Overview of the General Education System

The education system in Monaco is similar to the French system but also includes elements that highlight its own cultural and language identity. In Monaco, it is mandatory for children to attend school from ages 6 to 16, although they can start nursery school as early as 3 years old. The Principality has 16 primary and secondary schools, which consist of 10 public schools along with various private and international schools.

For the 2024/25 academic year, Monaco recorded a total student enrollment of 6,565, marking a slight increase of 22 students compared to the previous year. Public schools serve 65% of the student population (4,227 pupils), while 21% attend private schools under contract, and 14% go to private schools not under contract.

Monaco follows the French national curriculum but has some unique features. These include a strong English-language program starting in nursery and continuing through high school, lessons in the Monegasque language and history, and a focus on sports and cultural education. French is the main language used for teaching, but there are programs to help students who do not speak French through "French as a Foreign Language" sections.

The Department of Education, Youth, and Sport supervises both public and private education, ensuring that schools maintain high standards in alignment with state policies. The education system aims to promote national identity while maintaining international standards, awarding diplomas such as the Baccalaureate, which is recognized globally. Impressively, Monaco reports a 90% Baccalaureate success rate among students.

Compulsory education in Monaco spans a period of ten years, It covers ages 6 to 16. While early childhood education is not mandatory, the government offers extensive pre-primary options starting at age three, including seven nursery and day-care institutions, most of which are private. These preschools also feature psychological support to develop children's social and cognitive skills.

Primary education begins at age six and lasts for five years, structured according to the French model but including unique local content such as Monegasque language and history. Monaco uses a reverse-grade system: children start in Grade 6 (preparatory course) at age six and progress to Grade 2, after which they move to the intermediate stage.

Secondary education consists of two stages: collège (four years) and lycée (three years). The first lycée year is mandatory, while the last two are optional for those pursuing vocational or higher education paths. Students in collège (middle school) receive a certificate of lower secondary education upon completion.

Monaco has six secondary educational institutions, which include College Charles III, Lycée Albert I, the Technical Lycée Monte-Carlo, two private religious schools, and the International School of Monaco, known for its bilingual curriculum.

Due to Monaco's small size and its focused economic sectors, higher education is quite specialized. The International University of Monaco (IUM), established in 1986, is the only university in the country, primarily focusing on business education. It offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Admission to IUM is competitive and requires applicants to demonstrate strong academic performance, proficiency in English, and relevant work experience.

In addition to IUM, Monaco hosts several specialized tertiary institutions, such as the École Supérieure d’Arts Plastiques, the Institute of Nurse Training, the Princess Grace Academy of Dance, and the Academy of Music. These cater to students interested in arts, healthcare, and cultural studies. Secondary vocational education is provided at Lycée Albert I and Technical Lycée Monte-Carlo, focusing on fields such as secretarial work, accounting, hospitality, and business skills.

Students who wish to pursue studies not available in Monaco enroll in universities across France or other European countries, as tertiary education opportunities within the Principality remain limited. The system ensures students are well-prepared for either the workforce or further education.