Frats, kegs, football, dorms, and beer pong; these are a few things college students in the United States have to look forward to. Culturally, the French college experience is quite different, but like their American counterparts, college is more than fun times and messing around; it's a rite of passage and an opportunity to work hard and pursue their dreams, and of course, hopefully a preparation to obtain a high-paying job.
Cost
In France, college tuition is paid for by the government. While certain costs such as living expenses and books are generally paid by the students or their parents, a university education is seen as a right for anyone capable and so inclined.
Getting to College
Everyone graduating from the Lycée (French equivalent of high school) is required to take an exam to receive a "baccalauréat" (French equivalent of a high school diploma). The diploma allows students to continue onto the university level and/or work in certain jobs. This test is especially long and arduous, causing a great deal of stress for those taking it. This is because unlike in the United States where homework and projects are important, this single test determines one's achievement in school. Also, passing it in one's desired field allows for the pursuit of that field, while doing poorly makes it difficult to pursue that interest. For example, if a student wishes to get into a prestigious "grande école" school to study physics, then he would have to take the science-focused baccalauréat exam. This forces students to know what they want to study before getting to college and makes the typical American style of changing majors pretty hard.
Partying
Once accepted into a university, the life for the average French student is quite different than in the United States. While partying and generally having a good time is common to both cultures, the French are able to partake in a wider variety of activities. Because the drinking age in France is 18, the impetus for house parties is diminished and most students go out to clubs or bars. Apart from being fun for French students and giving them more nightlife opportunities, it also helps cut down on binge drinking due to alcohol's easy accessibility and a culture that sees it as no big deal.
Living
Another big difference is that French students go to college close to home and typically live with their parents until their mid-20s. While the lack of independence can be seen as a burden for American students who are used to leaving home at 18, the treatment of children living at home is quite liberal and students usually enjoy the financial and emotional support that comes with being with one's family.
After Class
In terms of extracurricular activities such as clubs, fraternities and sports, French students do not have nearly as many opportunities as their American counterparts. The university, especially in cities such as Paris, is distributed across several sites and does not really have a central campus that would be conducive to a big college community life. The fact that French students live at home during their college years makes it less important for them to have those activities available.
Tags: French students, United States, American counterparts, equivalent high, equivalent high school, French equivalent, French equivalent high