New system for health studies

A joint statement from the ministries of Higher Education and Health introduced a new system to replace the PASS/LAS system, which was introduced in 2020. This new system, called the "health portal" license, will be the only way to enter medical, pharmacy, dentistry, and midwifery studies.

Structure of the first year

The first year of the health portal license will include health-related courses and another university discipline, such as sciences, psychology, law, or STAPS. It will also cover "cross-cutting skills" that apply across various fields.

Options for students who need more time

Students who do not meet the required level to enter a health discipline after the first year can repeat it. If they still cannot enter a health discipline, they can continue their studies in the other chosen discipline.

Future inclusion of physiotherapy

The new system will eventually include a pathway to physiotherapy studies, although the statement provided no further details. It will also include a bridge to the second year in nursing care.

Conditions for continuing in nursing care

Students who wish to continue in nursing care must validate certain ECTS credits and required internships, which they may not have completed in the first year of the health portal license. These conditions are defined by a decree from the ministers in charge of higher education and health.

Goals of the reform

The reform aims to make access to health studies more readable, fairer, and better adapted to student success. The government believes this change will improve the overall experience for students entering these fields.

Changes for high school students

Starting with the next Parcoursup campaign, high school students will submit a single wish for the health portal license, along with one or more sub-wishes for the disciplines they want to study. This simplifies the application process for students.

Replacement of PASS/LAS system

The health portal license will replace the PASS/LAS system starting with the 2027 academic year. Details about this change are outlined in Decree No. 2026-988 of October 23, 2026, regarding access to medical, pharmacy, dentistry, and midwifery programs.