Education System In France: Understanding French Education System

By UniAcco
May 3, 2024 •
French education system

Since there are numerous factors to consider, every country’s education system is unique. When it comes to the various categories and types of diplomas and exams, the French education system is particularly renowned for being complex. France is now ranked as the top country for international students to pursue higher education. Between 2017 and 2020, there was a 10.4% increase in the number of international students enrolling in French higher education.

The renowned France education system for international students attracts many overseas students from all over the world. The intense academic focus of French schools is well-known. For instance, there are no school dances or significant events, no posters like you see in other schools in Europe, and there aren’t many extracurricular activities at least related to the school (they don’t have much funding due to the low or no prices of tuition). If students do not receive the average grades required to pass the classes, it is fairly typical in the French university system to have them repeat the academic year. 

The diversity, tourism locations, and social life make France a preferable destination for student living. If you too intend to further your education via the French education system, this blog includes all the necessary information for your reference.

French education system

Education System In France

Regarding the French educational system, the former is separated into three phases: primary, secondary, and higher education. Let’s explore each of them individually:

Primary Education In France

A student’s initial step toward education is the elementary education system. The enrollment age is three years old and up. However, children in France must enrol in educational institutions by the age of six. The kids’ age ranges range from 6 to 11 years old, and the length of time to study in France is five years.

Secondary Education In France

Students will join the high school category after completing their primary education. The French education system is organized into two phases at this place: 

  • The college- A maximum of four years will be spent studying here. After finishing, students continue on to Lycee and get a brevet des Colleges. Upon completion, students are given a “brevet des colleges.”
  • Lycee- For the final three years of secondary education, the student must attend the lycée (high school). After that, students must pass a test to get the baccalaureat (bac) degree (high school diploma).

Higher Education In France

Students who have finished the aforementioned requirements fall under the higher education category. There are two phases within this category of the French education system as well:

Vocational Diploma: DUT (diplome Universitaire de Technologie) and BTS are available in the two-year vocational diploma in technology (Brevet de technician Superieur). Students will need one more year of study before they may get their professional licences. Students can claim their BTS from high school, and universities will grant them a DUT.

Academic Diploma: The higher education system in France is divided into three categories-

  • Universities: The majority of the French university system is provided by public institutions. They provide three different types of study degrees: Licence, Master, and Doctorate. In the French education system, these study degrees are known as cycles. Students must have a baccalaureate or an equivalent to be eligible.
  • Grandes Ecoles: Grandes Ecoles operate similarly to a university, with both public and private institutions present. They are regarded as elite higher education. There are 3000 high schools in France that provide this type of education. Students will complete a specialized course of study and graduate with a Master’s degree. To be eligible, students must have a baccalaureate and have completed two years of programme preparatory courses.
  • Specialized Schools: The majority of specialized schools are provided by public and private institutions. These institutes offer licence and Master’s degrees with the primary goal of developing students’ skills for their chosen career path.

Important Considerations for International Students Applying To The French Education System:

  • When submitting one‘s application forms, students must provide an attestation.
  • When applying for a study programme, international students will take a proficiency test in the language of instruction (For French- DELF, DALF, TCF, TEF) ( For English- IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE)

Conclusion

The French education system aims to help students develop the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in any career opportunity. According to the french education system ranking, France is home to 32 QS World University Ranking in 2022 alone. While we are aware of the beauty of French culture, it is also time to consider their valuable educational system.

FAQs

1. Is France’s educational system good?

Yes, France’s education system is internationally recognized, and many international students choose this country to further their education.

2. Where is France ranked in terms of Education?

According to World Population Review, the French education system is among the top five best in the world.

3. Is France a good destination for international students?

Yes, France is a popular destination for international students because, in addition to its rich culture and welcoming diversity, the country provides a superior education in all fields.

4. Can I study in France without knowing French?

Yes, you can continue to participate in the French higher education system because the majority of educational institutions here teach English. However, learning the local language is preferable for effective communication.

To get started, look into the public universities in France for more information. You can also read some of our blogs: 

  1. Stay Away From Internet Scams And Fraud As A Student
  2. Best Apps For College Students – A Complete App Guide
  3. 11 Best Life Hacks For Students
Connect with us:

You’ll love these as well

Toughest Courses In The World

Toughest Courses In The World

Some academic courses are known for being extremely tough. They challenge students with complex subjects, heavy workloads, and demanding exams. These courses require not only intelligence but also dedication and hard work. Whether engineering, medicine, law, or...

Affordable MBBS In The USA: Top 7 Colleges!

Affordable MBBS In The USA: Top 7 Colleges!

Pursuing an MBBS degree in the USA is a career goal for many aspiring doctors across the globe, but the high costs often pose a significant financial barrier. However, not all medical programmes have hefty fees. In this guide to pursuing cheapest MBBS in the USA, we...

Benefits Of Learning A Foreign Language At University

Benefits Of Learning A Foreign Language At University

In our interconnected world, the ability to communicate across linguistic boundaries is more important than ever. Mastering a foreign language is a crucial skill for university students in many ways. Beyond the apparent career advantages, learning a new language...

Explore The Best Short-Term Courses In The UK

Explore The Best Short-Term Courses In The UK

Short-term courses in UK are perfect solutions to boost your skills and earn new qualifications. Whether you aim to advance your career or simply explore a new passion, there's a course for you. These courses can range from a few weeks to several months, offering...

America’s 20 Most Expensive Colleges In 2024

America’s 20 Most Expensive Colleges In 2024

The cost of higher education in the United States has reached an all-time high. Many families find pursuing a college degree a huge financial burden. Tuition fees vary greatly among institutions, and private colleges have become quite expensive. This blog reveals the...

Introduction To CIMEA: Definition, Comparability & More

Introduction To CIMEA: Definition, Comparability & More

Understanding the evaluation and recognition of academic credentials can be complex. CIMEA, recognised by Italian authorities, provides a clear and efficient pathway to ensure your qualifications are recognised both nationally and internationally.  This guide...

Share Post

Found this post interesting? Share this post with your friends and let them know!