Summer in the French Alps - French Language & Culture (in French) - ISEP Direct
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
• Spend seven weeks (six weeks of classes and one week vacation) at the base of the French Alps in Chambéry, known for its pedestrian-friendly squares, historical town center, colorful cafe terraces and breath-taking views of the mountains.
• Take intensive French coursework at the beginning, intermediate, or advanced level
• Get out and enjoy all the Alps offer! From hiking, mountain biking, and swimming the program includes outdoor activities with other international students.
• Excursions organized and supervised by a activity leader are included in the program, with a range of sporting, leisure and cultural experiences available to participants.
LIFE ABROAD
Excursions & Cultural Experiences
Trips and visits included in the program fee cover a welcome tour of Chambéry and Savoie and other excursions in the local area. Recreational Activities are organized most afternoons, either for free or a small fee, and may include hiking, museums, mountain biking, swimming at the nearby lakes and sports. The program is divided into two three-week sessions, which provides students with several days in the middle of the program to explore the region independently. Students can also stay in their program housing until the end of July at no extra cost if they want to have a home base for travel after the program!
Housing & Meals
ISEP students live in a university residence hall. Meals are not included. Students will have access to grocery stores, cooking facilities, and a multitude of dining options with affordable meal choices.
Explore the French Alps
Chambéry is located about three hours from both Paris and from the Mediterranean coast of France. The area is known for its quality of life, magnificent natural surroundings, history, and heritage. Chambéry was the capital of the former Duchy of Savoie and combines the charm of an old city with the vibrancy of a modern economy. Students can take full advantage of its historical buildings, museums, pedestrians squares and streets with colorful café terraces, and world-famous opportunities for outdoor activites in the French Alps!
SCHOLARSHIP
This program qualifies for the ISEP French and German Language Annette Kade Fund Scholarship. The scholarship awards $500 - $1,500 USD to students who are from a U.S. institution and studying French or German language in Austria, France, Germany, Reunion Island, or Switzerland. Learn more here.
See ISEP Direct budget and estimated expenses
Course Description
Advance in your French language-learning, gain firsthand cultural experience, and explore the delights of the Savoie region! This 7-week program (six weeks of classes and one week of vacation) includes 15 hours per week of small-group instruction at three different levels from beginner to advanced and three workshops on aspects of local life.
The 90 total hours of instruction included in the program (two three-week sessions of 45 hours each) is generally considered equivalent to 6 U.S. credits.
Summer Syllabi:
| Beginner | Intermediate | Advanced |
| A1 Level | B1 Level | C1 Level |
| A2 Level | B2 Level |
Academics
Other Academic Conditions
French language and culture courses are provided by specialist teachers for beginning, intermediate and advanced students. No prior French language experience is necessary.
Students are placed in appropriate language levels according to a placement exam taken before arrival. Note: The host institution ultimately determines your proficiency level and course eligibility.
Summer 2025 Program Dates:
27 May - Arrival and check in to student residence
It is very important for housing check in procedures to arrive on 27 May.
2 June - Course start
18 July - Course end
22 July - Last day to move out of university housing
PASSPORT: All students must have a valid passport to participate in this program. If you do not have a valid passport, we suggest you start the application process as soon as possible.
VISA/RESIDENCE PERMIT: Students with U.S. citizenship attending programs in France for less than 90 days are not required to obtain a French visa. All other students should inquire with their local French embassy if they will be required to obtain a Schengen Visa for the duration of their Summer program in France prior to arrival. For more information on the process and estimated cost, please review the ISEP Country Handbook here.
Semester & Prices (based on your filters)
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Housing
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