Le Figaro Publishes its First Ranking of African Preparatory Classes for French Grandes Écoles
Le Figaro has released its inaugural ranking of African preparatory classes for French Grandes Écoles. Among the selected institutions, three Tunisian preparatory schools stand out: IPSET, Esprit Prépa, and IPEIMA of Monastir.
An Unprecedented Ranking
For the first time, the French newspaper has scrutinized the results of scientific and commercial preparatory classes in Africa. The primary criterion for scientific fields is the admission rate to the École Polytechnique over three years, from 2023 to 2025. For commercial fields, a point system is used based on the selectivity of the integrated schools.
Only French-speaking countries are featured in this ranking. Tunisia, Morocco, Senegal, and Guinea share a common educational heritage with France, making it natural for their students to pursue higher education in France.
Tunisia Presents, Morocco Dominates
The ranking is clear: Moroccan preparatory schools dominate the top of the table. The Lycée Mohamed VI in Benguérir, nicknamed "Lydex," takes the top spot, with over 17% of its students integrating into Polytechnique over the past three years. Morocco has 10,000 students in preparatory classes each year.
In the face of this dominance, the three selected Tunisian preparatory schools - IPSET, Esprit Prépa, and IPEIMA of Monastir - still represent a notable presence. Their selection in this ranking validates their level and connection to the French Grandes Écoles system.
How Does Access to Polytechnique Work from Tunisia?
Foreign candidates do not compete with French students. A specific path is reserved for them, with 45 places available in 2025. The bar is high: candidates must obtain a score at least equal to that of the last French student admitted to the complementary list.
Written exams can be held in Tunisia, under the supervision of French military personnel. Oral exams, however, must take place in France.
For business schools - HEC, ESCP, EM Lyon - there is no special treatment. Tunisian students take the same exam as French candidates.
Key Points:
- Le Figaro's first ranking of African preparatory classes for French Grandes Écoles
- Three Tunisian preparatory schools selected: IPSET, Esprit Prépa, and IPEIMA of Monastir
- Moroccan preparatory schools dominate the top of the ranking
- Access to Polytechnique from Tunisia requires a high score and a specific path
- Tunisian students take the same exam as French candidates for business schools
