France today is one of the leaders in the economic sector. France is a global influencer in many industries, such as cars, food sciences, agriculture, fashion, perfumery, etc… In education too, France hosts the most modern educational institutes, methods of teaching, and education system.
Besides the economy, France is Europe’s social and cultural hub. Places like Paris, the Louvre Museum, the Moulin Rouge Cabaret, and the Champs Elysees, are unparalleled and attract millions of tourists from across the globe every year.
Who can study in France?
The French educational system is one of the best and ranks among the top 10 most preferred education destinations in the world. There are around 70 plus international standard universities that offer different degrees in hundreds of disciplines.
The good part about the French schools and universities is that they offer free education to the citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland. People from other countries may benefit from various scholarships offered.
Fee Structure
The fee structure for international students is naturally higher than the students belonging to any of the nationalities mentioned previously. A public sector university may charge around EUR 3000 per annum for a bachelor’s degree and EUR 4000 per annum for a Master’s degree. Master’s and Ph.D. programs are more or less similar in terms of tuition fees.
Scholarships & grants
Generous grants and partial, full scholarship programs are offered to students of all nationalities based on academic record, the field of study, etc… While primary schooling involves no cost for all residents, international students from outside the specified regions are needed to pay fees.
Private schools
In France, there are two types of private schools. One is owned and run by the government and the other that are privately run and owned. Government private schools have a better reputation than their counterparts, however, both types of schools are majorly catholic and hence follow a religious value system.
International schools
International schools are mostly located in major cities, such as Paris. International schools usually teach in the native language of the student and the same curriculum they are assimilated in their home countries is adopted. The fee structure of international schools is often on the high-end.
Private tuition
Private tuition is common in France. At nominal cost, dedicated qualified teachers are available for all compulsory subjects. Tuition is also available in the form of groups, usually at a coaching center; a home group may also be arranged if such a need arises.
Students with special needs
Students with special needs are assisted with special learning tools as part of the educational system in place. A dedicated governmental commission is in charge to ensure that the special needs of all students are satisfied.
The turnover rate in international schools
Because many expatriates do not stay longer than a few years in the country, the turnover rate for students, as well as teachers is quite high. This may be a bit of discomfort for expatriates who have been living for extended periods. Firstly, the emotional bonding between their children and other students is disturbed continuously. This in turn might hamper the learning of the children. Secondly, every teacher has a certain way of teaching that the students get used to. The periodic change in tutors too might be discomforting.
Keeping these factors in mind, it is advisable for long-term expatriates to choose the regular French Public school system for their children.
