Official School Calendar for 2027-2028 Released

The Ministry of National Education has officially published the school calendar for the 2027-2028 academic year in the Official Journal. With the school year beginning on a Thursday, winter vacations scheduled by zones, and a particularly favorable May for extended weekends, families can now plan ahead with ease.

A Smooth Start with Thursday's Return

For the 2027-2028 school year, teachers will have their pre-return day on Wednesday, September 1, 2027. Students will head back to school on Thursday, September 2, 2027. Starting the year on a Thursday may come as a surprise, but this decision allows for a smooth transition into the school year without encroaching on August, while also avoiding rushed returns from vacations. This short two-day week provides an ideal opportunity for children and parents alike to adjust back into daily routines, finalize organizational details, and approach the first weekend of September without excessive fatigue.

Unified Holidays for All Academies

Regarding the initial holidays of the academic year, all metropolitan academies in France will follow the same schedule. The All Saints' vacation will run from Saturday, October 23, 2027, after classes until Monday, November 8, 2027, in the morning. For the Christmas holidays, students will have time off starting Saturday, December 18, 2027, after classes, until Monday, January 3, 2028, in the morning. These two full weeks provide ample time for family celebrations, relaxed travel, and recharging during the winter season.

Winter and Spring Breaks Adjusted by Zones

The February and April vacations will once again be staggered by academic zones, which helps manage departure flows and facilitates booking trips. Here’s a comparison of the official dates for each zone:

Vacation Periods

| Period of Vacation | Zone A | Zone B | Zone C | |--------------------|--------|--------|--------| | Winter Break | From Saturday, February 19 to Monday, March 6, 2028 | From Saturday, February 5 to Monday, February 21, 2028 | From Saturday, February 12 to Monday, February 28, 2028 | | Spring Break | From Saturday, April 22 to Tuesday, May 9, 2028 | From Saturday, April 8 to Monday, April 24, 2028 | From Saturday, April 15 to Tuesday, May 2, 2028 |

A slight nuance appears in the spring for zones A and C, as students will return on a Tuesday. This is due to the presence of May 1 and May 8, both public holidays, which naturally extend these two weeks of vacation.

May Offers Multiple Breaks and Extended Weekends

Spring 2028 promises to be particularly generous with opportunities for relaxation. In addition to the public holidays on May 1 and May 8, which create two three-day weekends, the Ministry of Education has scheduled a long weekend for Ascension. With Thursday, May 25, 2028, being a holiday, schools will remain closed on Friday, May 26, and Saturday, May 27, 2028. This gives all students in metropolitan France a consecutive four-day weekend from Thursday morning to Sunday evening. This extended break is perfect for planning a short getaway, enjoying time outdoors, or simply relieving family stress before the end-of-year assessments. Additionally, Easter Monday falls on April 17, 2028.

Planning Ahead Eases Parental Stress

The summer vacation will officially begin on Tuesday, July 4, 2028, after classes. Being aware of this official decree published in the Official Journal on July 23, 2026, provides a significant advantage in managing family affairs. Knowing these timelines well in advance helps families secure accommodations at better rates, arrange paid leave with employers, and plan childcare or activity programs without the last-minute rush. Marking these key dates in your personal calendar now is a straightforward and practical way to maintain balance for the entire family.