Pascal Levy
Student

The University Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne Innovates with a new Undergraduate program in Economics, the Economics Licence – International Track, Taught entirely in English

A fully English-taught Economics Bachelor's at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne.
International, affordable, and designed for students with global ambitions.

Starting in September 2025, the School of Economics at the prestigious Pantheon Sorbonne University will launch a new Economics Licence – International Track program. Entirely taught in English, this innovative, tuition-free curriculum offers the opportunity to join an exceptional pathway.

No fewer than 250 students (perhaps you?) will join the new Economics Licence – International Track program at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne in September 2025. The faculty have been working on this project for months. Their goal was to design an international program entirely in English that meets student demand while positioning the illustrious university on the global stage. As Rémi Bazillier, the director of this new program, emphasizes, there’s also a focus on “addressing students who might not have the financial means to enroll in a Bachelor’s program abroad.” Indeed, the new Economics Licence – International Track aims to be affordable… and already prestigious.

A Unique Educational Experience in France

“If you look around France, programs exclusively in English are rare, if not non-existent; usually, only a few courses are offered in English, and it’s primarily in the third year (L3) that the level increases,” explains Rémi Bazillier. That’s changing: France now has its own fully English-taught excellence program, the Economics Licence – International Track at the Sorbonne, determined to attract both French and international students.

Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, International Monetary Economics, History of Economic Thought… The courses will be identical to those in the general Economics Licence program: “We follow the same curriculum as our French-taught program. By changing the language of instruction it also changes the perspective: the approach is inherently more international. For instance, institutional courses will focus on institutions in other countries,” highlights the program leader. Additionally, students must choose a minor. Options include tracks from the French program (management, philosophy, law, etc.) or offerings from UNA Europa, an alliance of 11 renowned European universities, such as the Certificate in European Studies or Microcredentials in Sustainability—strong assets for any CV.

 

Tuition Fees at the National Rate

One of the standout features and a source of pride—of this new program is its affordability, with no additional tuition fees. In other words, the cost is limited to the national registration fees which are €175 per year, plus the CVEC (Student and Campus Life Contribution) fee, which is €103 for 2024/2025. As a result, the Economics Licence – International Track offers a cost significantly lower than studying abroad.

“Many students we spoke to were curious and interested in the program we were designing but concerned about its structure and cost; these concerns factored into our tought process,” explains Rémi Bazillier. The main priority is to provide future students with an accessible program, especially in a context where outbound mobility is increasing and interest in international degrees is growing. Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne has chosen to adapt to the younger generation’s needs, resources, and ambitions. The program is designed to be inclusive, making it an affordable launchpad for a future international career.
 

What Kind of Students Are They Looking For?

An inclusive program is one that recruits students based on their background but, most importantly, on their motivation. Naturally, the admission requirements align with those of the general Economics Licence: an interest in and aptitude for mathematics and an openness to economics. “It’s a program of excellence. We’re looking to attract the best students from all backgrounds. What matters to us is a genuine interest in international programs,” emphasizes the program leader. The goal is also to attract a significant number of international students. By joining the program, you’ll study in an international environment with peers from all over the world.

With the Economics Licence – International Track, you’ll have the opportunity to study at one of the best economics universities in France, with an ideal and dynamic living environment in the heart of Paris. No matter where you come from, what matters is your willingness to engage in an international program.

How Good Should Your English Be?

If the Economics Licence – International Track has caught your eye, don’t worry too much about your level of English. “We expect a B2 level, equivalent to what’s required for the baccalaureate,” reassures Rémi Bazillier, adding that the program is specifically designed to support students in improving their language skills. It’s all about learning through experience! For those who need extra help, support classes will be available. “We’re working on creating support courses because our goal isn’t just to cater to bilingual students but to those interested in economics who will eventually be able to work, write, and communicate in English,” the program leader explains.

To improve their language skills, students will have the opportunity for international mobility within Europe and beyond, thanks to numerous global partnerships. Studying at Panthéon Sorbonne brings international experiences to them, and they can also go abroad. The Economics – International Track Licence program is not just a local international offering but also a true stepping stone; after graduation, you can apply to any economics master’s program in France or around the world.

To apply, visit Parcoursup for French and European students. For international students, the application process is through “Études en France” or via a preliminary admission request (DAP for demande d’admission préalable) if the country does not use the Campus France procedure.