<human>:  Can you compare the school systems in France and Germany?
<bot>: France and Germany both have different school systems. France has a centralized system that generally consists of a three-stage primary, secondary, and higher education system. Germany has a decentralized system of education with diverse curricula, standards, and regional differences. Primary and secondary schooling in France is mandatory and free from the ages of 6 to 16. In Germany, primary education lasts 6 years and secondary education is divided into a Gymnasium (12 years) and Realschule (10 years), both of which come at a cost. Higher education in France is decentralized and tuition-free. In Germany, students pay tuition fees at state universities but there are no tuition fees at private universities. Both countries have developed strong vocational training systems, such as apprenticeships, to support their economies.