GRADES IN FRANCE
Moving to France, and settling in the heart of Sophia Antipolis technopole, often means navigating an educational system with radically different terminology. For international families accustomed to the Anglo-Saxon system, matching 6th Grade or 12th Grade with each French class can seem complex, especially since traditional schooling sometimes struggles to meet future challenges. At Mouratoglou International School, we simplify this transition by offering a bilingual structure in Biot where each grade finds its exact equivalent, thus ensuring seamless academic continuity. Understanding these school levels in France is the essential first step in providing your children with an education that meets the demands of the world they will live in.
The transition to secondary school within our International College in Biot marks a decisive step towards greater autonomy in a reassuring environment. For expatriate families, this is the gateway to the French system after years of primary school spent abroad. Here are the key equivalencies for entering our bilingual section:
The 10th grade in France marks the beginning of Lycée International in Biot (second year), a key period where future plans take shape. It is a transition year where students consolidate their knowledge in French, mathematics, and digital sciences, while also benefiting from options like intensive English. At Mouratoglou International School, we pay special attention to stress management during this increased intensity in high school.
In 11th grade in France, students in the French curriculum deepen their studies through specialized subjects like economics and social sciences (SES) or physics-chemistry. This year is crucial for structuring thought and effectively preparing applications for higher education. The pace of learning accelerates to reach full academic potential while cultivating a hierarchy of ambitious values.
The 12th grade in France (terminale) is the culmination year where the stakes become concrete. Students finalize their curriculum towards the baccalaureate with philosophy and their specializations, while preparing for the end of their secondary studies. Our integrated university placement service then ensures a smooth connection with the most prestigious institutions such as Sciences Po or NCAA universities.
We reject the standardized National Education model in favor of classes of 15 students on average. This close proximity allows our teachers, who act as true coaches, to identify motivational drivers. Each profile, whether from an American or European system, is analyzed (memory, concentration, confidence) to build individualized instruction.
Excellence at the Mouratoglou International School is never achieved at the expense of mental health. We develop the rigor and mindset necessary to manage pressure while preserving the joy of learning. This is our vision of a human-centered education where high standards and kindness allow every student to thrive in the long term.
Starting in 11th grade, our expert team, with 25 years of experience, assists families in preparing their applications. We handle the entire process, from compiling a list of schools to visa formalities. Every year, our graduates are successfully placed, and 91% receive scholarships based on their academic or athletic achievements.
Growing up on a secure 12-hectare campus with over 45 nationalities prepares students for the challenges of a globalized world. Our students leave school with a recognized diploma and a strong international identity. They are trained to become global citizens capable of taking initiative in a constantly changing environment.
In France, the standard grading system is a scale of 20, with 10 being the average. At Mouratoglou International School, each grade is analyzed to understand the student’s profile. Our methodology ensures that assessment is a tool for progress, enabling us to achieve a 98% success rate on the baccalaureate exam.
Report cards are generally sent out at the end of each semester. At the Mouratoglou International School, we offer complete transparency: parents can request an appointment with their child's teacher at any time. This regular follow-up allows families to monitor their child's academic progress with complete peace of mind.
Absolutely, academic results are the driving force behind higher education orientation. First and final year grades form the core of the application for prestigious institutions. Our service helps each student in assembling their applications to access the best global opportunities.
The equivalent of 6th grade in France is the "classe de sixième" (6th grade). This is the entry into middle school, a decisive cycle where solid foundations are built starting at age 11. Our bilingual program allows for a smooth transition for students coming from the American system.
The 7th grade in France (or grade 7 in France) corresponds to the "classe de cinquième" (5th grade). At this age, students deepen their knowledge of science and foreign languages. Our pedagogy adapts to each child's pace to foster intellectual agility.
The 8th grade curriculum in France (or grade 8 in France) is equivalent to the fourth grade (4ème). The pace of teaching intensifies to prepare students for the future demands of high school. We use a rigorous grading system to recognize progress.
In France, 9th grade is known as the “3ème” year. It culminates in the Diplôme National du Brevet (DNB). Our results are outstanding, with a 100% pass rate and 81% of students receiving honors on this exam.
In France, 10th grade (or grade 10 in France) corresponds to the "seconde." It's the first year of high school where students choose their electives and specializations. This level directly influences higher education orientation.
Grade 12 in France is called "terminale." It leads to the baccalaureate exam. At Mouratoglou International School, we prepare our students to enter the best global universities with tailored support.
After high school, university degrees in France begin with the Bachelor's degree (Licence), followed by the Master's degree. Our university placement service helps each high school graduate navigate this academic hierarchy to gain admission to prestigious institutions like Sciences Po or NYU.
Intended for families seeking rigor within a bilingual and nurturing environment. It prepares students for the baccalaureate with individualized support, ensuring daily immersion and preparation for Cambridge certifications.
A 100% English-language curriculum taught by native-speaking teachers. Accredited by the CIS and the MSA, it offers full credit transferability and prepares students for the High School Diploma, with outstanding results on AP exams.
This unique program, offered starting in the 9th grade, allows students to obtain both the French Baccalaureate and the American High School Diploma simultaneously. It requires 3 to 5 hours of weekly work to validate the necessary international academic credits.
