Navigating international school admissions in Paris can feel daunting for families relocating to the French capital, especially when the process differs so much from what they know at home. Paris offers a rich mix of bilingual, British, American and International Baccalaureate schools, but places at the most sought-after schools are limited and the timeline is unforgiving. This 2026 family guide explains how admissions work, what documents you need, when to apply and how schools support children who do not yet speak French.
International school curricula in Paris
Before you start applying, it helps to understand the main pathways available, because each shapes the admissions criteria:
- Bilingual French-English schools: follow the French national curriculum alongside an English-language stream, ideal for families planning to stay long term or integrate into the French system.
- British curriculum: EYFS, the National Curriculum, IGCSE and A Levels for families wanting continuity with the UK system.
- American curriculum: high school diploma with Advanced Placement courses, suited to families heading toward US universities.
- International Baccalaureate (IB): the PYP, MYP and Diploma Programme, popular with internationally mobile families who move between countries.
Your choice of curriculum affects not just the academics but also the language of instruction and the documents a school will ask for at application.
The admissions timeline: when to apply
The French academic year begins in early September, and admissions for popular schools effectively close many months earlier. A typical timeline looks like this:
- Autumn (October–December): applications open for the following September. This is the time to research schools and register interest.
- Winter (January–March): main application window. Schools review files, hold assessments and interview families.
- Spring (March–May): offers are made and deposits are due to secure a place.
- Summer onward: any remaining places are filled on a rolling basis, often with waiting lists.
If you are relocating mid-year, do not assume it is too late. Many international schools accept students throughout the year when space allows, but the earlier you apply, the more choice you will have.
Documents you will need
Paris schools generally request a consistent set of documents. Preparing these early avoids delays:
- The child's passport and, where relevant, residence or visa documents.
- The birth certificate, sometimes with an official translation.
- School reports from the previous two years.
- A transfer or leaving certificate from the current school.
- Vaccination and medical records, which French schools take seriously.
- Recent passport photographs and a completed application form, usually with a non-refundable fee.
Many schools also assess the child, particularly in mathematics and English or French, and meet the family to understand the child's background and needs.
Language support for new arrivals
One of the biggest worries for expat parents is whether a child who speaks no French will cope. Most international and bilingual schools in Paris run dedicated support, often called FLE (Français Langue Étrangère) or English as an Additional Language programmes. These provide small-group or one-to-one tuition until the child can follow lessons confidently. When you visit a school, ask specifically how language support is delivered, how progress is tracked and how quickly children typically integrate into the mainstream class.
Leading international schools in Paris
The schools below span bilingual and international curricula. Visit each profile on International School Advisor to compare admissions details, fees and reviews.
Bilingual International School of Paris
A French-English bilingual school welcoming families who want their children to grow up genuinely bilingual. See the Bilingual International School of Paris profile.
SIS Paris Ouest
An international school offering a multilingual environment in the west of the city, popular with relocating families. Review the SIS Paris Ouest profile.
Lycée International American Section
Combining the French system with a rigorous American section, this is a strong choice for bilingual academic families. Explore the Lycée International American Section profile.
Open Sky International
A bilingual school with a modern, inquiry-based approach and strong English-language provision. See the Open Sky International profile.
Lennen Bilingual School
A small, family-oriented bilingual school in central Paris, well suited to younger children. Read the Lennen Bilingual School profile.
International school fees in Paris
For 2026, expect annual tuition to fall roughly between €10,000 and €30,000, depending on curriculum and stage. Bilingual schools tend to sit at the lower end, while premium British, American and IB schools reach the upper range in the senior years. Budget separately for registration fees, deposits, lunches, transport and extracurricular activities.
Practical admissions tips
- Apply to more than one school: competition is real, and a single application is risky.
- Visit before you commit: a campus tour reveals the school's culture, class sizes and pastoral care.
- Be honest about your child's level: schools place children far more successfully when they understand the full picture.
- Keep documents ready in digital form: this speeds up applications, especially mid-year moves.
Compare the best international schools in France
For an independent overview, browse the ranking of the best schools in France on International School Advisor, where you can filter by curriculum, location and fees and read parent reviews.
Frequently asked questions
When should I apply to international schools in Paris?
Apply in the autumn and winter for entry the following September. The main window runs from October to March, with offers made in spring. Mid-year places exist but are limited.
What documents do Paris international schools require?
Typically the child's passport and visa, birth certificate, the last two years of school reports, a transfer certificate, vaccination records, photographs and a completed application form with fee.
Will my child get support if they do not speak French?
Yes. Most international and bilingual schools offer dedicated French or English language support to help new arrivals integrate quickly into mainstream classes.