Thinking about learning French in France? Knowing how language schools operate will help you get ready and feel confident about your move.
In this article, you’ll find information about:
- Admission requirements
- Start dates
- Course length, intensity, and the different levels offered
- Teaching methods
- School accreditations and quality standards
- Visa requirements
Admission requirements
There aren’t any standard education or age requirements. Most schools accept students who are 18 or older. If you’re under 18, we can help you find a school that offers the right support.
You also don’t need to know any French before you start. Many schools have courses for complete beginners.
Available starts
Most schools offer new class start dates every Monday. Complete beginners usually have fixed start dates, and some programs may have specific schedules.
Contact us to find the best option for your level and goals.
Course length
Programs are flexible and can range from 1 week to 1 year. You can choose a duration that fits your goals and availability, and extend your course by adding more weeks if needed.
- If your course is 3 months or less, you probably won’t need a visa. Most students are exempted and can freely enter the Schengen Area just by presenting their passport, but some students still have to apply for a visa to enter the Schengen Area.
- If your course is longer than 3 months, you’ll need a long-stay student visa unless you’re from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
To check if you need a visa for your situation, use our Visa Calculator.
Course intensity
Most schools have both semi-intensive and intensive courses. Semi-intensive courses are 15 hours per week, while intensive programs are 20 hours or more each week.
Course schedule
Classes usually run Monday to Friday, either in the morning or afternoon, depending on the program.
You’ll take an online placement test before arrival so the school can place you in the right class. This ensures you learn alongside students at a similar level. The school will set your schedule based on your level and their organization.
Levels offered
Most schools offer classes from A0 (complete beginner) to C1 (advanced), based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Some schools also provide C2-level courses for advanced learners.
Visa eligibility
The eligibility for the long-stay student visa depends on multiple criteria, including the structure of the program, the volume of course hours, the recognition of the institution, and more.
While the number of weekly hours alone does not determine an applicant’s eligibility for a student visa, in most cases, applicants who receive a long-stay student visa to complete a French language program have at least 20 hours per week of classes.
All of our partner schools have programs that meet visa requirements.
Quality standards
The schools listed on our website are all accredited by Campus France and hold the FLE Quality Label, a certification granted by the French Ministry of Education for excellence in teaching French to non-native speakers.
Teaching methods
The courses are designed to help you improve your French speaking and writing skills through interactive, task-based learning.
Classes are held entirely in French and focus on speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students practice with role plays, group projects, and authentic materials like news articles and videos to build both language and cultural skills.
Teachers frequently use authentic materials (e.g., news articles, videos, and social media content) to deepen cultural understanding and keep lessons engaging and fun for students.
How do I choose the right French language school for me?
The right school depends on your unique goals, budget, desired location, and preferred learning style. What works for someone else might not be the best fit for you.
For further advice, be sure to read our guide on how to choose the right language school.
