About the City

Make the City of Light your classroom when you study abroad in Paris. From business to cultural studies, finance to fashion, the art scene to the foodie scene, Paris offers limitless opportunities. France’s capital city has long been a center of intellectual thought, politics, art, and social change, where diversity and modernity thrive alongside centuries of rich history. Home to high fashion, world-renowned cuisine, and some of the world’s best museums and galleries, Paris draws thinkers, artists, writers…and thousands of students from around the world. Studying abroad here at the CEA CAPA Paris Center and our Parisian partner university offers stimulating approaches to learning by combining in-class work with group projects, co-curricular activities, and excursions, all designed to foster a deeper understanding of local language and culture, as well as a broader global perspective.

Student Testimonials

"I studied and interned abroad in Paris with CEA CAPA and had the adventure of a lifetime! I picked this program to build my résumé and didn't want to sacrifice having a study abroad experience. While working abroad can feel daunting, th..."

Erica Turner

University of Massachusetts

GoOverseas

Fall 2023, France

"Engineering in Paris is an incredible opportunity for students to complete engineering requirements and experience an amazingly rich and diverse culture. CEA CAPA professors were passionate about their subjects and understanding of our unique student..."

Matthew Sinanis

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

GoOverseas

Summer 2023, France

"Studying abroad in Paris was an unreal experience. I studied at an American Study Abroad program (CEA CAPA) and at an international school (CCFS). I learned so much about France and the world through the friends that I made and the voyages I went on...."

Isabella DeJesse

University of San Diego

GoOverseas

Spring 2023, France

"I have a major in French, so studying abroad in France was the perfect opportunity! Despite Paris' reputation, I didn't go in with any grand expectations. When I got there in summer 2022, I was blown away by the history, architecture, and culture. I ..."

Emily Nate

Washington State University

GoOverseas

Summer 2022, France

"CEA CAPA succeeded and ensured students were safe, happy, and healthy while studying abroad. My Paris experience was life-changing and one that CEA CAPA made possible. It taught me valuable life lessons that I implement daily, like being adaptable, o..."

Ella Masingale

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

GoOverseas

Fall 2022, France

Programs in Paris (11)

Show All Paris Programs

Where You'll Study

CEA CAPA Paris Center

The CEA CAPA Paris Center, located in the heart of the Marais district, offers an exceptional study abroad experience steeped in history and culture in the “City of Love.” Housed in the Hôtel Lièvre de la Grange, an 18th-century historical monument, the center is just steps away from iconic landmarks like Hôtel de Ville, the Seine River, Centre Pompidou, and Notre Dame Cathedral. This prime location in the premier arrondissement makes the city itself an integral part of your learning experience.

Since its founding in 2005, the Paris Center has provided study abroad students with a curriculum tailored to the city’s unique character, featuring courses in art history, political science, communication, international business, and more. The faculty incorporates Paris as an extended classroom, encouraging you to connect your academic studies to the city’s dynamic cultural and historical landscape.

The program emphasizes more than academics. It prepares you for a globalized world, offering opportunities to explore how Paris operates as a hub of art, politics, and commerce. The supportive environment fosters connections with fellow students, staff, and faculty, creating an enriching, collaborative experience.

From its historic setting to its innovative curriculum, the CEA CAPA Paris Center is a standout destination for those seeking an immersive, globally-focused education in one of the world’s most iconic cities.

Center Academics

Student Lounge
Student Lounge
Study Room
Study Room
Counseling Services
Counseling Services
CEA CAPA Academic Resources
CEA CAPA Academic Resources
CEA CAPA Paris Center
CEA CAPA Paris Center
CEA CAPA Paris Center
CEA CAPA Paris Center
CEA CAPA Paris Center
CEA CAPA Paris Center
CEA CAPA Paris Center
CEA CAPA Paris Center
CEA CAPA Paris Center
Student Lounge
Student Lounge
Study Room
Study Room
Counseling Services
Counseling Services
CEA CAPA Academic Resources
CEA CAPA Academic Resources
Our Partner Institutions

What Students are Saying about France

Studying Abroad on a Budget in Aix-en-Provence
Read More

Studying Abroad on a Budget in Aix-en-Provence

Tips for budgeting while studying abroad in Aix-en-Provence, France.

My Study Abroad Home Away From Home: What I Love About the CEA CAPA Paris Study Center
Read More

My Study Abroad Home Away From Home: What I Love About the CEA CAPA Paris Study Center

CEA CAPA Content Creator Deanna Minotakis takes us inside the CEA CAPA Paris Study Center to show what students love about it. Learn more.

Learning About Fashion Through Studying Abroad in Paris, France
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Learning About Fashion Through Studying Abroad in Paris, France

CEA CAPA Content Creator Avelina Valdez shares what it’s like to learn about fashion while studying abroad in Paris, France. Learn more.

View more blog posts

Excursions

Get out and explore! Excursions are offered for most semester, year, and summer programs. Semester students are typically offered between two to three excursions and summer study students are typically offered between one to two excursions. You'll receive a calendar of excursions during orientation; here are a few day and overnight excursions we've offered in the past.

Where You'll Stay

We offer different housing options to match your budget, preferences, and study abroad goals. Housing options may change and will be confirmed on the housing application form prior to the start of the term. Below are the housing options that have been offered in the past.

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Global Housing Standards
Learn more about what's included with CEA CAPA housing.

Alumni Ambassadors

Mikhaelah Kounouho (She/Her)

Mikhaelah Kounouho (She/Her)

University of Arizona
Amanda Ojeda (She/Her)

Amanda Ojeda (She/Her)

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ceci Logan

Ceci Logan

Seattle University
Desiree Watkins (she/her)

Desiree Watkins (she/her)

University of San Diego
Joshua Gottschalk

Joshua Gottschalk

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
Lauren Malestic

Lauren Malestic

University of San Diego
Anna Wojciechowski

Anna Wojciechowski

Northern Illinois University
Isabella DeJesse

Isabella DeJesse

University of San Diego
Brendan Mariles

Brendan Mariles

Washington State University
Rylie Fisher (She/Her)

Rylie Fisher (She/Her)

Louisiana State University
Jack Grooms (He/Him)

Jack Grooms (He/Him)

College of Charleston
Cecily Widmann

Cecily Widmann

York College of Pennsylvania
Hana Dempsey (She/Her)

Hana Dempsey (She/Her)

Marist College
Danielle Agnello

Danielle Agnello

University of San Diego
Clara Janow (She/Her)

Clara Janow (She/Her)

University of Miami

Get a Flight Credit worth up to $1,250 when you apply with code* by June 30, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Studying in Paris is a life changing event for many students. When you study abroad in France, you experience learning outside the traditional classroom setting, gain international experience and expand your sense of cultural awareness. You will experience new culture, food, and meet people from all over the world making lifelong friends and expanding your network. Plus you get to travel to places you've only read about.
As a student there are tons of experiences you can have for free or at a discounted cost, particularly at museums! For food, there are plenty of affordable options, especially by CEA CAPA's Paris Center – check out Hure or O'Bao. Planning ahead can help cut costs; for example, buy the month metro (Navigo) pass instead of individual tickets. Having access to the metro can get you anywhere in the city for cheap – you can take a baguette and some cheese for a picnic in a park, explore a farmer's market, and so much more!
Paris is a fantastic choice for a students' who want to participate in study abroad or internship abroad programs. Paris is very safe for such a large city, but like all big cities, it does have its risks. Typically, crimes are those of opportunity, so it is important to take steps to make sure your experience abroad will be positive and you can enjoy all that Paris has to offer while on your program abroad.
Paris has long been a center of intellectual thought, politics, art, and social change, in the city’s centuries of history. Home to high fashion, world-renowned cuisine, and some of the world’s best museums and galleries, Paris draws thinkers, artists, writers…and thousands of students from around the world to study. Studying abroad in Paris with CEA CAPA offers stimulating approaches to learning by combining in-class work with group projects, co-curricular activities, and excursions, all designed to foster a deeper understanding of local language and culture, and a broader global perspective.

Academic Life & Courses

CEA CAPA offers courses in fashion, business, culture, art history, French language, and engineering. Classes are held at the CEA CAPA Paris Center and local partner institutions for French language study.
Yes, most classes are taught in English. French language courses are also available for all levels of fluency. At our partner institutions students with a higher level of French can take electives in French. 
Yes. Credit transfer depends on each student’s home university and its academic policies. Students are responsible for confirming credit approval with their home institution before studying abroad, as transferability is determined by the home university, not by CEA CAPA. 

Housing & Daily Life

Students typically live in studios, shared apartments, or homestays located throughout Paris, with easy access to class via the metro system.
Yes. All CEA CAPA Paris housing options include WiFi and access to a washing machine. Dryers are not common abroad, so students should plan to hang dry their clothes, which is the standard practice in Europe.
Most students use the metro, buses, or walk. Paris has one of the most extensive and efficient public transit systems in Europe.

Language & Culture

No. Many Parisians speak English, particularly in academic and tourist areas, but learning French will enrich your daily experience.
Paris blends historic charm with modern cosmopolitan life. Expect strong appreciation for art, fashion, food, and public life, from cafés to cultural festivals.
Yes. CEA CAPA hosts local events, language exchanges, and cultural excursions to connect students with Parisian life and international peers.
Greet people with “Bonjour” when entering and “Merci, au revoir” when leaving. Be polite, speak softly, and be aware of cultural differences. Tipping is appreciated but not expected; rounding up is common.

Travel & Exploration

Students often travel to Versailles, Normandy, the Loire Valley, or even London or Amsterdam via high-speed train.
Excursions may include guided trips to Germany, Belgium, Giverny, and historic neighborhoods of Paris. Locations vary by term.
Paris has cool winters and mild springs and autumns, with warm summers. Bring layers and an umbrella—rain is frequent year-round.

Budget & Affordability

Paris can be pricey, but student discounts on transportation, museums, and meals make it manageable. Budget for personal expenses.
Yes. Studios and apartments include kitchens. Students often shop at neighborhood markets and prepare meals at home. 
U.S. students usually cannot work due to visa rules. CEA CAPA offers internships and business consulting for academic credit and career experience.

Health, Safety & Support

Yes, Paris is generally safe, especially in the neighborhoods where students live, though pick-pocketing can occur in crowded areas. CEA CAPA provides safety guidance and 24/7 emergency support.
CEA CAPA provides onsite staff support, cultural adjustment resources, and wellness check-ins throughout your time abroad.
CEA CAPA assists students in accessing English-speaking doctors while abroad. International insurance, included in the program, covers most routine and urgent medical care.

Application, Visas & Logistics

Yes, if the program lasts more than 90 days. CEA CAPA provides step-by-step support for your French student visa application.
Students are encouraged to apply 6–9 months in advance to secure placement and allow sufficient time for housing arrangements and visa processing if applicable.
Students must provide a valid passport, program acceptance letter, proof of insurance, and visa application documents when applying for a study abroad visa. CEA CAPA provides a comprehensive checklist and guidance throughout the application process.

Paris Onsite Staff

Elisa Dordevic

Elisa Dordevic

Academic Coordinator
Christopher Edwards, M.A.

Christopher Edwards, M.A.

Academic Director - Paris