Frequently asked questions
What is the Paris-Saclay CPES? +
The CPES (Cycle Pluridisciplinaire d’Études Supérieures) Paris-Saclay is a selective three-year programme, the fruit of a collaboration between ENS Paris-Saclay, HEC Paris, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, the Lycée International de Palaiseau and Université Paris-Saclay. It leads to a multidisciplinary bachelor’s degree combining mathematics, computer science, data science, economics, and social sciences or health.
How long is the programme and what degree does it award? +
The programme lasts three years, totalling 180 ECTS distributed across Bachelor 1, 2 and 3. It awards an institutional degree conferring bachelor’s degree status, recognised by the State and jointly awarded by Université Paris-Saclay, Institut Polytechnique de Paris and HEC Paris.
Where are classes held? +
Courses are held primarily at the Lycée International de Palaiseau Paris-Saclay (LIPPS), located on the Paris-Saclay campus. Some courses take place at partner institutions: ENS Paris-Saclay, HEC Paris, Institut Polytechnique de Paris and Université Paris-Saclay.
Is there a specialisation track? +
Yes. From the first year, students choose between a Health track and a Society track, each representing approximately 22 ECTS of specialised courses spread over the three years.
What are the application and tuition fees? +
There are no application fees: admission is exclusively through Parcoursup. Tuition fees are the standard university fees (national registration fees and CVEC).
Is it possible to work while studying? +
The programme’s pace is very demanding (lectures, projects, personal work), making it very difficult to hold a job alongside the curriculum. Students are strongly encouraged to explore scholarships and financial aid.
Can the CPES be combined with other programmes? +
No. The CPES is a full programme in its own right that replaces the first year after the baccalaureate. Its intensive pace is incompatible with dual enrolment.
Where do graduates go next? +
Graduates go on to selective master’s programmes, engineering schools, business schools, écoles normales supérieures or research, in France and abroad. The first cohort’s destinations are detailed on the career opportunities page, and some graduates describe their path.