Situated on the Sarthe river, Le Mans is about 55 minutes by train (TGV) southwest of Paris. The city is of great interest from a historical and geographical point of view: the Gallo-Roman walls still stand 1700 years later as a testament to the excellence of Roman engineering. These walls encompass the Vieux Mans along with several houses celebrating the architectural diversity of different historical periods: the Middle-Ages, the Renaissance and the 18th century. Le Mans Cathedral displays a beautiful combination of Roman and Gothic art due to its different periods of construction from the 11th to the 15th century. Numerous cultural activities and events take place year round (theater, dance and music--including a renowned Jazz festival in May.) Le Mans is also famous for the race "Les 24h du Mans" in June of every year.

Academic year and semester exchanges

ISEP-Exchange for US students.


ISEP-Exchange chance of placement for US students is generally Excellent.
For the most current chances of placement, see the Sites Open for Applications for US Students

Academic year: early September to May
Semester 1: early September to December
Semester 2: early January to late May
 

Full year or semester enrollment in regular university courses:

Letters and Humanities: modern literature, classical literature, history, geography, German, English, Spanish civilization, Applied Foreign Languages [English/German, English/Spanish])

Law, Economics, and Economic and Social Administration

Sports Sciences: STAPS - Sciences et Techniques Des Activités Physiques et Sportives

Sciences: mathematics, physics, computer science, chemistry, biology, geology, acoustics, materials science, mechanical technology

ENSIM: engineering [sensors & vibrations]

Institute of Technology: biology, business administration, technical marketing, chemistry, mechanical engineering.

• A minimum of 4-5 semesters of university-level French or its equivalent must be completed prior to program. More French is recommended for advanced studies especially in technical areas.
• A French language course is offered throughout the school year for lower-intermediate, upper-intermediate, and advanced levels. Contact hours per week: : lower-intermediate (4 hours/week), upper-intermediate (4 hours/week) and advanced (2 hours/week).
• ISEP students may also take a one hour per week translation course designed specifically for English speakers. Other language classes offered are not tailored for foreign students, but do include courses on French syntax and linguistics. A good command of French is required for these courses.

For more information on courses and language options, see the:
ISEP French Language Advising Guide for US Students
ISEP French Language Advising Guide for I-to-I Students


All students studying in France must purchase French health insurance (la Sécu) upon arrival for approximately 200 euros in addition to purchasing ISEP Health Insurance prior to departure.


A popular field of study in Le Mans is Modern Letters. Students can study French language, grammar, history, and literature. Click here then choose "programme" on the right hand side of the page and "parcours FLE" for courses. Click on the individual courses for course descriptions.

To find additional course descriptions, please follow the instructions by clicking the link "course information" above.
 

ISEP students live in residence halls and receive a stipend to cover the cost of meals at the university cafeteria. No married student housing is available.

The International Relations Office, the ISEP Coordinator, and their team of student volunteers welcome the students individually. Campus tours and various other social events are organized. The ISEP Coordinator establishes the study program with each student and will meet the students regularly during their stay.

Founded in 1969, Universite du Maine is a small multidisciplinary institution with a single campus. Total enrollment: 7,500.