Here are the questions applicants ask us most often, with short answers.
The program
What makes the ENS-PSL & EHESS Master’s program in cognitive science different from other programs in Paris and France?
Like other cognitive science programs, the ENS-PSL Master’s program is interdisciplinary, covering the entire field of cognitive science. It prepares both future researchers in cognitive science and professionals who will apply cognitive science in fields like administration or business.
It differs from the other programs on two points:
1. A single curriculum, with no separate tracks
- Unlike other programs, which are often split into distinct tracks (“parcours”), this program admits every student into the same curriculum, shared by all in the first semester.
- The common core gives students time to see the whole field before they specialise, and it builds a real cohort: everyone starts from the same courses. From the second semester, each student chooses advanced courses according to their background and goals, without being locked in by an early decision.
2. Access to the rest of ENS and PSL
- Students can take courses across ENS and PSL institutions, especially during PSL Weeks.
- They can also earn a minor, officially noted on their diploma, in a field related to cognitive science: data science, public policy (in partnership with INSP), deeptech and innovation, digital humanities, or analytical philosophy. The minor certifies skills acquired beyond cognitive science, which counts on the job market.
Is this program more oriented toward research or industry?
The program balances both career paths. While some students pursue research, others prepare for careers in industry, administration, or fields applying cognitive science professionally.
Eligibility and background
Am I eligible to apply with a bachelor’s degree in a field unrelated to cognitive science (e.g., art, geosciences, etc.)?
Yes, all undergraduate degrees are eligible, regardless of the field.
Can I apply directly to the second year (M2)?
No, admission is only possible at the M1 level. Both years must be completed to graduate.
My academic background doesn’t include any subjects related to cognitive science. Will this affect my application?
Not at all. Having an academic background unrelated to cognitive science is perfectly fine and quite common among applicants.
Are students with unconventional backgrounds (outside psychology, biology, or computer science) common in the program?
Yes, the program includes a wide range of academic backgrounds, and there is no typical profile.
Do I need to have specific cognitive science skills before applying?
No, there are absolutely no prerequisites. Reading or online courses on cognitive science are appreciated, though: they show a real interest in the field.
The application
Do students need to apply through the ‘Mon Master’ platform?
No, our Master’s program is an exception to the ‘Mon Master’ platform because it is an internationally oriented program. Applications must be submitted exclusively through the PSL platform and nowhere else.
Can I apply after the deadline or outside the regular application process?
No, applications submitted after the official deadline or outside the standard application platform will not be considered.
The only exception concerns students from other departments of ENS-PSL (ENS Ulm) who are already normaliens. If you are in this case, please contact the “direction des études” of the Department of Cognitive Studies (DEC). Your application follows a separate internal procedure and does not require submitting a file through the standard application platform.
Am I eligible if I will only receive my diploma in the summer, even though documents are required by March?
Yes, you are eligible. You will just need to provide your diploma upon enrollment in September.
Do transcripts need to be official, or are temporary ones sufficient?
Temporary transcripts are sufficient for the application.
Do I need to propose an internship project when applying?
No, this is not required. However, if you already have specific researchers or topics in mind, it is useful to mention them in your motivation letter.
Do I need to secure a professor’s support or receive acceptance from a specific faculty member before applying to the Master’s program?
No. You do not need to secure the support of any faculty member before applying. Just submit your application through the standard process: no prior endorsement or supervision is required.
Would including a past dissertation or written project related to cognitive science strengthen my application?
Yes. A piece of written work related to cognitive science shows maturity and interest: include it if you have one.
Can I contact faculty members in advance to discuss my profile or seek advice?
Yes, but ensure that your message is polite, concise, and respectful of their time. Faculty members have busy schedules, so be mindful when reaching out.
My previous studies don’t exactly match the categories or fields required on the PSL application platform. What should I do?
This is a common situation: academic systems vary across countries and institutions. If your studies do not fit the predefined categories (for example, a curriculum organized by semesters rather than years), enter the closest match and add any useful context in your CV or supporting documents.
Language and documents
Are the courses and exams in the master’s program 100% in English?
Yes, 100%. No knowledge of French or any other language is required.
Do I need to provide proof of English proficiency?
No, it is not required.
If my academic documents are not in English or French, do they need to be translated by an organization approved by the French government?
No. They need to be translated into French or English, but they can be translated by a certified organization in any country, including your home country. They do not need to be translated by an organization specifically approved by the French government.
Your motivation letter
Are self-taught skills or online courses outside my formal academic background considered valuable?
Yes. Online courses and self-directed learning in cognitive science are valued: they show maturity and interest. Mention them in your motivation letter.
Should my motivation letter focus on a specific research project or present a broader interest?
There is no single right approach. Write sincerely, rather than what you think we want to hear: an overly detailed project can look premature, and a vague one says little. Explain why you want to join the program, what interests you in cognitive science, and what you hope to do with it.
Does the admissions committee value personal motivation, even if my academic background doesn’t align with cognitive science?
Yes, personal motivation is one of the most important criteria. The committee looks for a sincere, well-argued interest in cognitive science and clear reasons for joining the program.
What qualities does the admissions committee particularly appreciate?
Two main qualities:
- Academic excellence in prior studies, regardless of discipline.
- Depth and sincerity of interest in cognitive science, supported by clear reasons for wanting to join the program.
Normalien status and funding
If I am admitted to the DENS (as a normalien) in L3/M0 at the DEC, am I automatically accepted into the master’s program in M1 next year?
Yes, if you are admitted to the DENS in L3/M0 at the DEC, you will automatically be admitted into the master’s program in M1 the following year without needing to apply, under the condition you complete 60 ECTS during the L3/M0 year.
If I am admitted to the master’s program but not to the DENS, can I reapply to become a normalien next year?
No, if you are admitted to the master’s program but not to the DENS, you cannot reapply to become a normalien in the following years.
Can I apply for an Eiffel scholarship to fund my Master’s studies?
No. According to ENS policy, applications for Eiffel scholarships are not accepted for students enrolling in a Master’s program.
Student life and careers
What is the daily workload like? Is it compatible with part-time work?
The program is very demanding, equivalent to full-time work. It is compatible with a small part-time job, but anything more substantial would likely be too difficult.
Can students take a gap year during the program, and when is it possible?
Yes, students can take a gap year during the Master’s program. It can be taken:
- Before starting the program,
- Between semesters,
- Between M1 and M2.
The gap year can last one semester or a full academic year, with flexibility to split across two academic years if approved.
Is it easy to make connections or build friendships in the program?
Yes. Since everyone takes the same courses in the first semester, students in a cohort know each other well from the start. They also take part in the seminars and events of the Département d’études cognitives (DEC), and the ENS and PSL student clubs are open to them.
Are career prospects strong for graduates of this program?
Yes, the application of cognitive science and behavioral sciences in public administration and industry is growing rapidly. Graduates of the program have no difficulty finding positions in research or professional sectors.
After admission: visa and enrolment
If I am admitted to the master’s program, when will I receive the official admission letter needed for my visa application?
Once you are admitted, you will receive an email from PSL inviting you to accept your offer of admission. As soon as you accept this offer, you will automatically receive an official admission letter from PSL. This letter is sufficient to start your visa application.
What if the admission letter is not sufficient for my visa application?
If you encounter any issues with your admission letter or if additional information is required by your local consulate, please contact the admissions office (support-admissions@psl.eu). They can provide an updated version tailored to your needs.
Do I need to contact Campus France?
Yes, if you are a non-European student, you must contact Campus France as part of the visa process. No, if you are a citizen of a European Union country, this step is not required.