4. The so-called college entrance examination is equal to the baccalaureate in June in France.

Students interested in higher education have to choose between two types of educational institutes: Universities and Competitive Institutes (Grandes Ecoles). French universities are open to all students who have passed their baccalaureate. But getting into a "grande école" is a whole different game where entry is at "bac+2" level, the level of the third year of university studies.

[Photo/CFP]