Choosing the right school in France is a key decision for any family relocating with children. The French education system offers several options, public, private, bilingual, and international, each with its own structure, curriculum, and admissions process.
Understanding how the system works, what types of schools are available, and how to assess which one fits your child’s needs is essential for a smooth transition. This guide outlines the key factors to consider when selecting a school in France, including language support, academic expectations, enrolment procedures, and the pros and cons of different school types.
Table of Contents
Understanding the French school system
The French education system is structured into four main stages:
- Maternelle (Preschool): Ages 3-6
- École Primaire (Primary School): Ages 6-11
- Collège (Middle School): Ages 11-15
- Lycée (High School): Ages 15-18
Schooling is compulsory from age 3 to 16, with most students continuing to age 18 to complete the baccalauréat (French high school diploma).
Key differences from Anglo-Saxon systems include:
- Earlier academic focus at preschool level
- A nationally standardised curriculum
- Less emphasis on extracurricular activities during school hours
- Stronger teacher-led instruction and formal assessments from an early age
For a full breakdown of how the French education system works, including grade equivalents and curriculum structure, read our detailed guide: 👉 Navigating the French Education System
Types of schools in France
France offers several types of schools, each with different structures, costs, and educational approaches. Understanding your options is essential when relocating with children.
Public schools (écoles publiques)
Public schools are funded by the French state and follow the national curriculum. They are free to attend, aside from minor fees for meals or school supplies. Children are assigned to schools based on where they live (carte scolaire), though exceptions may apply. Public schools are the most common option and offer full French-language instruction.
Private schools under contract (établissement sous contrat)
These schools follow the same national curriculum as public schools but are privately run and partially funded by the state. Fees are modest compared to international standards. Some offer bilingual programmes or religious instruction. They are a popular middle-ground option for expats seeking structure with a bit more flexibility.
Private independent schools (hors contrat)
Independent schools set their own curriculum and teaching methods. They are fully funded by tuition fees and are not bound by national education rules. These may include Montessori, Steiner, or other alternative pedagogies. Quality and regulation vary, so due diligence is important.
International and bilingual schools
These schools typically follow non-French curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), British GCSE/A-levels, or American High School Diploma. Lessons are offered in English or bilingually. Located mainly in major cities, they’re ideal for short-term expats or children who may return to another school system later.
Homeschooling and alternatives
Homeschooling is legal in France but regulated. Parents must notify local authorities and follow specific educational standards.
Choosing the right type of school depends on your child’s language level, age, learning needs, and how long you plan to stay in France.
Public vs private education in France
Both public and private schools in France offer high academic standards, but they differ in cost, structure, and environment, factors that matter when choosing what’s best for your child as an expat.
Public schools are free, follow the national curriculum, and are assigned based on your home address (carte scolaire). They provide full immersion in French language and culture, which can benefit long-term integration.
Private schools under contract charge modest fees, often offer smaller class sizes, and may include bilingual or religious elements. Independent private schools have full autonomy over their teaching style and curriculum, with varying tuition and philosophies.
The right choice depends on your child’s language level, age, and how long you plan to stay in France.
👉 Read our full comparison of public vs private schools in France
International and bilingual schools
International and bilingual schools are a popular option for expat families, especially those planning a temporary stay in France or seeking continuity with a foreign curriculum.
These schools are primarily located in major cities such as Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Nice, and Bordeaux, and offer programmes in English, bilingual French-English, or other languages. Curricula may follow the International Baccalaureate (IB), British (GCSE/A-level), American, or other national systems.
Tuition fees vary widely, often starting at 8,000 € – 15,000 € per year and increasing for secondary levels. Some schools offer French language support for non-native speakers, as well as international college counselling and multicultural environments.
International schools are well-suited to:
- Children who don’t speak French
- Families on short-term assignments
- Students who may return to their home country’s school system
- Those seeking a globally recognised diploma
Availability may be limited, and many have competitive admissions processes or waiting lists, early application is recommended!
Language considerations
Language is a key factor when choosing a school in France, especially for children who do not speak French. The majority of schools, particularly public and contract private schools, teach entirely in French, so understanding how your child will adapt is crucial.
Children under the age of 8 typically adapt quickly to a new language environment. Older children may need more structured support, particularly in core subjects like maths, history, and science, where language comprehension directly affects academic performance.
Many public schools offer French as a Second Language (FLE) support programmes, although availability varies by region. Some private schools and bilingual programmes offer more robust language support, especially in areas with larger expat populations.
International and bilingual schools are the most flexible in terms of language transition, offering full or partial instruction in English while gradually building French fluency.
When assessing schools, ask:
- What level of French is expected at entry?
- Is FLE support available?
- How do they support non-French-speaking students academically and socially?
For expat families, the right balance between language immersion and academic continuity will depend on your child’s age, confidence, and how long you plan to stay in France.
Factors to consider when choosing a school in France
When selecting a school in France for your child, it’s important to look beyond just the curriculum. The right fit will depend on a combination of academic, logistical, and cultural factors, especially for expat families adjusting to a new environment.
Language and integration needs
Consider your child’s current language level. If they don’t speak French, assess the school’s ability to support language acquisition and their track record with international students.
Academic support and teaching style
French schools tend to be more formal and academically rigorous than in some other systems. Ask about:
- Class sizes
- Availability of tutoring or support services
- Teaching style (rote vs project-based learning)
- Options for special educational needs (SEN)
School ethos and environment
Visit schools (virtually or in person) to get a feel for the culture, discipline, values, and parent involvement. Some schools are more traditional, while others emphasise creativity or holistic development.
Location and catchment zones (carte scolaire)
Public school access is based on your residential address. If you’re moving to a specific area for a school, confirm which schools fall within that zone. For private and international schools, commuting time and transport options are key.
Long-term plans
If you plan to stay in France long-term, full French-language integration may be a priority. For short-term stays, international or bilingual schools may offer a smoother academic transition.
Choosing the right school involves aligning your family’s priorities, academic, cultural, and practical, with what each school can offer.
How to apply and enrol in a French school
The enrolment process in France varies depending on the type of school, public, private, or international, and it’s important to plan ahead, especially if you’re moving from abroad.
Public schools
To enrol in a public school, you must register your child at the local mairie (town hall) of your place of residence. Required documents typically include:
- Passport or ID
- Proof of address (e.g. rental contract or utility bill)
- Birth certificate (translated into French)
- Health records, including vaccination certificate
- School records or transcripts (translated)
After registration, your child will be assigned to a school based on the catchment area (carte scolaire). You may request an exemption (dérogation) to attend another public school, but approval isn’t guaranteed.
Private and international schools
Private schools manage their own admissions. For most, especially bilingual or international schools, early application is essential due to limited places and competitive entry. Expect to provide:
- Application form and fees
- Academic reports
- Language proficiency assessments (in some cases)
- Interview or trial day for your child
Admission requirements and deadlines vary, it’s best to contact schools directly and apply several months before your planned move.
Waiting lists and timing
- Enrolment for public schools typically opens in spring (March–May) for the following September
- Some private and international schools accept rolling applications but fill up early
- For mid-year arrivals, placement is possible but may require flexibility
Start researching and preparing your application documents early to avoid delays and ensure a smooth start to school life in France.
Final notes
Choosing the right school for your child in France is a key part of settling successfully as an expat family. With options ranging from public and private schools to international and bilingual institutions, it’s important to align your choice with your child’s language ability, academic needs, and long-term goals.
Start early, gather the required documents, and don’t hesitate to ask schools about language support, teaching style, and class sizes. Whether you’re relocating permanently or temporarily, a clear understanding of the French school system will help ensure a smooth educational transition for your child, and peace of mind for you.
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