Adult language courses in France for international students

Nowadays, French schools are quite popular among foreign students. They can choose from a great variety of English and French courses and programs. What are the advantages of studying English and French in France:

• full immersion into linguistic environment that helps to develop a subconscious understanding of linguistic constructions and logic,
• a great opportunity to combine effective courses and rich cultural programme: most schools are located in cultural centers of the country, you can choose an intensive course or to study in parallel with rest, playing sports;
• French schools provide programs for schoolchildren, businessmen and students. It is also possible to have a general study of the language for broadening the horizons.

Choosing the Right Language Course for You

Learning French in its native country offers an unmatched opportunity for full language immersion and mastering the authentic French accent. Studies show that interacting with native speakers greatly enhances one's communicative abilities in a foreign language. The effectiveness of your learning journey will depend on several factors such as the program you choose, its duration, specialization, and your initial language level. Below is an overview of various types of language courses in France:

• Main Program: Aimed at establishing foundational language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, the standard main program usually spans at least two weeks with 15-20 academic hours per week. Notable schools offering this program include Center International d'Antibes (Antibes) and Eurocentres (La Rochelle or Paris).

• Intensive Program: With a similar two-week duration, this option intensifies the learning process, offering 20-30 teaching hours per week. A "superintensive" variant, with up to 40 hours weekly, is also available. This is ideal for adults seeking rapid language acquisition. Schools like Cavilam in Vichy offer such programs.

• Long-term Program: This extended program is aimed at deeper academic preparation, making it suitable for those aiming for secondary or higher education in France. It also prepares students for language proficiency exams like DELF/DALF.

• Individual Sessions: Highly customizable, one-on-one lessons are popular among international students. Schools like Home Language International and International House offer programs that can be adapted to each student's unique needs.

Laura Galindo

Marketing Director

At what age do foreign students usually enter English schools?

Our programs are for ages 16+. Nonetheless, the average age of our student population is between the ages of 18-35. 

In addition to the foundational programs, students can also opt for specialized courses that combine language studies with cultural, gastronomic, or leisure activities. Some exciting examples include:

• Language and Cooking: Ideal for gourmets, this course combines morning language lessons with afternoon excursions to France’s culinary regions like Normandy, Burgundy, and Champagne.

• Language + Fashion: A hit in Paris, the fashion capital of the world, this course incorporates fashion masterclasses and stylist lessons into the language curriculum.

• Language + Arts and Culture: Popular in Paris, this course enriches classroom learning with excursions to historical landmarks, museums, galleries, and theaters.

• Language + Alpine Skiing/Beach Vacation: These seasonal programs are designed for adult learners and are based in provinces like Annecy and Chamonix.

• Industry-Specific Language Programs: Tailored to specific fields like business, law, or medicine, these two-week programs are perfect for professionals.

Costs can vary widely based on the type of program and accommodation chosen. Options include staying in a student residence, with a host family, or in a teacher's home, each varying in price. Living and studying in a metropolitan area will generally be more expensive than in a suburban locale. On average, a two-week program with accommodation could range from 1100 to 1500 €. Additional pocket expenses for food, travel, and entertainment can add about 500 € per week. These estimates don't include visa and flight costs.

Admission and Proficiency Levels

France uses a distinct system to denote language proficiency levels. Beginners are classified as "débutant" or "élémentaire", intermediate learners as "intermédiaire", and advanced students as "supérieur". For university admission, a minimum "supérieur" level is generally required, along with standardized language tests like TCF-DAP, DELF, or DALF, which can be prepared for and taken at language schools.

Whether you are a beginner or looking to perfect your language skills, France offers a wide array of courses to fit every need and level. From the types of programs available to English courses in France, this guide aims to cover every aspect of what potential students need to know.