Paris and the suburbs are home to over three-dozen international schools for children from around the world. In addition, there are specialized international high schools for older students that are separate from grade and middle schools.

Admission to these schools is not generally seen as competitive, but thriving in these schools requires discipline and commitment from the whole family. Education is highly valued in France and teachers have a reputation for being very strict and require rigid conformity to the rules. Homework also occupies many hours each evening and cannot be neglected.

International students also may face the challenge of having to learn another language in order to complete their coursework. Many schools provide a bilingual learning option, but place an aggressive focus on learning French.

Many traditional schools also break for one-two hours in the middle of the school day for lunch and release students for the day later in the evening. There is very little emphasis on athletics or extra curricular activities through the school system in France. Students wishing to partake in athletic, theatrical or other activities generally go through an independent organization or community center.

One of the most popular schools for international students is the American School of Paris, located just west of Paris-proper in Saint Cloud. The American School of Paris teaches students from over 50 countries and focuses on French as both a first and second language. Furthermore, focused attention is given to each student. Maximum class sizes range from 20-25 students.

Unlike many traditional French schools, the American School of Paris also offers a variety of after school activities to stimulate the students' curiosity and promote a wide variety of interests. Families are also welcomed to partake evening events, which help to bring together a community of international expatriates in Paris.

The Lycee International, located in Saint-Germain-en-Laye is one of the most popular choices as well. Matriculating students range in age from 5 years old to 19 years old and come from all over the world. Classes are taught in both French and English.

Additionally, there are 11 sections of the Lycee International that specialize in educating students that have moved to Paris from the same region. These sections include: German, Dutch, American, British, Italian and Japanese. The total student body is small - only 700 students deep, so students receive personalized attention and care.

Paris is home to a variety of opportunities for the continuing education student as well. Research your options at the American University of Paris or Sorbonne if you are looking for post-graduate programs. WICE also offers non-credited continuing education classes on topics such as Parisian culture, art and history.

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