From the start of the 2026 school year, the canton of Geneva will no longer accept new cross-border students in public schools. This measure concerns children living outside the canton, particularly in neighboring France, even if they hold Swiss nationality.
Until now, certain exemptions allowed children from cross-border families to attend school in Geneva. From now on, the authorities intend to apply more strictly the principle of schooling based on place of residence, in order to prioritize places for children living in Geneva.

According to estimates, around 2,500 cross-border students are currently enrolled in Geneva’s public schools. Students already enrolled should be able to complete their current school cycle, but they may no longer be admitted to the next level within the canton.
This decision is mainly due to population growth in the Geneva region and increasing pressure on school infrastructure. Cantonal authorities believe it is necessary to adapt access to public schools in order to meet the needs of cantonal residents.
However, the issue is generating significant debate in the Franco-Geneva region. Many cross-border families work in Geneva and maintain close ties with the canton, making school enrollment a particularly sensitive issue.