learn french in france

Learn French in France: Courses, Schools & Classes Guide

Learn French in France Guide: For new immigrants and international students arriving in France, mastering the French language represents far more than simply acquiring a new linguistic skill. It serves as the fundamental gateway to successful integration into French society, unlocking professional opportunities, enabling deep engagement with France’s rich cultural heritage, and fostering a genuine sense of belonging in their new homeland. This comprehensive guide explores the extensive network of French language learning opportunities available throughout France, from mandatory government programs to free community classes and specialized educational pathways.

learn french in france: why is it important?

The importance of learning French for new immigrants cannot be overstated, as it impacts virtually every aspect of life in France. Language proficiency facilitates meaningful social integration, enabling newcomers to forge authentic friendships with French citizens and build substantial connections within their communities. While English serves as an international lingua franca, the reality is that not all French people possess sufficient English fluency for everyday interactions, making French comprehension crucial for navigating daily activities ranging from shopping to handling administrative tasks.

Professional opportunities expand dramatically with French language skills. Studies conducted in France demonstrate that language training can significantly increase labor force participation rates among immigrant populations. The research reveals that French classes substantially increase the probability of joining the workforce, with this effect typically being greater for immigrants possessing higher education levels, as well as for labor migrants and refugees compared to family migrants.

Additionally, learning French allows newcomers to fully immerse themselves in France’s extraordinary cultural landscape, experiencing its rich history, artistic traditions, renowned cuisine, and time-honored customs in their authentic context. The new immigration law adopted in January 2024 has raised the required level of French language proficiency for certain residence permits, making language learning even more crucial for legal residents.

Understanding French Language Education Terminology

When exploring French language education opportunities in France, immigrants encounter specific terminology that defines different approaches to language acquisition. The term “Français Langue Étrangère” (FLE) refers to “French as a foreign language,” characterizing general foreign language acquisition that does not necessarily involve living and interacting within the country where the language is spoken.

In contrast, “Français Langue Seconde” (FLS), along with “Français Langue de Scolarisation” (FLSco), refers to “French as a second language” or “French as a school language.” This type of acquisition assumes the learner is acquiring the language within France itself and will require it for education and daily life within the country, comparable to programs like “German as a Second Language” in Germany.

Understanding these distinctions helps learners identify the most appropriate programs for their specific needs and circumstances, whether they’re temporary residents seeking basic communication skills or permanent immigrants requiring comprehensive language proficiency for professional and social integration.

Government-Mandated Integration Programs

The Republican Integration Contract (CIR)

France has implemented comprehensive mandatory integration programs for adult immigrants, with language training serving as a cornerstone component of these initiatives. The Republican Integration Contract (CIR) is concluded between France and any non-European foreigner admitted to France who wishes to settle in France on a lasting basis, subject to specific exceptions.

A CIR is an agreement between any non-European foreigners who wish to live in France permanently and the French government – you’re agreeing to attend the courses on French government, society, and culture, as well as attain an A1 proficiency (the lowest level) while the government provides necessary resources and support.

The program was originally established as the “Contrat d’accueil et d’intégration” (CAI) in 2007, but was updated in July 2016 to become the current “Contrat d’intégration républicaine” (CIR). These contracts impose several specific requirements designed to facilitate successful integration into French society.

Civic Training Requirements

The civic training component requires completing a four-day civic training course, a significant increase from the original one-day requirement under the CAI system. This training focuses on French institutions, values, and the fundamental principles of the French Republic, including gender equality and laïcité (secularism). The extended duration reflects the government’s increased emphasis on civic education and cultural integration.

Language Training Components

Language training represents the most substantial component of these integration contracts. All participants must undergo an initial language assessment test, and those whose results are deemed insufficient are assigned to appropriate language training programs. The CIR system evaluates actual language skills at A1, A2, or B1 levels, with assigned training hours varying between 50, 100, and 200 hours depending on individual needs to achieve these specific proficiency levels.

The complementary course for level A2 has a duration of 100 hours of language training, as does the course for level B1. These courses are also offered to signatories of the Republican Integration Contract, after the compulsory language training. Level A2 is required to obtain a residence permit, making successful completion essential for legal status maintenance.

The CIR emphasizes progressive learning with the ultimate goal of reaching B1 level, considered an “employability level,” and directly ties language progress to the renewal of multi-annual residence permits. This approach addresses previous criticisms of the CAI system, which only aimed for A1.1 “survival” level French that proved insufficient for meaningful economic integration.

Free and Low-Cost French Learning Opportunities

Government Employment Services

France offers numerous avenues for new immigrants to learn French, many of which are free or low-cost, supporting comprehensive integration efforts. For unemployed individuals, registering with Pôle Emploi, the French national employment agency, provides access to various forms of assistance, including complimentary French classes. Even individuals not entitled to unemployment benefits can access this language assistance, making it a valuable resource for all residents.

If you work in France, you have access to ‘Compte personnel de formation’ (Personal Training Account), which can be used to fund French language courses. Some French training centers partnering with Pôle Emploi can even assist with the registration process itself, providing crucial support for navigating the administrative aspects of integration.

National NGOs and Associations

Local associations and non-governmental organizations across France provide French as a foreign language classes specifically designed to aid integration efforts. The French Red Cross (Croix-Rouge Française) represents one of France’s oldest NGOs and operates 150 centers nationwide offering French language classes for adults, including FLE and alphabetization courses. They may also provide homework assistance for children, creating comprehensive family support systems.

Secours Populaire, another renowned French NGO prioritizing children’s assistance, provides French classes for pupils struggling with grammar, verbs, or spelling. Volunteers typically assist children with homework for two hours per week at home, offering personalized support that complements formal education.

Local Community Programs

Beyond national organizations, numerous local associations offer French classes throughout the country. Contacting your local City Hall (Mairie) is highly recommended, as they can provide comprehensive information about available subsidized French courses in your specific area.

Bordeaux Region Examples

In Bordeaux, several organizations offer affordable French learning opportunities:

  • Centre Social d’Arcachon offers approximately six hours per week of classes
  • Remue-Méninges in Bègles provides day group French classes and assistance with administrative letter writing for an annual membership of just 10 euros with free classes
  • Association Familiale et Laïque de Bordeaux Nord offers day group classes and DELF/DALF preparation upon request for an annual membership of 14 euros with free classes
  • Centre d’animation Saint Michel hosts day conversation classes for an annual membership of 9 euros with complimentary French instruction

Lyon Region Examples

Lyon presents its own array of opportunities:

  • Coup de Pouce Université (CPU) exclusively serves foreign students including PhD candidates, offering classes taught by volunteers for an annual subscription of 90 euros with available discounts
  • Fil (Faciliter l’insertion par le langage) organizes evening and day courses across five Lyon locations throughout the school year with year-round registration and subscription fees ranging from 30 to 60 euros annually
  • Association Aicell in Caluire offers free conversation classes for an annual membership of 25 euros

Lille Region Examples

In Lille, several organizations provide specialized services:

  • Association La Clé provides one-to-one or group classes for adults, teenagers, and children, along with DELF/DALF preparation on request
  • Lire, écrire et comprendre offers individualized classes, French culture courses, and cultural visits for adults

Digital Learning Resources and Online Platforms

Television and Media Resources

Digital learning resources provide flexible and accessible alternatives for language acquisition. TV5 Monde, the international French-language television channel, maintains a comprehensive learning section featuring interactive exercises and short French learning videos categorized by proficiency level, covering grammar, vocabulary, and French culture. These resources allow learners to study at their own pace while being exposed to authentic French content.

University-Affiliated Online Courses

The Association Française pour la Formation des Adultes (French Association for Adult Learning) offers MOOC (Massive Online Open Courses), in particular on French as a Foreign Language (FLE) to teach beginners the basics. The Alliance Française de Paris Ile-de-France provides a free Massive Open Online Course called “Vivre en France” through the France Université Numérique platform, covering levels from A1 beginner to B1 upper-intermediate and including professional French components.

Government Digital Initiatives

The French Ministry of Interior offers online training with 50 videos subtitled in French, English, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese, Mandarin, Russian, Tamil, Farsi and Pashto, and series of exercises to improve your French. In permanent access and open to all, you can access it by clicking on the website Ensemble en France. This multilingual approach ensures accessibility for speakers of diverse languages.

Mobile Applications and Interactive Tools

Several mobile applications and online tools facilitate French learning:

  • OLS (Online Linguistic Support) – A free platform originally designed for Erasmus+ students that assesses language knowledge and facilitates continued learning across 24 languages
  • ANKIApp – Smartphone application offering free exercises for language learning
  • FL@ app – Developed by the France Langue d’Accueil association, helps users learn French while discovering services and useful locations in Paris
  • “Bienvenue chez toi” vocabulary booklet – Contains approximately 1,000 useful words and expressions for everyday life, available in French, English, Arabic, and Farsi

Online Learning Communities

Bonjour de France serves as a free online magazine offering articles, revision sheets, and online tests for French learning. Conversation Exchange connects French speakers with language learners, facilitating bilingual conversations through face-to-face meetings, chat sessions, webcam interactions, or email exchanges. These platforms create opportunities for authentic language practice with native speakers.

Public Library Resources and Community Centers

Many local public libraries throughout France offer free French online courses and organize conversation groups, reading events, and other activities specifically designed for members learning French. These services typically require library membership, making them an excellent value for comprehensive language learning support.

Libraries often provide:

  • Access to French learning software and databases
  • Conversation groups led by volunteers
  • Reading clubs for different proficiency levels
  • Cultural events in French
  • Study spaces for language learning
  • Access to French media and literature

Community centers complement library services by offering:

  • Social integration activities
  • Cultural workshops
  • Administrative assistance
  • Networking opportunities with other learners
  • Family-friendly learning environments

French Language Schools and Private Institutions

Alliance Française Network

There are many Alliances Françaises that offer online French courses, in addition to their traditional in-person programs. The Alliance Française network represents one of the most established and recognized French language teaching organizations globally, with centers throughout France offering courses for all levels.

Alliance Française centers typically provide:

  • Structured curriculum following international standards
  • Experienced, qualified instructors
  • Preparation for official French language certifications
  • Cultural activities and events
  • Flexible scheduling options
  • Small class sizes for personalized attention

Private Language Schools

Private language schools offer intensive and specialized French courses throughout France. These institutions often provide:

  • Immersive learning environments
  • Customized programs for specific needs
  • Accelerated learning options
  • Business French specializations
  • One-on-one tutoring
  • Accommodation assistance for international students

Popular private language school locations include Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, Nice, and Toulouse, each offering unique advantages based on regional culture and cost of living considerations.

University Language Centers

French universities operate language centers offering French courses to international students and community members. These centers provide:

  • Academic-oriented French instruction
  • Preparation for university-level studies
  • Access to university facilities and resources
  • Integration with academic communities
  • Affordable pricing compared to private institutions
  • Credit-bearing courses for degree programs

French Language Education for Children and Youth

Compulsory Education System

All children residing in France, regardless of nationality, immigration status, or background, possess the right to education from age six to eighteen, with public schooling provided free of charge. Children must enroll in preschool during the year they turn three, making France one of European countries with the lowest compulsory starting ages for education. This early immersion provides significant advantages for immigrant children to achieve French fluency, with enrollment handled through local City Halls (Mairies).

Specialized Educational Programs

Specialized educational programs known as UPE2A (“unités pédagogiques pour élèves allophones arrivants”) serve children learning French as a second language. These pedagogical units welcome non-Francophone students, typically aged eleven to sixteen, helping them achieve foundational French proficiency before integrating into regular classes. The curriculum focuses on teaching reading, writing, and counting directly in French while developing understanding of academic language codes.

Support Organizations and Networks

National Support Organizations

Several key organizations provide comprehensive support for immigrants learning French:

  • Campus France – The national agency promoting French higher education and managing the Etudes en France platform through its global office network, offering the “Label Bienvenue en France” to highlight institutions with exceptional international student services.
  • GISTI (Groupe d’Information et de Soutien des Immigrés) – Provides information and support to immigrants, particularly regarding residence permits and legal rights.
  • La Cimade – A long-standing NGO that receives, advises, and provides legal support to tens of thousands of migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers while advocating for policy changes and defending migrants’ rights.
  • France terre d’asile – Supports asylum and legal migration through reception programs for asylum seekers and refugees, promoting integration into employment, housing, and French language learning.

Integration and Social Support

  • SINGA – Fosters connections between refugees and French citizens through programs promoting meetings and discussions, creating opportunities for language practice and cultural exchange.
  • MEnS Network – Facilitates information sharing and fundraising among ministries supporting migrant students in higher education, coordinating resources and best practices across institutions.

Language Certification and Assessment

Official French Language Tests

Several standardized tests assess French language proficiency:

  • DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) – Covers levels A1 through B2, suitable for general French proficiency demonstration.
  • DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) – Covers levels C1 and C2, representing advanced proficiency levels.
  • TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) – Widely accepted for university admission and immigration purposes.
  • TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français) – Another standardized test recognized by educational institutions and employers.

Certification Requirements for Legal Status

Different legal statuses require specific language proficiency levels:

  • A1 level – Required for initial integration contract completion
  • A2 level – Required for residence permit renewal
  • B1 level – Considered employability level and required for certain long-term residence permits
  • B2 level – Often required for university admission and professional positions

Conclusion

Learning French represents a transformative and empowering step for new immigrants in France. The extensive array of available resources demonstrates France’s commitment to facilitating newcomer integration, from mandatory government integration contracts and specialized programs for adults and children to free language classes offered by local associations and comprehensive higher education support.

Success in French language learning requires dedication, patience, and strategic use of available resources. Whether through government-mandated programs, community associations, private schools, or digital platforms, learners can find appropriate options matching their needs, schedules, and financial situations. The key lies in combining formal instruction with practical application, cultural immersion, and consistent practice.

Every small improvement represents progress forward, and perseverance remains the essential key to success. With France’s comprehensive support system and the learner’s commitment, achieving French proficiency becomes not just possible, but inevitable, paving the way for fulfilling lives and successful integration into French society.