Home>Pre-College Programmes>On-campus programme
On Campus Pre-College Academic Programme
"It was a truly amazing experience. I enjoyed the atmosphere and the philosophy so much, that I have no difficulty whatsoever imagining myself at Sciences Po in the future. The courses were extremely interesting and interactive, especially the Master Classes. I was very impressed by the classes and also by how Sciences Po managed to bring together such a diverse and fun group of people."
Luisa, India
The on campus Pre-College Programme is designed to introduce students to the key disciplines and methodologies of a Sciences Po education. Participants tackle rigorous academic content through an interdisciplinary lens, exploring current issues in international relations, political science and more.
The academic programme includes a variety of courses, representing about 35 contact hours in total, spread over the course of two and a half weeks. All the students attend the same core courses in the social sciences and take an elective course of their choice.
How does the Pre-College Programme prepare students for post-secondary studies? Check out this interview with Professor Jan Rovny, the Academic Advisor at the Summer School to find out more!
Core courses in the social sciences
Core courses, taught entirely in English, are meant to introduce students to Sciences Po’s core disciplines, through a combination of Master Classes and tutorials (25 contact hours in total). For each session, students attend a series of five Master Classes, taught by Sciences Po professors and researchers, that explore current world issues. Students learn to analyse the complexities of the world through the lens of the social sciences.
To prepare for each Master Class, students participate in interactive, small-group tutorials (about 12,5 contact hours), which develop their understanding of the material and themes addressed during the Master Classes and in the required readings. Tutorials also prepare students for university studies in France and abroad by introducing them to the academic methodology that they will encounter in higher education.
Learn more about the Master Classes.
Elective courses
In addition to their core courses, students participate in one elective class of their choice (10 contact hours). Students choose one elective course among different introductory workshops, within Sciences Po’s key disciplines, such as political science, international relations, or sociology.
When applying to the Pre-College Programme, candidates select two choices of elective course. Definitive enrolment in the elective course is made on a first come, first served basis once students are admitted in the programme. When an elective course reaches its full capacity, the course is no longer open to registration.
Learn more about the elective courses.
Programme calendar
Download the provisional schedule for the 2025 Pre-College Programme (PDF, 106 KB).
