Life outside the classroom of the Pre-College Programme

"I enjoyed the opportunities to explore French culture. I liked the historical feeling of both Reims and Paris, and I felt a strong presence of arts and culture in France."  Cindy, Canada

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Life in France

The Pre-College Programme is designed to be an immersive and holistic experience for our participants, and for them to live the College experience as a group. For the time of two and a half weeks, participants study, live and explore France together. They share not only classes, but also activities, meals, outings, weekend trips, etc.

Students will have the chance to live in both Reims and Paris and study on one of Sciences Po’s most beautiful campuses.

The academic programme will take place on the Reims campus of Sciences Po, housed in a former Jesuit college from the 17th century. Located in the historical heart of the city, this remarkable site has been restored to mix traditional architectural elements with state-of-the-art amenities. Students will also be able to enjoy the festivities of France’s national holiday: Bastille Day. 

The programme will also include a weekend in Paris, where students will discover Sciences Po’s flagship campus in the historic Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighbourhood, and explore the city of lights!

Activities programme

While the academic programme is intense, the Pre-College Programme makes time for extracurricular activities. After classes and on weekends, participants have time to have fun and explore their surroundings. The activities programme ranges from cultural visits and weekend excursions to social activities, sports games and Bastille Day celebrations.

A medium-sized city with a rich history, Reims is an ideal location for students seeking an immersive experience in French life and culture. For over a thousand years, Reims served as the coronation site of the French monarchy and boasts an impressive architectural heritage, from its renowned cathedral to its world-famous vineyards and Art Deco architecture.

During their time in Paris, students go on excursions in the city, participate in cultural activities, and visit Parisian landmarks. They get the chance to see the capital from its best vantage point during a Seine River cruise, admire some of the masterpieces of art history in Paris’ many museums, and walk around the capital’s historical neighbourhoods.

Accomodation and meals

All participants stay together during the programme. Students are lodged in shared rooms (with students of the same gender), together with Summer School counselors.

Participants stay in residences located near campus in both Paris and Reims.

Meals are provided by the Summer School, on campus and off campus.