University return 2026: Côte d’Azur University deploys new support systems

For the 2026-2027 academic year, Université Côte d’Azur wants to focus on supporting students. Financial hardship, mental health, adapted learning paths, artificial intelligence: the institution has announced several new measures while unveiling its strategic plan for 2030.

With approximately 34,300 students expected, representing a 3 to 4% increase year-on-year, the university continues its growth. Pressure remains strong at entry level: 105,000 applications were confirmed on Parcoursup and nearly 60,000 on Mon Master. Disciplines such as healthcare access, psychology, law, economics-management and STAPS remain particularly in demand.

For Jeanick Brisswalter, President of Université Côte d’Azur, the challenge goes beyond academic results alone. “University is not simply about getting a degree, it’s an experience that is academic, sporting, cultural, human, and civic,” he reminds us.

Strengthened measures against financial hardship

Facing the social difficulties encountered by some students, the university strengthens its support. In addition to CROUS measures, the social services department can issue €50 shopping vouchers up to twice a year to students in critical situations.

The solidarity refrigerator program is also expanding to the Sophia Antipolis campus. Stocked with unsold items from the CROUS, they help meet food needs while reducing waste.

The digital divide is also a priority. On October 7, 25 refurbished laptops will be given to students in precarious situations, thanks to partnerships with the Digital Bank and Emmaüs Connect.

Mental health is not forgotten. Fifteen training sessions in First Aid in Mental Health (PSSM) will be offered to students and staff. A mandatory training session on party risks, notably addictions and alcohol consumption risks, will also be provided to student associations. A menstrual leave project, potentially allowing up to ten days of absence per year, is also under study.

Studies adapted to student profiles

The university also focuses on greater flexibility in learning paths. The FlexStudies program now takes into account 20 special statuses, including working students, artists, elite athletes, caregivers, entrepreneurs, and students with disabilities.

Approximately 3,000 students could benefit from adjustments to assessments, schedules or curricula. “Students are increasingly diverse in their needs and statuses,” explains Ali Douai, Vice-President for Education and Pedagogical Innovation. The objective is to ensure that “the academic path is not perceived as something separate from life.”

Across the seven bachelor’s degree programs, a new support ecosystem for academic success will also provide personalized welcome, tutoring, placement tests and guidance on course changes.

All students trained in artificial intelligence

Another major change: AI is now integrated into educational programs. Through the French School of AI, the university plans training for all its students, with content adapted to each discipline. “All our students are trained in artificial intelligence, regardless of their program,” states Jeanick Brisswalter.

This generalization is accompanied by an ethical charter governing the use of generative AI in assessments, particularly regarding transparency and academic integrity.

Finally, this academic year marks the launch of the 2026-2030 strategic plan, built around nine initiatives and four transformations: knowledge, learning paths, territories and the institution. Jeanick Brisswalter sums up this desire to transform the university as follows: “A university that doesn’t evolve today is a university that dies.”