Mathematics and Physics

Program Overview

École polytechnique's three-year Bachelor of Science is taught entirely in English on its campus in Palaiseau, south of Paris. The Mathematics and Physics double major closely coordinates the two subjects, from mechanics, relativity, optics, electromagnetism and thermodynamics to the structure of matter, with laboratory work in Polytechnique's research centres. Students can add a minor in biology or chemistry and write a research-based bachelor thesis in the third year. Students apply to the Bachelor of Science and choose this double major at the end of a common first year. Selection is holistic: Polytechnique reviews the application, with transcripts, a personal statement and two references, and invites shortlisted applicants to a remote interview in English. It sets no minimum grade, but expects a strong academic record with mathematics and another science at Higher Level. No French is needed at entry; French classes are part of the programme.