Advice
Understand before you choose
A few pointers to help you find your way in vocational guidance.
Understand
Two ways to do a course
You're a student at school. You do work placements in companies during the course.
- No need to find an employer
- A regular timetable
- Student status
You split your time between a company and a Centre de Formation d'Apprentis (apprentice training centre).
- You have an employment contract and a salary
- You need to find an employer
- Apprentice status
In both cases, you get the same diploma. Always check how it works with the school.
Words to know
CAP
Certificat d'aptitude professionnelle (vocational aptitude certificate). Takes 2 years after middle school.
Bac Pro
Baccalauréat professionnel (vocational baccalaureate). Takes 3 years after middle school.
School pathway
You're mainly at school, with work placements in companies.
Apprenticeship
You split your time between a company and a training centre. You have an employment contract.
CIO
Centre d'information et d'orientation (information and guidance centre). Advisers help you choose your path.
PsyEN
Psychologue de l'Éducation Nationale (national education psychologist). They help you build your guidance project.
LP
Lycée professionnel (vocational school). A school that offers CAP and Bac Pro courses.
BTS
Brevet de technicien supérieur (higher technician's certificate). A possible way to keep studying after the Bac Pro.
Compare
CAP or Bac Pro?
Both lead to a job. The difference is the length and the depth.
| Criterion | CAP | Bac Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 2 years after middle school | 3 years after middle school |
| Who it's for | Very hands-on, focused on one specific trade | More general and vocational subjects |
| After the course | Quick entry into working life, with the option to continue to a Bac Pro | Gives access to a BTS depending on your record |
| Worth remembering | The CAP isn't “lesser” — it's just more direct | You get the baccalaureate at the end |
| More for you if… | You want a specific trade quickly | You want to go deeper and keep your options open |
Get ready
5 questions to ask yourself before choosing
- 1Do I like this field?
- 2Can I get to this school?
- 3Do I prefer working in a company or at school?
- 4Do I know someone who works in this job?
- 5Have I visited this school (open day, taster course)?
The people who can help you
They know your background and can point you to the right person.
Psychologue de l'Éducation Nationale (national education psychologist). They help you build your project, free of charge.
Centre d'Information et d'Orientation (information and guidance centre). Advisers answer your questions about courses.
Got an idea of what interests you?
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