French courses in Paris: find the format that fits your level and pace

The Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne (CCFS) have been teaching French to international students since 1919, in Paris and online. From complete beginner (A1) to advanced level, in annual, semester, intensive, evening or summer formats, every student takes a placement test and joins the group matching their actual level, with several intakes a year.

Choose your French course by pace and format

• Annual courses: the most complete option, from October to June, to move up one or two CEFR levels in a year.
• Semester courses: one academic semester, starting in October or February, from general French to intensive French.
• Summer courses: monthly or quarterly sessions from June to September, combining language and civilization.
• Evening classes: designed to fit around a job or daytime studies.
• Online French courses: live classes with a teacher, from beginner to advanced, wherever you are.
• Specialized courses: business French, phonetics with a language lab, individual tutoring.

French language training for every profile

International students preparing for higher education, adults settling in France, professionals on the move, candidates for an official diploma: each path matches a specific French language course. CCFS is also an official exam centre for the DELF and DALF and prepares students for those exams. Since 1 January 2026, French nationality requires level B2, and most universities ask for it on application: a realistic target within one year of intensive study from level A2. To compare levels and choose yours, see our guide to French language levels from A1 to C2.

Paris, an ideal city to learn French

Learning French in Paris, at the Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne, means a linguistic and cultural experience found nowhere else. Beyond classes taught by qualified teachers, learners live in a fully French-speaking environment, which makes for total immersion and fast progress.

It is an ideal way to combine academic learning, cultural discovery and daily practice of French in the capital.

Objectives of French courses in Paris

• Master the basics of French, spoken and written.
• Practise the language in real settings: shops, transport, cultural outings.
• Understand the subtleties of French culture: politeness, interactions, rhythms of life.
• Prepare for university or professional life in France.

Advantages of courses in Paris

• On-site classes led by experienced teachers.
• Access to an exceptional cultural offering: museums, lectures, theatre, heritage.
• Exchanges with learners from all over the world in a cosmopolitan setting.
• A language certificate on completion of the programme (depending on the format chosen), issued by the Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne.

For whom?

• International students.
• Expats and spouses of French nationals.
• Professionals relocating or settling in France for the long term.
• Anyone passionate about the French language and culture.