New pathway for medical studies in France

Starting with the 2027 academic year, high school graduates in France who want to study medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, or midwifery will follow a single new pathway called "licence portail santé." This program replaces existing entry routes like PASS and LAS, aiming to make the process of choosing a field of study clearer and more straightforward for students.

Structure of the new program

The new pathway includes three main teaching blocks. The first, called the "health" block, involves 24 to 30 ECTS credits and focuses on subjects related to health, as decided by the relevant ministers. The second block, labeled "disciplinary," also includes 24 to 30 ECTS credits and covers subjects relevant to bachelor's degrees, with specific disciplines set by the same ministers.

Skills and transversal training

The third block, known as the "transversal" block, includes 6 to 12 ECTS credits and focuses on developing general skills needed for health professions. These skills include analysis, communication, research, knowledge of health professions, and psychosocial, linguistic, and digital abilities.

Government's rationale

Philippe Baptiste, the Minister of Higher Education, explained that the licence portail santé aims to simplify access to health studies and make the system more transparent and fair. He emphasized that the change is intended to eliminate confusion caused by multiple pathways and ensure that each year of university education is meaningful and beneficial for students.

Application process for students

Starting in 2027, students applying to the licence portail santé will need to express their primary wish to enter the program and also specify one or more secondary preferences for the specific disciplines they want to study within the health field.