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Studying in higher education requires getting a secondary degree. To study in France or internationally, it is better to have a recognized diploma. We take stock of the diplomas that open up the most opportunities.
The International Baccalaureate, the most recognized
The International Baccalaureate or IB is the most recognized secondary school diploma internationally. “The IB is present in more than 160 countries through over 6,000 institutions offering a program leading to the International Baccalaureate,” said Remy Lamon, senior IB World Schools Manager at the International Baccalaureate (IB).
Specifically, the International Baccalaureate offers different programs from kindergarten to the diploma. Delivered in three possible languages – English, French, Spanish – each authorized institution designs a study path based on the IB program.
The generalist diploma is based on six subject groups: language and literature, two languages (A and B), individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, and arts.
Once the diploma is obtained, young graduates have access to all studies. “The IB is the most recognized diploma worldwide. Every year, students with this diploma can enroll in over 4,500 universities in 110 different countries,” says Remy Lamon.
A-Level, attractive in Anglo-Saxon countries
For those wishing to study in the UK or in Anglo-Saxon universities, obtaining the A-Level is a good option. The primary high school diploma offered in the UK, it is well-regarded abroad, notably in Ireland, Australia, the USA, and Singapore.
Depending on their level, students with an A-Level can apply to prestigious English universities such as Cambridge, Oxford, or the Imperial College of London.
US High School Diploma, for studying in the USA
The High School Diploma is the secondary school diploma in the USA. It allows students to access higher education in America. While internationally recognized, access to higher education worldwide depends on the academic level of students and the target universities.
Equivalents of the French Baccalaureate in Europe
Students with a secondary cycle diploma obtained in a member country of the European Higher Education Area can pursue their studies all over Europe. This includes the Abitur in Germany, the Selectividad in Spain, or the Esame di Stato in Italy, for example.
Abibac, bachibac, Esabac – recognized double diplomas
Abibac, bachibac, and Esabac diplomas are binational baccalaureates that allow students to obtain the French baccalaureate and the high school diploma from another country: the German Abitur for Abibac, the Spanish bachillerato for bachibac, and the Italian Esame di Stato for Esabac.
In each program, students enhance their knowledge in the language, literature, and history of the partner country. At the end of their studies, candidates take a specific exam to obtain the double diploma, opening access to universities in both countries.
The International French Baccalaureate to expand globally
The BFI is a French baccalaureate with a strong international dimension. It combines the core of the classic general baccalaureate, chosen specialties, and in-depth teachings in foreign language and literature, as well as history-geography partly taught in a foreign language.
However, the International French Baccalaureate is a general baccalaureate with a reinforced international dimension. Recognized in France and throughout Europe, it can be a differentiating asset in certain foreign universities, especially for studying in North America.
[Context: The article discusses various internationally recognized diplomas for students seeking higher education opportunities abroad.]
[Fact Check: Abibac, bachibac, and Esabac are examples of double diplomas that enable students to obtain both the French baccalaureate and the high school diploma of another country.]
