Educational assessment in France: school evidence, PAP and PPS
Start with the support decision you need. School adjustments, a PAP and a PPS use different evidence and decision routes.
Define the question before choosing a test
Ask whether the child needs help with classroom learning, assessment of a persistent learning difficulty, or disability-related support. A teacher's records, a psychological or paramedical assessment and a medical opinion can each answer different questions. A private report is not automatically a school support decision.
PAP: learning difficulties and pedagogical adaptations
The education ministry describes the plan d'accompagnement personnalisé (PAP) as a route for persistent school difficulties related to learning disorders where pedagogical adaptations are needed. The school doctor gives an opinion, taking account of relevant assessment information, and the teaching team develops the plan with parents. The PAP is reviewed annually.
PPS: disability-related schooling
If the question is disability-related schooling support, ask about the MDPH and the projet personnalisé de scolarisation (PPS) route. The school can explain what educational evidence is needed. Our PPS guide and PAP guide explain the distinction.
Before commissioning a private report
- Ask which question existing school evidence does not answer.
- Check which professional is qualified to assess that question.
- Ask whether the school or decision-making service can use the proposed report.
- Request the total fee, report scope and any separate follow-up charges.
- Discuss language, communication and access arrangements in advance.
Affordable support and local services
Ask the school and relevant public service which educational or health assessment routes may be available before paying privately. Availability, reimbursement and waiting times depend on the service and circumstances. Do not assume all psychological or learning assessments are free, reimbursed or required.
When comparing help in a French city, identify the task and catchment first: classroom adaptation, a specialist assessment, a school disability file or adult study support. A local tutor can support learning without replacing a medical opinion or MDPH decision.
Use findings to agree action
Ask for recommendations that explain classroom barriers, suitable adaptations and how progress will be checked. Record who coordinates the plan and when it will be reviewed. Keep copies of assessment conclusions and share them securely with the people who need them.