The Nature of Online University of France and Université Libérale de Paris

Frequently asked questions

OUF Nature

Accreditation & Recognition

Terms & Conditions

Delivery Method

Campus

01 Legal Statement for the Online University of France
General Information:

The Online University of France operates as a division of, and under the direct oversight of, Université Libérale de Paris (Paris-U). It functions under the license granted to Université Libérale de Paris and operates as a DBA (doing business as) entity. The Online University of France is not an independent university and does not have separate university status.

Accordingly, the Online University of France does not confer qualifications in its own name. The awarding body for all qualifications is Université Libérale de Paris (Paris-U) and/or university partners.

Degrees issued by Université Libérale de Paris are distinct from qualifications awarded under the French National Curriculum and do not lead to degrees accredited by the French Government. Such government-accredited degrees fall within the French Public/Federal Higher Education sector. All qualifications from Université Libérale de Paris are solely issued by Paris-U and are not supported, endorsed, or affiliated with the French government.

The nature of Université Libérale de Paris:

Université Libérale de Paris (Paris-U) is a private institution of higher education operating under the French Education Act (Code de l'Éducation, Articles L 444-1 to 444-11 and R 444-1 to 444-28).

Established with a vision to provide international-style programs and qualifications for a global student body, Paris-U does not offer programs in French nor adhere to traditional French degree titles, such as "Licence universitaire" for Bachelor’s degrees, "Master" (pronounced "mah-stehr" with a silent 'r') for Master’s degrees, or "Doctorat de recherche" for Doctoral degrees.

Paris-U instead offers a broad array of internationally recognized degree programs, including the Bachelor of Education (BEd), Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Data Science (BSITDS), Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Science in Information Engineering and Technology Data Science (MSIET), Master of Science in Mental Health and Psychology (MSMHP), Master of Science in Information Technology and Data Science (MSITDS), Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Doctor of Management (DMan), Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

With a strong international orientation, Paris-U holds both institutional and programmatic accreditations from internationally recognized bodies, including ASIC UK, HEAD Germany, ISO 21001:2018 (Education Management Systems International Quality Standards), and programs recognized by UK Ofqual Awarding Bodies. This international recognition allows our programs to be aligned with partner universities, enabling dual degree options for graduates.

Paris-U and French Ministry of Education:

The French education system is among the oldest in the world, predating the education systems of the United Kingdom and the United States. As a result, it is often unfamiliar to global audiences, including ministries of education in other countries.

In France, private institutions may choose to offer the national French curriculum, which is taught and assessed in French and requires local (national) accreditation from the French government.

In contrast, Paris-U, as an international liberal arts university, provides degrees and programs designed to meet global standards, outside the scope of the French Ministry’s accreditation authority. Consequently, the Ministry does not engage in the accreditation of these international programs, as they are beyond its regulatory scope.

A further distinction is that Paris-U’s international programs are delivered entirely in English to ensure graduates are globally employable, not limited to opportunities in France or other French-speaking regions, which represent a small segment of the global market.

Thus, the French Ministry’s relationship with institutions like Paris-U is unique in that:

  1. Independent Operations: Paris-U operates independently, funded through its own revenue without financial support from the French government.

  2. No National Accreditation Requirement: Unlike institutions that deliver the French national curriculum, Paris-U does not qualify for national accreditation, nor does it require such accreditation, as it does not receive state funding for students or faculty. The Ministry’s role is limited to evaluating, approving, and authorizing the institution and its international programs without extending to national accreditation.

  3. International Program Nomenclature: Paris-U’s degrees are named according to international conventions, distinctly setting them apart from French institutions that use national degree titles.

  4. English as the Medium of Instruction: Paris-U’s courses and assessments are conducted solely in English, underscoring its commitment to global accessibility and employability.

  5. Global Target Audience: Paris-U’s mission is to serve a worldwide student body, particularly those facing barriers to high-quality higher education due to the high costs associated with international education. Paris-U values affordability, accessibility, and inclusiveness, prioritizing underserved and marginalized students globally rather than targeting French-speaking or government-funded students.

Paris-U and Accreditation:

Although the French Ministry does not have the authority to accredit international institutions and programs of this kind, Paris-U has achieved international recognition by meeting rigorous quality assurance standards and earning accreditations from reputable organizations, including ASIC, HEAD, ISO 21001:2018, and Ofqual UK Government Awarding Bodies. (Read more HERE). This commitment to international accreditation is central to our mission and reflects a strategic academic and business decision.

 

02 The Online University of France Training Model

The Online University of France serves as the online university of Université Libérale de Paris, established with the objective of expanding opportunities for students to access Paris-U programs. With the support of partner universities and the program organization by Université Libérale de Paris, students of the Online University of France engage in direct studies with Université Libérale de Paris and receive qualifications from Paris-U and/or partner universities.

Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France aim to become France's leading undergraduate and postgraduate education institutions by adopting the Live Class model. The Learning Model is structured as follows:

  1. For international students in countries without campuses or scientific partners of Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France:
    Students participate entirely in the Live Class model, taught exclusively by instructors from Université Libérale de Paris.

  2. For students in countries with supporting scientific partners:
    Students engage in Live Classes, supplemented with additional knowledge-enhancing classes and local tutoring activities.

  3. For students at campuses of Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France located in other countries:
    Students follow a traditional face-to-face training model.

Role of Local Support Partners:

Local support partners are responsible for providing academic support and assisting students throughout their studies with Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France. These partners have no influence over the final course outcomes or graduation results. All academic and graduation decisions rest solely with Université Libérale de Paris, the Online University of France, and partner universities in joint qualification programs.

03 Campus and Facility Usage Policy for Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France

To support its development strategy and implement the Live Class training model, Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France have invested in multiple offices, e-campuses, and physical campuses in France and various other countries. The purpose of expanding and distributing these locations is to ensure academic support and bring training services closer to learners.

During program delivery, whether through a Hybrid, full-time, or online model, Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France may rent, collaborate, transfer, or franchise facilities to support their operations. It is essential for students and other stakeholders to understand that the facilities, libraries, online systems, e-campuses, and city campuses being used may not be fully owned by Université Libérale de Paris or the Online University of France. They may be shared or government-owned, depending on the location and arrangement. Therefore, students must be aware of these distinctions when visiting and using the facilities.

For students attending classes at the campuses of Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France, appropriate learning campuses will be designated based on the organizational model and nature of the classes. The institutions do not guarantee that students will have access to all available facilities, nor can they ensure that students will study on large or entire campuses where Université Libérale de Paris or the Online University of France are based.

Students must also recognize and comply with the strict regulations to maintain security and uphold ownership rights.

04 Visitor Policy for Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France

With a focus on safety and security, given that many offices, campuses, and e-campuses of Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France are situated within larger complexes, including office buildings and/or government facilities, the following visitor policy is in place to ensure safety, fairness, and efficiency.

If parents or relatives of full-time students wish to visit the office, campus, e-campus, or city campus of Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France, they must notify in advance. The institutions reserve the right to approve visits based on the work schedule, available time, and support staff arrangements.

When visiting, parents and relatives of full-time students must adhere to the following guidelines:

  1. Visitor Eligibility:
    Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France only accommodate and support visits from the parents and relatives of full-time students. Visits are not organized or permitted for relatives of students studying online (whether hybrid or fully online), regardless of whether they are accompanied by the student.

  2. Visit Schedule:
    Visits must occur on working days and should not coincide with holidays or breaks as per the institutional schedules.

  3. Facility Use:
    Parents, relatives, and students must be aware that some offices, campuses, and e-campuses are only part of a larger complex. Visitors must follow provided instructions and use relevant facilities and equipment appropriately.

  4. Partner and Government Cooperation:
    Certain training facilities, libraries, and other learning resources may be jointly established with partner universities or government institutions. In such cases, visitors must communicate appropriately to prevent conflicts of interest and avoid spreading inaccurate information.

  5. Responsibility for Damages:
    Parents and relatives must prioritize safety and security during their visits and will be held fully responsible for any damage caused during their time at the office, campus, e-campus, or city campus.

  6. Managing Expectations:
    Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France acknowledge that perceptions of higher education may vary, and it is common for parents, relatives, and full-time students to expect large, traditional campuses. However, this may not align with the reality of private French institutions, particularly those with dispersed or shared facilities. Full-time students are encouraged to share clear and accurate information with their relatives and friends to avoid misunderstandings.

The institutions value the cooperation of students, parents, and relatives in fostering an excellent learning experience, which Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France strive to achieve.

05 Graduation Policy for Online and Hybrid Programs

With the Hybrid training model, Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France attract students from various countries and regions. However, graduates of Hybrid or online programs often face difficulties in obtaining entry visas to Europe, amid increasingly stringent security measures in the context of pandemics, crises, and conflicts. These challenges have led to unexpected numbers at graduation ceremonies, causing reputational risks for students, government guests, and Université Libérale de Paris.

Given this context, Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France have decided not to hold annual graduation ceremonies in France for online and hybrid students starting from 2023. Instead, regional graduation ceremonies will be organized. In these regional ceremonies, Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France will coordinate with local partners, and representatives will be sent to distribute diplomas.

Note: Graduation ceremony costs are not included in the tuition fees.

Policies & Disclaimers

01 General Information

The Online University of France operates as a division of, and under the direct oversight of, Université Libérale de Paris (Paris-U). It functions under the license granted to Université Libérale de Paris and operates as a DBA (doing business as) entity. The Online University of France is not an independent university and does not have separate university status.

Accordingly, the Online University of France does not confer qualifications in its own name. The awarding body for all qualifications is Université Libérale de Paris (Paris-U) and/or university partners.

Degrees issued by Université Libérale de Paris are distinct from qualifications awarded under the French National Curriculum and do not lead to degrees accredited by the French Government. Such government-accredited degrees fall within the French Public/Federal Higher Education sector. All qualifications from Université Libérale de Paris are solely issued by Paris-U and are not supported, endorsed, or affiliated with the French government.

Private and Independent Status

As a private institution with international accreditation, Université Libérale de Paris is not affiliated with, funded by, or regulated by the French government or the French National education system. Université Libérale de Paris degrees are subject to independent evaluation by receiving institutions based on the training reputation and accreditations achieved by the university.

Commitments and Agreements

All students and partners of Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France are required to read and/or sign the relevant commitments and agreements. These documents include both publicly available terms and specific terms tailored to each group. Students and partners are advised to read these terms carefully and seek clarification from a Université Libérale de Paris representative if needed. By signing and/or confirming these agreements, the parties demonstrate their full understanding and acceptance of the terms.

Students and stakeholders are strongly encouraged to thoroughly review and comprehend all relevant terms before engaging in studies, collaborations, or interactions with Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France. This practice ensures transparency of information, prevents misinterpretation or intentional distortion, upholds clear communication, promotes fair competition, and unequivocally safeguards the rights of all parties involved.

02 Who could study with Online University of France?

Students of Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France are individuals who meet the qualifications and entry requirements for each program, as announced by these institutions, and are eligible to apply.

As an undergraduate and postgraduate training institution, Université Libérale de Paris provides maximum support to qualified students enrolling in its programs, regardless of race, religion, or region.

Students registering with the Online University of France must adhere to the regulations and guidelines outlined in the student handbook and publicly posted information. Additionally, they must provide accurate information during the application process. If candidates or students violate the principle of honesty, Université Libérale de Paris reserves the right to refuse admission, cancel student status, and void academic results. In such cases, no refunds will be issued. Furthermore, candidates responsible for fraudulent actions are required to compensate for any damages caused by their misconduct.

03 The Online University of France's Training License and Program

Université Libérale de Paris (and the Online University of France) adheres to the private Higher Education Institution (HEI) requirements established by the relevant French authorities. Although international accreditation is not obligatory in France, Université Libérale de Paris actively advocates for it to ensure the professionalism of the training process and promote continuous improvement. Accreditations are regularly updated on the official website of Université Libérale de Paris.

As a private higher education institution, Université Libérale de Paris offers students market-oriented education with flexibility in study programs to align with current market needs. Programs at Université Libérale de Paris are delivered in English and are designed for global students, independent of the framework set by the French public higher education system. Diplomas awarded by Université Libérale de Paris are private and do not fall under the French public or national education systems.

The programs at Université Libérale de Paris align with the European Competency Framework and EU higher education guidelines. While official documents acknowledge the similarity of regional and national competency frameworks, the recognition and acceptance of qualifications are determined by receiving organizations and are subject to specific regulations in each country. Therefore, Université Libérale de Paris does not make any claims beyond its jurisdiction regarding the recognition and acceptance of qualifications by receiving organizations, governments, or other relevant entities. Neither Université Libérale de Paris nor its local and international partners support this recognition process for any purpose or country.

Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to seek detailed information before applying and studying with Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France.

04 Content published and Training objectives

Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France consistently update their information and course materials to stay responsive to changes in the workplace and relevant regulations.

The content published on the website, in publications, and in other media is accurate at the time of communication but may change without prior notice.

Training objectives and programs may be adjusted while students are enrolled to ensure alignment with the competency framework and evaluation criteria of independent accreditation organizations. If changes occur, Université Libérale de Paris will inform students about new programs, updated learning paths, and any relevant adjustments.

In cases where economic, political, or force majeure circumstances require modifications to training methods, Université Libérale de Paris will notify and consult with students to adjust the training model and plans as needed.

Third-Party Materials
Third-party materials refer to those that Université Libérale de Paris has acquired, rented, or used under copyright agreements. Some training materials are developed by the university's instructors. Although these materials are reviewed and endorsed by the Scientific Council, there may be instances where specific content is not entirely suitable for international students (what is accurate in one country may not be in another). In such cases, Université Libérale de Paris will promptly adjust the content if the issue is significant. However, the university disclaims responsibility for any impact of inappropriate information beyond the classroom setting.

Students and stakeholders are permitted to use the training content solely for personal learning and research purposes. Reproduction of this content in any form, whether for commercial or non-commercial purposes, is prohibited. Details regarding copyright-related matters can be found in the Copyright Policy section.

05 Credits

Credit is the acknowledgment of the amount and duration of study required to acquire knowledge.

Université Libérale de Paris employs the ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) for its credit system. Some programs also utilize the UK RQF credit system due to partnerships with the British education system.

Credit recognition is an internal process carried out by the Academic Board of Université Libérale de Paris. The university, along with its partners, does not guarantee that credits recognized by Université Libérale de Paris will be recognized by other universities or external parties outside its authority.

If students intend to transfer credits from Université Libérale de Paris to another educational system or university, they are advised to consult with the target institution beforehand. Université Libérale de Paris will provide support within its scope but does not interfere with the admission decisions of other universities. The university does not commit to the recognition of credits by external institutions.

The concept of "Credits" varies between educational systems, especially due to differences in training duration and models that constitute credits. Students should carefully consider these variations if they plan to transfer credits or study results from Université Libérale de Paris to other educational systems.

06 Recognition of Academic Progress and Qualifications

Upon completing the required learning content and fulfilling all obligations, including adherence to academic discipline and integrity, students may be awarded a Private Degree from Université Libérale de Paris (where applicable). In cases of dual qualifications or programs conducted in partnership with other institutions, students may also receive an additional qualification or confirmation from the respective partner institution. For more information, please refer to the Disclaimer section.

Recognition of qualifications varies widely by country, institution, and region, as each has its own regulatory framework. According to international standards, the recognition or acceptance of qualifications is a discretionary decision of the receiving agency, government, or regional policy. This process is beyond the involvement or support of Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France, and thus the institutions explicitly disclaim any responsibility in this matter.

Candidates are strongly advised to thoroughly investigate the recognition and acceptance of their post-graduation qualifications before enrolling. As previously emphasized, Université Libérale de Paris, the Online University of France, and their partners (including partner universities and scientific collaborators) do not make any commitments or promises regarding the recognition of qualifications. The institutions fully reserve the right to waive this responsibility before, during, and after the student’s graduation.

07 Data Protection and Privacy Policy for Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France

Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France are committed to protecting personal information by strictly adhering to regulations, ensuring data safety and security, and complying with the EU’s GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation).

The institutions do not collect information from students or partners for purposes other than delivering programs, supporting the training process, and enhancing quality. Any disclosure of personal information to third parties, beyond these stated purposes, occurs only in response to lawful orders or requests from competent authorities.

Data Collection and Disclosure Policy:

  • Information collected is strictly limited to what is necessary for program implementation, training, and quality improvement.
  • Disclosure to third parties outside of these purposes will only occur upon receipt of an official order or request from relevant authorities.

In the event of an information security breach resulting from unauthorized access, Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France will cooperate with relevant authorities and parties to address the issue. However, the institutions disclaim liability for breaches resulting from circumstances beyond their control.

08 Fairness and Academic Freedom Policy for Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France

Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France uphold principles of fairness in admitting students, evaluating results, and allocating scholarships, funding, and resources. These processes are conducted without regard to gender, ethnicity, race, religion, or political beliefs.

As higher education institutions, Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France provide flexible training systems and program structures that allow students to freely choose their majors, development paths, and transition to other fields of study if desired.

The institutions comply with human rights regulations, including the protection and support of academic freedom. In cases where students’ rights to academic freedom are compromised, Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France cooperate with relevant authorities and consulates (for international students) to address such issues effectively.

09 Intellectual Property and Copyright Policy for Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France

Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France respect the intellectual property rights of all content providers, instructors, students, and third parties. Students and users of the institutions' academic systems are equally required to respect these rights.

When participating in studies or collaborations, students and related parties are obligated to adhere to both signed and unsigned regulations in accordance with international copyright practices.

Ownership and Use of Published Content:
All information published by Université Libérale de Paris, its partners, and the Online University of France—including learning materials, documents, forms, minutes, and other content—whether officially, unofficially, internally, or publicly shared, is copyrighted. Students, partners, and related parties are strictly prohibited from copying, using, or reusing these materials for purposes other than personal study and research. Any deliberate copying or unauthorized use of content for commercial or non-commercial purposes outside the scope of the copyright agreement constitutes a copyright violation.

Consequences for Copyright Violations:
Université Libérale de Paris considers copyright infringement to be a serious violation. The institutions reserve the right to terminate a student’s status, cancel academic results, diplomas, and online accounts if a copyright breach is detected, regardless of whether the student’s learning process is complete.

Liability and Support for Investigations:
In the event of copyright infringement by students or related parties that results in damages (including actual, intended, or implied damages), Université Libérale de Paris fully supports the investigation process but disclaims all physical and financial responsibility if the infringement is beyond the institution’s control.

10 Media and Reputation Protection Policy for Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France

Protecting the reputations of students, partners, and Université Libérale de Paris is a top priority. As a higher education institution that accepts students from many countries and territories, transparency of information, anti-false communication, and anti-unfair competition policies are mandatory regulations aligned with EU regulations and conventions as well as international conventions.

Université Libérale de Paris coordinates with its members in various countries, consulates in partner countries, and partner universities to protect the legitimate rights of students, legal entities, and partners.

Response to Media Issues

In the event of media-related issues, where false or damaging information is disseminated, Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France, in collaboration with partner universities, global partners, the Ministry of Education, and Consular Affairs, will implement a process to counteract faulty communication.

False communication behaviors include:

  1. Promoting and spreading misleading information regarding:
    • The legality of Université Libérale de Paris and its partners.
    • International accreditation and recognition of Université Libérale de Paris and its partners.
    • The legality and right to participate in learning, regardless of age, gender, social status, country, or region.
    • Information and images owned by Université Libérale de Paris and its partners, and other actions that may harm the university's reputation, honor, and rights, or those of its partners and global students.
  2. Engaging in communications that lead to misunderstandings, display unfair competition, or provide only partially accurate information.
  3. Contradicting any publicly announced disclaimer made by Université Libérale de Paris or its partners.
  4. Associating the university’s images or name with unrelated false information, creating confusion about the integrity and reputation of Université Libérale de Paris.

Procedures for Handling False Media

1. Formation of a Response Team and Evidence Establishment
Université Libérale de Paris will establish an incident-handling team, record all relevant information, collect evidence, and conduct preliminary work with the relevant parties.

2. Notification to Litigants and Relevant Parties
Information about the violation will be provided to the litigant and to diplomatic representatives in the host country and the country where the university is registered.

3. Request for Remediation
An official notice will be issued to the litigant, including:

  • A description of the behavior.
  • Evidence of the violation.
  • An estimate of the damages.
  • The terms violated based on applicable laws, regulations, and conventions.

4. Monitoring the Remediation Process
The university will closely monitor the litigant’s efforts to resolve the issue and will take firm action if the misleading behavior is not fully remedied.

This policy is designed to safeguard the reputation of Université Libérale de Paris and ensure that false or misleading information is addressed effectively and promptly.

11 Terms Modification Policy for Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France

Université Libérale de Paris and the Online University of France reserve the right to modify their terms as necessary. Any modified terms will take immediate effect.

For existing agreements with related parties, the originally agreed terms will continue to remain in effect. Changes to signed agreements will only take effect if they are deemed more favorable than the current agreement.

The newly modified terms will apply immediately to all newly formed agreements.