Within the French school system, the Diplôme National du Brevet acknowledges the level of education students reach at the end of the 3è class (G9/Y10), which marks the end of lower secondary school in France.
Attaining this diploma is not strictly mandatory to pursue studies in upper secondary school. This diploma allows schools to differentiate the objectives depending on each student’s situation.
For both French students and students who are integrated within the French school system, it is highly recommended to achieve excellent results. The results bring proof of the great command of fundamental teachings studied in lower secondary school, and constitute a useful step towards the new requirements of upper secondary school.
For students undergoing integration into the French system, attaining the diploma is not compulsory, although it represents a motivating goal and brings great satisfaction when achieved.
For international students who are less advanced in their command of the French language, priority can be given to the preparation of the IGCSE exams and to the progression in FLE classes, without trying to attain the Diplôme National du Brevet.
Preparation to the diploma is integrated within the teachings (except in the international 3è class), and practice exams are regularly organised throughout schooling in lower secondary school.
