legacy lives on through Université de Paris, which continues to uphold its commitment to academic excellence and scientific discovery.

Paris Descartes University (Paris V), now part of Université de Paris, offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as medicine, law, social sciences, and humanities. Admission requirements vary depending on the level of study and the applicant’s background.

For undergraduate programs, international students typically need a high school diploma equivalent to the French Baccalauréat. Non-EU students may be required to apply through the "Parcoursup" platform or the "Études en France" procedure, depending on their country of origin. Proficiency in French is essential, as most undergraduate courses are taught in French. Applicants may need to provide proof of language proficiency through exams such as DELF or DALF.

For master's programs, candidates must hold a relevant bachelor's degree. Some programs may require specific coursework or professional experience. Admission is often competitive, and applicants may need to submit a CV, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Some programs also require an interview. While many master's programs are in French, some are offered in English, requiring proof of English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS.

Doctoral admissions require a master's degree and a research proposal. Candidates must find a faculty member willing to supervise their research. Admission is based on academic records, research potential, and the relevance of the proposed study.

Application deadlines vary by program, but undergraduate applications typically close in early spring, while master's and doctoral applications may have different deadlines depending on the faculty. Tuition fees depend on the program and the student’s nationality, with EU students generally paying lower fees than non-EU students. Scholarships and financial aid may be available for eligible students.

Accreditation

Institutional Accreditation or Recognition - Ministère de l'Enseignement supérieur et de la Recherche, France

Rankings

• A major pole of research and learning, Paris Descartes - Sorbonne Paris Cité is one of the most prestigious universities in France and the best one in its main domains. On that basis among others, it was rated by the 2013 QS World University Ranking 51-100th in Pharmacy and Pharmacology (1st in France), 101-150th in Biological Sciences (1st in France), 100th in Medicine (first in France), 151-200th in Psychology (1st in France), 151-200th in Linguistics (2nd in France), and 151-200th in Law (2nd in France).
• It was also rated by the 2015/16 The Times Higher Education Subject Rankings as the 73rd (2nd in France) best university in Clinical, Pre-clinical and Health.

Student life @Paris Descartes University 

Budget

Living in Paris is quite expensive. Make sure to plan for expenses before you arrive.

Accommodation

• Temporary accommodation: 180 € / week
• Rooms at the Centre Régional des Oeuvres Universitaires et Scolaires (CROUS) or at the Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris (CIUP): 300 € - 500 € / month
• Renting an apartment: 700 € / month (inc. water and electricity)

Whatever the type of accommodation, a security deposit equal to 2 months’ rent shall be requested.

Eating

Around 200 to 250€ / month

• Restaurants: the cheapest meals are available for 12 to 15 € / menu
• CROUS  provide very cheap food for students: 3,05€ / meal
• Coffee (espresso): 2 € minimum
• Soda: around 4 €
• A baguette costs around 1 euro

Transportation

Pass to travel inside Paris (zones 1-2): 66 € / month (possible discounts if you are under 26).
Additional information on www.ratp.fr

Opening a bank account

If your main address is in a non-European country and if you are to stay in France for longer than three months, opening a resident’s bank account is in your best interest. You should however check with your bank in your home country if there is an associated bank in France. The following three documents are necessary to open a resident’s bank account (in euros):

• Passport
• Residence permit
• Proof of address (telephone or electricity bill, receipt of rent payment, certificate of lodging, etc.)

Opening a bank account entitles you to have a checkbook and/or a bank card. Checkbooks are usually free. Bank cards however are issued for a fee that ranges between 15 and 40 € / year depending on the banks as well as on the type of card.

Sorbonne Paris Cité University, which includes René Descartes University (Paris V), offers a wide range of services and facilities to support students in their academic and personal lives. The university provides access to multiple libraries, including the Bibliothèque Universitaire des Saints-Pères and the Bibliothèque de la Faculté de Droit, which offer extensive collections of books, journals, and digital resources. Students can also benefit from study spaces, computer labs, and free Wi-Fi across campuses.

The university has student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and psychological support. The Bureau d'Aide Psychologique Universitaire (BAPU) provides free psychological counseling for students facing personal or academic difficulties. Additionally, the university offers assistance for students with disabilities, ensuring accessibility and support for their studies.

For international students, the university provides guidance on administrative procedures, housing, and integration into student life. The International Relations Office helps students with exchange programs, visa applications, and cultural adaptation.

Sports facilities are available through the university’s partnership with the Service Universitaire des Activités Physiques et Sportives (SUAPS), offering a variety of activities such as fitness training, swimming, and team sports. Students can also join various student associations, which organize cultural, social, and academic events throughout the year.

The university provides dining options, including university restaurants and cafeterias managed by CROUS, offering affordable meals for students. Additionally, there are student housing options available through CROUS and private residences.

Health services are accessible through the university’s medical center, which provides consultations with doctors, nurses, and specialists. Preventive health campaigns and vaccination services are also available.

Overall, René Descartes University (Paris V) ensures that students have access to essential services and facilities to support their academic success and well-being.

René Descartes University (Paris V), also known as Paris Descartes University, was one of the leading universities in France, particularly in the fields of medical sciences, social sciences, and humanities. It was part of the prestigious Sorbonne University system before merging into the University of Paris in 2019.

One of the key reasons students chose this university was its strong emphasis on research and innovation. Paris Descartes University was renowned for its excellence in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, psychology, and biomedical sciences. It had a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality research and was home to some of the most advanced medical and scientific laboratories in France.

Another special aspect of the university was its location in the heart of Paris. Students had access to world-class libraries, research centers, and cultural institutions, making it an ideal place for academic and personal growth. The university also maintained strong international collaborations, offering exchange programs and partnerships with institutions worldwide.

Additionally, Paris Descartes University provided a multidisciplinary approach to education, allowing students to engage in interdisciplinary studies that combined medicine, law, economics, and social sciences. This approach helped graduates develop a well-rounded perspective and prepared them for diverse career opportunities.

Overall, the university was an excellent choice for students seeking a high-quality education in a dynamic and research-driven environment, with access to top-tier faculty, modern facilities, and a vibrant academic community.