Why study at a French high school?
French Lycées are known for strong math and science training, rich humanities, and flexible university pathways. Whether your child plans to apply to selective French Grandes Écoles, broader European options, or global programs, the French high school track provides solid academic depth and bilingual growth.
- Graduate with the globally recognized French Baccalaureate (BAC), opening doors to leading universities.
- Learn in a safe, welcoming environment while building genuine French-English bilingual skills.
- Sanai Education provides full-process planning for courses, visas, and host family placement tailored to international families.
High value for French High School Study Abroad
Based on 2023–2024 tuition ranges from partner schools, quality private boarding Lycées (tuition plus housing) average €18,000–23,000 per year. After graduating, students can progress to French public universities with official annual registration around €2,770, often with fee reductions for international students—still far below UK/US routes.
Family-friendly investment
Balanced tuition allows students to access elite education without UK/US boarding-level costs.
- Many partner schools offer full-board packages so families can lock budgets early and avoid hidden expenses.
- France welcomes international students; public university tuition is officially €2,770 per year and many institutions provide fee waivers or scholarships, keeping total costs well below UK/US.
Quick comparison: France vs. UK/US boarding
French private boarding Lycée
Tuition + boarding: €18,000–23,000 / year
UK boarding school
Comprehensive fees often £35,000+ / year
US private boarding school
Comprehensive fees commonly $55,000+ / year
Public, private, and boarding pathways
We match school choices to your child's academic level, language foundation, and family expectations—balancing city location, boarding safety, and future university plans.
Public Lycée
Open, selective, with strong science tracks
- Competitive admission; many schools offer European sections or dual-language classes.
- Ideal for students with solid academics who can adapt quickly to French learning.
- Boarding capacity varies by region; families should plan early for housing.
Private boarding school
Stable environment with guided learning
- Complete boarding service and pastoral care; predictable budgets for parents.
- Small classes and structured study halls help students adapt to French courses.
- Professional staff coordinate daily life, sports, and homework supervision.
Host family + day school
Immersive community life
- Live with screened host families; quickly build practical French for daily life.
- Flexible for day schools in cities with limited boarding supply.
- Clear house rules and communication routines help students integrate smoothly.
Academic rigor + bilingual advantage
French high schools emphasize math, physics, literature, philosophy, and critical thinking. Courses often combine French, English, and a second foreign language, enabling students to build real bilingual capability.
- Small classes allow teachers to track progress and reinforce weak points.
- European/International sections provide extended English while keeping French literature and history standards.
- Language portfolios help students meet university language requirements and stand out on Parcoursup.
Classroom snapshot
Average 20–28 students
Teachers can give targeted feedback; study halls reinforce classroom learning.
French + English + LVB/LVC
Common combinations: French, English, Spanish/German; debate and oral exams build confidence.
BAC-linked planning
Course choices connect to BAC specialties and future majors, reducing detours for international students.
Recognized BAC diploma
The French Baccalaureate (BAC) is accepted by universities worldwide. Beyond French programs, BAC holders can apply to pan-European degrees taught in English or French, providing flexibility for international students.
University pathways
- French public universities with low tuition and English tracks.
- Grandes Écoles and post-BAC business/engineering programs.
- European joint degrees; credits recognized through ECTS.
Advantages for families
- Transparent scoring system (60% finals + 40% continuous assessment) reduces one-exam pressure.
- Specialties align to majors early, saving time and cost.
- Strong humanities training benefits applications to English-speaking universities.
Students graduate with a BAC diploma recognized across Europe, North America, and Asia, with access to English or French-taught degrees.
Host family + guardian support
From airport pickup and enrollment to daily communication, we coordinate housing, guardianship, and school liaison services to keep families informed.
- Screened host families or boarding options, with clear house rules and safety checks.
- Dedicated guardian for school contacts, attendance updates, and emergency coordination.
- Regular progress reports so parents understand grades, French language growth, and well-being.
Arrival checklist
- Airport pickup and SIM card; French bank account guidance if needed.
- School registration, textbooks, meal card setup, and health insurance briefing.
- Medical information and nearby clinic notes for quick response.
Visa guidance for minors
International students under 18 usually apply for the Mineur Scolarisé visa. We prepare documents and coach families on Consular Review Standards to improve success rates.
Document checklist
- Admission letter + proof of tuition/boarding payment
- Host family/boarding confirmation and guardian authorization
- Financial proof and health insurance coverage
Application tips
- Explain study plan and guardianship clearly to match Consular Review Standards.
- Highlight school attendance management and emergency contacts.
- Prepare bilingual support documents to streamline the interview.
Structured care for minors
We coordinate school rules, boarding policies, and host family expectations so students have a clear framework for study and life.
- Daily schedule set with curfew, meal times, and homework sessions.
- Designated contact for school communications, absences, and health updates.
- Emergency protocol shared with families; local support ready to assist.
Student life snapshot
- Boarding rooms typically 2–4 students with supervised study halls.
- Safe transport options between school and residence; clear check-in/out routines.
- Meals follow French nutritional standards; dietary needs communicated in advance.
- Guardians set up communication channels for parents, students, and teachers.
Plan your French High School Study Abroad
We help families choose the right intake season, match schools, and prepare language and visas. Share your child’s grade and interests, and we will outline a tailored path.
Talk with Sanai Education
Established since 2009 — Specializing in French high school study abroad. Our team in France and China works together to guide families from planning to arrival.