Education France

Enrolling in kindergarten

 

 

 

Age: Kindergartens accept children aged 3 to 6. Nurseries are available for children under 3 years old.

 

 

 

Document submission procedure

 

Gather the necessary documents: child's birth certificate, proof of residence, medical record, vaccination cards, and parents' identification.

 

Submit an application to the city hall: the application for enrollment is submitted to the city hall of your city or district. Some regions may offer the possibility to submit applications online.

 

 

 

Enrolling in school

 

 

 

Age: Compulsory education begins at the age of 6 when children enter primary school.

 

 

 

Document submission procedure

 

Gather the necessary documents: child's birth certificate, proof of residence, medical record, vaccination cards, and parents' identification.

 

Submit an application to the city hall or the school: depending on your region, the application can be submitted directly to the school or the city hall.

International schools

 

International schools in France are divided into several types depending on the educational system used:

 

 

 

British schools: They follow the National Curriculum of England, including preparation for GCSE and A-levels exams. Instruction is in English, with additional French lessons. Examples of schools: British School of Paris, Mougins British International School.

 

 

 

American schools: They offer a curriculum similar to the American education system, including receiving the American High School Diploma and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Examples of schools: American School of Paris, American School of Grenoble.

 

 

 

International Baccalaureate (IB) schools: Education according to the IB program. These programs aim to develop critical thinking and a global perspective in students. Examples of schools: International School of Paris, Ecole Internationale Bilingue.

 

 

 

Bilingual schools: In such schools, part of the lessons is conducted in English (or another foreign language), and part in French. This allows children to become bilingual and immerse deeper into French culture. Examples of schools: Lycée International de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Ecole Active Bilingue.

 

 

 

European and international sections

 

 

 

In France, there are also public schools with European and international sections where instruction is conducted in several languages. They are intended for children who want to receive education in their native language or English while maintaining the study of French. Examples of languages taught: English, German, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, and others. Examples of schools: Cité Scolaire Internationale de Lyon, Lycée International de Strasbourg.

 

 

 

Admission process

 

The admission process to international schools may include submitting an application, providing academic records, passing entrance exams, and interviews. For European and international sections in public schools, requirements may vary, including grades and motivational letters.

 

 

 

France offers a wide range of educational opportunities for children from international families, ensuring high-quality education and the possibility of integration into French society.

Preschool institutions

 

The key differences between public and private kindergartens primarily concern cost, programs, educational approach, and organization.

 

 

 

Public kindergartens

 

Free, as they are funded by the government. Parents only pay for additional expenses such as meals, excursions, or extended day programs. Teachers are civil servants and undergo rigorous training. The educational program is strictly regulated by the French Ministry of Education. Groups are larger, with a number of children ranging from 25 to 30. Operating hours are fixed (usually from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm). Extended day options are available, but spots are limited. Main instruction is in French. They accept all children regardless of the family's financial situation.

 

 

 

Private kindergartens

 

Fully paid by parents. The average cost ranges from 300 to 1500 euros per month, including meals. They can be managed by private organizations, associations, or religious institutions. Teachers may have different qualifications, depending on the level of the kindergarten. May offer alternative educational programs (e.g., Montessori, Waldorf). Programs are more flexible and may include bilingual education, art therapy, and additional activities (music, sports). They often accept younger children (from 6 months to 2 years old). Smaller group sizes (from 10 to 20 children). Often provide extended day services and operate on weekends.

 

 

 

School Educational Institutions

 

In France, there are three main types of schools: public, private "sous contrat" (with contract), and private "hors contrat" (without contract). Each type of school has its own features, advantages, and disadvantages.

 

 

 

Public Schools

 

Advantages

 

Free education: Education in public schools is free. Additional expenses may include the cost of school meals and after-school care, but these are usually minimal.

 

Unified curriculum: All public schools follow a unified state curriculum.

 

Full integration into French culture: Public schools provide full immersion into the French language and culture.

 

 

 

Disadvantages

 

Overcrowded classes: Public school classes can be overcrowded, making it difficult to provide an individualized approach to each student.

 

Quality variability: The quality of teaching and conditions can vary depending on the region and the school.

 

Language barrier: For children who do not speak French, adapting to a fully French-speaking environment can be challenging.

 

 

 

Private Schools "sous contrat"

 

Advantages

 

Partial state funding: These schools receive state funding, allowing them to maintain lower tuition fees compared to fully private schools.

 

Compliance with state curriculum: Such schools follow the state educational curriculum, which simplifies the transition of students to other schools or universities in France.

 

Better conditions and smaller classes: Often offer better conditions and smaller classes.

 

 

 

Disadvantages

 

Tuition: Although lower than fully private schools, there is still a necessity to pay for education.

 

Admission competition: High demand can create competition for places, especially in prestigious schools.

 

 

 

Private Schools "hors contrat"

 

Advantages

 

Curriculum autonomy: These schools are not required to follow the state curriculum and may offer unique and specialized study programs.

 

Small classes and individualized approach: With fewer students in classes, teachers can give more attention to each child.

 

Wide range of additional activities: Private schools often offer a variety of extracurricular activities and additional courses.

 

 

 

Disadvantages

 

High tuition: The cost of education in such schools can be significantly higher, ranging from €8,000 to €20,000 per year.

 

Less integration into French culture: Due to a large number of foreign students and teachers, education may occur in other languages, reducing the level of immersion in French culture.

 

Lack of state support: Such schools do not receive state support, which may affect their operational stability.

The support for children with special educational needs in France is aimed at integrating these children into mainstream schools, as well as providing specialized assistance in specialized institutions if necessary.

 

 

 

Inclusive education: Most children with special needs are educated in regular schools. For this purpose, special classes are created. Schools employ assistants for children with special needs, who help students during lessons and in everyday school life.

 

 

 

Specialized institutions: For children requiring more intensive support, there are specialized institutions such as Institut Médico-Éducatif, Institut Médico-Professionnel, and Institut Thérapeutique, Éducatif et Pédagogique. These institutions offer specialized education and therapy.

 

 

 

Assessment and planning: The assessment of the needs of children with special needs is conducted at the departmental level through the Maison Départementale des Personnes Handicapées.

 

 

 

Advantages:

 

- Education in regular schools promotes social integration and the development of communication skills for children with special needs.

 

- Specialized institutions offer individualized approaches and specialized support.

 

 

 

Challenges:

 

- The lack of qualified specialists and resources may hinder providing quality support for all children in need.

 

- The process of assessment and obtaining necessary support can be complex and bureaucratic.

In France, there are specialized programs and classes for foreigners that help them quickly learn the French language and integrate into the general education system. These classes, often called "transitional" or "adaptation" classes, are aimed at intensive French language study and adaptation to the French educational environment.

 

 

 

Unité Pédagogique pour Élèves Allophones Arrivants (UPE2A)

 

A special program for students who have recently arrived in France and do not speak French. The main goals include:

 

Intensive French language teaching: Students spend a significant amount of time in French language classes to quickly develop language skills.

 

Support in academic subjects: In addition to language learning, students receive assistance in other academic subjects to help them catch up with their peers.

 

Integration into general education classes: As the students' French proficiency improves, they gradually integrate into regular classes, continuing to receive support as needed.

 

 

 

Classes d'Initiation (CLIN) and Classes d'Accueil (CLA)

 

Programs for primary and secondary schools, respectively, that also aim to teach the French language to newly arrived students:

 

 

 

Ecole des Nouveaux Arrivants (ENA)

 

Schools entirely focused on education and integration of newly arrived foreigners. These schools emphasize:

 

Intensive French language learning: Students undergo intensive French courses to quickly achieve a high proficiency level.

 

Cultural adaptation: Schools help students adapt to French culture and society through various activities and programs.

 

 

 

Other programs

 

 

 

Summer language camps: These camps offer intensive French language courses for children and teenagers combined with cultural and sports activities, which contribute to quick and effective language learning.

 

Observatoire des discriminations et des territoires interculturels: In Grenoble, French language courses and integration programs are offered based on intercultural pedagogy, which promotes mutual understanding and cultural exchange.

 

FLE (Français Langue Étrangère) courses: Many schools and universities, such as the Université Gustave Eiffel, offer French language courses for children and teenagers. These courses run during the semester and include both classroom and online sessions, as well as cultural events like theatre performances and excursions.

After-school groups

 

After-school groups are provided by both public and private schools. They offer children the opportunity to stay at school after classes and engage in various activities such as:

 

 

 

Homework: During after-school hours, children can complete their homework under the supervision of teachers.

 

Creative clubs: Clubs in drawing, sculpting, music, and theatre are often offered.

 

Sports sections: Many schools and sports clubs offer activities in football, basketball, gymnastics, and other sports.

 

 

 

Clubs and groups

 

Music conservatories: Local municipalities often organize sessions at municipal conservatories where children can study music, participate in choirs, and play musical instruments.

 

La Petite Académie: In Paris, there are centers offering classes in drawing, painting, sculpture, and architecture.

 

 

 

Scientific and cultural clubs

 

Museums: Many museums, such as the Louvre and Musée en Herbe, offer educational programs and workshops for children where they can learn about art and history.

 

Maisons de Jeunes et de la Culture: These centers offer a wide range of activities, including theatre productions, dance, and workshops in various arts.

 

 

 

Summer camps

 

Centre International d'Antibes: Summer camps with complete immersion in the French language and cultural activities for children and teenagers.

 

IBS of Provence: Camps with language courses and sports activities, such as football and tennis, for children aged 4 to 17.

 

Ecole des Roches: A camp that offers both language courses and various activities, including tennis, dance, and horseback riding.

 

 

 

Sports Sections

 

Sports Federations: Practically every sport in France is regulated by a corresponding federation, such as FFT for tennis or FFE for equestrian sports. These federations organize regular training and competitions for children.

 

Sports Clubs: Most cities and localities have sports clubs offering football, swimming, martial arts, and other sports activities.

 

 

 

Recommendations

 

Contact the Town Hall: Local town halls provide information about available clubs and sections, as well as help with enrollment in activities.

 

Inquire at School: Schools often organize extracurricular activities and can offer information about available programs and sections.

 

Visit Local Cultural and Sports Centers: These institutions offer a variety of programs for children of all ages and interests.

The grading system in France is characterized by strict standards and structured approaches, with a primary focus on written exams and standardized scales. It applies at all levels of education, from primary school to higher education institutions.

 

 

 

The French grading system uses a 20-point scale:

 

0-9: Fail level.

 

10-11: Satisfactory.

 

12-13: Fairly good.

 

14-15: Good.

 

16-17: Very good.

 

18-20: Excellent, but such grades are extremely rare.

 

 

 

Primary School: Grades are given based on tests and current assignments. Performance is measured based on both written and oral work.

 

Middle School: Students receive grades for each subject. To complete studies and receive the Brevet des Collèges diploma, one must pass exams, including tests on core subjects and project work.

 

High School: Students prepare for the Baccalauréat (Bac) exam, which is equivalent to the high school diploma and allows entry to universities. Bac grades include both exams and annual performance.

 

Higher Education: Universities use the same 20-point system, but with stricter criteria:

 

- 10 points are required to pass a course.

 

- Grades above 14 are considered rare, and grades above 16 are considered excellent.

 

 

 

European Credit Transfer System (ECTS)

 

To unify the grading system at the international level, ECTS is used:

 

A: Outstanding performance.

 

B: Above average, but with minor shortcomings.

 

C: Generally good performance.

 

D: Acceptable performance, but with significant shortcomings.

 

E: Performance meets the minimum criteria.

 

FX and F: Unsatisfactory performance requiring significant improvement.

Admission to French universities for foreign students involves several key stages and requirements. Depending on your country of origin and the type of educational institution, the application process may vary.

 

 

 

Basic Requirements

 

 

 

Language Requirements

 

French: For most programs in French, a language proficiency level of at least B2 is required. For some programs, especially in medicine, a C1 level is needed.

 

English: If you are applying to an English-taught program, proof of English proficiency is required, such as IELTS (minimum 6.5) or TOEFL (minimum 80) certificates.

 

 

 

Academic Requirements

 

High School Diploma: You must provide a diploma or its equivalent with a certified translation into French or English.

 

Additional Documents: These include a transcript of grades for the last three years, a motivation letter, a resume, and teacher recommendations.

 

 

 

Application Process:

 

Parcoursup Platform: For European students and EU residents, applications are submitted through the Parcoursup platform. The process starts in December and ends in March.

 

DAP Procedure (Preliminary Request): For non-European students and students from other countries, applications are submitted through embassies or the Campus France platform. This process begins in October and ends in December.

 

 

 

Exams and Tests: In French public universities, there are typically no entrance exams, but private and specialized institutions may require taking complex entrance exams and completing two-year preparatory courses.

 

 

 

Visa and Residence Permit: After receiving the acceptance letter from the university, you need to apply for a student visa at the French consulate in your country. For this, you will need proof of enrollment, financial support, and health insurance.

 

 

 

Tuition Fees and Financial Support

 

Tuition Fees: In public universities in France, tuition for non-European students is around 2,770 euros per year for undergraduate programs and 3,770 euros per year for master's programs. In private institutions, the cost can be significantly higher.

 

Scholarships and Grants: International students can apply for various scholarships and grants and regional scholarships provided by local authorities and universities.

 

 

 

Recommendation: For more detailed information and consultations, it is recommended to contact local Campus France offices or the chosen universities directly.

 

 

 

France is known for its outstanding educational institutions, many of which hold high positions in global university rankings.

 

 

 

Paris Sciences et Lettres (PSL) Research University Paris: A leader among French universities; unites several prestigious institutions, including École Normale Supérieure, Collège de France, and Chimie ParisTech; known for its research programs and high level of academic teaching.

 

 

 

Université Paris-Saclay: Specializes in natural sciences and engineering, offering a wide range of programs, including master's and doctoral degrees.

 

 

 

Sorbonne University: One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in France; offers programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering.

 

 

 

Institut Polytechnique de Paris: Combines five leading engineering schools and specializes in various fields of engineering and applied sciences.

 

 

 

École Normale Supérieure de Lyon: A prestigious university known for its programs in mathematics, physics, computer science, and humanities.

 

 

 

Université Paris Cité: An intensive research university, offers programs in health, science, and the humanities.

 

 

 

Université Grenoble Alpes: One of the leading universities in France; offers programs in engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.

 

 

 

École des Ponts ParisTech: Specializes in engineering programs such as civil, mechanical, and nuclear engineering; known for its programs in social and human sciences.

 

 

 

Sciences Po Paris: Specializes in law, economics, social sciences, and politics; famous for its English-language programs.

 

 

 

Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne: Known for its programs in history, arts, law, and archaeology.

 

 

 

Université Paris-Dauphine: Offers advanced training programs and specialized courses for professionals in economics, management, and social sciences.

Main Steps for Diploma Validation

 

 

 

Document Preparation: Translate diplomas and certificates into French. The translation must be done by a certified translator. Notarize copies of the translations.

 

 

 

Academic Evaluation and Equivalence: Contact the national information center for academic recognition, which will conduct the official evaluation and recognition of your diplomas, which may be required for admission to universities and other educational institutions.

 

 

 

The "Études en France" Procedure: If you reside in one of the 69 countries participating in the "Études en France" program, you need to apply through the online Campus France platform. This process is entirely digital and includes document submission, filling out a questionnaire, and paying a registration fee. For countries not participating in the program, you must apply directly to the chosen university or through the local French embassy.

 

 

 

Additional Requirements and Entrance Exams: Some universities may require entrance exams or French language proficiency tests to confirm your level of language proficiency.

 

 

 

Application Deadlines: Application deadlines vary, but they usually start in October and end in January. It is important to monitor updates on the Campus France website and the chosen university to not miss important dates.

 

 

 

Useful Links

 

National Information Center for Academic Recognition ENIC-NARIC France: (https://www.enic-naric.net)

 

Campus France: (https://www.campusfrance.org)

 

Parcoursup (for European students): (https://www.parcoursup.fr)

Professional Training Centers

 

Professional training centers offer training programs that combine theoretical classes with practical on-the-job training. These programs are designed for adults who want to gain professional qualifications in fields such as crafts, engineering, agriculture, and healthcare.

 

Higher Education Institutions

 

Some French higher education institutions offer specialized courses and programs for adults, including specialized master's degrees and training courses. These programs are aimed at professionals with work experience who wish to deepen their knowledge and improve their career prospects.

 

Regional Professional Education Centers

 

These are associations of public educational institutions that offer a wide range of courses for adults, including language courses, courses in information technology, management, and other professional skills. These centers operate in various regions of France and provide opportunities for local-level education.

 

Alternative Learning

 

The French system of alternative learning allows adults to study and work simultaneously. This includes dual education programs, where students spend part of their time in classes at an educational institution and part of their time in the workplace, gaining practical skills and experience. These programs are popular in areas such as industry, commerce, and services.

 

Retraining and Professional Development Programs

 

The National Employment Agency of France offers retraining programs for unemployed and working adults who wish to change professions or improve their skills. This includes short-term courses, workshops, and training in various industries.

 

The National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts provides opportunities for adult students to receive education in engineering, management, science, and technology; evening courses, online programs, and distance learning are available.

 

Universities of the Third Age

 

Universities of the third age offer educational programs for older adults, including courses in history, literature, art, and science. These programs are aimed at developing intellectual and social skills and maintaining an active lifestyle.