Ethics and transparency

We place great importance on the management of funds gifted to us to advance the university’s public interest mission.

Sciences Po’s overall development and business model has earned us an A+ rating with a stable outlook from Fitch. Fitch underscored “the institution’s academic excellence, both nationally and internationally, and its special position in the French academic landscape which attracts sustained student demand.”

Sciences Po’s strong financial performance and the growth of its own funds and income sources were also noted.

Fundraising accounts for a significant share of the institution’s resources, which is likely to grow in future. We wish to underscore the importance of the integrity of the funding sources that help us fulfil our educational mission.

This commitment is based on respect for strong principles, which are detailed in a Code of Ethics that regulates relations between Sciences Po and its partners and donors:

• Independence and respectability
• Respect for the sponsor and mutual commitments
• Transparency in the use of donated funds
• Social responsibility and civic values

Under this framework, Sciences Po reserves the right to refuse financial contributions when the source of the funds is uncertain or undermines Sciences Po’s academic independence, when doubts exist as to the legality of the donor’s activities, or the conditions attached to the donation seem unacceptable to Sciences Po.

Sciences Po has also set up a Donations Committee to ensure compliance with the Code of Ethics and to rule on any situations that raise questions.