In an increasingly globalized world, with families moving more than ever, many parents are looking for an education that will open doors for their children worldwide. In France—especially in the Paris region—choosing between a bilingual school and an international school has become a strategic priority for expatriate families, binational households, or simply parents who care about their children’s academic and professional future.
But behind the terms, bilingual school with international school, lie very different educational realities. How can you know which one is truly suited to your situation? What are the implications in terms of curriculum, language, academic recognition, or social integration?
This guide will help you understand the differences, weigh the advantages, and make an informed choice based on your goals and your child’s profile.
UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BILINGUAL SCHOOL AND AN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
The confusion is common. Many parents use the terms “bilingual” and “international” as if they were interchangeable. In reality, these two types of schools are built on distinct approaches:
| Criteria | Bilingual School | International School |
| Language of instruction | French + English (or another language) split roughly 50/50 | Mainly in English or another foreign language |
| Academic curriculum | Often the French national curriculum, adapted for bilingualism | Foreign curricula (IB, Cambridge, American, etc.) |
| Diplomas | French Brevet, bilingual French Baccalauréat, sometimes external exams | IB Diploma, IGCSE, High School Diploma |
| Teaching staff | Qualified French-speaking and English-speaking teachers | Foreign teachers, often native to the program’s country |
| Target audience | Local or binational families | Expatriates, diplomats, highly mobile families |
| Admissions | More flexible, sometimes without tests | Often selective (entrance tests, required proficiency level) |
ADVANTAGES OF A BILINGUAL SCHOOL
- Balanced bilingualism: The child develops both languages in parallel, in a structured and progressive way.
- Cultural flexibility: They remain connected to French culture while gaining an international perspective.
- Academic continuity: The child can stay within the French system while preparing for opportunities abroad.
- Less elitist: Bilingual schools are often less competitive in admissions, fostering inclusivity.
ADVANTAGES OF AN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
- Full language immersion: Ideal for children already comfortable in a foreign language (English, Spanish, etc.).
- Strong international recognition: Particularly with diplomas such as the IB (International Baccalaureate).
- Different teaching approach: More emphasis on creativity, projects, and collaborative work.
HOW TO CHOOSE BASED ON YOUR FAMILY PROFILE
Recently relocated expatriate parents: Choose a school that supports integration without too abrupt a transition. A bilingual school can offer a better balance between immersion and local adaptation.
Mixed families (one French parent, one foreign parent): A bilingual school allows the child to maintain both cultures without having to choose between them.
French families with international ambitions: Structured bilingualism makes it possible to aim for the French Baccalauréat while also considering higher education abroad.
Short stay in France: If you are here for only two or three years, an English-speaking international school can avoid difficult transitions upon returning home.
THE OFFER IN PARIS AND ÎLE-DE-FRANCE: WHAT TO EXPECT
The Paris region offers one of the richest selections of international and bilingual private schools in Europe. You will find:
- Highly prestigious international institutions (e.g., École Jeannine Manuel, International School of Paris)
- Open international and bilingual schools ,often catering to a more homogenous expatriate population
- Open international and bilingual schools such as Open Sky International ,combining academic rigor, genuine language balance, and personalized support
💡 Note: Not all schools claiming to be “bilingual” actually teach 50% in each language. Always check the real breakdown of teaching hours and teacher qualifications.
FAQ: YOUR MOST FREQUENT QUESTIONS
What is the real difference between a bilingual and an international school?
→ A bilingual school teaches in two languages in parallel, with local roots. An international school follows a foreign curriculum, often entirely in English.
Is a bilingual school enough to get into a university abroad?
→ Yes—if the student’s English level is high and they take recognized certifications.
What if my child speaks only one of the two languages?
→ Reputable bilingual schools often provide language support programs (gentle immersion, tutoring, etc.).
Are tuition fees higher in international schools?
→ Generally, yes. The average cost of an international school in Paris can exceed €25,000 per year. Bilingual schools often offer better value for money.
CONCLUSION: A BILINGUAL SCHOOL, AN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL… OR BOTH?
The choice between a bilingual and an international school depends on many factors: your child’s language profile, mobility plans, academic ambitions, and desired level of integration.
In some cases, however, the right answer is neither one nor the other , but a school that intelligently combines both models..
Open Sky International offers precisely this hybrid approach:
- 50% of teaching in English and 50% in French from preschool onwards
- Academic standards aligned with international benchmarks
- Pathways to both French and international diplomasmaximizing future options
- A structured pedagogyfocused equally on performance and personal growth
This dual expertise allows Open Sky International to welcome both:
- French children seeking genuine international exposure
- Expatriate children needing a structured bilingual environment without educational disruption
COMPARATIVE TABLE: WHICH OPTION FOR YOUR FAMILY PROFILE?
| Family Profile | Recommended Option | Why? |
| Binational family, long stay in France | Bilingual or hybrid school | Dual culture, local roots, balanced bilingualism |
| Frequently mobile expatriate family | International or hybrid school | Educational continuity, international recognition |
| French parents with an international plan | Hybrid school (e.g., OSI) | Bilingual preparation + global standards |
| Monolingual child arriving in France | Bilingual school (with support) | Gradual integration, tailored support |
| Temporary stay (2–3 years) | International School | Smooth return to home country, recognized diploma |
What if you didn’t have to choose?
At Open Sky International, we believe your child’s educational future shouldn’t force you to choose between two worlds. That’s why we build a school environment that blends true bilingualism with strong international openness , without compromise.
👉 Contact our team to find out how we can support your child, whatever their background or your family’s plans.
SOURCES :
Education & Schools in France, U.S. Embassy & Consulates in France
https://fr.usembassy.gov/education-schools-in-france/
Bilingual Education in France, Vaia
https://www.vaia.com/en-us/explanations/french/french-social-issues/bilingual-education-in-france/
International and bilingual schools – what are they?, Thames British School
https://thamesbritishschool.pl/blog/international-and-bilingual-schools-what-are-they/
The Power of the Bilingual Brain, TIME Magazine
https://time.com/595/the-power-of-the-bilingual-brain/
The Benefits of a Bilingual Brain, The New Yorker
https://www.newyorker.com/science/maria-konnikova/bilingual-advantage-aging-brain
