This one-semester exchange opportunity:
- Exists for up to two upper level J.D. students
- Takes place during the fall term, from early August to mid-December. (It is also possible to attend during spring semester which runs from February through June.)
- Has courses taught in French.
- Enables course credits earned at Paris 5 to count toward a student's J.D. degree.
About the University
Paris Descartes University is one of the main French research universities, with a strong focus on medical sciences, social sciences, mathematics, and law. It is located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, the 5th arrondissement of Paris and is one of the most prestigious European university's for medical sciences, social sciences and research in psychology having a strong focus on innovation and modern approaches to social sciences.
Tuition, Fees, Social Events & Housing
- Incoming exchange students: pay tuition to their home school, and required student health insurance and University fees to the University of Miami.
- Outgoing Miami Law students: pay tuition and other required fees to the University of Miami School of Law. Miami Law students pay no tuition or fees to the partner school except for certain social events and discretionary fees.
Prior to Applying
- Understand J.D. graduation requirements and make sure an International Exchange semester fits your study goals/timeline.
- Carefully review the International Exchange Program Policies and Procedures here.
Review International Exchange Program information online (incl. academic calendars, course offerings, language requirements, etc.). - Consider implications for summer and post-graduate job search (interview process for many clerkships, government honor programs, fellowships, and law firms taking place in Fall of 3L year).
Final semester exchange is strongly discouraged to avoid delays in graduation, bar certification, etc. (typically Spring of 3L year). - International students on an F-1 visa should contact their ISSS advisor prior to applying.
How to Apply
Submit your application through Miami Law’s online International Exchange Programs Application Form (applicants may indicate first and alternate choice of host school).
Upload supporting documentation:
Resume
Miami Law transcript (unofficial copy sufficient)
Statement of Intent
Application review process might include interview
Selection Criteria
The application process can be competitive, and we often receive more applications for nominations than we have slots available. If we are not able to approve a student for their first choice of host school, we look at the student’s alternate choice. Selection will be based on the totality of the student’s academic and professional record, including the following:
- Applicants should hold a GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Preference will be given to students applying for an exchange during their 2L Spring or 3L Fall semester
- Demonstrated interest in international and transnational issues (e.g. previous course work, work experience, internships, volunteer activities, undergraduate study abroad, etc.)
- Demonstrated potential for success in a semester abroad program
- Defined educational objectives for the exchange semester
- Proficiency in language of instruction (where applicable)
When to Apply
• Fall Semester – Students must apply for nomination by February 1
• Spring Semester – Students must apply for nomination by September 1
For More Information
Questions about the program should be directed to:
