Administrative Information

Gap Year Program

A gap year is an optional period, lasting up to one academic year, during which a student suspends their studies to pursue a personal or professional project, either in France or abroad.

It is important to note that a gap year is not a sabbatical or a default choice. It requires careful planning and thoughtful consideration. The gap year should represent a genuine opportunity for learning or for the development of meaningful projects.

During the gap year, students may undertake internships (subject to specific conditions), engage in employment, enroll in a program at another institution, participate in voluntary service (within a company or public administration), attend a language immersion program, or commit to an associative project (e.g., civic, humanitarian, athletic).

Requesting a gap year is a possibility, not a right. Students must be authorized to enroll in a formal training program at EPHE-PSL leading to a national degree. A formal application must be submitted to the administrative officer of the Academic Affairs Office (DEVE). Based on the application submitted using the designated form, the gap year may be approved or denied by the program director and the President of the institution, who will assess the relevance of the proposed project.

This program involves a cost. Students must pay the CVEC and reduced tuition fees:
• Doctoral gap year: €264
• Master’s gap year: €166

Tuition Fees for Initial Training Programs (2025–2026)

Master’s degree and EPHE-PSL diploma (SR and SHP tracks): €254
Doctorate, post-doctorate, and HDR: €397