No conversation about the best international schools in Paris is complete without mentioning
Lycée International de St Germain-en-Laye. Saying it's one of France's top schools is an understatement. Arguably no educational institution best represents academic excellence, especially for international students living in the French capital. Since it was first established in 1952, Lycée International has sought to provide high-quality education to students of various backgrounds and walks of life. It walks the talk in cultivating and enriching a diverse and global community in Paris and beyond.
Source: American Section Lycée International de St. Germain en Laye Facebook Page
History of Lycée International de St Germain-en-Laye
In the 1950s, right after the Second World War, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) created the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) intending to maintain peace and security in the North Atlantic region. SHAPE's headquarters were in Rocquencourt, one of the many
Paris Suburbs not too far from the city center. Since it employed countless people from around the world, a school was needed for their kids to continue their studies. Hence, the Lycée International de Saint-Germain-en-Laye was established in 1952, becoming one of the first international schools in Paris post-World War II. Today, it remains one of the city's most prestigious academic institutions.
What is Lycée International de St Germain-en-Laye's Campus Like?
Located in the Saint-Germain-en-Laye, just north of Paris, Lycée International de St Germain-en-Laye boasts an expansive campus. Its most recognizable features are the old-world buildings that have stood the test of time, exuding fine Baroque and Medieval architecture. These parts of the campus can almost rival the many beautiful
châteaus just outside of Paris, for which the communes are best-known. Apart from them, the school also has many outdoor spaces, from lush greeneries to well-maintained grounds. These allow the students to spend time outdoors, play outside, and exercise in the suburban fresh air.
Source: American Section Lycée International de St. Germain en Laye Facebook Page
The Lycée International de St Germain-en-Laye Student Body
While its campus is big enough to house a huge student body, Lycée International de St Germain-en-Laye only welcomes about 600 to 700 students per year. It's a fairly small student body compared to the size and prestige of the institution. Still, it's also pretty standard among the various
international schools in Paris. Much like its early days, the school also boasts a fairly diverse student body. The further globalization of Paris has helped make Lycée International de St Germain-en-Laye more international too, welcoming students of more nationalities than it used to.
What is Lycée International de St Germain-en-Laye's Curriculum?
Lycée International de Saint-Germain-en-Laye is fairly unique when it comes to its curriculum. Instead of offering just one curriculum, the school combines both the French national curriculum and that of the country that corresponds to its international section. The school is currently divided into fourteen international sections, essentially serving as separate schools within the bigger Lycée International institution. Two of the biggest are the American and British sections, both the first “schools” established in 1952. Naturally, these sections combine both the French national and American/British curriculum respectively. It's further proof of how devoted Lycée International de Saint-Germain-en-Laye in maintaining its international objective.
Source: American Section Lycée International de St. Germain en Laye Facebook Page
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Lycée International de St Germain-en-Laye?
Surprisingly, the tuition fees for Lycée International de Saint-Germain-en-Laye aren't as high as you'd initially think. They range from €4,900.00 to €6,480.00 per year, starting with the lowest for kindergarten and increasing as the student reaches grade 12. At the same time, there are also the one-time application and registration fees, which cost around €250.00 and €1,000.00 respectively. So if you enroll your kid in kindergarten, you have to pay a total of €6,150.00 for their first school year. While these aren't exactly low prices, they're still not as high as how much the other international schools in
Paris cost.
Where is Lycée International de St Germain-en-Laye in Paris?
True to its name, Lycée International de St Germain-en-Laye is located in the St Germain-en-Laye commune in the northern suburbs. It's one of the more historic
neighborhoods in Paris, especially compared to the bustling central arrondissements. Boasting a largely provincial but still lively atmosphere, the place itself is great for living a fairly peaceful life not too far from the French capital. Not only is there a great school nearby, but the area also has great restaurants, beautiful parks, well-stocked shops, and more. Don't forget about the
luxury homes in Paris too. You'll find a lot of them here and at great prices too!
Source: American Section Lycée International de St. Germain en Laye Facebook Page
One of the oldest academic institutions in Europe, it's no surprise that Lycée International de St Germain-en-Laye is now one of the finest international schools in Paris too. It's one of the best places for international students to get a high-quality education in the city.
