School attendance is compulsory ages 3-16; maternelle (kindergarten) can start as early as age 2. Public schools are free for those who can show proof of French residence (signed lease or utility bill). Private schools 'under contract' follow the national curriculum with moderate fees (€150-€300/month) and are popular with expats wanting smaller classes without full international-school cost. International schools (English-medium: LFI, EaB Jeannine Manuel, Marymount, ASP, BSP) cost €15,000-€35,000/year. In Paris specifically: public schools with international sections cost only a €1,000-€2,000 annual association fee; bilingual private schools run €9,000-€16,000/year; premium English-medium/IB schools run €22,000-€32,000/year. English-medium schools generally do not require French for admission.
Compulsory schooling ages 3-16; public schools free with proof of French residence.
Private 'under contract' schools: €150-€300/month, national curriculum, smaller classes.
International (English-medium) schools: €15,000-€35,000/year nationally; Paris premium English-medium/IB schools: €22,000-€32,000/year.
Paris public schools with international sections: free plus a modest €1,000-€2,000 annual association fee — a notably cheaper bilingual option.
Costs
Private 'under contract' school: €150-€300/month
International/English-medium school (national): €15,000-€35,000/year
Paris public school with international section: free + €1,000-€2,000/year association fee
Required Documents
Proof of French residence (signed lease or utility bill)
Common Mistakes
Defaulting to expensive international schools without checking Paris public schools' international sections — a far cheaper bilingual option exists for those willing to navigate the French public system.