The French Education System: From Nursery to University Graduation
Introduction
When I first encountered the French education system, I was both confused and surprised at the same time. Coming from Thailand, where the educational journey follows a clear-cut path—starting from kindergarten, then primary school, high school, and university—and the same structure in the UK, where I graduated with my second master's degree, I was used to a more traditional system. In contrast, the French system offers an array of choices that empower students to carve their own paths. The idea that students can select their educational journey based on their interests and career goals—whether that’s through universities, prestigious écoles, or vocational training—was eye-opening. This flexibility seemed to present a world of opportunities, unlike the more linear route I had followed in my home country, and I found myself intrigued by the range of options available to students here in France. The more I learned about the system, the more fascinated I became by the possibilities it offers.
France is known for its well-structured and comprehensive education system, which provides free, high-quality education for all children. The system is divided into different levels, starting from nursery school and continuing through university. Whether you're a parent, a student, or just curious about how education works in France, this guide will walk you through the entire system, from the early years to university graduation.
1. Early Childhood Education (Nursery & Kindergarten)
🏡 Nursery School (Crèche & Maternelle) – Ages 0-6
French education starts early, with crèches (daycare centers) and maternelle (preschool) playing a crucial role in child development.
Crèche (Ages 0-3): Optional daycare centers where infants and toddlers receive early care.- Moyenne section (MS) – Age 4
- Grande section (GS) – Age 5
Why Maternelle Matters:
- Helps children develop social, cognitive, and language skills.
- Prepares them for primary school.
2. Primary Education (L'école élémentaire)
📚 L'école élémentaire – Ages 6-11
Primary school in France is compulsory and lasts for five years.
| Grade | Age | Level |
|---|---|---|
| CP (Cours préparatoire) | 6-7 | Preparatory Course |
| CE1 (Cours élémentaire 1) | 7-8 | Elementary Course 1 |
| CE2 (Cours élémentaire 2) | 8-9 | Elementary Course 2 |
| CM1 (Cours moyen 1) | 9-10 | Middle Course 1 |
| CM2 (Cours moyen 2) | 10-11 | Middle Course 2 |
Subjects Taught:
- French
- Mathematics
- Science
- History-Geography
- Foreign Language (usually English)
- Physical Education
- Art and Music
By the end of CM2, students take an evaluation to transition into secondary school (collège).
3. Secondary Education
🎓 Collège (Middle School) – Ages 11-15
Collège is the first stage of secondary education and lasts for four years.
| Grade | Age | Level |
|---|---|---|
| 6ème (Sixième) | 11-12 | First Year |
| 5ème (Cinquième) | 12-13 | Second Year |
| 4ème (Quatrième) | 13-14 | Third Year |
| 3ème (Troisième) | 14-15 | Fourth Year |
Brevet Diploma
At the end of 3ème, students take the Diplôme National du Brevet (DNB), an exam testing their knowledge before they move on to Lycée (High School).
🎓 Lycée (High School) – Ages 15-18
Lycée lasts for three years and prepares students for the Baccalauréat (BAC) exam.
| Grade | Age | Level |
|---|---|---|
| 2nde (Seconde) | 15-16 | First Year |
| 1ère (Première) | 16-17 | Second Year |
| Tle (Terminale) | 17-18 | Final Year |
Types of Baccalauréat (BAC) Diplomas
Students choose one of three diploma paths:
- Bac Général (General Bac) – For university studies.
- Bac Technologique (Technological Bac) – Mix of theory and practice.
- Bac Professionnel (Bac Pro) – Vocational training for direct employment or BTS (technical degree).
4. Higher Education in France
| France | UK Equivalent | USA Equivalent |
| Licence (3 years) | Bachelor's Degree (3-4 years) | Bachelor's Degree (4 years) |
| Master (2 years) | Master's Degree (1-2 years) | Master's Degree (1-2 years) |
| Doctorat (3+ years) | PhD (3+ years) | PhD (4-6 years) |
After passing the BAC, students have multiple options:
🏫 1. Universities (Universités) – 3-8 years
Public universities in France offer a variety of degrees.
| Degree | Years of Study | Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Licence (Bachelor's) | 3 years | Undergraduate Degree |
| Master | 2 years | Graduate Degree |
| Doctorat (PhD) | 3+ years | Doctorate |
📚 2. Grandes Écoles (Elite Schools) – 5 years
- Highly selective institutions in fields like engineering, business, and politics.
- Examples: HEC Paris, Sciences Po, École Polytechnique.
🎓 3. BTS & DUT (2-Year Technical Programs)
- BTS (Brevet de Technicien Supérieur): Hands-on training (e.g., hospitality, IT, design).
- DUT (Diplôme Universitaire de Technologie): Technical degrees at IUTs (University Institutes of Technology).
🏋️ 4. Apprenticeships & Vocational Studies
- Combine work experience + education.
- Can lead to Bac Pro, BTS, or Licence Pro.
Fun Fact: Education Law in France
Did you know that in France, education is compulsory until the age of 16? This means that all French citizens must complete at least collège (middle school). After that, students can choose to continue in lycée, vocational training, or apprenticeships. This law ensures that every child receives a foundational education and prepares them for further studies or the job market.
Conclusion
The French education system is structured to support students from a young age and offer diverse career paths. Whether pursuing a traditional university degree, technical training, or vocational studies, there are plenty of options for students to build a successful future.
Did this guide help you understand how education works in France? Let us know in the comments! 📚🎓
