ILCF’s French for Academic Purposes program is designed for international students who want to better understand the expectations of French higher education and develop the skills they need to study in French.
Open to students with a confirmed B1 level of French or above, the program includes 40 hours of classes, delivered through 10 four-hour sessions. It focuses on three key areas: language skills, academic methodology and intercultural awareness. Classes begin on 7 October 2026 and take place on Wednesday mornings. Tuition fees are €555 per semester.
French for Academic Purposes
Prepare for your studies in French higher education
What is French for Academic Purposes?
The French for Academic Purposes program, known as FOU in French, is designed for international students who are preparing for or planning to pursue higher education in France.
The program introduces students to the expectations of French universities and higher education institutions. They learn how to follow a lecture, take notes, produce academic writing, prepare an oral presentation, submit an application and understand the conventions of university life in France.
It is open to students with a minimum confirmed B1 level in French who wish to develop the skills needed to study in a French-speaking academic environment.
A 40 hours programme
The programr includes 40 hours of classes, divided into two complementary 20-hour courses.
Course 1: Studying in France
This course provides students with a clearer understanding of the French higher education system, including the structure of degree programs, the Bachelor-Master-Doctorate system, different class formats, academic credits, assessment methods, the academic calendar and campus life.
Students also explore the different stages of applying to a French university or higher education institution. They learn how to complete an application form, present their academic background, write a personal statement and a CV, and prepare for an interview.
Course 2: Academic study skills
This course helps students develop the methods they need to succeed in French higher education, including academic writing, preparing oral presentations, note-taking, finding academic resources and assessing the reliability of sources.
Sessions combine guidance on academic methods with practical activities, individual and group work, real-life scenarios and applied exercises.
Assessment
The program concludes with a final assessment covering both courses.
- Course 1: Studying in France: individual written assignment
- Course 2: Academic study skills: group oral presentation
Each assessment accounts for 50% of the final grade.
ECTS credits
Equivalent to 5 ECTS credits
2026-2027 schedule
The program begins on Wednesday 7 October 2026.
Classes take place on Wednesday mornings and are delivered through 10 four-hour sessions, providing a total of 40 hours of classes.
Tuition fees
The tuition fee for the program is €555 per semester.
Find out more about the programme
Would you like to learn more about the French for Academic Purposes programme? Complete the form below and the ILCF team will get back to you as soon as possible.
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