Educational System in Monaco

Monaco, a small city-state on the French Riviera, is known for its high standard of living and quality education system. The education system in Monaco is compulsory for children aged 6 to 16 and is structured similarly to the French system. It offers a blend of public, private, and international schools, providing a wide range of options for expatriate families. This guide will provide an overview of the educational system in Monaco, including the main stages of education, enrollment procedures, language requirements, and the availability of bilingual, private, and online schools.

What are the main stages of education in Monaco?

The education system in Monaco is divided into four main stages: pre-primary education (école maternelle), primary education (école élémentaire), lower secondary education (collège), and upper secondary education (lycée). Pre-primary education is optional and caters to children aged 3 to 6. Primary education is for children aged 6 to 11, lower secondary education for those aged 11 to 15, and upper secondary education for those aged 15 to 18. Each stage focuses on different areas of learning and development, with a strong emphasis on French language and culture.

How does a newcomer from a different country enroll their kids in school?

Enrollment in Monaco's schools is relatively straightforward. Parents or guardians need to provide proof of residence in Monaco, the child's birth certificate, and vaccination records. For non-French speakers, a language assessment may be required. It's advisable to start the enrollment process as early as possible due to the high demand for places in both public and private schools.

My children are still learning French, can they enroll in a public school?

Yes, children who are still learning French can enroll in public schools in Monaco. However, they may require additional language support. Some schools offer French as a Second Language (FSL) programs to help non-native speakers catch up with their peers. It's important to discuss your child's language needs with the school during the enrollment process.

Are there public bilingual schools?

While there are no public bilingual schools in Monaco, several private international schools offer bilingual or multilingual programs. These schools typically follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and provide instruction in English, French, and sometimes other languages. Admission requirements vary, so it's best to contact the schools directly for information.

What types of private schools are common in Monaco?

Private schools in Monaco are typically international or religious schools. International schools offer a global curriculum, often the IB, and cater to a diverse student body. Religious schools, usually Catholic, follow the French curriculum but incorporate religious education. Both types of schools charge tuition fees, which can be quite high.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school?

Expats in Monaco often choose private international schools for their children due to the language of instruction and the international curriculum. However, some expats prefer public schools for their strong academic standards and immersion in French language and culture.

How expensive are Private schools in Monaco?

Private schools in Monaco can be quite expensive, with annual tuition fees ranging from €10,000 to over €30,000. Additional costs for uniforms, meals, and extracurricular activities can also add up. It's important to factor these costs into your budget when considering private education in Monaco.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Monaco?

Homeschooling is permitted in Monaco under certain conditions. Parents must notify the Department of Education and follow the French national curriculum. Regular inspections are carried out to ensure that the education provided at home meets the required standards.

May kids attend online school instead of a local school while living in Monaco?

Online schooling is an option in Monaco, particularly for older students. However, it's important to ensure that the online school is accredited and that the curriculum meets the requirements for further education or university entrance. Parents considering this option should consult with the Department of Education.