Monaco’s Educational Structures: an exceptional school system at the heart of the Principality

An educational system that meets Monaco’s ambitions

The Principality of Monaco, world-renowned for its lifestyle, economic dynamism, and safety, is also recognized for the quality of its educational system.At the crossroads of French, international, and Monegasque cultures, the education provided in Monaco meets the highest academic standards while embracing a multicultural environment. From preschool to university, Monaco’s schools offer rigorous supervision, modern facilities, and a pedagogy focused on excellence.

This high-quality educational fabric directly contributes to the attractiveness of the Principality. For families who have settled or wish to settle in Monaco, the choice of schools is often a decisive factor.

It is also one of the reasons many buyers are drawn to our exceptional properties for sale in Monaco or our apartments for sale in Beausoleil, just minutes from Monegasque schools.

Public and private schooling options for every academic path

Public Schools in Monaco

Monaco boasts a highly efficient public school network, affiliated with the French educational system while integrating local cultural elements. The Department of Education, Youth, and Sports (DENJS) oversees the entire educational journey from preschool through high school.There are several preschools and primary schools spread throughout the districts of the Principality, such as École de la Condamine, École Saint-Charles, and École du Parc. These schools provide a reassuring environment, reasonable class sizes, and curricula aligned with the guidelines of the French Ministry of Education.At the secondary level, two public middle/high schools stand out: Collège Charles III and Lycée Albert I. The latter, both prestigious and historic, offers general, technological, and vocational baccalaureates, as well as a literary preparatory class (hypokhâgne)—a rare offering for such a small territory.

State-contracted private schools

State-contracted private schools complement the public offering harmoniously. Among them, the Institut François d’Assise-Nicolas Barré (FANB) is a renowned institution offering education from preschool to high school, with outstanding results in the French baccalaureate. Other schools, such as Cours Saint-Maur and the International School of Monaco (ISM), offer more specialized programs.

International focus: the International School of Monaco (ISM)

Located in the Port district, the International School of Monaco is a highly sought-after independent private school, particularly by expatriate families. It offers bilingual English/French instruction and the option to follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

The ISM welcomes children from preschool through to the baccalaureate in a multicultural environment that fosters open-mindedness and language learning. The school has established itself as a center of academic excellence for students aspiring to attend prestigious international universities.

An educational offering focused on excellence

A demanding curriculum and outstanding results

Schools in Monaco are regularly praised for their academic rigor, quality of teaching, and high success rates in national exams. Baccalaureate pass rates in both public and private institutions consistently approach 100%. Personalized supervision, controlled class sizes, and dedicated student support all contribute to these exceptional outcomes.

Education rooted in Monegasque values

Beyond academic performance, education in Monaco places great importance on values such as respect, ethics, community life, and Monegasque heritage. The teaching of Monaco’s history and institutions is compulsory, and students are introduced to the Monegasque language from primary school. Cultural, sports, and artistic activities are strongly encouraged both during and outside school hours, enabling children to thrive in all aspects of their development.

A logistics system designed for families

Given the Principality’s dense urban fabric, Monaco ensures optimal accessibility to its schools. School transportation, academic support programs, homework help services, and modern infrastructure help simplify daily life for families—even in such a compact territory. In addition, many residential properties are located near schools, making life easier for families with children. This is especially true in districts such as Monte-Carlo and La Condamine, or in well-connected neighboring towns. Explore our apartments for sale in La Turbie or flats for sale in Cap d’Ail to enjoy peaceful surroundings just minutes from Monaco’s schools.

An ideal educational environment for expat families

Monaco attracts many expatriate families thanks to its safe environment, fiscal stability, and exceptional quality of life. Schools—especially ISM—serve as a springboard to international opportunities while ensuring individualized support, offering peace of mind to mobile families.This strong demand from family-oriented buyers also drives the local real estate market. On LiveIn.mc, our real estate listings platform for Monaco and its surroundings, you’ll find a selection of houses for sale in Beausoleil,homes for sale in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, and apartments for rent in Monaco—perfect for families seeking the right balance between education and lifestyle.

FAQ – Schooling in Monaco

What educational levels are covered in Monaco?

Monaco offers a complete academic journey—from preschool to high school—including a literary preparatory class at Lycée Albert I, as well as international programs at ISM.

Is the teaching in French or English?

Public schools follow the French curriculum in French, with additional instruction in the Monegasque language. ISM offers bilingual English/French education and an English-taught IB program.

Do Monegasque schools accept foreign children?

Yes. Subject to admission criteria, foreign children can enroll in Monaco’s public or private schools. ISM is particularly well-suited for international students.

What are the tuition fees in Monaco?

Public schools are free of charge, just like in France. State-contracted private schools have moderate fees. Independent private schools like ISM are more expensive, with fees depending on the student’s level.

Where should families live to be close to the schools?

La Condamine, Monte-Carlo, Fontvieille, and areas near the French border are strategic locations. Discover our houses for sale in Cap d’Ail or our apartments for rent in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin to stay close to schools while enjoying a peaceful residential setting.