by Helen Shavit, AAWE Paris
AAWE is pleased to announce the publication of the second edition of Beyond the Bac – Higher Education in France and Abroad, a unique, “all-in-one” resource for bicultural, French and international students considering higher education in France, the US, Canada, the UK, the Netherlands or Australia. The book was released in February of 2020, just weeks before the COVID-19 epidemic hit full force in Europe and the Americas, resulting in the disruption of schooling as we knew it.
By now, many universities and other institutions of higher learning around the world have re-opened virtually and/or with modified classrooms and schedules. As circumstances continue to evolve, many students must modify prior plans, sometimes years in the making, or rethink them entirely. While Beyond the Bac does not offer information on the aftermath or implications of COVID-19 on university study, this one-stop guide to higher education can help students across different FAWCO Member Clubs make informed choices. Students must be proactive, however, in checking for the latest updates. To this end, the reference and resource sections that follow each chapter in Beyond the Bac provide useful links to reliable sources of information.
AAWE has a long history of providing information and guidance to the bicultural and international communities about education in France. As most, if not all, AAWE member children are bilingual, many consider pursuing their tertiary studies abroad, and for this reason, the first edition of Beyond the Bac – Higher Education in France and Abroad was published back in 2011. Studying abroad, whether in the context of an Erasmus or other exchange program or to pursue a university degree in a different country, has become an increasingly popular option. Just as many AAWE member children are eager to discover new lands and cultures, the same holds true for students elsewhere. With the recent surge in academic offerings taught in English at institutions of higher learning around the world, many international anglophone students are now considering pursuing their tertiary studies abroad.
Beyond the Bac opens with an in-depth look at the workings of the higher education system in France, the recent reforms, degrees and diplomas, and application procedures. It explains the labyrinth of French higher education – universities, prépas, grandes écoles, law and medical studies and the numerous specialized schools for business, the arts, film and fashion.
International students are informed about studying in France – in French or in English – as well as pursuing graduate studies in France (master’s and doctoral level).
A glossary of relevant French acronyms and education terms elucidates the unique aspects of the French higher education system.
The second part of the book delves into higher education options in the US, Canada, the UK, the Netherlands and Australia for the international student. The characteristics and workings of each tertiary education system are presented, followed by an explanation of application procedures, language and admissions tests, financial considerations and financial assistance, and tips for choosing the right school. Three chapters are devoted to the pursuit of studies in the US, including one on graduate school (for masters’ and doctoral degrees).
Whenever possible, personal anecdotes and tips from students were included to provide an inside look into various educational paths.
For students seeking to work or explore other interests, a chapter devoted to gap year options in France, the US and elsewhere offers ideas for those who are considering deferred enrollment or taking a break from formal studies.
This publication is the result of an all-volunteer endeavor carried out largely by AAWE members, many of whom are professionals in the field, and students who provided personal commentary. It is hoped that the young people for whom this book was written will find the information and guidance they need to choose the best possible path for them in these uncertain times.
Beyond the Bac – Higher Education in France and Abroad can be ordered directly from AAWE – Association of American Women in Europe (www.aaweparis.org/books) or on Amazon.