International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools
The IB curriculum is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and global recognition. Several schools in Paris offer the full IB continuum:
- International School of Paris (ISP): Located in the 16th arrondissement, ISP is the only school in Paris offering all three IB programs (PYP, MYP, DP) in English. It boasts a diverse student body representing over 65 nationalities.
- Ecole Jeannine Manuel: Situated in the 15th arrondissement, this bilingual school offers the IB Diploma Programme alongside the French Baccalauréat, catering to both French and international students.
- ICS Paris International School: Also in the 15th arrondissement, ICS Paris provides the IB curriculum in a bilingual setting, emphasizing STEAM education and personalized learning.
- Ermitage International School: Located in Maisons-Laffitte, this school offers the IB programs in both English and French, fostering a multicultural environment.
American Curriculum Schools
For families seeking an American-style education, Paris has several options:
- American School of Paris (ASP): Established in 1946 and located in Saint-Cloud, ASP offers an American curriculum with the option of the IB Diploma. It serves students aged 3 to 18 from over 64 countries.
- Notre-Dame International High School: Situated in Verneuil-sur-Seine, this school offers an American curriculum within a French boarding school setting, ideal for students in grades 10 to 12.
British Curriculum Schools
Families preferring the British education system can consider:
- British School of Paris (BSP): Located in Croissy-sur-Seine, BSP offers the English National Curriculum, including IGCSEs and A-levels, for students aged 3 to 18. It has a strong track record of students progressing to top UK universities.
- Lycée International de Saint Germain-en-Laye: This public school offers a British Section where students can pursue the French Baccalauréat with British curriculum elements, providing a bilingual education.
Spanish Curriculum Schools
Paris also offers options for Spanish-speaking families or those interested in the Spanish education system:
- Liceo Español Luis Buñuel: Located in Neuilly-sur-Seine, this is the only Spanish public school officially recognized by the Spanish government in the Paris region. It offers the full Spanish national curriculum, from primary to high school (ESO and Bachillerato), and welcomes Spanish-speaking students or those wishing to pursue higher education in Spain.
- Lycée International de Saint Germain-en-Laye – Spanish Section: This renowned public lycée hosts several international sections, including a Spanish Section, where students receive part of their education in Spanish while following the French Baccalauréat with the “Option Internationale du Baccalauréat” (OIB).
- Eurécole (also listed under multilingual schools): Offers Spanish as a third language option alongside French and English, fostering multilingual competencies from an early age.
Bilingual and Multilingual Schools
Paris also hosts schools that offer bilingual or multilingual education:
- Eurécole: This trilingual school teaches in French, English, and either German or Spanish, starting from preschool. It emphasizes language immersion and cultural diversity.
- Lennen Bilingual School: Located in the 7th arrondissement, Lennen offers a dual-language program in English and French, following both American and French curricula.
- Open Sky International: Situated in Boulogne-Billancourt, this school provides a bilingual education in English and French, aiming for academic excellence and language proficiency.
Considerations for Expatriate Families
- Application Process: Many international schools in Paris have competitive admissions with limited spots. It’s advisable to start the application process well in advance.
- Tuition Fees: Annual fees can vary significantly, ranging from €8,000 to over €30,000, depending on the school and grade level.
- Language Support: For non-native speakers, many schools offer language support programs to help students integrate smoothly.
- Location: Consider the school’s proximity to your residence or workplace, as commuting in Paris can be time-consuming.
