High School Semester in Paris
Why Choose This Program?
Independence & Resilience
Living abroad shifts how you see the world—and yourself—shaping how you face challenges and opportunities.
College Readiness
Studying abroad builds real-world skills and helps you stand out on college applications.
Global Citizenship
After immersing yourself in new cultural experiences, you'll develop skills to engage confidently at school, work, and beyond.
93%
said their experience made them more aware of global issues.
79%
said their experience with CIEE helped shape their college applications.
96%
said they regularly use the knowledge and skills they acquired while abroad with CIEE.
The Destination
Welcome to Paris—where elegance, history, and everyday life unfold on every corner.
Paris feels like both a storybook scene and a bustling modern capital. The city stretches along the Seine River, its 20 distinct arrondissements linked by leafy boulevards and graceful bridges. Layers of the past meet innovation, from the medieval towers of Notre-Dame to the sweeping symmetry of Haussmann’s 19th-century redesign. Artists like Monet and Picasso found endless inspiration here, shaping Paris into a global hub for art, literature, and ideas.
Wander from the bohemian charm of Montmartre to the chic boutiques of the Golden Triangle, or from the grand museums of the 1st arrondissement to the vintage bookstalls of the Left Bank. Fashion shows, concerts, gallery openings, and open-air markets keep the city’s creative pulse beating year-round. With the Metro, buses, and bike paths, exploring every corner is nearly effortless.
Paris is famous for its food, and living here means you’ll taste it all! Savor buttery croissants, warm crêpes, and tangy cheeses from open-air markets. Every day brings new scenes, flavors, and discoveries that make Paris an unforgettable place to spend your semester abroad.
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Sample Itinerary
Top Rated Activities
From art museums to the Eiffel Tower, there’s no shortage of things to do in Paris! Spend your time abroad strolling the city streets, exploring iconic sites, and marveling at world-famous masterpieces. Grab your friends and savor fresh pastries at a corner café or browse bustling markets filled with antiques and local treasures. Every neighborhood offers its unique charm, inviting you to slow down and take it all in.
Palace of Versailles
Stroll the gilded Hall of Mirrors, explore lavish royal apartments, and wander manicured gardens once walked by kings and queens. Picture the opulent life of the French court and imagine the history unfolding around you. Explore every aspect of the Palace, admiring the intricate details and breathtaking views that make every room a masterpiece.
Seine Boat Tour
Cruise the Seine River past Notre-Dame, the Grand Palais, and under elegant bridges. Your tour captures the perfect snapshot of Paris life as it unfolds along the riverbanks. Chat with friends, take photos, and see the city’s most beautiful landmarks from a whole new, river-level perspective.
Please note this list of activities is based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to both adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback.
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Eligibility
- Be between the ages of 15 and 18 when the program starts.
- Be in the 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th year of schooling.
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Demonstrate, through the application process, flexibility, maturity, adaptability, and readiness to face the challenges of living in a new culture.
- No prior French language experience is required for this program.
Dates & Fees
Priority deadline discount: Apply to a fall semester or academic year by February 15 and get a $400 discount. Apply to a spring semester by July 15 and get a $400 discount. Discounts are deducted from final balance.
High school abroad participants are NOT authorized to volunteer, take jobs, or seek employment during their stay.
Additional information about insurance can be found on the FAQ page.
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
*Dates for this program are tentative. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Program Balance | $18,500 |
| Total Fees | $18,500 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Program Balance | $18,500 |
| Total Fees | $18,500 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Ready to change your life?
Our Staff
Delphine Mauny
Center Director
A born-and-bred Parisian, Delphine has extensive experience in international education, having worked with American high school students, college students, and adults traveling to France.
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