Primary, secondary education in Paris 2024

Whether it's an adventure trip or a trip to study, there are many ways for foreign students in Paris for spiritual and career growth. The most prestigious educational institutions in France are located in its capital, which, by the way, is leading in the ranking of student cities in the world.

In addition, the cost of studying in Paris for foreign students and locals corresponds to the ratio of price and high academic results. A comfortable average air temperature (+20 ° C in summer) and a huge number of elegant parks all year round favor a pleasant learning environment.

Secondary education received in Paris is an opportunity to master one of the most beautiful languages perfectly, study according to advanced pedagogical methods and get a certificate that opens the doors to most universities in the world. No schools in the world pay as much attention to innovation as French ones. If you are planning to send your child to the school in Paris, then this article will help you learn about the secondary education system in France, the specifics of curricula and admission conditions for the foreign students.

Paris, known for its advanced education system, offers diverse options in secondary schooling. Here's an insight into the structured yet progressive educational landscape of Paris:

• Stages of Secondary Education: The French education system aligns with the European Bologna Agreement, comprising three stages.

  • Primary Schools: Spanning 5 years, offering a broad curriculum.

  • Middle Schools (Collège): A 4-year program, starting with an 'adaptation' year focusing on foundational subjects and language learning. The following two years, known as the 'central cycle,' help students explore potential career paths. The final year focuses on vocational guidance, offering three streams: general, technical, or professional education.

  • High Schools (Lycée): Lasting 3 years, the first year covers a general curriculum, followed by specialized tracks in the remaining years. The culmination is the BEC exam in either literary, science, or economics streams.

• Types of Schools in Paris:

  • Public Schools: Budget-friendly and state-funded, these schools charge only for boarding services, approximately €10,000 per year.

  • Subsidized Private Schools: A slightly higher cost of €15,000 - €20,000 annually.

  • Private International Boarding Schools: Offering the most comprehensive programs, fees start from €25,000 and above.

• Primary Education in Paris:

  • Divided into 5 stages, starting from around 6 years of age.

  • Includes preparatory, initial (1st and 2nd year), and average courses (1st and 2nd year).

• Secondary Education in Paris:

  • The first cycle at the collège, lasting 4 years, with reverse class numbering.

  • The final stage at the lycée, focusing on general or technical specializations, leading to a baccalaureate degree.

  • An alternative is the professional baccalaureate, geared towards specific trades, potentially extending the lycée duration for practical training.

Paris's educational system not only adheres to high standards but also caters to international students, with many aiming for private institutions due to their globally recognized diplomas. This rich educational landscape in Paris opens doors to top universities worldwide, making it a coveted destination for quality secondary education.

Esther Diaz

Education specialist, career coach and consultant. She worked for Inspired Education Group and directed the admissions department at the International School san Patricio Toledo.

What would you say is the most important when choosing a school?

This is the quality of support and work of the management, the opportunity to study at IB, the prestige of the school and the percentage of successful completion of the diploma stage of IB, recommendations for further universities. It is worth considering the national "recruitment" of campus students, opportunities for extracurricular development and activities, the availability of medical services and consultations, opportunities for language immersion. Is education at the chosen school based on the values you share? Is the school a close-knit community? Is academic support good?