Moving to France with children brings many challenges, and choosing the right school is one of the biggest. Whether you’re an expat family staying for a few years or planning a long-term relocation, understanding the French education system is essential for ensuring your child’s academic success.
This guide covers everything you need to know about French schools for expats, from enrolment procedures to choosing between public, private, and international schools.
Understanding the French Education System
The French school system is known for its structured curriculum, strong academic focus, and emphasis on discipline. It is divided into different levels:
- École maternelle (preschool/nursery): 3-6 years
- École Élémentaire (Primary School): 6-11 years
- Collège (Middle School): 11-15 years
- Lycée (High School): 15-18 years
- Université (Higher Education): 18+ years
Key Features of the French Education System
- Structured Curriculum – Subjects are taught nationwide based on a national curriculum set by the French Ministry of Education.
- Grading System – Uses a 20-point scale, with 10/20 being the passing mark.
- School Year – Runs from early September to early July, with shorter summer holidays than in the UK or US.
- School Days – Typically 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with some variations depending on the school.
- Wednesday Afternoons – Many schools have half-days on Wednesdays, allowing time for extracurricular activities.
Types of Schools in France for Expats
Expats in France have three main schooling options: public schools, private schools, and international schools.
Public Schools (Écoles Publiques)
Public schools in France are tuition-free and follow the national curriculum. They are a great choice for families planning to stay long-term or those wanting their children to integrate into French society.
Pros:
- Free education (except for optional canteen and after-school activities).
- Full immersion in French language and culture.
- High academic standards.
Cons:
- French proficiency is required—limited support for non-French-speaking students.
- Large class sizes, especially in cities.
- Less individualised support for expat children.
Best for:
- Families planning long-term residence in France.
- Young children who can adapt quickly to a new language.
- Budget-conscious parents looking for free education.
Private Schools (Écoles Privées)
Private schools in France can be secular or religious, with many Catholic schools under state contracts offering a blend of public school curriculum with smaller class sizes.
Pros:
- More individual attention due to smaller class sizes.
- Some schools offer bilingual programs.
- Easier transition for children unfamiliar with French.
Cons:
- Tuition fees (though generally lower than international schools).
- Some private schools still teach primarily in French.
- Admissions can be competitive.
Best for:
- Families who want a structured but more flexible learning environment.
- Children needing extra language support while adjusting to the French system.
- Expats looking for Catholic or faith-based education.
International Schools
International schools in France offer curricula from different countries, such as British, American, IB (International Baccalaureate), and German programs.
Pros:
- English-speaking environment for smoother transition.
- Internationally recognised qualifications (IB, A-Levels, AP).
- Strong support for expat children adjusting to France.
Cons:
- High tuition fees (10,000 € – 30,000 € per year).
- Fewer locations (mainly in large cities like Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux).
- Less integration with French culture.
Best for:
- Families staying in France short-term.
- Expats who want their children to follow a home-country curriculum.
- Parents who can afford higher tuition fees.
How to Enrol Your Child in a French School
Step 1: Choose the Right School
Decide whether a public, private, or international school best fits your child’s needs. Consider language proficiency, budget, and long-term plans.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To enrol in a public or private school, you’ll need:
- Child’s birth certificate (translated into French)
- Proof of residence in France (utility bill or rental contract)
- Immunisation records (vaccinations are mandatory)
- Parent’s ID/passport
- School records from the previous country (if applicable)
For international schools, additional entrance exams or interviews may be required.
Step 3: Register with the Local Town Hall (Mairie)
For public schools, register your child at the Mairie (town hall). You’ll receive an enrolment certificate and be assigned a school based on your address.
For private and international schools, apply directly through the school’s admissions office.
Step 4: Language Support (If Needed)
If your child does not speak French, some public schools offer FLE (Français Langue Étrangère) programs to help foreign students integrate. International schools also provide bilingual education, but at a higher cost.
Language Support for Expat Children
For non-French-speaking children, adjusting to a French-speaking environment can be challenging. Here are some ways to ease the transition:
- FLE (French as a Foreign Language) Classes – Available in some public schools to help expat children learn French.
- Bilingual or International Schools – Offer lessons in English and French to ease adaptation.
- Private Tutoring – Hiring a French tutor can accelerate language learning.
- After-School Language Programs – Some cities offer additional French lessons for expat children.
The younger the child, the easier they will pick up the language, so starting early is beneficial. Read our tips on learning French here.
School Life in France: What to Expect
School Hours & Schedule
- Most schools start at 8:30 AM and finish at 4:30 PM. Students will finish at 5:30 PM sometimes in middle schools and high school.
- Wednesdays are often half-days or have no school, for primary school mostly.
- Lunch breaks last up to two hours, and many students eat at the cantine (school cafeteria).
Homework & Assessments
- French schools assign more homework than many other countries.
- Grading is on a 0-20 scale, with 10/20 as the passing grade.
- Exams become more intense in high school, especially for the Baccalauréat (French high school diploma).
Parental Involvement
- Parents are encouraged to join the parents’ association (association des parents d’élèves).
- Regular teacher-parent meetings provide updates on academic progress.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Best School for Your Child
Choosing the right French school for expats depends on your child’s language ability, budget, and long-term plans. While public schools offer free education, private and international schools provide more flexibility and language support. For long-term expats, enrolling in the French system helps children integrate fully into French culture and society. However, if your stay in France is temporary, an international school may be the best option.
Understanding the French education system, enrolment process, and available support ensures a smooth transition, helping your child thrive in their new academic environment.