In France, lycées are public institutions and are mostly administered by the Ministry of National Education. They cover the last three years of compulsory education (lycée), as well as the two optional years of post-secondary education (classes préparatoires aux grandes écoles). Students aged 15 or 16 enter the first year of lycée after passing the brevet des collèges, a national exam taken at the end of the collège.
Lycées offer a wide range of educational programs, including general education, scientific education, technological education, and vocational education. Each program has its own curriculum, which is designed to prepare students for further studies or for a career in a specific field.
In addition to academic studies, lycées also offer extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and art. Students may participate in these activities on a voluntary basis.
Lycées play a significant role in French society, and they are often considered to be the best schools in the country. They provide students with a high-quality education and prepare them for success in further studies or in a career.