École Polytechnique

Founded in 1794, École Polytechnique, also known as “l’X,” is a prestigious French grande école located in Palaiseau, south of Paris. It is renowned for its excellence in science and engineering, combining academic education, cutting-edge research, and innovation. The school is a founding member of the Institut Polytechnique de Paris.

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What programs does École Polytechnique offer?

École Polytechnique offers a top-tier engineering program, as well as undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs. Disciplines include mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, economics, computer science, and engineering sciences. Students benefit from a multidisciplinary education, complemented by initial military training.

What research opportunities are available at École Polytechnique?

École Polytechnique is recognized for its world-class research. It hosts numerous laboratories covering fields such as artificial intelligence, nanotechnologies, renewable energies, and life sciences. Students have the opportunity to take part in innovative research projects, often in collaboration with industry and international institutions.

How to apply to École Polytechnique?

Admission to the engineering program is mainly through a highly competitive entrance exam after two years of preparatory classes (CPGE). Parallel admissions are also possible for university students. For undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs, selection is based on an application file, sometimes followed by an interview.

What career paths are available after graduating from École Polytechnique?

Graduates of École Polytechnique, known as “polytechniciens,” go on to hold key positions across various sectors. Many become senior executives in major companies, high-ranking civil servants, military officers, or researchers. Among its alumni are Nobel Prize winners, Fields Medalists, Presidents of the French Republic, and CEOs of major corporations.