Overview

The Law doctoral programme at Sciences Po aims to train top-level lawyers who are aiming mainly for academic and research careers in France and abroad. They will be legal theorists, highly trained in a wide range of methods, open to multidisciplinary approaches and to the diversity of legal cultures.

They are provided with a working station and the best conditions possible for writing their thesis. Their research is supervised by a main supervisor, Professor at the Law School, and by two minor supervisors who can come from other areas.

Key facts:

Through seminars, doctoral workshops and the program's scientific events, Doctoral students participate fully in the activities of the Law School. They are in constant contact with the numerous visiting lecturers and professors. Only a limited number of students are admitted which enables each of them to benefit from close supervision and attention and the individualisation of their chosen path in the interests of success for everyone.

Programme Structure

The program is designed to provide:

Theoretical training with an international dimension
Extensive knowledge of the basic legal techniques, concepts and legal reasoning
A precise and critical approach to the tools for theorising law
With a comparative and global point of view
Personalised supervision within the research centres from committed and internationally recognised academics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-05-17 00:00:00

Language

English

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Paris, France

Disciplines

European Law International Law Public Law

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Two academic recommendations (an optional professional recommendation may be added)
CV/resume
Proof of identity
Thesis project (PDF or Word format, 5,000 words maximum, i.e. about ten pages, excluding bibliographic references)
Thesis project synopsis (two pages, PDF or Word format)
Copy of last completed academic degree (Master or equivalent)
Master transcripts (the documents must be attached in the original language, along with an official or informal translation in English or French if necessary. Please add a sworn statement of compliance if the translation is yours)
If obtained, official proof of doctoral funding obtention

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Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

Free
EU/EEA Applies to you

Applies to you

EU/EEA Nationals

Free

Additional Details

All doctoral students enrolled at Sciences Po will be exempt from tuition fees.

Living costs

Paris

France

1195 - 1778 EUR / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Tuition Fees

For all students admitted to the PhD programme at the “Thesis” level, the annual fee for the 2016/2017 academic year is 391 euros, irrespective of tax residency.

In order to make Sciences Po accessible to all to promote academic success, Sciences Po offers many types of financial aid.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Law.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Key facts:

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

EU/EEA Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Paris

Funding

Tuition Fees

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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