The University of Strasbourg (Université de Strasbourg) is among France’s most renowned public research universities. Located in the cosmopolitan city of Strasbourg—seat of European institutions and a melting pot of French and German culture—the university is famed for its global perspective, academic excellence, and advanced research. This blog post discusses everything you need to know: from its long history dating back centuries to its comprehensive range of programs, world-class teaching staff, scholarships (particularly for foreign students), and hands-on contact information.
A Lucrative and Historic Heritage
- Established in 1538, the University of Strasbourg was initially a humanist German-language academy.
- It became a complete university in 1621 and forged a distinctive identity at the intersection of French and German intellectual heritages.
- Following several restructurings as a result of historical events—such as annexations and wars—the contemporary university was consolidated in 2009 through the amalgamation of three institutions: Louis Pasteur University, Marc Bloch University, and Robert Schuman University.
- Nobel Prize winners Jean-Marie Lehn and Jules Hoffmann have taught at or been associated with the university, further supporting its reputation as a top European university.
Academic Programs and Faculties
The University of Strasbourg has more than 600 academic programs, many of which are taught in English, and heavily emphasizes interdisciplinary education.
Faculties and Key Areas of Study
- Sciences and Technology
- Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Biology, and Earth Sciences.
- High research integration with CNRS (National Center for Scientific Research).
- Health and Medicine
- Medicine, Pharmacy, Odontology, Public Health, and Life Sciences.
- Associated with top medical institutes and research hospitals.
- Law, Political Science, and Economics
- European Law, International Relations, Public Administration, and Finance.
- Ranked as one of France’s top law faculties.
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Literature, History, Sociology, Linguistics, Philosophy, and Theology.
- Intercultural and multilingual setting.
- Languages and International Studies
- 24+ language courses.
- Host to the Institute for Translators, Interpreters and International Relations (ITIRI).
- Arts and Culture
- Visual arts, Performing arts, and Creative media.
- Partnerships with museums, theaters, and local cultural organizations.
Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, as well as postdoctoral and continuing education programs.
Instruction Languages: Predominantly French, with more programs in English for Master’s and Doctoral levels.
Faculty and Research Excellence
- Host to more than 2,800 research and teaching staff.
- Established for excellence in basic and applied research, particularly in physics, life sciences, and humanities.
- Collaborative partner to large research organizations: CNRS, Inserm, and the European Science Foundation.
- State-of-the-art research in areas including quantum chemistry, immunology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and European politics.
- Research Output: One of the leading French universities in scientific publications and patents.
University of Strasbourg Scholarships (particularly for International Students)
The University of Strasbourg believes in making education accessible and provides many scholarships to both French and international students.
Scholarship Types
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (by Campus France)
- Target Audience: International Master’s and PhD students.
- Coverage: Monthly scholarship (€1,181 for Master’s, €1,700 for PhD), travel costs, health insurance, cultural events.
- Disciplines: Science, engineering, economics, law, political science.
- Application: Through the university prior to Campus France deadline (typically Jan–Feb).
- IDEX University of Strasbourg Scholarships
- Target Group: International students for Master’s programs.
- Coverage: Up to €10,000 annually.
- Selection: On academic merit and motivation letter.
- Deadline: Usually Feb–Apr.
- Erasmus+ Mobility Grants
- For EU as well as non-EU students coming for exchange or joint degrees.
- Pays for travel and monthly living costs.
- Apply through your home university or Strasbourg Erasmus office.
- Doctoral and Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Awarded through research laboratories and in association with CNRS.
- Very competitive and merit based on research proposal.
- Typically includes full support for 3 years, plus conference and lab costs.
- Scholarships by French Ministry of Higher Education
- Covers social grants based on family income, especially for long-term residents or those from partner countries.
Application:
- Or look at Campus France Scholarships
Campus Life and International Environment
- Student Body: More than 56,000 students, 20% international students from 150+ countries.
- Student Support Services: Assistance with housing, French language instruction, health services, legal support.
- Student Organizations: More than 150 student associations (cultural, academic, sport, music, activism).
- Libraries & Labs: 27 late-opening libraries with digital and physical access, plus state-of-the-art research labs and innovation centers.
City of Strasbourg
- Regional capital of Alsace, situated close to the German border.
- Famous for its stunning medieval architecture, EU institutions, and status as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Excellent public transport, lower living costs relative to Paris, and high quality of life for students.
Contact and Address Information
Université de Strasbourg
Address: 4 Rue Blaise Pascal, 67081 Strasbourg Cedex, France
Phone: +33 (0)3 68 85 00 00
Email: info@unistra.fr
International Office: international@unistra.fr
Scholarship Page: https://www.unistra.fr/index.php?id=30418
Final Thoughts
The University of Strasbourg provides a distinctive combination of history, academic excellence, international openness, and lively campus life. With many fully funded scholarship opportunities and an excellent reputation in both science and humanities, it’s one of the best destinations for students everywhere. Regardless of whether you are here for research, a Master’s degree, or just starting your studies, Strasbourg gives you all you need and assistance to ensure succes
