Language Schools in France 2026 | French Courses and DELF

Why France

French is an official language in 29 countries and one of the six working languages of the UN. In diplomacy, international organisations, fashion, gastronomy and the arts it remains decisive.

Language study in France usually runs interwoven with a cultural programme — museum visits, cooking workshops, wine tasting, cinema. Schools build this into the timetable; placing language inside a culture is taken seriously here.

Cities

Paris — the widest choice and the highest cost. For art and fashion, there is no alternative.

Nice, Montpellier — Mediterranean coast, mild climate, markedly cheaper than Paris. Popular for summer programmes.

Lyon — France’s gastronomic capital, and the obvious address for culinary ambitions.

Bordeaux — wine country with a large student population and balanced costs.

Exams

For academic or professional goals, DELF (B1–B2) and DALF (C1–C2) are the standard benchmarks. French universities generally ask for DELF B2, and schools run dedicated preparation courses.

Visa

Up to 90 days, Schengen rules apply. Longer programmes use a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS), completed with a residence formality after arrival.

Frequently asked questions

Can I go without speaking any French?

Yes — schools run absolute-beginner groups. But getting by in English is harder in France than in English-speaking countries. Be ready for that in the first weeks.

Is France the right place for art and culinary programmes?

Its standing in those fields is not in question. But entry to a professional programme usually requires meeting a language requirement first, and the language course is that first step.