New Student Support
“Orientation week plays a crucial role in supporting our students through their transition to Paris, helping them understand the city while they make friends, and setting them up for success not only in the academic context, but in their professional journey as well.”
– Simbarashe (Simba) Kamuriwo, Student Life Counselor
What kind of pre-arrival support is offered?
Before you arrive in France, our Student Life team walks you through the logistics of moving to Paris.
Accepted students are invited to join Student Life’s webinar series that provides specific, actionable information about housing, visa applications, life in Paris, financing your education, and more.
Passport to Paris
Additionally, our Admissions and Student Life teams collaborate to organize a virtual accepted student day called Passport to Paris. This event provides an opportunity to discover more about the support services available for current students and alumni, explore what sets studying art and design at PCA apart, and participate in a Q&A session with parents of our students.
What is new student orientation?
Held in the beginning of the fall and spring semesters, orientation is a comprehensive, week-long introduction to life as a student at PCA.
Through a series of lectures, museum visits, lunches, walking tours, and other activities, new students have the opportunity to discover the French capital and establish themselves as temporary residents.
During orientation, students register for classes, open bank accounts and phone contracts, sign up for health insurance, and most importantly, meet the staff, faculty and fellow students who form the school community.