What’s different about PAA programs?
Paris American Academy’s goal is to prepare students academically, personally, and professionally for successful careers. The programs, policies, and teaching methods have been designed to implement this philosophy, are evaluated periodically, and changed as necessary to meet the needs of our students and the ever-changing professional industries.
What kind of experience do the professors at PAA have?
At PAA, you’ll learn from professors with professional experience in the fields that they teach. They’ll share accumulated knowledge in on both lecture and workshop format to offer relevant, meaningful support as you focus on your future and prepare your career.
I am in Paris visiting schools. Can I come tour the Academy?
We would be pleased to welcome you. Please set up an appointment to tour the school by emailing the Admissions Department here: [email protected]
Which language is the curriculum taught in?
All of our programs are taught in English, or translated from French, as we receive students from all over the world. Applicants are not required to provide proof of their level of English but do need to be comfortable understanding written and spoken English, and able to express themselves in English. We are proud of the bilingual tradition of our school, which often teaches students from more than 30 different nationalities in a single year.
Is it possible to transfer credits obtained at another university?
The decision regarding whether a student can transfer credits or not is made on a case by case basis. We advise that you send us your application and explain your intentions in your cover letter.
What scholarships does PAA offer?
PAA applicants may apply for partial scholarships through the Richard Roy Scholarship Fund. These scholarships range in value from 1,000€ to 3,000€ off tuition, and from 300€ to 1300€ off housing.
Students wishing to be considered for a scholarship must submit a brief personal statement (maximum 500 words). This statement should emphasize the student’s personal and educational background, explain the financial need, and describe how studying at the PAA might benefit the student’s professional goals.
What documentation do I need to submit with my application?
FOR ALL APPLICANTS
• A copy of your passport
• A copy of your high school diploma or equivalent
• A letter of motivation, outlining your previous experience and your goals for studying at PAA
• A resume/CV of your career to date, including your name, date of birth, and contact information
• Portfolio of examples of your work; 5-10 annotated examples in a .pdf, maximum size 5MB.
FOR BACHELOR AND SEMESTER PROGRAM APPLICANTS ONLY
• A detailed portfolio with examples of your work; 10-20 annotated examples in a .pdf, maximum size 10MB.
• 2 letters of recommendation from former teachers.
• Most recent official transcript
What should I include in my portfolio?
Your portfolio will ideally show us a range of relevant work, from initial sketches and ideas to finished pieces. Showcase your ability to work with different materials, themes and techniques, as well as how you plan and develop your ideas, and develop an inspiration into a series of work. A typical portfolio includes mood boards/inspiration, rough sketches done by hand, illustrations and digital and/or technical sketches.
Is my deposit refundable?
The deposit is used to confirm your place on the course and is non-refundable. Tuition fees may or may not be refundable, depending on when the student withdraws. Please contact us for further information.
When are my tuition fees due?
50% of tuition fees are to be paid within a month of reception of your acceptance letter. This allows us to confirm your place. The other 50% is due a month before the start of your program. If are not able to respect these deadlines, please contact us at [email protected].
Do I need to apply for a student visa?
If you are an EU citizen planning to study in another EU country, you do not require a visa. Students from countries outside of the EU must obtain a student visa.
We advise that you check the French government travel website to check whether you require one or not.
Where will I live during my studies?
Paris American Academy does not have student halls/dormitories but manages furnished apartments near the school. If you would like to rent one of our apartments, please contact us at [email protected].
If you would prefer to find your own accommodation, we recommend that you take a look at the housing guide we have compiled.
Can I work during my studies?
Being a full-time student at the PAA requires time outside of class to finish assignments, and if you need/want to work please make your studies a priority. The ability to work will depend on whether or not your student visa allows employment. There are often restrictions on the amount of paid work you can carry out during your studies when on a student visa. It is important to keep in mind that all PAA students will have classes every weekday, from around 9am to around 4pm (this will vary depending on the program).
When I arrive at the airport in Paris, how will I get to the school?
You can take public transportation from Charles-de-Gaulle airport to PAA. Take the RER B at Charles-de-Gaulle airport and stop at either Port-Royal or Luxembourg. You can also take a taxi or an Uber, or use a shuttle service via www.paris-shuttle.com.
What events, fairs, or professional exhibitions will I have the opportunity to attend?
As a major center for professional exhibitions, Paris is an extended classroom; many of the programs include major professional exhibition visits in the curriculum. We try to encourage students to get involved in extracurricular activities to complement their learning, and sometimes PAA staff are notified of insider opportunities.
Are the fashion students able to participate in the various shows that happen around Paris during fashion week?
Yes, the Academy is often called upon for fashion students to help backstage at various fashion shows throughout the year. Check out our Instagram for posts regarding students behind the scenes at fashion week.
What is the estimated amount I can expect to pay for supplies?
Stationery and art supplies are more expensive in Paris than in other major cities worldwide, and you are advised to bring with you as much as possible without encumbering yourself. You may qualify for a 5% to 15% discount in certain art shops upon presentation of the PAA student card. Fashion supplies in Paris are unique and especially performant. You will enjoy learning and using the tools of the trade of the Parisian fashion makers.
Rather than having you buy books, PAA encourages you to make use of the wealth of public libraries which abound in Paris. We estimate the cost of materials for the Academic Year for students in Fashion and Interior Design to begin at 800 euros.
Here is a list of Art supply shops we recommend. Fashion supplies can be bought in the fashion districts of Paris. Upon enrollment you will be given information about PAA recommended vendors