UK University -vs- Université Française (English Ver.)
- Shiuology
- Apr 14, 2019
- 3 min read
Teachers, course structure and exams... During my first semester studying in a French university, I have faced several shocking experiences and soon, I found out that there are huge differences between British and French higher education systems. Since the first semester has passed, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight some differences between the two systems.
Class Hours
Comparing with the contact hours in French universities, those in Britain are way shorter. In the UK, lectures or seminars tend to last for one or two hours. In total, you will have 10 to 12 hours of classes per week. However, in France, you can expect to have more contact hours. Every week, you will have 18 hours of classes and each of them can last for 4 hours max. With more contact hours, lecturers or professors in French universities can cover more teaching materials and contents.
Moreover, certain classes in French universities can start as early as 8AM and can finish as late as 8PM! However, in the UK, most classes start at 9AM or 10AM and finish at 4PM.
Societies and Student Activities
There are a lot more student associations in British uni than that in French uni. In the UK, during 'freshers' week', universities organise student fairs to encourage student associations, sports clubs and voluntary groups to set up stalls to attract newcomers to participate in collective activities. I strongly recommend you to join student societies as you can profit a lot by meeting more friends and getting more involved in university life.
Meanwhile, during the first two weeks, the university here in Toulouse tried to organise a 'freshers fair' for students to get to know clubs and societies in campus, yet only 3 or 4 students associations showed up and very few students approached the stands.
Administration
Each British universities has several administrative offices, that are in charge of student affairs. They are open throughout the day and will respond to students' enquiries in approx. less than 2 days.
However, the administration in French universities, specially the public ones, expect students to solve their problems by themselves, so students do not receive sufficient help from their unis. This affects exchange students a lot. Because of being unaccustomed to the French 'administration', many of them feel demotivated and discouraged. Yet, adopting a positive attitude is key and as I always say, 'all the difficulties you encounter in life are great opportunities to improve your problem-solving skills!'
Marking System
The marking systems in the two countries are completely divergeant. In the UK, papers are marked out of 100. In order to get an A in your course, you must get at least 75% as the average for all your coursework and exams. However, in France, all assessments are marked out of 20. If you get 15 or above, you will receive an A.
To say which system is easier, I would say it depends on various factors, such as the level of the courses you take, the professors, the teaching language, etc. Having studied in the UK since the age of 16, I believe the British education system suits me better.
Conclusion
Without doubt, there is no definite answer for which, either British or French education system, is better as it all depends on which one suits you the most.
That's all for today and hope you find the information helpful! If you have any enquiries, tips or even experience on travelling abroad for studying or good food, please comment below! I have to start preparing for tomorrow as Monday is school day again!
Keep grinding!
Shiuology
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