Are you planning to study in France but would first of all like to understand how the French higher education system works?
In France, there are public and private higher education establishments. In order to get a clearer picture of the differences between Universities, Specialised (or Applied) Schools and the major Business Schools (known as ‘Grandes Ecoles’), here is a brief overview.
The French university system
The vast majority of French universities are public and you can join their study programmes without having to take an entrance test. The programmes are based on the European model and are organised into three levels of qualifications corresponding to the number of years of study after High School: 3, 5 and 8 years.
In France, these are known as LMD, which translates as Licence (first degree), Master (Master-level degree), and Doctorat (PhD/Doctorate qualification).
This system facilitates the mobility of European students and makes it possible to obtain a qualification that is recognised throughout Europe.
Specialised or Applied Schools
In France, there are also many Specialised Schools covering a wide range of sectors. They provide three- or five-year programmes in specific fields such as Communications, the Arts, Social Sciences, Architecture, Paramedical, etc.
High Schools (French Lycées)
High schools are able to provide vocational training courses that award state-recognised 2-year post-High School qualifications (commonly referred to in France as Bac +2). These are known as BTS (Brevet de Technicien Supérieur – Advanced Technician's Certificate).
High Schools also offer CPGE, (Classes Préparatoires aux Grandes Ecoles) which is a 2-year course preparing students for the entrance tests for the major Business Schools.
Major Business Schools (Grandes Ecoles)
The major Business Schools award qualifications at Bac +3, Bac +4 and Bac +5 level (3-, 4- or 5-year post-High School qualifications) and are highly acclaimed for their excellent programmes, their commitment to strong values, their international outlook and their experiential learning approach. Established throughout France, they can be private or public, and offer programmes in a wide range of professions. There are major Schools of Engineering, Business, Architecture, Journalism, Political Science, etc.
There are several routes to join these major Business Schools:
- After a Baccalaureate qualification (High School or equivalent)
- After preparatory classes
- After the equivalent of 2 years of post-High School education: such as the French qualifications BTS, IUT, L2 or L3, or an equivalent international programme
Even though admissions are selective, the major Business Schools are accessible to all.
Tuition fees are higher in the private sector than in the public sector, but assistance is available to help you finance your studies.
Choosing a major Business School such as Excelia means giving yourself the best possible chance of achieving your professional ambitions. Recognised by employers, the major Business Schools are a real stepping stone towards successful employment.
