Which high schools received the most "very good" marks in the baccalaureate between 2022 and 2025?

In recent years, French high schools have been evaluated based on their students' performance in the baccalaureate exams, particularly focusing on the number of students receiving the highest honors—mentions "très bien" and "félicitations du jury." These distinctions reflect academic excellence and are often seen as markers of prestige within educational institutions. Between 2022 and 2025, several high schools stood out due to their consistently high rates of students achieving these top marks. The analysis conducted by Le Figaro examined data from over 2,200 general high schools across France, looking specifically at the percentage of students who received the "très bien" distinction, which corresponds to scores between 16 and 20 out of 20, and the "félicitations du jury," awarded to those scoring between 18 and 20. This study covered four academic years, starting from the first full implementation of the new baccalaureate format in 2022. The results highlight significant disparities among schools in terms of academic achievement and pedagogical quality. One of the most notable findings was the consistent success of the Lycée Henri-IV in Paris. According to the data, approximately 60% of its final-year students obtained the "très bien" distinction each year during this period. This figure far exceeds the national average, which saw around 13.4% of candidates receiving the same honor in 2025 compared to just 7% in 2010. The school's reputation for rigorous academic training and selective admissions appears to play a crucial role in maintaining such high standards. Other institutions also demonstrated impressive records. For instance, the Lycée Louis-le-Grand in Paris and the Lycée Janson-de-Sailly were frequently mentioned in the rankings for their high percentages of students earning top marks. These schools are known for their strong emphasis on academic excellence and have long histories of producing top-performing graduates. Their success can be attributed to a combination of experienced teaching staff, advanced curricula, and a highly motivated student body. The significance of these distinctions extends beyond mere academic recognition. While the grades themselves do not influence university admissions via the Parcoursup system—which occurs before the baccalaureate results are announced—they still carry cultural weight. Some financial institutions offer small monetary rewards to students who achieve these top marks, reinforcing the societal value placed on academic success. Additionally, the presence of numerous "très bien" distinctions can enhance a school’s reputation, potentially attracting more students and resources. Despite the focus on top-tier schools, the data also revealed regional variations in performance. Schools located in certain areas showed higher rates of students achieving the "très bien" than others, suggesting that local factors such as economic conditions, parental involvement, and access to additional learning resources might influence outcomes. However, the overall trend indicates that elite institutions continue to dominate in terms of academic achievements. Looking ahead, the continued emphasis on academic excellence suggests that competition among high schools will remain intense. As the baccalaureate remains a pivotal milestone in the educational journey of French students, the pursuit of top distinctions will likely persist. Educational authorities may consider implementing measures aimed at improving accessibility and support for all students, ensuring that academic success is not solely confined to a select few institutions.