Now that the Paris 2024 Olympic Games are in full swing, interest in the French language has gained new momentum. Many people are interested in learning more about the country’s history and culture, so they start looking for alternatives to learn the language.
If you’re among them, you might consider a French language school in Paris as one of your alternatives. Not only a place where you can learn from qualified and experienced teachers, but also meet other students from different countries and backgrounds, and participate in various cultural and social activities that will help you to make the most out of your stay.
But how do you choose the best French language school for you?
There are many factors to remember: location, courses, facilities, schools’ accreditation, prices, and opinions of former students.
In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to find the French language school that suits your needs and expectations, no matter if you are enjoying the games or not.
Location
The first thing to consider is the school location. France is an amazing country and can offer everything you need in a stay abroad, with a great diversity of culture, activities, and landscapes.
You should choose a location that matches your interests, your preferences, and your budget, although Paris is usually at the top of the list.
So, let’s consider you choose Paris for your stay. Good choice! It is a city with plenty of art, culture, fashion, and romance… Countless attractions and monuments, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Champs-Élysées, to name a few. A cosmopolitan and dynamic city with a vibrant nightlife, a rich gastronomy, and people from all over the world.
If you prefer smaller cities, you can choose Lyon, Bordeaux, Strasbourg, or Toulouse, among others. These cities are also famous for their culture, history, and art, but with a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
They also have their specialties and traditions, such as the silk industry in Lyon, the wine production in Bordeaux, the Christmas market in Strasbourg, and the aerospace industry in Toulouse.
If you are looking for a more natural and rural setting, you can choose Annecy, Montpellier, Nice, or Biarritz, among others.
These cities are located near the mountains, the sea, or the countryside, and offer a variety of outdoor activities, such as skiing, hiking, surfing, or cycling. They also have a milder and sunnier climate and a more laid-back and Mediterranean lifestyle.
Courses
The second thing to consider is the courses offered by the school. You should choose one that matches your level, goals, interests, and schedule.
For example, if you are a beginner, you can choose a general French course that covers the basic skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
If you are an intermediate or advanced learner, you can choose a more specific course that focuses on a particular skill, topic, or purpose, such as conversation, grammar, business, or exam preparation.
You should also choose a course that fits your availability and your budget. You can choose a full-time or a part-time course, depending on how many hours per week you want to study.
You can also choose a group or a private course, depending on how much interaction and attention you want to have. You can also choose a short-term or a long-term course, depending on how long you want to stay in France.
Facilities
The third thing to consider is the facilities of the French language school. You should choose a school that has modern and comfortable facilities that will enhance your learning and your comfort.
For example, you should look for a school that has spacious and well-equipped classrooms, with audiovisual and digital equipment, such as computers, projectors, and interactive boards.
Since studying is not enough to learn, the school must offer other amenities, such as a library, a cafeteria, a lounge, or a garden, where you can relax, meet people, and access additional resources.
Accreditation
The fourth thing to consider is the accreditation of the French language school. You should choose a school that has a recognized and reputable accreditation that guarantees the quality and professionalism of its services.
For example, you should look for a school that has labels “Qualiopi” or “Qualité FLE”, which are certifications issued by the French Ministry of Education and Culture or other institutions to the schools that meet the highest standards of quality in terms of teaching, administration, and facilities.
Prices
The fifth thing to consider is the prices of the French language school. No need to say that you (like everyone else) should look for a school that offers competitive and transparent prices that match the value and the quality of its services.
For example, you should compare the prices of different schools and different courses, and see what is included and what is not included in the price.
Don’t forget to check if there are any discounts, scholarships, or special offers available for new students. You should also consider the cost of living in the location of the school, and the cost of accommodation, transportation, food, and entertainment.
Reviews
The sixth and last thing to consider is the reviews of the French language school. You should choose a school that has positive and authentic reviews from previous and current students that reflect their satisfaction and their experience.
For example, you should read the reviews of the school on its website, on social media, or other platforms, such as Google, Facebook, or TripAdvisor.
You should also look for testimonials, videos, or photos of former students on their social network profiles. You should also contact the school and ask for references or contacts of former or current students that you can talk to.
Conclusion
Choosing the best French language school is not an easy task, but it is worth it. Seize the moment and read also what you need to know to learn French during the Olympic Games in Paris.
You’ll have a great opportunity to learn French, to discover Paris, and have an unforgettable experience.
By following these tips and advice, you will be able to find the French language school that suits your needs and expectations. Bonne chance et bon voyage!
