As the admissions process at Sciences Po Paris evolves, candidates are increasingly encouraged to showcase their extracurricular activities and personal commitments during interviews. With no entrance exam required, applicants now submit their profiles through Parcoursup, followed by a 25-minute oral assessment. This includes a self-presentation where candidates can highlight their social engagements, such as volunteering or sports participation. Triumphant applicants, like Anna, who volunteered with migrant aid organizations, emphasize the enriching nature of their experiences. Faculty members, including Rémi Chautard, stress the importance of genuine involvement, noting that opportunistic engagements are easily detected during interviews.Ultimately, the admissions jury seeks diverse and authentic profiles, valuing both humanitarian efforts and personal passions, such as sports or journalism, as indicators of a candidate’s commitment and character.In a recent discussion, Rémi Chautard, a mathematics professor at Sciences Po, emphasized the importance of authenticity in academic pursuits. He criticized individuals who undertake projects, such as building schools in Africa, merely to enhance their candidacy profiles, stating that many approach these initiatives with a vacation mindset rather than genuine commitment. Chautard argues that true passion is essential, asserting that while actions may appear commendable on paper, the reality frequently enough reveals a lack of understanding and sincerity. His insights highlight the need for deeper engagement and genuine motivation in educational and philanthropic efforts.Young candidates applying to prestigious institutions like Sciences Po are increasingly showcasing diverse interests and entrepreneurial spirit, according to faculty insights. Louis Dubost, a professor at Sciences Po, emphasizes that while engagement in social issues is valued, it is not the primary criterion for admission. Instead, the focus lies on candidates’ knowledge and critical thinking abilities. Notably, many applicants are now self-employed or involved in associations supporting minority groups, reflecting a shift towards a more varied and socially aware applicant pool. This trend highlights the importance of depth over breadth in engagement, as admissions committees seek individuals who can thoughtfully reflect on their experiences.Sciences Po is enhancing its commitment to social responsibility through the innovative Civic learning Programme, designed to immerse students in real-world civic engagement. This initiative encourages undergraduates to participate in community service projects and internships that align with their personal values and social causes. By fostering a hands-on approach to citizenship, the programme not only enriches students’ educational experiences but also equips them with the ethical and social awareness necessary for future leadership roles. Prospective students are urged to engage in civic activities early on, as these experiences are invaluable for their academic and professional journeys. For more details, visit the official Sciences Po website.
Q&A with Rémi Chautard and Louis Dubost on the Evolving Admissions Process at Sciences Po Paris
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Professor Chautard and Professor Dubost, and thank you for joining us today to discuss the transformative changes in the admissions process at Sciences Po Paris. It’s exciting to see how the emphasis on genuine engagement is reshaping what it means to be a successful applicant. Could you explain the current admissions approach and its implications for candidates?
Rémi Chautard: Absolutely. The recent shift in our admissions process has been important. Previously, candidates often relied on traditional metrics such as entrance exams. Now, with no such stipulation, applicants submit their profiles through Parcoursup, followed by a 25-minute oral assessment where they present themselves and their experiences. This updated approach emphasizes the importance of showcasing extracurricular activities and social commitments, which allows us to see the whole person behind the submission.
Louis Dubost: I’d like to add that while engagement in social issues is an crucial part of the process, it doesn’t overshadow critical thinking and knowledge. We look for depth in candidates’ commitments rather than just breadth. Candidates who can reflect thoughtfully on their experiences and demonstrate authentic passion often stand out.
Editor: that’s an interesting distinction, Professor Dubost. Could you elaborate on the type of social engagements you find most compelling?
Louis Dubost: Certainly. We’re impressed by candidates involved in meaningful projects that truly resonate with them, whether that’s supporting minority groups or starting community initiatives. such as, applicants like Anna, who volunteered with migrant aid organizations, highlight how their experiences have shaped their perspectives. Though, it’s critical that these engagements don’t come off as opportunistic. Our faculty can usually discern when candidates have genuine commitments versus when they’re merely building their profiles.
Editor: Professor Chautard, you mentioned authenticity as a key factor. What are the dangers of candidates pursuing engagements purely for resume-building?
Rémi chautard: There’s a significant risk that candidates undermine their credibility when they approach projects with a superficial mindset. Initiatives like volunteering abroad or starting community projects must stem from genuine desire rather than as mere checkboxes. Candidates may believe these experiences enhance their applications, but if they lack true involvement, it often backfires. We encourage deeper engagement where students truly understand the issues at hand, rather than using them as stepping stones.
Editor: With the focus on authenticity and genuine commitment, how is sciences Po adapting to foster these qualities in prospective students?
Louis Dubost: One of our key responses has been the introduction of the Civic Learning Programme. This initiative is designed to immerse students in real-world civic engagement. It encourages undergraduates to participate in community service projects and internships closely aligned with their values and social causes. This hands-on approach not only enriches their educational experience but also cultivates the ethical and social awareness vital for future leaders.
Editor: That sounds like a valuable initiative for students. For prospective candidates navigating this admissions landscape, what practical advice would you give to ensure they present strong, authentic profiles?
Rémi Chautard: I would advise candidates to reflect deeply on their values and interests. Engage genuinely in activities that truly resonate with you, whether that’s volunteering, sports, arts, or activism. When you present your experiences, share the lessons learned and how they shaped your worldview. Authenticity shines through when you can discuss the motivations behind your actions.
Louis dubost: Additionally, I recommend that candidates start engaging in civic activities early on. These experiences not only enhance your profile but also provide valuable insights that can be articulated during the admissions process. The key is to engage with intention and be prepared to relate your experiences back to how you think and contribute to society.
Editor: Thank you, Professors, for this insightful discussion on the evolving admissions process at Sciences Po Paris. Your insights will undoubtedly help prospective students understand the value of authenticity within their applications.
Rémi Chautard: Thank you for having us; it was a pleasure to share these insights.
Louis Dubost: Thank you, indeed. We look forward to the future applications we will receive!