Navigating High School in English While Living in France: Your Options
Living in France but wanting to complete high school in English or through online English classes? Whether you’re an expat family, a bilingual student, or someone aiming for an internationally recognized diploma, France offers pathways to achieve this goal. Let’s explore how you can balance life in France with an English-based high school education and earn a valid diploma.
Option 1: International Schools in France
France is home to numerous international schools that cater to English-speaking students. These institutions follow curricula such as the American High School Diploma, British GCSE/A-Levels, or the International Baccalaureate (IB), all taught in English.
Examples in France:
– The American School of Paris: Offers an American curriculum and Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
– The British School of Paris: Follows the UK’s GCSE and A-Level system.
– International IB Schools: Many cities, including Lyon and Nice, have IB-accredited schools with English instruction.
Pros:
– Structured in-person learning with experienced English-speaking teachers.
– Social opportunities with peers from diverse backgrounds.
– Diplomas are widely recognized by universities globally.
Cons:
– Tuition fees can be high (€15,000–€30,000 annually).
– Limited availability outside major cities like Paris or Lyon.
Option 2: Online High School Programs
For flexibility or cost savings, online high schools allow students to study remotely while living in France. These programs often provide accredited diplomas accepted by universities worldwide.
Popular Online Schools:
– Stanford Online High School: Rigorous courses with live, interactive classes.
– International Virtual Learning Academy (IVLA): Self-paced learning with U.S. accreditation.
– Penn Foster High School: Affordable, accredited program for self-motivated learners.
Key Considerations:
– Accreditation: Ensure the program is recognized by organizations like Cognia or regional U.S. accreditors.
– Scheduling: Align class times with France’s time zone (CET). Some schools offer recorded lectures for flexibility.
– Support: Look for programs with academic advisors and tutoring services.
Hybrid Approach:
Some students combine online classes with local French schooling. For example, take core subjects like math or science online in English while attending a French school for language or humanities courses. This requires coordination with both institutions to ensure credits transfer.
Option 3: French Schools with Bilingual Programs
France’s public and private schools increasingly offer bilingual tracks. While not fully English-based, these programs include intensive English instruction and may allow certain subjects to be taught in English.
Examples:
– Sections Internationales: Public school programs with classes taught partly in English.
– Lycées Internationaux: Schools like the Lycée International de Saint-Germain-en-Laye blend French and international curricula.
Pros:
– Lower cost compared to international schools.
– Opportunity to strengthen French language skills.
Cons:
– Limited English-only course availability.
– May not fulfill requirements for a U.S. or UK diploma.
Graduation Requirements: What You Need to Know
To graduate, you’ll need to meet the criteria of your chosen program:
1. Credit Hours: Online and international schools often require 20–24 credits across subjects like English, math, and science.
2. Exams: Programs like the IB or A-Levels require final exams. Online schools may use continuous assessments.
3. Language Proficiency: Some French bilingual programs require proof of English fluency.
Recognition in France:
If your goal is to attend a French university, confirm whether your diploma (e.g., U.S. high school diploma, IB) meets entry requirements. The IB is widely accepted, but U.S. diplomas may require additional steps like validating credits with ENIC-NARIC.
Balancing Online Learning with Life in France
Studying online while in France offers freedom but demands discipline:
– Set a Schedule: Treat online classes like in-person school with fixed study hours.
– Stay Connected: Join virtual study groups or local expat communities for support.
– Explore Local Culture: Use weekends to engage in French language classes or cultural activities—this enriches your experience without conflicting with studies.
Final Tips for Success
1. Start Early: Research programs and application deadlines 12–18 months in advance.
2. Verify Accreditation: Avoid schools that aren’t recognized globally.
3. Budget Wisely: Factor in costs like tuition, technology (laptop, Wi-Fi), and exam fees.
Conclusion
Yes, it’s entirely possible to graduate from an English-based or online high school while living in France. International schools offer a seamless experience, online programs provide flexibility, and hybrid models blend the best of both worlds. By planning carefully and choosing an accredited program, you can earn a diploma that opens doors to universities in France, the U.S., or beyond—all while enjoying the unique experience of living in France.
Whether you’re strolling through Parisian streets or studying from a cozy corner in Provence, your high school journey in France can be both academically rewarding and culturally enriching. Bonne chance!
Please indicate: Thinking In Educating » Navigating High School in English While Living in France: Your Options