University of Strasbourg

About the University of Strasbourg 

The University of Strasbourg (French: Université de Strasbourg, Unistra or UDS) in Strasbourg, Alsace, France, is the second largest university in France (after Aix-Marseille University), with about 46,000 students and over 4,000 researchers.

The present-day French university traces its history to the earlier German-language Universität Straßburg, which was founded in 1538, and was divided in the 1970s into three separate institutions: Louis Pasteur University, Marc Bloch University, and Robert Schuman University. On 1 January 2009, the fusion of these three universities reconstituted a united University of Strasbourg. With as many as 18 Nobel laureates, the university is now ranked among the best in the League of European Research Universities.

History of the University of Strasbourg

The university emerged from a Lutheran humanist German Gymnasium, founded in 1538 by Johannes Sturm in the Free Imperial City of Strassburg. It was transformed to a university in 1621 (German: Universität Straßburg; English: University of Strassburg) and elevated to the ranks of a royal university in 1631. Among its earliest university students was Johann Scheffler who studied medicine and later converted to Catholicism and became the mystic and poet Angelus Silesius.

The Lutheran German university still persisted even after the annexation of the City by King Louis XIV in 1681 (one famous student was Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in 1770/71), but mainly turned into a French university during the French Revolution.

The university was refounded as the German Kaiser-Wilhelm-Universität in 1872, after the Franco-Prussian war and the annexation of Alsace-Lorraine to Germany provoked a westwards exodus of Francophone teachers. During the German Empire the university was greatly expanded and numerous new buildings were erected because the university was intended to be a showcase of German against French culture in Alsace. In 1918, Alsace-Lorraine was returned to France, so a reverse exodus of Germanophone teachers took place.

During the Second World War, when France was occupied, personnel and equipment of the University of Strasbourg were transferred to Clermont-Ferrand. In its place, the short-lived German Reichsuniversität Straßburg was created.

In 1970, the university was subdivided into three separate institutions:

• Louis Pasteur University (Strasbourg I)
• Marc Bloch University (Strasbourg II)
• Robert Schuman University (Strasbourg III)

These were, however, reunited in 2009, a process that should finish in 2012, and were able to be among the first twenty French universities to gain greater autonomy.

Eligibility criteria and admission process at the University of Strasbourg include a comprehensive evaluation depending on the level of study and origin of applicants. For undergraduate programs, applicants typically need to hold a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification recognized in France or their home country. Non-EU international students may be required to demonstrate proficiency in French, often through standardized tests such as DELF or DALF, unless the program is offered in English, in which case proof of English proficiency, like TOEFL or IELTS, is necessary. The university assesses applications based on academic records, motivation, and language skills. For master's programs, candidates usually need a relevant bachelor's degree or an equivalent diploma that aligns with the chosen field of study. Additional requirements may include letters of motivation, recommendation letters, and sometimes relevant work experience or portfolios for specific disciplines. Doctoral candidates are expected to have completed a master's degree or equivalent and must submit a research proposal, along with a supervisor approval. Admission procedures generally involve submitting an online application through the university's admission portal, where applicants must upload certified transcripts, identification documents, and language test results. International students might need to demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover tuition fees and living expenses. Some programs may have selective admissions processes, interviews, or entrance exams. The university also participates in the French National Admission Platform (Parcoursup) for certain undergraduate intake. Once accepted, students receive official admission letters and must fulfill visa and residence permit requirements if applicable. The entire process emphasizes transparency, equal opportunity, and adherence to national and European educational standards to facilitate a smooth enrollment experience for all students interested in studying at the University of Strasbourg.

Accreditation

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

Student life @the University of Strasbourg

Culture

The Université de Strasbourg takes an active part in the cultural life of the region by offering multiple and varied opportunities: exhibitions, shows, seminars, debates, museum visits, and symposiums among others. In a spirit of co-constructing and respecting all points of view, it is committed to sharing the scientific and technical knowledge of all its disciplines. 

→Culture Card

The Culture Card enables students to obtain preferential rates all year long, throughout Alsace:

• entry for EUR 6 to 46 festivals, concerts and show halls (including the National theatre of Strasbourg (TNS), the Opéra du Rhin or the concert hall La Laiterie)
• entry for EUR 5 in 7 cinemas
• free entry in 23 museums

It only costs EUR 7 per year. Students from Eucor – The European Campus can also benefit from this card. 

Sports

You can enjoy a variety of sports at the university sport centre (Service universitaire des activités physiques et sportives – SUAPS). It offers over 60 physical and artistic activities, intended for students and adapted to your timetables: fitness classes, team, racket, combat, target or aquatic sports, gymnastics and dancing. The SUAPS also organises day trips or weekends in the Vosges Mountains nearby: ski, snowboard, trekking or parachuting among others! You can register for these activities at the beginning of each semester, and the cost is EUR 25 per year. 

The Sports association (Association sportive – AS) also organises training and competitions (academic, regional and national) where you will be able to defend the colours of your department or of the Université de Strasbourg. 

Student associations

Numerous student associations and clubs enhance University life by regularly organising meetings, cultural events, parties or conferences. They can also provide information to newcomers, before your arrival or all year long. 

Trips and travel

Located in the heart of Europe, Strasbourg is an ideal starting point for travelling in France, Europe, and beyond. 

• By train: trains departing from Strasbourg travel to all major French cities, but also to Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium or Switzerland. Thanks to the high-speed train (Train à grande vitesse – TGV) Paris is only two hours away. You can buy your tickets either at the train station or online (sncf.com), or at the SVU’s Welcome mission. The Jeune 18-27 railcard allows you to get discounts on most journeys.
• By plane: you can reach several airports from Strasbourg. Low-cost flights will allow you to discover Europe and beyond at low prices.
• By bus: more and more bus companies are connecting Strasbourg to the other major cities of France and Europe. Journeys are usually longer than by train but prices are lower.
• Car sharing: an opportunity to travel cheaply and meet people. Nowadays, many websites allow drivers to be in touch with passengers.

Services of the University of Strasbourg

The Université de Strasbourg is spread over several campuses. They can easily be reached and offer access to the city centre by using the tramways and buses. 

The central campus of Esplanade is the largest and it is located close to Strasbourg city centre. Most central services are located there. It is currently going through a large restructuring plan which aims at making it more open and green. Projects are flourishing around this new park, rich with public and green spaces: buildings are undergoing restauration, the historical heritage is enhanced, and new constructions are rising up.

Learning resources

The Université de Strasbourg provides a stimulating environment for studying, with plenty of space in the libraries, easy access to digital resources, and a wide range of extracurricular activities organised by over a hundred student organisations.

→The Campus Pass

The Campus Pass is the University student card. It is given to all students upon enrolment. It serves various valuable purposes such as paying at the university restaurants and cafeterias, borrowing documents and books from libraries, using copiers and printers. You can also load your public transportation tickets on this Pass or use it as a travel card. 

Work areas

→Digital access

Nearly all of the university sites benefit from wireless coverage (Osiris Wi-Fi). The web portal (Environnement Numérique de Travail - ENT) provides members of the university community with numerous services: e-mail, enrolment, exam results, timetable, educational tools, news, and a virtual library among others.

→Libraries 

Set up all over the campuses, the 26 university libraries cover all subjects and domains. They provide access to over a million books, plenty of online resources, over 5,000 study seats, and numerous services. The National and university library of Strasbourg (Bibliothèque nationale et universitaire - BNU), 2nd biggest in France, is also open to students. Documents can be borrowed using the Campus Pass. Thanks to Eucor – The European Campus, the Strasbourg university community also has access to the libraries of 5 partner universities.

→French courses at the LanSAD centre

“French as a foreign language” classes are provided, free of charge, for all students (regular and exchange students) who have at least an A2 level.

• French course (Unité d’enseignement – UE): you can choose a French course within your learning agreement or as an optional or language course. These “French as foreign language” (Français langue étrangère – FLE) courses are intended for students who need an exam mark to validate ECTS credits. Students must have at least a B1 or B2 level. Register on the ENT web portal (Environnement Numérique de Travail) at the beginning of the semester. The number of places is limited.
• Language support (Programme d’accompagnement Linguistique – PAL): this programme combines workshop attendance and self-study. If your home university allows you to obtain ECTS credits for French without taking examinations, a certificate of attendance may be obtained for a minimum 30-hour workload. The PAL is also open to students who wish to improve their French for personal reasons (no ECTS validation). Students must have at least an A2 level. Register for an obligatory orientation session (séance d’accueil) on the ENT web portal (Environnement Numérique de Travail). To obtain a certificate of attendance, register before October 15 (1st semester) or February 18 (2nd semester).
• TANDEM website: helps you find French speaking partners who wish to learn your mother tongue. Register on the web portal (Environnement Numérique de Travail - ENT).
• RELAIS website: a selection of useful websites for learning and practicing French (academic and everyday language), on relais.weebly.com

Accommodation

The Crous is in charge of university residence in France. The rooms, studios and 1-bedroom apart- ments offered are designed for limited budgets with different levels of comfort: from the single basic room to the fully equipped studio. There are a limited number of places available.

University of Strasbourg is a prestigious and historically significant institution that offers students a unique academic experience characterized by academic excellence, research innovation, and cultural diversity. As one of the leading universities in France, it provides a wide range of programs across multiple disciplines, including sciences, arts, humanities, medicine, and social sciences. The university is renowned for its strong research orientation, hosting numerous research centers and laboratories that contribute to advancements in various fields. Its strategic location in Strasbourg, a vibrant city renowned for its rich history, multicultural environment, and European political significance, offers students an unmatched cultural experience and opportunities for international collaboration. The university prides itself on fostering an inclusive and welcoming community that promotes intellectual growth, critical thinking, and intercultural dialogue. Additionally, University of Strasbourg actively collaborates with numerous international institutions, facilitating student exchange programs and joint research projects that broaden students’ global perspectives. The campus facilities are modern and well-equipped, supporting innovative teaching and learning methods. With a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, the university encourages student involvement in community projects and initiatives. Its extensive network of alumni and strong ties to industry sectors provide valuable career pathways for graduates. Overall, choosing University of Strasbourg means engaging in a dynamic academic environment that combines rigorous education, groundbreaking research, cultural diversity, and strong international connections, making it an ideal place for students seeking a comprehensive and enriching higher education experience.