Best International Schools in France

Overview of the School System in France

School attendance in France is compulsory from age three. State schools are free, co-educational, and follow the national curriculum set by the Ministry of National Education. Around 20% of students attend private schools, most of which operate under a state contract (sous contrat).

The French education system is divided into four stages: École maternelle (ages 3–6), École primaire (ages 6–11), Collège (ages 11–15), and Lycée (ages 15–18), which leads to the baccalauréat.

Most international schools operate within the private sector. Some work under state contract, while others are fully independent and offer international curricula, bilingual programmes, or alternative educational approaches.

Top International Schools in France

The schools below represent a cross-section of France’s international education options, from Paris to the French Riviera to the regions. They differ in curriculum, language, size, and ethos which is why each one suits a different kind of family.

École Jeannine Manuel

Located in Paris and Lille, École Jeannine Manuel is one of France’s leading bilingual schools, offering the French Baccalauréat, International French Baccalauréat (BFI), and IB Diploma. Known for its strong academic results and international community, it is an excellent choice for families seeking French integration alongside an international education. The campuses are easily accessible by public transport.

International School of Paris (ISP)

Located in Paris’s 16th arrondissement, ISP offers the full IB pathway from PYP to DP in English. Popular with internationally mobile families, the school provides modern learning facilities and a highly diverse student body. It is well connected by Metro, RER, and bus services.

American School of Paris (ASP)

Situated in Saint-Cloud, west of Paris, ASP offers the American High School Diploma, AP courses, and the IB Diploma. The school is particularly well regarded for US university preparation, extensive sports facilities, and strong arts programmes. It is accessible by train, school bus, and car.

British School of Paris (BSP)

Located in Croissy-sur-Seine, BSP follows the English National Curriculum through GCSEs and A Levels. As the only accredited British School Overseas in France, it is a popular choice for families seeking a traditional British education. The campus is easily reached via the RER and school transport services.

International School of Nice (ISN)

Located on the French Riviera, ISN offers an international education culminating in the IB Diploma Programme. The school serves a diverse expat community and provides modern academic, arts, and sports facilities. It is conveniently accessible from Nice, Antibes, and Cannes.

IBS of Provence

Set on a large campus near Aix-en-Provence, IBS of Provence offers the French Baccalauréat, IGCSEs, and the IB Diploma. It is one of the few international schools in France with boarding facilities and is known for its extensive sports and outdoor learning opportunities. The school is easily accessible from Aix and Marseille.

ICS Paris

Located in central Paris, ICS Paris offers the full IB continuum alongside Edexcel qualifications. The school is known for its multilingual environment, personalised learning approach, and strong support for internationally mobile students. Public transport connections make commuting straightforward.

International School of Lyon

Situated just outside Lyon in Sainte-Foy-lès-Lyon, this school offers the IB Primary Years Programme, Cambridge IGCSEs, and the IB Diploma. It is a popular option for international families living in the Lyon region and offers a strong academic programme in an English-speaking environment.

Bordeaux International School

Located in Bordeaux, this school provides a British-style education in a small and supportive learning environment. It is particularly well suited to expat families seeking personalised attention and English-language instruction outside Paris. The campus is easily accessible from the city and surrounding areas.

Notre-Dame International High School

Located near Paris, Notre-Dame International High School offers an American-style curriculum leading to the US High School Diploma. It is one of the few international schools in France with boarding facilities, making it a strong option for international students requiring accommodation as well as university preparation support.

The best international school in France is the one that matches your child’s needs, ambitions, and personality, helping them thrive academically, socially, and beyond the classroom.

Curriculum Comparison: Which Is Right for Your Child?

Choosing a curriculum is often just as important as choosing the school itself. France offers a wide range of educational pathways, each designed to suit different family circumstances, university goals, and language backgrounds.

When choosing a curriculum, think about your child’s learning style, language abilities, future university plans, and whether your family is likely to remain in France or relocate again. Admissions teams can often help clarify which pathway is the best fit for your family’s circumstances.

How to Choose the Right School in France

The best international school for your child may not be the most famous or the most expensive. A curriculum that works well for one family may be completely unsuitable for another, particularly when factors such as future relocation, university destinations, and language development come into play.

Key factors worth considering:

Future plans: If you expect to remain in France long term, a school connected to the French system may be a strong option. If your family is likely to move again, internationally recognised programmes such as the IB can provide greater continuity.

University pathway: Different curricula lead naturally to different destinations. A Levels are well understood by UK universities, AP courses support US admissions, while the French Baccalauréat and BFI are often preferred for students planning to study in France.

Language environment: Consider whether your child would thrive in a fully English-speaking school, a bilingual setting, or a predominantly French environment. Language support varies significantly between schools.

Academic approach: Some schools are highly selective and academically demanding, while others place greater emphasis on personalised support, wellbeing, and smaller class sizes.

Location and practicalities: Commute times, school transport, boarding availability, and continuity for siblings can all have a significant impact on daily family life.

School culture: Whenever possible, visit schools in person. Facilities and academic results matter, but so does finding an environment where your child feels comfortable, supported, and engaged.

The right international school in France is one that aligns with your child’s needs, your family’s goals, and provides an environment where they can thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Admission Process and School Fees in France

Applying to an international school in France is usually a straightforward process, but timelines, assessments, and entry requirements can vary considerably between schools. Understanding what to expect in advance can help families plan ahead, particularly when relocating internationally or applying to popular schools with limited places.

Once a place is offered, families usually confirm enrollment by signing an agreement and paying a registration fee or deposit. Schools are generally happy to discuss a child’s academic background, language level, and individual needs before an application is submitted.

Updated 2026 to 2027 Fee Ranges:

Primary and secondary fees at international schools in France typically range from €10,000 to over €40,000 per year, depending on the school, curriculum, and location

• Schools in Paris and the surrounding suburbs generally charge higher fees than those in other regions
• Boarding, where available, is usually charged separately and can significantly increase annual costs
• Additional ongoing costs may include transport, meals, language support, school trips, examination fees, and extracurricular activities
• One-time costs may include application fees, registration fees, enrolment deposits, and capital contributions

Some families may also be eligible for financial support through employer relocation packages, government assistance programmes, boarding grants, or school-based scholarships. If cost is a concern, it is always worth discussing available support directly with the admissions team.

Pros and Cons of Studying at Schools in France

Advantages

• Strong academic standards, particularly in mathematics, science, literature, and critical thinking
• Wide choice of internationally recognised qualifications, including the IB, A Levels, AP courses, BFI, and the French Baccalauréat
• Opportunity to become bilingual or multilingual while being immersed in French culture and daily life
• Excellent quality of life, with strong public services, healthcare, transport networks, and cultural opportunities

Challenges

• Students without a strong level of French may find it difficult to integrate into the local education system, particularly at secondary level
• Popular international schools in Paris and other major cities often have long waiting lists, so it is wise to apply well in advance
• Bureaucracy can be frustrating at times, especially when dealing with administrative paperwork, residency requirements, and school enrolment processes
• Daily life can feel very different from more service-oriented cultures, with shorter shop opening hours, lengthy lunch breaks, and many businesses closing on Sundays or public holidays

Depending on your residency status and circumstances, you may be eligible for family allowances, childcare support, or back-to-school assistance through the French social security system (CAF). These benefits generally do not offset private school tuition, but they can help reduce overall family expenses. 

Best Tutors in France

Many families find that even students attending excellent international schools benefit from additional academic support, particularly during key transition years, exam preparation, university applications, or when adjusting to a new curriculum. Private tutoring is especially common among IB, IGCSE, A Level, AP, and French Baccalauréat students who want personalised guidance and greater academic confidence.

For families seeking experienced tutors familiar with international curricula, organisations such as TutorsPlus work with students across France both online and in person, providing support in subjects ranging from IB Maths and Sciences to university admissions, Extended Essays, and Theory of Knowledge. The right tutor can often make the difference between simply keeping up and truly thriving at school.

Conclusion

France offers one of the most diverse educational landscapes in Europe, giving international families access to world-class schools, globally recognised qualifications, and a rich cultural environment. Whether you are looking for the IB, British, American, bilingual, or French pathway, there is no shortage of excellent options across Paris, the French Riviera, Lyon, Bordeaux, and beyond.

The best school is ultimately the one that suits your child’s needs, strengths, and future ambitions. Take the time to visit campuses, speak with admissions teams, and consider both the academic and personal fit. With careful planning, your child can benefit from an education that prepares them for university, builds confidence, and helps them make the most of their experience in France.

FAQ

How does the French education system work for expat families?

French state schools are free and open to all resident children, regardless of nationality. Many expat families choose international or bilingual schools for greater curriculum continuity and language support.

What are the best international schools in Paris?

Among the most established schools are École Jeannine Manuel, the International School of Paris, the American School of Paris, ICS Paris, and the British School of Paris. The best choice depends on your child’s curriculum, language needs, and future plans.

How much do private and international schools in France usually cost?

Fees typically range from around €10,000 to more than €40,000 per year. Additional costs for meals, transport, trips, and extracurricular activities may apply.

Which curricula can families choose from?

Options include the IB, French Baccalauréat and BFI, British GCSEs and A Levels, the American High School Diploma with AP courses, and several other national curricula. The right choice depends largely on future university and relocation plans.

Is the IB available in France?

Yes. Around 24 schools in France offer IB programmes, with the highest concentration in Paris and the French Riviera.

Are there English-speaking schools for expat children?

Yes. Many international schools teach in English or offer bilingual English-French programmes, making them a popular choice for expat families.

What is the difference between the IB and BFI?

The IB is an internationally recognised qualification designed for globally mobile students. The BFI is part of the French education system and is often better suited to students planning to study in France.

Are international schools in France a good choice for expat children?

For many expat families, international schools provide academic continuity, multilingual environments, and internationally recognised qualifications. However, French public and bilingual schools can also be excellent options for families planning to stay long term.

Do schools in France offer boarding options?

Boarding is available but less common than in countries such as the UK or Switzerland. Families who need boarding should make it a priority early in their school search.