How French high school courses are organized
From Seconde (grade 10) exploration to Première specialties and Terminale consolidation, the French curriculum balances required courses with elective depth. Understanding the structure helps families select the right school and plan for the BAC.
- Core subjects in Seconde ensure math, science, and languages stay strong before specialties are chosen.
- In Première, students select two specialties (4h each in Terminale) that connect directly to university majors.
- Continuous assessment counts for 40% of BAC; finals 60%, reducing single-exam pressure.
BAC focus
Specialties drive university choices
Select specialties that match future majors (engineering, business, arts, medicine). Schools offer combinations that keep options open while meeting BAC requirements.
Continuous assessment
40% of BAC
Orals, assignments, and school exams.
Final exams
60% of BAC
Specialty finals, philosophy, and grand oral.
Three stages at a glance
Each grade has clear goals: exploration, specialization, and consolidation. Families can plan language and subject support accordingly.
Seconde (Grade 10)
Exploration year with balanced core courses.
- Math, physics-chemistry, life sciences, history-geography, French, English + second language.
- Intro modules for digital/technology to prepare specialty choices.
- Language goal: DELF A2→B1; build note-taking skills.
Première (Grade 11)
Choose 3 specialties → narrow to 2 for Terminale.
- Common core continues (French replaced by philosophy in Terminale).
- Specialties typically 4h/week; align with university interests.
- Mock exams and oral practice support continuous assessment.
Terminale (Grade 12)
Finalize two specialties + BAC preparation.
- Specialties 6h/week; add philosophy and Grand Oral preparation.
- Continuous assessments uploaded to Parcoursup profiles.
- University applications submit by March; BAC finals in June.
Common specialty combinations
Choose specialties that match future majors while keeping options open.
STEM pathways
- Math + Physics/Chemistry + Digital & Computer Science (NSI) → Engineering/CS.
- Math + Physics/Chemistry + Life Sciences (SVT) → Medicine/Biology.
- Math + Economic & Social Sciences (SES) + NSI → Data/Finance.
Humanities & business
- SES + History-Geography/Geopolitics (HGGSP) + Languages/Literature/Foreign Cultures (LLCE) → Business/International relations.
- LLCE + Arts + SES → Communications/Design.
- Math (optional) + SES + HGGSP → Economics/Politics.
Plan your French High School Study Abroad
Tell us your child’s grade and interests. We will recommend schools, specialties, and visa timing to keep the BAC pathway clear.