In France you will study at schools of high academic standard. The French high school is called “le Lycée” and includes three years of studies. In the 10th grade the students take French, Mathematics, Physics, Biology, a foreign language (English or German), Geography, History, Physical Education in addition to two optional subjects.

Exchange students are usually placed in the 11th grade. When French students reach this grade they have to choose between different options for their studies: Sciences, Literature, Economics or Technical Sciences. As an exchange student you will have to take the Literature option.

The school year starts early September and finishes late June or early July. The school year is divided into three terms, with breaks in November, at Christmas, in February and at Easter.

In high school you have approximately 25 lessons a week and hard work is required. The grades range from 0 to 20 and if you get a 10 (average) on your test, you should be aware that this result is good!

You cannot choose your subjects in French high schools, most are compulsory with only a very few options on offer.

The Year 12 students graduate with the baccalaureat before moving on to university.