In France, the public school system begins at the age of 3 months, when a child is eligible to attend a “crèche” if both parents are working.  Payment for this nursery school is calculated on a sliding scale, based on the family income.  Also available is the “assistante familial”, a state-licensed care giver who will provide care in your home.  The number of hours this “maternelle” can stay in your home on a daily basis is not pre-determined.

From the ages of 6-16 all children are required to attend school, and the public schools are taught in French.  Many private language schools in France are available throughout the country and are taught in different languages.

The university system is vast, with 91 public universities and 175 professional schools. Since colleges in France are free, a higher education is geared toward the student who is serious, knows what he wants and has the willingness to meet the strict demands of the system.

For expats, there are numerous private schools in France, international language schools, and if your visas are applicable, you can send your child to a local, French speaking school.

If you are preparing to move to France and have a child of high school age, investigating the Baccalaureate programs available in your area will help your child  if her or she wishes to enter a French university. Also, the French University, The Sorbonne, offers courses via several American universities.