ABSTRACT:In this paper, we present the results of experimental study and finite element modeling of the push-out tests on a new shear connector of I-shape. 24 push-out specimens with I-shape shear connectors were tested under a static loading in the Laboratory of Materials and Mechanics of Structures -LMMS at the University of M'sila, Algeria. The test specimens were designed to study the effect of the following parameters on the ultimate load capacity: the height of I-shape connector, the length of I-shape connector, the compressive strength of concrete and the number of transverse reinforcing bars. The load capacity, the ductility and the modes of failure were presented and discussed. Furthermore, a finite element modelling of the push-out tests was carried out using ANSYS software to investigate the stress distribution pattern in the area of the I-shape connector. Moreover, the finite element model was also used to simulate another type of shear connector, called channel connector in order to compare its behaviour with that of the I-shape connector. From this comparison, we suggested an equation for the prediction of the ultimate load capacity of I-shape shear connectors.