This page gives short answers to the questions applicants ask most often.
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 and covers the entire field of cognitive science. It prepares future researchers in cognitive science as well as professionals who will apply it in fields such as 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 specialize, 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 the two career paths. Some students pursue research, while others prepare for careers in industry, in administration, or in fields where cognitive science is applied 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. An academic background unrelated to cognitive science is entirely acceptable and quite common among applicants.
Are students with unconventional backgrounds (outside psychology, biology, or computer science) common in the program?
Yes. Students come from 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 no prerequisites of any kind. Reading or online courses in cognitive science are appreciated, however, because they show a genuine interest in the field.
The application
Do students need to apply through the ‘Mon Master’ platform?
No. Because it is an internationally oriented program, the master’s program is an exception to the ‘Mon Master’ platform. Applications must be submitted through the PSL platform only, 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 is for students from other departments of ENS-PSL (ENS Ulm) who are already normaliens. If this applies to you, contact the “direction des études” of the Department of Cognitive Studies (DEC). Your application then follows a separate internal procedure and requires no file on 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 only need to provide your diploma when you enroll 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 the support of any faculty member before applying: submit your application through the standard process, which requires no prior endorsement or supervision.
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 make sure your message is polite, concise and respectful of their time. Faculty members have busy schedules, so keep this in mind when you contact them.
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 must be translated into French or English, but any certified organization in any country, including your home country, may translate them. The organization does not need to be 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 what you actually think rather than what you believe the committee wants 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?
The committee values two qualities above all:
- 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 are automatically admitted into the M1 of the master’s program the following year, without needing to apply, provided 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. Under ENS policy, students enrolling in a master’s program cannot apply for an Eiffel scholarship.
Student life and careers
What is the daily workload like? Is it compatible with part-time work?
The program is very demanding: it is the equivalent of full-time work. It leaves room for a small part-time job, but anything more substantial would probably 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, and, if approved, it can be split across two academic years.
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 use of cognitive science and the behavioral sciences in public administration and industry is growing rapidly, and graduates of the program have no difficulty finding positions in research or in professional sectors.
After admission: visa and enrollment
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, PSL will send you an email inviting you to accept the offer of admission. As soon as you accept it, you will automatically receive an official admission letter from PSL, which is sufficient to start your visa application.
What if the admission letter is not sufficient for my visa application?
If there is a problem with your admission letter, or if your local consulate requires additional information, contact the admissions office (support-admissions@psl.eu), which 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. If you are a citizen of a European Union country, this step is not required.