The French education system consists of 3 main stages : primary education, secondary education and higher education

At the end of their secondary education (high school cycle), students must validate a national exam called “Baccaulauréat” at the age of 18 years old. Then they can choose to pursue their education on a vocational program or an academic diploma in different types of institutions.

There are 3 levels in the Higher education system in France:

  • 1st level – ‘grade Licence’ – Bachelor’s level: 3 years of study
  • 2nd level – ‘grade Master’ – Master’s level: 2 years of study
  • 3rd level – ‘grade Doctorat’ – Phd level: 3 years of study

 

 Specific academic calendar:

Autumn semester Spring semester Summer break
From September to December or January From January or February to June From June to August

 

Holidays at ESA
All Saints Late October: 1 week
Christmas End of December/early January: 1 week
Winter break February: 1 or 2 weeks depending on the program
Easter April: 1 week